The MLB season doesn’t begin until March 26 for the Washington Nationals, who will meet the Chicago Cubs on Opening Day, but the campaign is already off to a strong start for one of the team’s most promising players.
On February 16, the Nationals shared a simple message stating “cade is feeling it” on their social media platforms. The brief post was a reference to right-hander Cade Cavalli, who was selected 22nd overall in the 2020 MLB Draft. The 27-year-old has been one of the top prospects in Washington’s system.
Cavalli has struggled with injuries for much of his career, but made it to the big leagues last season for his first extended stretch in the majors. The righty’s 10 starts in the 2025 campaign were one of the few bright spots for a Nationals squad that struggled to a 66-96 record.
Washington Nationals Manager Praises Pitcher Cade Cavalli
The post from the Nationals includes a positive message from new manager Blake Butera. The first-time skipper takes over for Davey Martinez, who led the organization to a 2019 World Series title.
“It’s hard to say anything negative right now,” Butera said in comments shared by the team. “It’s just, the shape he’s in. I’m sure you’ve noticed he looks really big a strong right now and then the stuff is already better than it’s been, ever, and we’re only in the middle of February.”
Cavalli delivered a 4.25 ERA across 48.2 innings with the Nationals last season. He only struck out 18.3% of hitters, but did keep the free passes down (6.8% walk rate). Cavalli also got ground balls at an excellent 55.1% clip. The league average ground ball rate was 44.2% last season.
Who Will Be In the Nationals’ Rotation in 2026?
Washington will enter the upcoming season with uncertainty throughout the rotation. MacKenzie Gore had been the club’s ace the past couple of seasons, but he was traded to the Texas Rangers this offseason. The lefty made 30 starts for the team this past year.
Trevor Williams and Michael Soroka were semi-regular members of the pitching staff in 2025. Soroka signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks, while Williams is recovering from internal brace surgery on his right elbow and is expected to miss at least half the season. Jake Irvin and Mitchell Parker led the team in starts last year, but are likely to serve as depth options waiting in Triple-A.
The Nationals made a pair of veteran additions this offseason to help fill out the rotation. Forrest Griffin will head back stateside after spending the past three seasons in Nippon Professional Baseball. The lefty provided elite run prevention numbers in Japan’s top league. Miles Mikolas was signed just last week. The 37-year-old had pitched for the St. Louis Cardinals since 2018.
A familiar face is expected to return to the big-league rotation for 2026. Josiah Gray has made just two MLB starts since 2023 due to an elbow injury. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2024 and has slowly worked his way back to playing shape. Gray is trending toward being ready for the start of the upcoming season.
Brad Lord bounced between the rotation and bullpen last year. He was solid in a swingman capacity, notching a 4.34 ERA over 48 appearances (19 starts). Lord should round out the pitching staff.
Washington Nationals Prospect Earns High Praise From New Manager