Andrew Alvarez
Breakdown
Performance
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May 27, 2026
Drawing start Friday
Alvarez will start Friday's game against the Padres, Kyle Williams of TheBanner.com reports.
Analysis
He's taking the rotation spot vacated by the injured Jake Irvin (shoulder). Alvarez has been terrific in a long relief role so far for the Nationals, contributing a 2.84 ERA and 16:3 K:BB over 12.2 innings. The left-hander hasn't thrown more than 56 pitches in any of his relief outings this month, but he exceeded 90 pitches on two occasions at Triple-A Rochester in early May, so Alvarez should be capable of providing some length.
May 21, 2026
Could keep piggybacking Littell
Nationals manager Blake Butera indicated Wednesday that he will try to continue having Alvarez follow Zack Littell in a piggyback role, Mark Zuckerman of NatsJournal.com reports.
Analysis
After Littell tossed the first five innings Wednesday versus the Mets, Alvarez threw the final four frames, yielding two runs, striking out five and notching his first career save. There will likely be instances when Alvarez is needed to pitch other days, but if most of his appearances are piggybacking Littell, he'll have a chance to vulture some wins and saves. The southpaw holds a 3.18 ERA and 15:2 K:BB over 11.1 innings with the Nationals this season.