Nationals to Trade MacKenzie Gore to Rangers in Major 5-for-1 Deal
The Washington Nationals have completed a significant trade, sending left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers. This deal involves five prospects and has been confirmed by multiple sources, including The Athletic.
Details of the Trade
Gore, 26 years old, has been a key player for the Nationals since joining the team as part of the high-profile Juan Soto trade in August 2022. Over the span of 2023 to 2025, he made 89 starts for Washington. Here’s a breakdown of the prospects the Nationals received in return:
- Gavin Fien – A highly-rated infielder and the 2025 first-round pick from Great Oak High, California.
- Alejandro Rosario – Right-handed pitcher selected in the 2023 fifth round.
- Devin Fitz-Gerald – Infielder, picked in the 2024 fifth round.
- Abimelec Ortiz – First baseman/outfielder.
- Yeremy Cabrera – Outfielder.
Gore’s Performance and Future
Gore’s career took off last season when he achieved his first All-Star selection. He recorded a remarkable 3.02 ERA and struck out 138 batters in 19 starts. However, various injuries hampered his performance in the second half of the season, including shoulder and ankle issues.
This season marks Gore’s entry into his age-27 year, with two years remaining before he reaches free agency. He is expected to make $5.6 million during his second arbitration year, making him an attractive option for teams seeking pitching depth.
Rangers’ Rotation Needs
The Texas Rangers were in dire need of starting pitching depth. Highlights from their rotation last season included Jacob deGrom, who maintained a 2.97 ERA over 30 starts, and Nathan Eovaldi, who had a remarkable 1.73 ERA before an injury cut his season short.
By acquiring Gore, the Rangers aim to bolster their pitching lineup, positioning him in the middle of their rotation alongside rising star Jack Leiter. This move significantly strengthens their competitiveness within the American League West.
As the Nationals embark on another rebuild, this strategic trade underlines their commitment to securing controllable talent for the future. The acquisition of five prospects exemplifies their focus on long-term development and success in the league.
