The Washington Nationals are making significant moves as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 spring training, adding two familiar players to their non-roster invitees list. As the offseason draws to a close and with pitchers and catchers reporting in less than a week, the team is gearing up to evaluate potential candidates for the Opening Day roster.
While the Nationals are hopeful of signing a notable player, that goal has proven challenging under the leadership of new front office head Paul Toboni. The reality is that the Nationals aren't currently seen as a top destination for free agents, which complicates their efforts.
In light of this situation, the Nationals seem eager to foster robust competition within their major league camp across various positions. Among the most captivating rivalries to observe will be at the catcher position and within the bullpen.
At catcher, the primary contenders for playing time include newly acquired Harry Ford and current player Keibert Ruiz, with Drew Millas also in the mix for significant innings. Adding to this competitive atmosphere, the Nationals have extended a non-roster invitation to Riley Adams, who was recently designated for assignment and had been sent to AAA Rochester.
Additionally, Andry Lara, another player who faced designation, has received a non-roster invite as well. Lara has experience both as a starter and a reliever, although all nine of his major league appearances to date have come from the bullpen. Last season marked his debut in the majors, where he struggled to make a strong impression, recording an 8.79 ERA and a 2.442 WHIP over those nine games, along with a 10:8 strikeout to walk ratio in 14.1 innings pitched—an unusual feat considering he debuted in the big leagues without prior AAA experience.
Now, at just 23 years old, Lara finds himself in a competitive bullpen landscape, and this spring presents a crucial opportunity for him to showcase his skills and secure a spot on the team.
What are your thoughts on the addition of Andry Lara and Riley Adams to the non-roster invitee list? I’d love to hear your opinions—feel free to share them on X, @DCBerk.
