Connelly Early was traded to the Washington Nationals during the height of the summer. The goal in mind was to acquire a young pitcher and develop him for long-term success. It has been a strategy all along to build this team through the youth. Paul Toboni is investing less capital and banking more on upside, with Early being a prime example.
The twist in the trade was that Early was, and still is, injured. An MRI on July 1 confirmed posterior left-elbow inflammation. That had the Red Sox then place Early on the 15-day IL, hoping for a somewhat short stint. That did not happen.
Connelly Early nearing Nationals debut as recovery continues to progress
Early had been aiming for a late-summer comeback. He had avoided needing surgery, so it was definitely possible. However, a surprise popped up. Early was now a Washington National as of the final week in July. Rehab was now turned over to our nation's capital.
Nationals fans have clamored for the arrival of Early to the Nationals rotation. Though in a very minimal sample size of 19.1 innings pitched, Early's 2025 statistical output showcased an ERA of 2.33, 29 strikeouts, and a 1.09 WHIP. His WAR came out to a plus-1.1, and Fangraphs published his Pitching+ rating as strong (111).
Early's comeback has been promising. He started on a path similar to that of Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, beginning his college career at the United States Military Academy at West Point, also known as the Army. He then moved on to the University of Virginia, transferring to the ACC program following 2 years at West Point.
Back to now, Early is in year two and hoping to make his debut with the Nationals by the end of September. He faced a setback about 5 weeks prior to today's publication, but the team keeps him on a steady course.
Early made a Bridge League appearance on September 8. He threw 30 pitches and seemed to be okay. The next step will be a September 13 rehab appearance in Double-A Harrisburg. Early will likely pitch in the 40-50 ball range, depending on how he feels, of course.
If all goes well in Double-A, the return of Early might be swift. He must look and feel good, with MLB-caliber velocity and movement. Once that happens, his Nationals debut may be imminent.
The team has not been aiming to keep Early sidelined through 2026. His service time has been minuscule in his short career. Any repetitions at the MLB level will positively impact his game. Especially with a lockout on the horizon, which could stall any further Major League-level guidance.
In a mild estimate, Nationals fans can hope to see Early somewhere in the third week of September. A 1-2 punch of Cade Cavalli and Connelly Early can be just what the baseball doctor ordered for a big 2027, should the league work past the lockout.
Add us as a preferred source on Google