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Washington Nationals: Five Impact Prospects For 2019

By Monty Taylor

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 07: Victor Robles #16 of the Washington Nationals advances to third base on a ground rule two-run double by Adam Eaton #2 in the second inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field on April 07, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 07: Victor Robles #16 of the Washington Nationals advances to third base on a ground rule two-run double by Adam Eaton #2 in the second inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field on April 07, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
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Washington Nationals Wil Crowe
Washington Nationals Wil Crowe /

Wil Crowe, RHP

The only pitcher on this list, Wil Crowe was the Co-Minor League Pitcher of the Year for the Nationals in 2018. With the bullpen really struggling, there are a number of young, unproven pitchers that could possibly impact the big league club this season. But Will Crowe should be at the top of that list and is the Nats’ fifth-ranked prospect, according to MLB Pipeline.

The righty went 11-0 with a 2.69 ERA in 15 starts for Class A Potomac last season and is projected as a mid-rotation starting pitcher. He started this year in Double-A Harrisburg and should be in Triple-A by the end of the season at the very least. Fedde and presumably Joe Ross are probably ahead of him on the depth chart in terms of starting pitching, but like Jefry Rodriguez last season, he could find his way to D.C. if there are injuries or if the Nationals need an emergency starter on short notice.

While it may be unlikely, Crowe could be used as reinforcements for a beleaguered bullpen who has been horrible to start the season. Because the Nationals project Crowe as a starter, I’d expect Tanner Rainey, Austin Voth, and Austen Williams to get a chance in the Major League bullpen before him.

A number of pitchers in the Nationals farm system could make an impact for the Nats this season, especially if the bullpen continues to falter. Outside of Mason Denaburg, who is pitching his first full season as a professional, Crowe has the most upside of minor league pitchers who may be ready enough to contribute to the big league team.

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