"The numbers are staggering. Since being drafted in the first round of the MLB Draft in 2020, Cavalli has unfortunately not been able to stay healthy, spending limited time on the big-league mound. Between Tommy John surgery and the "dead arm" setbacks that pushed back his return in 2025, he has become the equivalent of a McLaren that never leaves the garage."
"While he finally was able to come and flash some life at the end of last season, with a 4.25 ERA over 10 starts, the command issues were still imminent. A 1.48 WHIP is not the stat line you look for from a frontline starter, but something you'd see from a fringe major leaguer. By penciling him in as a lock in the rotation, the front office is committing severe malpractice."
Highly touted pitching prospect Cade Cavalli has struggled with durability and limited MLB experience since being drafted in 2020. Tommy John surgery and subsequent "dead arm" setbacks limited his workload and delayed his development. He pitched ten late-season starts with a 4.25 ERA and a 1.48 WHIP, showing flashes but persistent command issues. The Nationals are projecting him as a rotation mainstay despite only 53 major-league innings, creating considerable risk. Rotation depth remains uncertain with MacKenzie Gore rumored to be traded and Josiah Gray still regaining form. Cavalli should be given an opportunity but not assumed a cornerstone role.
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