Kyle Schwarber, Jeimer Candelario, and Derek Law—these players represent the Nationals’ success in finding bounce-back candidates who were non-tendered by their former teams. This offseason, the Nats may pursue similar opportunities to strengthen their roster. Below is a look at five intriguing players who could meet their needs.
Shop for Nationals gear this holiday season!
SP Griffin Canning
Age: 28
2024 Stats: 6-13, 5.19 ERA, 31 starts
Canning was non-tendered by the Braves after they acquired him from the Angels in the Jorge Soler trade on October 31. A 2017 second-round draft pick, Canning played for the Angels from 2019 to 2024. He won a Gold Glove in 2020, missed all of the 2022 season due to a lower back stress fracture, and pitched 171 2/3 innings in 2023.
1B Connor Joe
Age: 32
2024 Stats: .228/.320/.368, 9 home runs
Joe could fill two key needs for the Nationals: a first baseman and a veteran leader with resilience. In 2023, his first season with the Pirates, Joe hit .247 with a .760 OPS, 31 doubles, and 11 home runs. Although he posted a .242 average before the All-Star break, his production dropped to .190 in the second half.
LHP Hoby Milner
Age: 33
2024 Stats: 5-1, 4.73 ERA, 1 save, 60 relief appearances
Milner, an eight-year veteran, was non-tendered by the Brewers. His performance took a step back last season after he posted a career-best 1.82 ERA in 73 relief appearances in 2023. Milner is just one season removed from recording a 0.964 WHIP and a 238 ERA+.
RHP Jordan Romano
Age: 31
2024 Stats: 1-2, 6.59 ERA, 8 saves, 15 relief appearances
Romano is coming off an injury-plagued season with the Blue Jays, where he underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow in July. Despite this setback, he boasts an impressive resume as a closer, a role the Nationals need to fill after non-tendering Kyle Finnegan. From 2021-23, Romano earned 95 saves with a 2.37 ERA and earned two All-Star selections.
