Ben

Grable

Since coming to the Nationals from the Yankees at the trade deadline, Grable has allowed one run on eight hits in 10 1/3 innings split between Double-A and Triple-A. That has come with a 16/7 K/BB ratio. You have to wonder if the Nationals will give him a chance at some MLB innings this month.

Grable has been exceptional in the minors this year with a 2.45 ERA and 56/10 K/BB ratio over 36 2/3 frames while reaching Double-A. The right-hander has a high 90 mph fastball and a plus slider, and he throws both pitches for strikes. He looks ready for the majors, and it wouldn’t be a shock if he joined the Nationals’ bullpen before the end of 2026. If not, he seems very likely to be ready for 2027.

The Yankees will be send the Nationals four pitchers in exchange for Garcia according to Spencer Nusbaum of the Washington Post: right-handers Ben Grable, Yovanny Cruz, Jack Cebert, and Jake Bird. The 26-year-old has had a breakout season in 2026 with 23 homers and an .873 OPS over 374 plate appearances, and gives the Yankees a needed boost to their lineup. He’s played exclusively first base in 2026, but he’s played both second base and shortstop at times with the Nationals. It seems more likely that he’ll be lining up at the cold corner than those positions up the middle with New York.