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Cornelio's MLB Debut: A Rough Start
25 Apr
Summary
- Riley Cornelio made his MLB debut for the Nationals.
- He was charged with the loss after allowing three runs.
- Cornelio was sent back to Triple-A Rochester post-game.
Anticipation surrounded the Washington Nationals' game on Friday, with star minor league pitcher Riley Cornelio set to make his MLB debut. Expected to pitch in a piggyback role, Cornelio entered the game in the seventh inning with his team trailing by one run.
His debut quickly turned difficult as he walked the first two batters. A subsequent throwing error allowed the Chicago White Sox to tie the game, followed by a sacrifice fly that gave them a 4-3 lead. Though he recorded his first strikeout, Cornelio allowed three runs (two earned) over two innings, walking four batters and striking out one.
Cornelio was optioned back to Triple-A Rochester following the game. While his debut performance was rough, the Nationals are using this season for evaluation, and he is expected to be recalled at some point. Opportunities may arise, particularly if the team continues its piggyback strategy with starter Miles Mikolas, though Andrew Alvarez's performance might make him a first choice for a future callup.
