The Atlanta Braves announced that they have claimed left-handed pitcher Mitchell Parker off waivers from the Washington Nationals. The transaction took place as 40-man rosters across baseball undergo adjustments with free agency officially starting.
Parker’s 2025 and 2026 Seasons
Mitchell Parker spent time in the Washington starting rotation before the team shifted him to the bullpen ahead of the 2026 campaign. During his relief appearances, he struggled to a 6.58 ERA and a 5.47 FIP across 39.2 innings and 22 total appearances. His season ended prematurely in early July after medical staff diagnosed him with a Grade 3 UCL sprain in his throwing arm.
Injury Recovery and Outlook
Parker underwent internal brace surgery in late July to repair the elbow injury. Analysts anticipate he will likely remain sidelined until September 2027, with a possibility that he could miss the entire 2027 season depending on his recovery progress.
Parker will now work on his rehabilitation as a member of the Atlanta organization. Observers at Federal Baseball noted that he may have discovered some effectiveness in his swingman role with Washington, offering the Braves potential to develop upon his return to full health.
