Nationals' Future Battery Shines in Spring Training

0:00This is Corey with Washington Nationals News Today, powered by the Daily News Now, subscribe for daily updates on your team. In a spring training exhibition this March in West Palm Beach, the Washington Nationals gave fans a preview of their future battery. 20-year-old left-hander, Alex Clemmie took the mound, with 23-year-old catcher Harry Ford behind the plate against the Marlins. The duo combined for three hitless innings on just 50 pitches. Clemmie impressed with two strikeouts, one walk and two unearned runs. He mixed sliders, forcing fastballs, sinkers, and changeups effectively. Ford, calling the game for the first time with his new teammate, helps keep hitters off balance. Both players joined the Nationals through trades. Ford came from the Mariners in December after debuting there last September. He's the team's number three prospect and competing for the backup catcher job. Clemmie arrived from Cleveland in the 2024 Lane Thomas deal, reached AA last year, and is projected for a big league debut in, 2027.

1:03Manager Blake Boutera raved about their chemistry, noting how tough it is to sync up right away. Ford agreed it builds valuable familiarity for potential future call-ups. Clemmie stuck to his usual routine, treating it like any minor league start. The Nationals also featured their top prospect, Eli Willitz, at shortstop, while giving regulars a rest. Boutera welcomes more minor leagueers to big league games for the experience in front of major crowds. Single-game tickets for the 2026 season are on sale now. D&N is brought to you by our sponsor. It is a pillow that plays your podcast and music without earbuds, built for listening in bed, SOL-I-SOLY-PILLOW.COM.