Mariners Prospect Ford Optioned by Nationals

Former top pick sent to Triple-A despite high expectations

Mar. 19, 2026 at 12:08am

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The Washington Nationals have optioned former Seattle Mariners top prospect Harry Ford to their Triple-A affiliate, a surprising move that has Mariners fans re-examining the trade that sent Ford to Washington last year. Ford, a 23-year-old catcher, was the headline piece in a deal that brought left-handed reliever Jose A. Ferrer to Seattle, a move the Mariners felt was necessary to bolster their bullpen despite Ford's promise.

Why it matters

The Nationals' decision to option Ford, who had a strong season at Triple-A in 2022, raises questions about his readiness for the majors and the long-term plans for Washington's catching situation. For the Mariners, it's a reminder that even high-profile trades can have nuance, as the team felt compelled to make the deal to address a roster need despite Ford's potential.

The details

Ford, the Mariners' 2021 first-round pick, was optioned to Triple-A Rochester along with catcher Riley Adams, leaving Keibert Ruiz and Drew Millas as the Nationals' expected Opening Day catching duo. Ford hit just .214/.353/.286 in limited Grapefruit League action this spring, not enough to earn him a spot on the big-league roster despite his strong 2022 season in the minors.

  • Ford was traded from the Mariners to the Nationals in 2022.
  • Ford spent part of spring training with Great Britain in the World Baseball Classic.
  • Ford was optioned to Triple-A by the Nationals on March 18, 2023.

The players

Harry Ford

A 23-year-old catcher who was the Mariners' first-round pick in 2021 and the headline piece in a trade that sent him to the Nationals.

Jose A. Ferrer

A left-handed reliever acquired by the Mariners from the Nationals in the trade that sent Ford to Washington.

Cal Raleigh

The Mariners' starting catcher, whose presence made Ford expendable in the trade.

Keibert Ruiz

The Nationals' starting catcher, who is signed through 2030 and whose underperformance at the plate led the team to option Ford.

Drew Millas

The other catcher expected to make the Nationals' Opening Day roster alongside Ruiz.

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What’s next

The Nationals will continue to evaluate Ford's development in Triple-A, with the possibility he could be called up later in the season if he performs well and the team's catching situation changes.

The takeaway

This move by the Nationals highlights the complexities of prospect development and the difficult decisions teams must make, even with highly touted young players. For the Mariners, it's a reminder that trades, even those involving top prospects, can still be the right move for a team's overall roster needs.