Nationals Sign LHP Cionel Perez to Minor-League Deal With Spring Invite

Washington is taking a low-risk look at a former Orioles standout to bolster a thin bullpen.

Overview

The 29-year-old left-hander agreed Saturday to a minor-league contract that includes a Spring Training invite and $1.9 million plus up to $700,000 in incentives if he makes the Opening Day roster.
Perez delivered elite results in 2022 with Baltimore, going 7–1 with a 1.40 ERA over 66 appearances and strong ground-ball metrics that underscore his upside.
He faltered in 2025 with an 8.31 ERA over 19 outings, was designated for assignment in late May, spent time in Triple-A, and elected free agency on September 29.
The Nationals view him as experienced lefty relief depth for a bullpen short on major-league service time, giving him a chance to earn a role in camp.
If he secures a roster spot, Washington’s payroll would rise to about $95.38 million with a $118.18 million luxury-tax figure, according to reporting.