Cavalli's Command Struggles: Nats Rotation in Crisis

It's April 14th.

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Cade Cavali was set to shine for the Nationals this season, earning an opening day start

after a strong spring.

But at 27 years old, he's hit major snags with command, walking way too many batters.

Last night against the pirates, he couldn't escape the second inning, issuing three free

passes and even walking in a run after looking solid in the first.

Playing training had everyone hyped, with just two walks and 14 innings, sharper stuff,

and a new sweeper pitch-drawn coach praise.

Last year, his control was decent at 6.8% walks, feeling breakout talk to offset the McKenzie

Gortrade.

Nats fans and the team are feeling the pinch as their rotation desperately needs Cavali's

premium arsenal to step up.

Without him clicking, dependable arms like Foster Griffin and Zach Lattell can't carry

the load alone, leaving the staff exposed early on.

His mid to upper 90s fastball, wipe out curve, sweeper, and change up scream ace potential,

yet poor sequencing and precision mean fewer strikeouts.

Then expected, even at just 18.3% last season.

Some wonder if bullpen duty might suit his raw power better, where location matters less.

The Nats can't afford more Mirages from West Palm Beach Springbowl.

Cavali turns 28 soon, so that light bulb moment has to hit fast, or this rotation stays

in the dark.