Washington Nationals trade acquisition Connelly Early struggled in his rescheduled rehab start with Triple-A Rochester on Tuesday, allowing three runs on two hits and two walks across one inning of work, according to coverage from the Rochester Red Wings’ 9-8 loss. The outing marked Early’s first appearance in the Nationals organization after being acquired from the Boston Red Sox.
Connelly Early’s Rehab Outing Details
According to game reports, Tuesday’s appearance was pushed back after a scheduled Sunday outing in Harrisburg was canceled due to weather. Early threw 35 pitches during his single inning on the mound. After walking his first batter, he collected his first strikeout by inducing a chase on a 79 mph curveball during a 2-2 count, followed by a second strikeout on a challenged third strike. The second frame brought greater difficulty as Early surrendered a leadoff single to right field, issued another walk, and allowed a second single that loaded the bases before manager Matt LeCroy removed him from the game in favor of reliever Jack Cebert.
Background and Roster Context
The Nationals originally acquired Early from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for third baseman Curtis Mead. While Early works his way back through the minor league system, Mead debuted for Boston before sustaining a fractured wrist. Nationals president of baseball operations Paul Toboni previously expressed optimism regarding the timeline for Early’s return, though current projections from team observers indicate a Major League debut will materialize in 2027.
Team Outlook
Managerial staff adjusted the pitching rotation by pushing ace Cade Cavalli’s start back to Friday to grant additional rest, setting up Jared Simpson to make his fourth Major League appearance.
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