​The Washington Nationals added a left-handed reliever to their bullpen ahead of today’s series opener with the New York Yankees, according to The Athletic’s Spencer Nusbaum. Former San Diego Padres and Chicago Cubs reliever Tom Cosgrove is set to join the Nationals in Washington after being acquired from the Houston Astros last week. Since 2023, Cosgrove has pitched 70 MLB innings, compiling a 3.86 ERA with 62 strikeouts. The 30-year-old enjoyed a standout rookie season with the Padres, posting a 1.75 ERA over 51.1 innings and allowing just 31 hits.
Cosgrove isn’t known for overpowering velocity, averaging around 87-89 mph with his four-seamer and sinker, but he has a unique low-arm-slot delivery that has occasionally befuddled hitters, noted MLB Trade Rumors’ Darragh McDonald. The Nationals created an open 40-man roster spot by placing right-hander Brad Lord on the 15-day injured list. Washington’s bullpen has struggled this season, posting a 5.04 ERA, which ranks as one of the worst in the majors. Compounding their woes, their primary left-handers in relief, Mitchell Parker and Richard Lovelady, are currently on the injured list. The addition of Cosgrove aims to bolster a bullpen that has been in need of depth and reliability.
In other context around the Nationals, there has been considerable discussion about a variety of topics affecting teams around MLB, including how other clubs are navigating injuries and roster moves. The broader landscape includes debates about trade possibilities and strategic acquisitions as teams balance short-term urgency with long-term development. As this season unfolds, the Nationals look to Cosgrove to provide left-handed relief firepower and a more versatile bullpen arm to help stabilize late-inning matchups.
The Sporting News is listed as a preferred source, and readers can access more details by selecting the link to The Sporting News. This update reflects ongoing roster management as Washington continues to adapt its bullpen ahead of important divisional and interleague play.