Nationals agree to deal with ex-Mets reliever

In year one of the Paul Tobini-Blake Butera era, the Washington Nationals are still building the foundation of their new-look organization. Still, they must figure out the best configuration of their 2026 bullpen.

To help add a spark, the Nationals have agreed to a deal with right-hander Max Kranick, via Will Sammon of The Athletic. The terms of Kranick’s new deal are not yet known.

The right-hander spent the 2025 season with the New York Mets, appearing in 24 games. He posted a 3.65 ERA and a 25/5 K/BB ratio. His numbers certainly caught the eye of the Nationals. But since his performance came over just 37 innings, Kranick must prove he can be consistent over an entire major league season.

His work in the minor leagues though points to a solid contributor. Over 126 games, Kranick holds a 3.62 ERA and a 345/111 K/BB ratio. Now in the Nationals organization, Washington will see what the right-hander has to offer.

Through their first 32 games of the season, the Nats’ 4.90 bullpen ERA ranks 23rd in the league. It’s clear that the team needed some form of help in the later innings. Kranick won’t turn Washington into relief pitching world beaters over night. But he is at least an intriguing option for a team in need of help.

Once more of Kranick’s contract details have been revealed it’d be easier to see what his role will be in the Nationals. But assuming he is in the majors, Washington seems poised to give him the ball sooner rather than later. Then, they’ll really know what they have in the right-hander.

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