The Nationals designated Nathaniel Lowe for assignment Thursday, just one day after the first baseman hit a grand slam.
That’s right – grand slam Wednesday, DFA Thursday.
The move clears a spot on the 40-man roster for Dylan Crews, the 23-year-old outfielder they’re activating from the injured list. But it’s still a head-scratcher when you dig into the details.
Lowe now goes on waivers, and if no team claims him, Washington can assign him to Triple-A Rochester. The thing is, they’re exposing a player with another year of team control to every other organization in baseball.
The Nats clearly decided they don’t need Lowe moving forward. Whether that’s the right call remains to be seen.
The Numbers Don’t Add Up
Washington acquired Lowe from Texas this offseason, and he hasn’t quite lived up to his track record. His .216 batting average sits 47 points below his career mark.
Still, he’s contributed 17 doubles, 16 homers and 68 RBIs while maintaining a decent walk rate. That’s not nothing for a 30-year-old who’s won both a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger.
For a rebuilding team like Washington, letting talent walk seems counterproductive.
The Money Factor
Maybe the Nationals figure no one will claim Lowe because of his $10.3 million salary this year. Plus, he’s arbitration-eligible next season, which could mean another hefty payday.
That’s a gamble, though. Teams looking for first base help might be willing to take on that contract, especially with how thin the position can be.
From where I’m sitting, this feels like an unnecessary risk for a franchise that’s still trying to figure out it’s future core. But the Nats must have a pretty good idea that Lowe will clear waivers.
We’ll find out soon enough if they’re right.
