…As noted in the comments, Andry Lara has cleared waivers and has been outrighted to Rochester. It’s unclear what his usage will be this season. Eleven of his last 12 appearances for the Red Wings were in relief, but prior to 2025, 57 of his 59 appearances were starts (the two that weren’t were in the FCL, following an MLB rehabber “working on some stuff”).
…On Monday, the Nats announced ten non-roster invites, eight of whom are on the 2026 watchlist.
…Four Nationals made the MLB Pipeline Top 100, with Travis Sykora (#54) joining Eli Willits (#13), Harry Ford (#71), and Jarlin Susana (#80).
…Three Nationals made Keith Law’s 2026 Top 100, with Eli Willits the sole holdover from the other two lists at #53, recently acquired Gavin Fien at #76, and Seaver King at #94.
…The differences between the three lists are kind of interesting, but one has to think about the inherent biases. I respect Law for not ranking Sykora or Susana until they prove themselves healthy. MLB proclaiming Susana’s slider to be the best is assuming he’ll still be able to throw it the same way after his surgery. Sorry, but as my favorite Journalism professor used to say “Even if your mother says she loves you, check it out.”
..Finally, I’m finished with the full-fledged categories and working on the essays for the 2026 Watchlist. I slotted the four guys expected to play and added the Nats elbow to the notables.
We now return you to your National Lego Day festivities. If there are any places having sale, get there early because people might be lined up for blocks!