RP - Washington Nationals NRI
- Age 29
- Bats: R
- Throws: L
2026 Outlook
- Draft Rank (ECR)
- N/A
- Best / Worst
- N/A / N/A
- ADP
- #1195
Eligibility
- Yahoo
- RP
- ESPN
- RP
- CBS
- RP
Availability
Cionel Perez has signed a minor league deal with the Washington Nationals. The deal includes an invitation to training camp and will pay him $1.9 million with $700K in incentives if he makes it to the majors.
Fantasy Impact
Perez struggled last season in the Orioles' bullpen, pitching to an 8.31 ERA with a 21:18 K:BB ratio in 21.2 innings. However, the lefthander has had success in the big leagues and posted a 1.40 ERA in 66 appearances in his first season with the Orioles in 2022. In eight big league seasons with the Astros, Reds, and Orioles, he has a 4.22 ERA in 257 career appearances. If he can return to form during camp, Perez could find himself on the Nationals' Opening Day roster.
Cionel Perez was outrighted to Triple-A Norfolk on Saturday after clearing waivers.
Fantasy Impact
Perez struggled in 21.2 innings out of the bullpen this season, allowing 20 earned runs and issuing 18 walks. He’ll look to regain control and consistency in the minors.
The Orioles designated Cionel Perez for assignment.
Fantasy Impact
Perez will head to waivers. He would remain in the Orioles organization if he goes unclaimed on waivers.
The Orioles have exercised their club option for Cionel Perez.
Fantasy Impact
Perez posted a 4.53 ERA and a 1.40 WHIP in 62 appearances for the Orioles last season. He will likely continue to be deployed against left-handers in a setup role in 2025.
Cionel Perez delivered a flawless inning, striking out two and securing the save in the Orioles' narrow 7-6 victory over the Marlins.
Fantasy Impact
This performance marked his second save of the season, showcasing his ability to handle pressure situations despite a less-than-stellar 4.40 ERA and 1.34 WHIP. His solid outing could hint at a potential uptick in reliability, but fantasy managers should remain cautious. Perez's high ERA and WHIP are red flags, although his decent strikeout rate and strong performance in high-leverage situations like today's keep him on the radar as a possible situational pick. His role in the Orioles' bullpen appears secure for now, but consistency will be key for him to become a more trusted fantasy asset.
