Full Breakdown
Nationals Recall Top Prospect Harry Ford to Replace Injured Drew Millas
7/16/2026, 12:38:22 AM
Recall of Harry Ford
The Washington Nationals announced that they will recall catcher Harry Ford from Triple-A Rochester after the All-Star break. Ford’s promotion follows the placement of Drew Millas on the 10-day injured list with a left index-finger fracture that was retroactive to the previous Sunday. Millas, who has struggled with a fractured and dislocated finger since 2025, had been hitting .185 with a .539 OPS for Washington before the injury.
Background and Prospect Profile
Ford, the No. 12 overall pick in the 2021 draft out of a Georgia high school, was the centerpiece of an offseason trade that sent closer Jose A. Ferrer to the Seattle Mariners. He is ranked No. 5 in Keith Law’s preseason top-20 Nationals prospects and is expected to become a long-term component of the club’s plans. After a brief major-league debut with Seattle last season, Ford spent the 2026 season with Rochester, where he posted a .223 batting average and a .705 OPS while playing through a shoulder injury that limited his production.
Statistical Snapshot
- Harry Ford (Rochester): .223/.705 OPS overall; .841 OPS in June; 1.028 OPS in July.
- Drew Millas (Washington): .185/.539 OPS before injury.
- Max Kranick: Reliever signed to a major-league deal in May, slated to debut as the Nationals seek bullpen stability.
Roster Implications
Ford is expected to serve as a backup to starting catcher Keibert Ruiz while the Nationals address their bullpen, which leads MLB with 27 blown saves. The recall adds depth behind the plate and provides the organization with a prospect who has shown recent offensive improvement despite lingering shoulder issues. The move also underscores Washington’s ongoing effort to resolve its pitching staff challenges as the second half of the season begins.
