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Nationals Finalize $7 Million Deal With Zack Littell, Designate Richard Lovelady

Incentive‑heavy terms reflect a short‑term bet on dependable innings during Washington’s rebuild.

Oct 1, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Zack Littell (52) throws a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first inning during game two of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Cincinnati Reds pitcher Zack Littell (52) delivers a pitch in the first inning of the MLB National League Wild Card Game 2 between the Cincinnati Reds and LA Dodgers, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California.
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Overview

  • Washington announced a one-year, $7 million contract with Zack Littell that includes a $12 million mutual option for 2027 and a $4 million buyout.
  • Littell can earn up to $2.5 million in innings-based bonuses tied to 100–140 IP ($100,000 each 10-increment), 150–160 IP ($250,000 each) and 170, 180, 190 IP ($500,000 each).
  • To clear a 40-man roster spot, the Nationals designated left-handed reliever Richard Lovelady for assignment.
  • The 30-year-old right-hander is slated for the rotation after throwing 186 2/3 innings with a 3.81 ERA across 32 starts for the Rays and Reds in 2025, including his first playoff start.
  • Coverage highlights Littell’s elite control (4.2% walk rate in 2025) and durability, with analysts noting he could become a trade asset if Washington falls out of contention.