Left-handed pitcher Foster Griffin has reportedly reached an agreement with the Washington Nationals on a one-year contract worth $5.5 million for the 2026 season. , marking a significant addition to the Nationals' roster.
Griffin Joins Nationals
Griffin's signing represents the first free-agent acquisition under the leadership of Paul Toboni, the Nationals' new president of baseball operations. Toboni took over the role in late September and is tasked with revitalizing the team. Griffin, who is 30 years old, brings a wealth of experience, including a recent stint playing for the Yomiuri Giants in Japan's Central League for the past three seasons.
Prior to his time in Japan, Griffin was a highly regarded prospect, selected by the Kansas City Royals as a first-round pick in the 2014 MLB amateur draft. He made his Major League debut with the Royals in 2020 and also had appearances with both the Royals and the Toronto Blue Jays in 2022. His MLB career includes seven relief appearances, where he posted a 1-0 record with a 6.75 ERA.
Nationals' Reconstruction Efforts
Toboni faces the challenge of rebuilding the Nationals, who have struggled in recent years. The team dismissed both president and general manager Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez in July following a string of disappointing seasons.
Since their World Series victory in 2019, the Nationals have endured six consecutive losing seasons, including a 66-96 record in the current year, placing them near the bottom of the National League standings.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Record | 66-96 |
| NL Rank | 14th |
| Losing Seasons | 6 |
This signing is expected to be the first step in the Nationals' efforts to improve their roster and return to contention in the National League.
FAQs
Why did the Nationals sign Foster Griffin?
The Nationals signed Foster Griffin to a one-year, $5.5 million deal for the 2026 season as the first free-agent acquisition under their new president of baseball operations, Paul Toboni, aiming to revitalize the team. Griffin brings experience as a left-handed pitcher.
What is Foster Griffin's MLB experience before joining the Nationals?
Before playing in Japan, Foster Griffin was a first-round pick by the Kansas City Royals, making his MLB debut with them in 2020. He also appeared with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2022, recording a 1-0 record with a 6.75 ERA in seven relief appearances.
What challenges does the Nationals' new president face?
Paul Toboni faces the challenge of rebuilding the Nationals, who have struggled with six consecutive losing seasons since their 2019 World Series victory. The team hopes this signing marks the beginning of efforts to improve their roster and return to contention.
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