Earlier this week, the Washington Nationals made headlines when it was announced that they had made probably their last major signing before the season, as they brought back righty closer and 2024 All-Star Kyle Finnegan on a 1-year, $6 million deal. Despite the signing being reported on Tuesday, it was not made official and announced by the club until Thursday, likely in part because a corresponding move had to be made.
Well, on Thursday, the Nationals announced their corresponding move, and it was one that had many fans feeling bad, but one that ultimately made sense. The team chose to designate outfielder Stone Garrett for assignment, which was a tough pill for Nationals fans to swallow as Garrett was expected to be in contention to split time as a 4th outfielder and serve as the designated hitter as well for the team this season.
Now, with Garrett out of the picture, the 4th outfield spot is likely going to go to Alex Call, and with Robert Hassell III waiting in the wings after his hot start to spring training, playing time was likely going to become more and more scarce for Garrett in DC. The 29-year-old, who became a fan favorite back in 2023 due to his pregame outfits, large muscles, contagious smile, and an emerging player, is now going to be looking for another opportunity to keep his big league career going, and there is definitely a chance that he gets picked up by another team with spring training only about a week in to playing actual games.
As many of you will remember, Garrett suffered a catastrophic leg injury back near the end of the 2023 season in Yankee Stadium, and his injury was a low-point for Nationals fans as he was carted off with his leg in an aircast and tears in his eyes. His return to the big leagues in late 2024 was an emotional, feel-good moment in a season full of disappointment last year, and his homer in the first at-bat was the type of moment that makes you ask the question, "How can you not be romantic about baseball?" and is enough to make a grown man cry.
I am selfishly hoping that Garrett clears waivers so that we can get him back in the organization, but if he gets claimed or elects free agency to pursue another opportunity in the big leagues, I can not say that I would blame him. I will be rooting for Stone for the rest of his career no matter where he ends up, and us here at District on Deck wish him nothing but the best!
Where do you think Stone Garrett will end up? As always, please let me know on X, @DCBerk.