​The Washington Nationals have announced a notable roster move ahead of Sunday’s series finale with the New York Yankees. The team confirmed that first baseman Abimelec Ortiz has been called up from Triple-A Rochester, taking the roster spot left by left-hander Matt Krook, who was designated for assignment. Ortiz, a 24-year-old from Puerto Rico, was acquired from the Texas Rangers in the trade that sent MacKenzie Gore to Texas and is set to make his Major League debut today, batting third as the Nationals’ designated hitter. Krook, who debuted in MLB with the Yankees in 2023, carries a 14.73 ERA over 14.2 career innings and has walked an average of 8.6 batters per nine innings. In Washington, Krook appeared in three games, allowing two earned runs while recording two strikeouts across 2.2 innings. The left-hander has spent much of the past four years in the minors, though he did reach a career-high 6.1 innings pitched earlier this season between the Nationals and Athletics.
This decision comes as the Nationals reorganize their pitching staff while also introducing a fresh face to the majors. Ortiz’s arrival marks a new chapter for the organization, and his participation in today’s game will be closely watched by fans eager to see what the 24-year-old can contribute at the highest level. As the team turns its attention toward the remainder of the season, the roster move underscores Washington’s ongoing evaluation of young talents within its farm system and the potential impact Ortiz could have during his first major-league opportunity.
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