Free agent Nathaniel Lowe has signed with the Boston Red Sox, ESPN confirmed Sunday night, after the Washington Nationals placed him on waivers over the weekend. The 30-year-old first baseman will fill a roster spot amid an injury to Red Sox starter Tristan Casas.
Lowe’s Recent Performance and Career Background
In his stint with Washington, Lowe batted left-handed and posted a .216 average, ranking second on the team with 68 RBIs and tying for second with 16 home runs. Despite accumulating 130 strikeouts in 440 at-bats, Lowe’s production slipped in recent weeks, managing just 3 hits in 33 at-bats over 10 games this month.
Lowe previously spent four seasons with the Texas Rangers from 2021 to 2024, where he was instrumental in their 2023 World Series victory. He earned a Silver Slugger award in 2022 by setting career highs with 27 home runs and a .302 batting average. Before his time with Texas, Lowe played for the Tampa Bay Rays during the 2019 and 2020 seasons. Over his career, he holds a .263 average with 105 home runs and 397 RBIs in 805 games.
Red Sox Roster Adjustments Following Lowe’s Signing
Since first baseman Tristan Casas suffered a ruptured patellar tendon in May, Boston has deployed a platoon approach at first base. Veterans Abraham Toro, a switch hitter, has started against right-handed pitchers, while Romy Gonzalez has filled in against left-handers.
According to ESPN, Lowe’s contract with Boston will be for a prorated portion of the major league minimum. With Lowe going unclaimed on waivers, the Nationals remain responsible for the majority of his remaining $10.3 million salary. Washington had obtained Lowe from Texas in exchange for left-hander Robert Garcia during the offseason.
Additional Injury Setback for Red Sox’s Marcelo Mayer
On Sunday, Boston manager Alex Cora announced that rookie infielder Marcelo Mayer will undergo surgery on his right wrist, ending his season prematurely. Mayer contributed both at third and second base before the injury.
Significance of Lowe’s Addition to the Red Sox Lineup
Nathaniel Lowe’s addition brings much-needed experience and power to a Red Sox lineup coping with key injuries. His proven ability to contribute both offensively and defensively should bolster Boston’s infield options during the critical stretch of the season. Meanwhile, the timing of Marcelo Mayer’s injury increases the reliance on veterans like Lowe, making his signing a crucial move for the team’s depth and postseason ambitions.