The Washington Nationals are cruising through spring training 2026, showcasing a mix of promising performances and a few slow starts. With just 13 days until they hit the field in Chicago, all eyes are on how the roster will shape up.
One of the most intriguing aspects of camp has been the battle for spots in the starting rotation. The Nationals find themselves with a surplus of pitching talent, a good problem to have as they finalize their lineup.
Cade Cavalli has been named the Opening Day starter, locking in one spot. With veterans Zack Littell and Miles Mikolas signing on for one-year deals, two more spots seem secure. That leaves a fierce competition for the remaining two spots among pitchers like Jake Irvin, Josiah Gray, Andrew Alvarez, and Mitchell Parker, each showing flashes of brilliance.
However, the Nationals have started making cuts, and a trio of lefties are heading to the minors to start the season. The biggest surprise is Mitchell Parker, a familiar face in the rotation over the past two years. Joining him in Triple-A Rochester are Andrew Alvarez, who ended last season on a high note, and Jake Eder, who struggled with consistency in his first spring with the team.
The Nationals have announced these roster moves:
Optioned to Triple-A Rochester:
- LHP Andrew Alvarez
- LHP Jake Eder
- LHP Mitchell Parker
Reassigned to Minor League camp:
- RHP Trevor Gott
- INF Seaver King
- INF Trey Lipscomb
- 1B Matt Mervis
Mitchell Parker's demotion, while unexpected, isn't shocking given his struggles last season. This spring, he posted a 4.91 ERA, with a concerning 1.64 WHIP due to five walks against just three strikeouts.
While Parker might return as a reliever, the Nationals likely want him to refine his mechanics in the minors. He remains a top candidate for a call-up should the team face any injuries in their starting rotation.