Brad Lord has cracked the Opening Day roster in a bullpen role after solid spring
Brad Lord, who was working at Home Depot moving Christmas trees this winter is now headed to the Big Leagues. The 25 year old right hander has beaten the odds and is now going to be on the MLB roster.
This spring, the Nats have been experimenting with Brad Lord in a bullpen role, and it is clearly something they want to continue. While Lord posted an ERA above six this spring, basically all of the damage came in a single outing against the Rays. In his other eight appearances, he only gave up one earned run.
With DJ Herz’s injury and Lord’s starting background, it is a bit of a surprise that Lord broke camp. Many figured he would be sent to AAA to be the next man up in the rotation. However, the Nats decided that they wanted him on the roster.
This has to be a special moment for the 2022 18th rounder who was never meant to be much more than organizational depth. However, Lord’s stellar 2024 season made this opportunity possible for him. He posted a 2.43 ERA over 129.2 innings across three levels.
Lord will likely be the long man in the bullpen to start the season, as well as insurance for the rotation. With the 40 man roster full, the Nats will have to make a move to open up a spot for Lord. Will Lord’s success continue into the big leagues? Who knows, but even getting here is a massive win for both Lord and the organization.