Nationals Option Franklin, Ribalta to Triple-A

0:00It's March 23rd. This is Washington Nationals News today, powered by AI, your team, your update. The Washington Nationals are narrowing down their spring training camp as opening day against the Chicago Cubs approaches on March 26th. In the latest moves, they optioned outfielder, Christian Franklin and right-hander Orlando Robalta to triple A Rochester, continuing a pattern of, prioritizing player growth over immediate big league spots. President of baseball operations Paul Taboni has emphasized development heading into 2026, and the team has already sent top prospects. Dylan Cruz, Robert Hasselblugh III, and Harry Ford to Rochester to start the year. Franklin, a 26-year-old top 30 prospect, show promised this spring with eight hits in 32 ad bats, but his high-strike array and lack of power convinced the nationals he needs more seasoning before his major league debut. Robalta impressed in camp by allowing just one earn run over 7-1-3-innings, striking

1:03out 6, but his rough 2025 season. With the 7.03 ERA, means extra time in the minors will help build on that momentum. With these cuts, plus the earlier release of reliever Drew Smith, the nationals are close to locking in their bullpen and outfield, setting up Joey. Weemer as the fourth outfielder alongside James Wood, Daelin Lyle, and Jacob Young for a strong start.