Washington Nationals Place 2-Time MVP Candidate On Waivers

The Washington Nationals have made a decisive roster move by designating veteran outfielder Eddie Rosario for assignment, signaling a shift towards prioritizing young talent. 

Rosario, 32, joined the Nationals on a minor league deal during spring training but failed to deliver consistent offensive production, ending his tenure with a lackluster .183/.226/.329 slash line. 

Despite a brief resurgence in May, his overall contributions did not meet expectations, prompting the Nationals to part ways.

The #Nationals have designated OF Eddie Rosario for assignment, per @MarkZuckerman pic.twitter.com/R7O4rFtGvi

— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) July 1, 2024

In contrast, the promotion of James Wood, a highly touted prospect, underscores the team's commitment to cultivating youthful promise. 

Wood, holding an impressive .353 batting average and robust power numbers in Triple-A, represents a significant addition to the Nationals' lineup. 

With Rosario now designated for assignment, the Nationals face decisions within the next five days, including the possibility of trading, releasing, or placing him on outright waivers, as they continue to shape their roster for the future.

The Nationals have designated Eddie Rosario for assignment.

— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) July 1, 2024

Over his 10-year career, he holds a .264/.301/.453 triple-slash line, with 166 home runs, 574 RBIs, 64 stolen bases, and 559 runs scored across 1,097 games played.

Rosario was an MVP candidate in back-to-back seasons in 2019 and 2020 with the Minnesota Twins. 

Photo Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports