The Washington Nationals capped off an uninspiring homestand on Sunday afternoon with a disappointing loss to the Texas Rangers by a score of 4-2, one that saw a former National close out the game with a save to clinch it for the visiting team. However, with an off-day on Monday, the roster move the Nationals made after the game could potentially help boost the lineup.
Following a tough stretch while on the homestand that saw the team score just 10 runs in 6 games, the Nationals sent down backup infielder Nasim Nuñez to AAA Rochester, and recalled corner infielder Andres Chaparro, who was absolutely demolishing minor league pitching.
Nuñez was struggling to make a major impact at the plate, with a .186/.271/.233 slash line that was good for just a .504 OPS in 49 plate appearances, but was more of a true sparkplug player whenever he was given a chance to start. Unfortunately for Nuñez, he never really capitalized a ton on those chances, and the team finally decided to demote him.
As for Chaparro, his impact on the big league club should be easy to see, as he should at a minimum be a platoon option at either third base, first base, or as the team's DH against lefties. His overall slash line down in Rochester was great, with a .304/.400/.625 line that was good for a 1.025 OPS, to go along with 5 homers and 19 RBIs in just 65 total plate appearances with the Red Wings.
He has just a .218 average against righties so far this season in the minors, but boasts a .563 average against lefties, which has significantly raised his overall line. Given the team's struggles with incumbent options like Nathaniel Lowe, Josh Bell, and Jose Tena, Chaparro should be given an opportunity to get consistent reps at numerous spots.
Manager Davey Martinez spoke about likely beginning to platoon more guys, which likely would mean opportunities for Chaparro to play third base against lefties, while allowing fellow lefty masher Amed Rosario to start at second base in place of Luis Garcia Jr. whenever facing a southpaw. The Nationals are clearly getting desperate to find any sort of offensive spark, and hopefully Chaparro is fully recovered from his injuries earlier this season.
Once top hitting prospect Brady House gets called up, which should be by the end of this month if not even by the end of this week, he will likely get everyday playing time at third base, which could spell the end of Josh Bell if Chaparro begins to hit consistently. That is an issue to solve another time, but at least for now, Chaparro is back with the Nationals and ready to make an impact.
What do you think of the move to bring back Andres Chaparro? As always, please let me know on X, @DCBerk.