Former Rays left-handed reliever Colin Poche has signed a minor league contract with the Washington Nationals, leaving Tampa with just one free agent left, Tyler Alexander, who is still waiting for a 2025 deal. Dylan Carlson, Richard Lovelady, and now Poche have all found new teams. RaysColoredGlasses has been wrong on all three of their free-agent predictions, as they anticipated Poche would sign with the Yankees due to their need for left-handed pitching.
The 31-year-old Poche will now join a youthful Nationals team. Although his contract is for the minors, he has been included in the list of non-roster invites to spring training. As he prepares to work out in Palm Beach, Poche will have to prove himself to earn a spot on the Nationals’ roster.
Poche’s career has been plagued by injuries, including missing the entire 2020 and 2021 seasons, and only pitching 37 innings in 2024. Despite these setbacks, the 6’3″ lefty has managed a 22-12 record and a 3.63 ERA, highlighting his underappreciated value. His standout year was in 2023, when he posted a 1.7 WAR and finished second on the team with 12 wins in relief. The Rays moved on from him due to their bullpen depth, but that shouldn’t overshadow his worth as a pitcher.
The Nationals, currently with just four left-handed relievers on their 40-man roster, are likely offering Poche a strong opportunity to contribute. Their pitching staff is youthful, and if he makes the team, Poche would be the fourth-oldest pitcher, behind starter Trevor Williams, Jorge Lopez, and 34-year-old Derek Law.
In addition to providing bullpen support, Poche could also help mentor the Nationals’ younger players. The team recently signed veteran infielder and 2024 Rays player Amed Rosario to a one-year deal, signaling the front office’s plan to bring in experienced players to guide their talented prospects. Best of luck to Colin Poche and Amed Rosario in their new roles.
