The Nationals announced a trio of roster moves, including the news that right-hander Jimmy Cordero has been designated for assignment. The club’s previously-reported signing of outfielder Gerardo Parra was also made official, while outfielder Andrew Stevenson has been sent to the 10-day IL due to back spasms to create room for Parra on the 25-man roster. Cordero’s designation creates a 40-man spot for Parra.
The 27-year-old Cordero made his Major League debut last season, posting a 5.68 ERA and an even 12 walks and 12 strikeouts over 19 innings out of Washington’s bullpen in 2018. The righty earned that promotion after a strong showing (1.96 ERA, 10.4 K/9) over 46 Triple-A innings last season, though he struggled at the same level this year, with just a 6.00 ERA over 15 innings.
Cordero is a hard-thrower who averaged 97.5mph on his fastball during his brief stint in the bigs, and he also has a grounder rate of better than 50% over his 282 2/3 career minor league innings. That said, he has also begun to experience some issues with both the home run ball and limiting walks over the last few seasons.
Looking like the Nats not only need Kimbrel but are also in need for Keuchel. Current number 4 & 5 starters have become useless