“We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Brooks Robinson. An integral part of our Orioles Family since 1955, he will continue to leave a lasting impact on our club, our community, and the sport of baseball.”
The Washington Nationals announced the winners of the eighth annual end-of-season awards as voted on by members of the local media. Outfielder Lane Thomas was voted 2023 Nationals Player of the Year, while right-handed pitcher Kyle Finnegan was named Pitcher of the Year. Right-handed pitcher Josiah Gray was given the Good Guy Award, presented to a player for his always-professional dealings with members of the media, his work in the community and for representing the Nationals organization with class both on and off the field.
Thomas, 28, was named Nationals Player of the Year for the second consecutive season. He enters play on Friday leading Washington with 26 home runs, 278 total bases, 34 doubles, 96 runs, a .470 slugging percentage and a .790 OPS. He also ranks in the top three in hits (2nd, 160), RBI (2nd, 84), stolen bases (2nd, 19) and on-base percentage (3rd, .320). Thomas set career highs in 2023 in games (149), at-bats (591), runs, hits, doubles, triples (3), home runs, RBI and stolen bases. Thomas' 34 doubles and 62 extra-base hits are tied for third among National League outfielders. His 26 homers are tied for sixth.
He leads Major League Baseball with a career-high 17 outfield assists and ranks second in Nationals history (2005-pres.) behind only Alfonso Soriano (22 in 2006) for most outfield assists in a single season.
With one more stolen base, Thomas will record the sixth 20 home run - 20 stolen base season in Nationals history (2005-pres.) and the first since 2016.
Since arriving in Washington on Aug. 15, 2021, the Knoxville, Tenn., native is slashing .259/.319/.447, with 74 doubles, seven triples, 50 home runs, 163 RBI, 31 stolen bases and 191 runs in 339 games. He ranks in the top 10 in National League outfielders in doubles (4th), runs (7th), RBI (8th), hits (T8th) and home runs (10th) during that time.
The Orioles have made the following roster moves:
- Recalled RHP Tyler Wells from Triple-A Norfolk.
- Optioned RHP Mike Baumann to Triple-A Norfolk.
Washington Nationals Managing Principal Owner Mark D. Lerner:
“On behalf of my family and the entire Washington Nationals organization, I’d like to congratulate Sean on a fantastic career and thank him for all that he’s done for our city and our franchise. An All-Star and a World Series champion, he was not only a fierce competitor, but is one of the finest people you’ll ever meet. Sean and his wife, Eireann, are great examples of individuals who have used their platform and place in life to advocate for others, and I have no doubt that their impact will continue long beyond Sean’s playing career. We are so happy that they’ve made Washington DC their home, and we hope to see them around the ballpark frequently.”
Washington Nationals President of Baseball Operations & General Manager Mike Rizzo:
“When we traded for Sean in 2017, we knew we were getting a tremendous reliever and an even better human, and his tenure with the Nationals proved that to be correct. A World Champion, All-Star, and leader in the clubhouse, Sean set an example of what it means to be a pillar of the community. He was as fierce as they come on the mound and took the ball whenever he was called upon. I’d like to congratulate Sean on his outstanding career and wish him and his wife Eireann the absolute best.”
In recognition of Doolittle’s commitment to club and community, Washington Nationals Philanthropies, the official charitable arm of the Washington Nationals, is proud to support SMYAL, an organization supported by Dolittle and his wife, Eireann, that serves local LGBTQ youth as they grow into adulthood. Nationals Philanthropies will match donations up to $6,300 in honor of Doolittle’s No. 63. Fans can visit give.nats4good.org/ThankYouDoo for more information and to donate.
Doolittle is scheduled to be in attendance at Friday’s game. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 6:40 p.m., when pregame ceremonies begin.
The Orioles have made the following roster moves:
- Recalled OF Ryan McKenna from Triple-A Norfolk.
- Placed INF Ryan Mountcastle on the 10-day Injured List with left AC joint inflammation, retroactive to September 17.
The Washington Nationals have agreed to a multi-year contract extension with President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Mike Rizzo, the club announced on Wednesday.
Rizzo, 62, is in his 15th year as the head of Nationals baseball operations, and over the last three seasons has overseen the installation of the key pieces that will comprise the organization’s next championship-caliber team. The 2023 Nationals have the chance to record one of the best season-to-season win improvements in team history, and the player development system is considered among the best in baseball.
“Mike and I have talked and worked with each other almost daily for 17 years. Together with my family and the entire Nationals staff, we’ve always shared the same dream: to make the Washington Nationals a team that our fans could love and be proud of,” said Washington Nationals Managing Principal Owner Mark D. Lerner. “We have all worked collectively to build what was essentially an expansion team with no Major League depth into a contender, and then into a World Series champion. We’ve experienced some tough losing seasons and we’ve hung championship banners, and we’ve done it all together.
“We are once again hard at work to build a championship contender in D.C. We now believe we have the beginnings of a roster filled with promising young players and exciting prospects at nearly every position. While we once talked about winning World Series rings for our baseball-loving fathers, Mike’s family and ours now look forward to winning even more rings for our children and grandchildren — and, of course, for every other Nationals-loving fan and family everywhere. We are excited about our future.”
Rizzo is widely recognized throughout the baseball industry for his sharp eye in scouting, his wise free agent pickups and his ability to construct organizations around acquired talent. Shrewd trades and free agent signings during Rizzo’s tenure with the Nationals have helped the ball club achieve consistent success.
The Orioles have made the following roster moves:
- Reinstated LHP John Means from the 60-day Injured List (left elbow UCL surgery). He will start tonight’s game.
- Optioned RHP Joey Krehbiel to Triple-A Norfolk.
The Orioles’ 40-man roster currently has 40 players.
Please find below a statement from Washington Nationals Managing Principal Owner Mark D. Lerner:
Stephen Strasburg is and always will be an important part of the Washington Nationals franchise. We support him in any decision he makes and will ensure that he receives what is due to him.
It is regrettable that private discussions have been made public through anonymous sources attempting to negotiate through the media. While we have been following the process required by the Collective Bargaining Agreement, behind-the-scenes preparations for a press conference had begun internally. However, no such event was ever confirmed by the team or promoted publicly. It is unfortunate that external leaks in the press have mischaracterized these events.
It is our hope that ongoing conversations remain private out of respect for the individuals involved. Until then, we look forward to seeing Stephen when we report to Spring Training.
Sincerely,
The Washington Nationals recalled second baseman Luis García from Triple-A Rochester and placed catcher Riley Adams on the 10-day Injured List with a broken left hamate bone (retroactive to Sept. 7) on Friday. Nationals President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Mike Rizzo made the announcements.
García, 23, returns to the Nationals after hitting .325 (13-for-40) with three doubles, eight RBI, three walks and six runs scored in his last 11 games with the Red Wings. He hit safely in eight of the 11 games, and in his last three games prior to being recalled, went 6-for-13 (.462) with two doubles, including a three-hit effort on Sept. 5 at Syracuse (NYM).
García appeared in 100 games for Washington before being optioned on Aug. 3. He hit .259 with 13 doubles, four triples, six homers, 42 RBI, 21 walks, eight stolen bases and 46 runs scored.
Adams, 27, hit .273 with 13 doubles, two triples, four homers, 21 RBI, 11 walks and eight runs scored in 44 games in 2023.
The Orioles and Major League Baseball today announced that pitcher KYLE GIBSON has been named the Orioles’ 2023 nominee for the esteemed Roberto Clemente Award. The most prominent individual player award bestowed by MLB, the Roberto Clemente Award, presented by Capital One, is the annual recognition of a Major League player from each club who best represents the game of baseball through extraordinary character, sportsmanship, community involvement, philanthropy, and positive contributions, both on and off the field.
The Orioles will join all of Major League Baseball in celebrating the 22nd annual Roberto Clemente Day on Friday, September 15, as they host the Tampa Bay Rays at 7:05 p.m. ET. This commemorative day was established by Major League Baseball to honor Clemente’s legacy and to officially acknowledge local club nominees of the Roberto Clemente Award. As part of the league-wide celebration, the Roberto Clemente Day logo will appear on the bases and official dugout lineup cards, all players will wear a ‘21’ patch on their jersey, and a special tribute video will be played in ballparks. Once again this season, each team’s Clemente nominee will wear ”21” on their uniform, joining players and uniformed personnel from Puerto Rico, previous nominees, and those who have worn “21” on prior Roberto Clemente Days.
As part of the nomination and in recognition of Gibson’s exemplary commitment to serving his community, MLB will make a $7,500 donation to Big League Impact. The Orioles will recognize Gibson in a special on-field ceremony on Friday, September 15.
The nomination comes as no surprise to those who have witnessed Gibson's unwavering dedication to both the game of baseball and the betterment of his community. In his first season with the Orioles, Gibson has quickly become a beloved figure among fans, teammates, and the Baltimore community alike. Beyond his achievements on the mound, Gibson's off-field contributions have left an indelible mark in the hearts of many. A three-time nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, while part of three different teams, shows how passionate Gibson is about giving back to the communities he calls home.
One of Gibson’s focuses this season is interacting with a different group of community members every homestand. Gibson has met with multiple community-based organizations including STAND Mentorship, whose mission is to enrich the lives of young men through educational experiences that will help them to grow and have a positive impact in the future, and Diamonds on the Rise, on organization committed to developing and promoting quality programs that provides a nurturing and thoughtful environment for individuals living with psychiatric diagnoses who may have challenges with their daily living activities. Gibson uses this time to discuss goal setting and the importance of perseverance. He has spoken with active-duty members of the military and their families to learn about their careers and thank them for their service, and he has given private tours of the Orioles’ clubhouse to children battling life threatening illnesses, providing a memorable moment of reprieve for struggling families.
The Orioles have made the following roster move:
- RHP Austin Voth has cleared outright waivers and accepted an assignment to Triple-A Norfolk.
The Orioles have made the following roster moves:
- Activated RHP Jorge López. He will wear #73.
- Reinstated OF Aaron Hicks (low back strain) from the 10-day Injured List.
- Optioned OF Colton Cowser to Triple-A Norfolk after yesterday’s game.
- Designated RHP Austin Voth for assignment.
The Orioles’ 40-man roster currently has 39 players.
The Washington Nationals selected the contract of outfielder Travis Blankenhorn and recalled right-handed pitcher Amos Willingham from Triple-A Rochester on Friday. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Nationals have requested unconditional release waivers on right-handed pitcher Rico Garcia. Nationals President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Mike Rizzo made the announcements.
Blankenhorn, 27, joins Washington after leading the organization in OPS (.877) and slugging percentage (.517) in 108 games with Triple-A Rochester. He ranked among Nationals Minor Leaguers in home runs (2nd, 23), RBI (2nd, 75), extra-base hits (2nd, 52), doubles (2nd, 27), runs (2nd, 67), total bases (T2nd, 203), on-base percentage (4th, .360), hits (4th, 103), walks (7th, 51) and batting average (8th, .262).
The left-handed hitting outfielder hit 293/.376/.671 with five doubles, one triple, eight home runs, 18 RBI, nine walks and 18 runs scored in his last 21 games before the promotion.
Blankenhorn appeared in 26 games over three Major League seasons between the Minnesota Twins and New York Mets from 2020-22. He is 5-for-29 (.172) with three doubles, a home run, four RBI, a walk and four runs scored.
Willingham, 25, joins Washington for the third time this season. He pitched to a 2.89 ERA (3 ER/9.1 IP) in six games since returning to Rochester on August 11. In those six games, he struck out nine and walked just three.
The Orioles have made the following roster moves:
- Claimed RHP Jorge López off waivers from the Miami Marlins. He has not yet reported.
- Designated RHP Logan Gillaspie for assignment.
The Orioles’ 40-man roster currently has 40 players.
The Washington Nationals selected the contract of catcher Drew Millas from Triple-A Rochester and transferred right-handed pitcher Carl Edwards Jr. to the 60-day Injured List on Monday. Following the game on Sunday, outfielder Blake Rutherford was optioned to Triple-A Rochester. Nationals President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Mike Rizzo made the announcements.
Millas, 25, joins the Nationals for his first career Major League call-up. He ranks in Washington’s Minor League system in on-base percentage (2nd, .390), OPS (4th, .832), average (5th, .291), slugging percentage (6th, .442) and RBI (T7th, 43).
A switch-hitting catcher, Millas opened the season with Double-A Harrisburg before being promoted to Triple-A Rochester on May 23. He hit .291/.390/.442 with 15 doubles, three triples, seven home runs, 43 RBI, 42 walks, six stolen bases and 40 runs scored in 83 games between the two stops.
Millas was acquired by the Nationals at the 2021 Trade Deadline from the Oakland Athletics. He was the “Best Defensive Catcher” in their organization, per Baseball America, at the time of the trade and boasted the “Best Strike Zone Discipline” in Washington’s Minor League system in 2022, according to Baseball America.
Originally selected in the seventh round of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of Missouri State University, Millas is a career .260/.368/.378 hitter with 45 doubles, six triples, 16 homers, 127 RBI, 247 walks and 129 runs scored in 257 career professional games.
The Washington Nationals and Washington Commanders today announce “Capital Crossover: Diamonds & Gridiron,” celebrating two of the area’s premier sports franchises and most passionate fan bases. The two-game series comprises the Nationals vs. Atlanta Braves on Thursday, Sept. 21, and Commanders vs. Chicago Bears on Thursday, Oct. 5. Both games will feature special appearances, crossover activations and more. Tickets, including all-inclusive VIP and discount packages, can be purchased at nats.com/Commanders.
“As a lifelong resident of the Washington, D.C., area, it brings me great pleasure to congratulate Josh Harris and his group on taking ownership of the Commanders franchise,” said Washington Nationals Managing Principal Owner Mark D. Lerner. “We’re looking forward to developing a meaningful relationship with Josh and his team, and this series is the perfect way to begin a new era of professional football in the District. This series is first and foremost a recognition of two tremendous fan bases that help make our area one of the best sports markets in the country, and we’re thrilled to celebrate alongside the Commanders.”
When the Nationals face the Braves on Thursday, Sept. 21, at 7:05 p.m., Nationals Park will host several Commanders representatives and alumni who will participate in pregame ceremonies, including new owner Josh Harris throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. The in-game presentation will also include mascot appearances and nods to Commanders game day traditions. Recognizing both teams’ dedication to community programs, proceeds from the day’s Nationals Philanthropies 5050 Raffle will benefit the Washington Commanders Charitable Foundation, which supports youth programs throughout the region.
“This partnership is all about celebrating our fans and the traditions that make D.C. sports so exciting,” said Washington Commanders Managing Partner Josh Harris. “The Nationals are a great D.C. success story. Not only did the Lerner Family help usher in a new era of baseball fandom across the region, they built a championship-caliber organization that brought World Series baseball back to our Nation’s Capital for the first time since 1933. It is an honor to throw out the first pitch at Nationals Park, and I am thrilled to work with Mark and the Nationals organization as we begin this new chapter for the Commanders and our fans across the DMV.
On Thursday, Oct. 5, when the Commanders host the Chicago Bears at 8:15 p.m., several Nationals representatives will visit FedExField for the second game of the crossover series. Additional details on activations for that game will be announced by the Commanders next month.
Henderson’s HRs are a big hit with Maryland Lottery’s Home Run Riches second-chance winners.
As the calendar turns toward the final month of the season, the Baltimore Orioles remain perched atop the American League East Division. A large part of that success was the meteoric rise of rookie Gunnar Henderson.
While the team is pushing for the postseason, Henderson could be making his own push for American League Rookie of the Year consideration. Henderson has been contributing spectacular defense, and at the plate he’s been one of the team’s top contributors as the Orioles have surged to the top of the standings. He leads the team in slugging percentage, is second in on-base percentage, and is a team leader in home runs (second only to Anthony Santander). Henderson has gotten hot at the right time, hitting .279 with four home runs and 16 RBI through the first 19 games of August.
The Orioles’ farm system has retained its spot at the top in the latest midseason rankings by Baseball America, ESPN, and MLB Pipeline. This marks the second straight year that the Orioles have been ranked as the best farm system in baseball by these three outlets.
“The continued recognition of our farm system is a testament to the hard work and expertise of our scouting, coaching, player care, and analytics staff members, as well as the steadfast support and investment from our partnership group,” said MIKE ELIAS, Orioles Executive Vice President and General Manager. “To maintain the No. 1 ranking despite graduating so many elite prospects to the majors speaks to the depth and talent within this organization, which we expect will continue to deliver impact players to Baltimore for years to come.”
In a span of less than five years, the Orioles took a farm system that was ranked No. 30 by ESPN in 2019 to one that has received back-to-back No. 1 rankings by the same publication. According to ESPN, the Orioles’ farm system valuation has increased by more than $160 million over the past three years. The Orioles are also the first organization to rank No. 1 in five straight MLB Pipeline farm system rankings.
“The work that Mike, Sig, Brandon, and the entire front office team have done since ushering in a new era of Orioles baseball for the 2019 season has positioned the Orioles to consistently compete in the coming years and help draw fans and visitors back downtown,” said JOHN ANGELOS, Orioles Chair and Managing Partner.
Since 2005, 16 of Baseball America’s 17 top farm systems made the playoffs within two years of their designation. The Orioles earned their first Baseball America No. 1 farm system ranking last year, and currently own the best record in the American League.
The Orioles have made the following roster moves:
- Reinstated RHP Austin Voth from the 60-day Injured List (right elbow discomfort).
- Optioned RHP Mike Baumann to Triple-A Norfolk.
- Transferred LHP Keegan Akin to the 60-day Injured List with lower back discomfort.
The Washington Nationals have agreed to terms on a multi-year contract extension with Manager Dave Martinez, the club announced on Tuesday.
"Dave Martinez represents the Washington Nationals organization with class on and off the field, and we are thrilled that he will continue to serve as manager,” said Nationals Managing Principal Owner Mark D. Lerner. “We are especially proud of the way the club has played since the end of June, and the team’s play is a direct reflection of Davey’s leadership. He is determined, passionate and the right person to lead our current group of players as well as the next wave of talent coming to Washington, D.C.”
Martinez, 58, is in his sixth season as the manager of the Nationals. He is the longest tenured manager and has the most managerial wins (378) in team history (2005-pres.).
The Nationals boast a 29-21 (.580) record since June 24, tied for the third-best record in the National League over this stretch. The Nationals enter play tonight having won seven of their last nine and 12 of their last 17 games since August 2.
Martinez was named the seventh field manager in team history on Oct. 30, 2017. In nearly six full seasons, Martinez has led the club through a steady, unwavering approach, consistent strategy and never-ending positivity and support for players. That includes an improbable run to the 2019 World Series championship.
The 2023 season marks Martinez’s 35th season in professional baseball, including 10 years (2008-17) as a Major League bench coach. From 2015-17, he served as the bench coach for the Chicago Cubs, where he played an integral role in three Postseason appearances, two National League Central Division titles and the Cubs’ 2016 World Series championship. Prior to joining the Cubs, Martinez spent seven seasons (2008-14) as the bench coach for the Tampa Bay Rays.
