Nationals Re-sign Erick Mejia as He Transitions to Pitcher

The Washington Nationals have chosen to retain pitcher Erick Mejia, affirming their commitment to his unique career transition from shortstop to pitcher. The announcement, confirmed by Baseball America reporter Matt Eddy, marks a significant moment in Mejia’s professional journey as he aims to solidify his place on the Major League Baseball (MLB) roster.

Mejia began his baseball career as a shortstop, signing with the Seattle Mariners as an international free agent in 2012. After spending years in various organizations, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and Kansas City Royals, he made his MLB debut as a shortstop with the Royals, recording a modest batting average of .167 over 36 at-bats across two seasons. His transition to pitching began in earnest in 2025, when he shifted his focus full-time to the mound.

In his new role, Mejia demonstrated notable success at the Double-A level, making 24 appearances with a commendable earned run average (ERA) of 2.33. His performance, however, was more challenging at the Triple-A level with the Rochester Red Wings, where he allowed 12 runs in just 10 innings of work. Despite these struggles, the Nationals see potential in Mejia’s abilities as he continues to refine his pitching skills.

The Nationals first added Mejia to their system in 2023, providing him with an opportunity to reinvent himself after difficulties with his batting in the previous seasons. The decision to convert him to a pitcher reflects the team’s willingness to explore diverse talent pathways within their organization.

Looking ahead, Mejia has the potential to climb higher in the ranks of professional baseball. If his progress continues positively, he may earn a spot in the MLB as early as 2026. The Nationals’ investment in Mejia not only highlights their commitment to player development but also underscores the evolving landscape of baseball, where versatility and adaptability are increasingly valued traits.

As Mejia embarks on this new chapter, he joins a growing list of players who have successfully transitioned between positions, proving that with determination and support, career reinventions are possible in the competitive world of sports.