Nationals' Recent Roster Moves Create Opportunity for Top Prospect Jackson Kent

He made his Triple-A debut this year

Rochester starting pitcher Jackson Kent deals to Lehigh Valley in the second inning during their game against Lehigh Valley on Friday, July 3, 2026, at ESL Ballpark in Rochester. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

The Washington Nationals are reportedly ready to add one of the franchise's top prospects to their big league pitching staff.

Left-hander Jackson Kent, Washington's No. 8 prospect for 2026 on MLB Pipeline, is expected to be called up to the majors, according to The Athletic's Spencer Nusbaum. It's unclear exactly when the Nationals will confirm this promotion, but the 23-year-old is reportedly set to make his MLB debut this week.

Washington is currently 59-61 on the season and five games back of the third National League Wild Card spot. After sending left-hander Foster Griffin to the Cleveland Guardians at the trade deadline and recently releasing right-hander Zack Littell, there's at least a short-term opening in the Nationals' starting pitching staff. That seemingly gives Kent the chance to earn a spot in Washington's rotation as the team tries to make a late-season playoff push.

When could Jackson Kent make his MLB debut?

Wilmington starter Jackson Kent throws during a rough outing for the Blue Rocks in a 13-6 loss to Hudson Valley on July 29, 2025, at Frawley Stadium. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

The Nationals selected Kent with a fourth-round pick in the 2024 MLB Draft out of the University of Arizona. The 6-foot-3 lefty made his minor league debut in 2025, so he's climbed all the way through Washington's farm system in under two full seasons.

This year, Kent has a 3.72 ERA in 20 starts across two minor league levels, with 105 strikeouts in 94 1/3 innings. The 23-year-old began the 2026 campaign with the Double-A Harrisburg Senators, where he posted a 2.35 ERA in seven starts. The southpaw then made his Triple-A debut in May. In 13 starts for the Rochester Red Wings this year, the young hurler has a 4.38 ERA and 67 strikeouts in 63 2/3 innings.

The Nationals also acquired left-handed pitcher Connelly Early from the Boston Red Sox at the trade deadline. The 24-year-old has been on the injured list since early July, though, due to left elbow inflammation. But if he's able to return to the mound before the end of this season, that could impact how long Kent sticks around in the majors.

As things stand, Washington doesn't currently have a starting pitcher scheduled for Saturday. So, Kent could make his MLB debut against the New York Mets this weekend if he's officially promoted.