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Washington Nationals: Surprise Saguaros Playing For The Fall League Title

By Max Rayman

WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA - MARCH 10: Jackson Cluff #72 of the Washington Nationals throws out a runner at first base against the St. Louis Cardinals during the eighth inning of a Grapefruit League spring training game at FITTEAM Ballpark of The Palm Beaches on March 10, 2021 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA - MARCH 10: Jackson Cluff #72 of the Washington Nationals throws out a runner at first base against the St. Louis Cardinals during the eighth inning of a Grapefruit League spring training game at FITTEAM Ballpark of The Palm Beaches on March 10, 2021 in West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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The Nationals Jackson Cluff and Drew Millas take the field tonight with their eyes set on winning the Arizona Fall League Championship game.

Even though the MLB season has come to an end, it doesn’t mean there isn’t any baseball left to watch. In fact, tonight at 7 PM ET is the Championship game for the Arizona Fall League. Facing off is the Suprise Saguaros and the Mesa Solar Sox.

Each MLB team sent six prospects who were then placed amongst the six different Fall League teams. Each Fall League team is made up of prospects from five different MLB teams. The Suprise Saguaros, are made up of prospects from the Nationals, Yankees, Royals, Rangers, and Reds. The Mesa Solar Sox is made up of prospects from the Marlins, Orioles, Cubs, A’s, and Blue Jays.

After having one of the worst farm systems in baseball over the last few years, it is a breath of fresh air to see the Nationals’ prospects flourishing on the big stage.

Jackson Cluff, Washington’s 19th ranked prospect per MLB Pipeline has been a driving force for the Saguaros’ offense. In 22 games, he is slashing .342/.432/.456, with a homer, 14 RBIs, and an OPS of .887. He will get the start tonight at short.

Starting behind the plate is Drew Millas, the Nationals’ 20th ranked prospect. Acquired at the trade deadline as part of the Yan Gomes and Josh Harrison trade, Millas has struggled at the plate this fall. In 17 games, he is hitting .196, with one homer, five RBIs, and an OPS of .634. However, he is known for his defense, especially his arm and blocking skills.

While he won’t be on the mound tonight, Cole Henry shined for the Saguaros. After missing a majority of the 2021 Minor League season with injuries, it was reinsuring to see Henry dominate on the mound. He finished second in the AFL with strikeouts (30) and posted a 3.32 ERA in 19 innings.

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