Connelly Early Set for Integral Role in Washington Nationals Rotation

After being acquired from the Boston Red Sox for Curtis Mead, lefty Connelly Early is projected as a key mid-rotation starter for the Washington Nationals. Early dealt with elbow soreness and a forearm setback in 2026, limiting him to 94.2 total innings between Boston and Washington. However, he returned for an impressive three-inning start to finish the year. He posted a 3.33 ERA with 94 strikeouts while showcasing a deep six-pitch mix.