Washington, D.C. (March 6, 2024) - The Washington Nationals have bolstered their outfield depth by signing veteran left-handed hitter Eddie Rosario to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training, according to a source familiar with the deal. The agreement, which is pending a physical exam, could see Rosario earn up to $4 million with incentives if he makes the major league roster.
The 32-year-old Rosario boasts a nine-year MLB career, playing for the Minnesota Twins, Cleveland Guardians (formerly Indians), and most recently, the Atlanta Braves. He brings a career batting average of .268, an on-base plus slugging (OPS) of .755, and 159 home runs to the Nationals' lineup.
Rosario's Power Potential Boosts Nationals' Offense
Rosario's arrival in Washington addresses the team's need for power hitting and left-handed bats. The Nationals finished the 2023 season with the second-fewest home runs in the league (151), significantly trailing their NL East rivals, the Atlanta Braves, who led the majors with 307 homers.
World Series Hero Looks to Rekindle Magic
Rosario is best known for his stellar performance in the 2021 postseason, where he played a pivotal role in the Atlanta Braves' World Series run. He earned National League Championship Series (NLCS) MVP honors after batting .560 with three home runs and nine RBIs against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
This signing marks the latest move by the Nationals as they attempt to climb out of the NL East cellar. The team has finished last in the division for the past four seasons since their 2019 World Series championship.