Cornelio’s Opener Role Could Change Rotation | Washington Nationals News

**SPEAKER_1** (0:00)
On September 14th, the Washington Nationals are in a serious evaluation phase as their 20-27 season wraps up. A major question mark for them is how they're going to build a solid pitching staff, especially after their bullpen was the worst in the league last year, even setting a record for blown saves. With all options on the table for the upcoming season, they're looking at every possibility to improve.
One interesting development is the potential shift for pitcher Riley Cornelio. The 26-year-old made his major league debut this year, but he was used as a long reliever.
This was a change from his minor league role as a starter, and his early performance in the majors was a struggle, with control issues sending him back to the minors multiple times. However, things have taken a turn in September. The Nationals have been experimenting with Cornelio as an opener, and he's shown significant promise. In his last two outings, he's pitched five scoreless innings, giving up only one hit, striking out eight and walking just one. This has the team rethinking his role for the future. Manager Blake Butera acknowledged that they aren't ruling out Cornelio, joining the starting rotation for the 2027 season. He mentioned that getting more looks at Cornelio in different roles will provide clarity. With only Kay Cavalli and potentially Andrew Alvarez and Connolly early locked into starting spots, there are still openings.
Cornelio could be a strong contender for one of those remaining rotation spots if he continues to perform well in his current opener role. The team is gathering as much information as possible this winter and during spring training to finalize their pitching staff. You've been listening to Washington Nationals News Today, AI-powered team coverage.