Former Washington Nationals World Series hero Sean Doolittle hasn’t pitched in MLB since throwing 5.1 frames in the 2022 campaign.
He is effectively retired from baseball as a player.
That doesn’t mean he can’t contribute in another role.
In fact, the Nats are announcing him as their new pitching strategist.
it's Coach DOOOOOOOOOO to you pic.twitter.com/Ate9r00CKQ
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) January 16, 2024
Doolittle is a fan favorite, but he is also a very smart former pitcher who can pass on his knowledge to the young Nationals staff.
Young, aspiring stars should definitely listen to a World Series champ who posted a 3.20 career ERA and 112 saves.
He is also a two-time All-Star.
The team hasn’t explained what exactly he will do as pitching strategist, but he has the knowledge and the willingness to share it.
Perhaps having him in such a role will be a boost to the Nationals’ young staff.
Besides Patrick Corbin and Trevor Williams, who are both in their thirties, most of the Nats’ rotation are still in their twenties: MacKenzie Gore, Josiah Gray, and Jake Irvin.
There are also other young hurlers who can benefit from having the experienced Doolittle helping them out: Hunter Harvey, Robert Garcia, Joan Adon, Jose Ferrer, Cade Cavalli, and more.
The Nationals might not be very good right now, but they do have the potential to improve and have several quality prospects in their minor leagues who could help in 2024 and 2025 depending on their development.
It’s convenient and important that they have young, but experienced people like Doolittle to guide them through the path of success.
NEXT: Nationals Make Quiet Addition As Hot Stove Rolls On