"With that said, there has been some belief that incumbent backstop Keibert Ruiz might be able to bounce back due to coaching changes that have been made this offseason. It's clear that the Nationals aren't counting on Ruiz reaching the potential the Nationals thought he had when they acquired him from the Dodgers in 2021, but it wouldn't be shocking if we haven't seen the best of him yet."
"Ford had a very successful season in Triple-A last year, batting .283 with 16 home runs and 74 RBIs. He has also been praised for his outstanding plate discipline, which he showcased by drawing 74 walks this year, and as many as 103 free passes in High-A in 2023. Ford arguably earned a closer look in the majors, but he was stuck behind perhaps the best catcher in the league (Cal Raleigh)."
The Nationals traded reliever Jose A. Ferrer to the Mariners to acquire catching prospect Harry Ford, signaling a move to upgrade a weak position. Ford offers upside and plate discipline after a strong Triple-A season (.283, 16 homers, 74 RBIs, 74 walks) and earlier drew 103 walks in High-A. MLB Pipeline ranked him No. 42 overall. The Nationals doubt Keibert Ruiz will reach his previously projected ceiling, though offseason coaching changes create some hope for improvement. Ford's immediate role depends on readiness; he could start in the majors or spend early weeks in Triple-A Rochester while Washington evaluates Ruiz's outlook.
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