What’s next for Nathaniel Lowe after being DFA’d a day after his grand slam?

Just 24 hours after celebrating his first career grand slam, Nathaniel Lowe’s stint with the Washington Nationals came to an abrupt end. The team designated the starting first baseman for assignment Thursday to clear roster space for outfielder Dylan Crews, who was activated from the 60-day injured list.

Lowe, acquired last offseason from the Texas Rangers in exchange for left-hander Robert Garcia, posted a solid campaign with 16 home runs and 68 RBIs over 119 games. The 29-year-old was earning $10.3 million this season following an arbitration win, but with only one year left on his contract, he was shaping up to be a likely non-tender candidate this winter.

Crews, sidelined since May with a left oblique strain, returns to a crowded Nationals outfield. The former top prospect has struggled in limited action, hitting .196 with seven home runs and 15 RBIs, but the emergence of rookies Robert Hassell III and Daylen Lile — along with James Wood and Jacob Young — convinced the front office to hold onto its young core.

With Lowe gone, Washington will now need to patch the first-base vacancy. Veteran DH Josh Bell, who has made 858 career starts at the position, is the most likely choice to move back into the infield. Other in-house options include infielder Paul DeJong and catcher Riley Adams, while in the minors, No. 20 prospect Yohandy Morales has logged significant time at first for both Triple-A Rochester and Double-A Harrisburg.

Fans headed to Nationals Park this weekend will still have something to cheer about — Saturday marks the second Jacob Young Bobblehead Night of the season.

Nathaniel Lowe: Power Hitter and Rising MLB Talent

Nathaniel Lowe has steadily carved out a name for himself in Major League Baseball as a consistent power hitter and dependable first baseman. Born on October 5, 1995, in Covington, Louisiana, Lowe comes from an athletic family; his older brother, Josh Lowe, also plays in the MLB, making baseball a shared passion in the household.

Early Life and College Career

Lowe attended St. Paul’s School in Covington before moving on to Louisiana State University (LSU), where he excelled as a standout first baseman. At LSU, Lowe showcased his combination of contact hitting and power, earning recognition as one of the top college hitters in the nation. His performance caught the attention of MLB scouts, leading to his selection in the 2017 MLB Draft by the Texas Rangers.

Professional Journey

After being drafted, Lowe climbed through the minor league ranks, steadily improving his batting average, power, and defensive skills. By 2020, he made his MLB debut with the Texas Rangers, quickly showing he could be a middle-of-the-order threat. Known for his disciplined approach at the plate and ability to drive the ball, Lowe’s bat became a valuable asset for any lineup.

Career Highlights

• MLB Debut: 2020 with the Texas Rangers

• Career Grand Slam: 2025 with the Washington Nationals

• Power Numbers: Consistently averages 15–20 home runs per season in full campaigns

• Versatility: Primarily a first baseman but capable of contributing in designated hitter roles

  
  
  

Playing Style and Strengths

Lowe is widely regarded for his plate discipline, gap power, and situational hitting. At 6’3” and 215 pounds, he combines size with surprising agility, allowing him to handle first base responsibilities effectively while contributing offensively. His ability to maintain a high on-base percentage and produce clutch hits has earned him respect in both the clubhouse and among fans.

Recent Developments

In 2025, Lowe joined the Washington Nationals in a trade from the Texas Rangers. Despite a solid season, including hitting his first career grand slam, he was designated for assignment to make roster space for returning outfielder Dylan Crews. This move has sparked discussion about his future in the league and potential landing spots for the power-hitting first baseman.

Personal Life

Outside baseball, Lowe is known for his dedication to fitness, community involvement, and mentorship of young players. He maintains close ties with his family and is often seen supporting his brother Josh’s career milestones.

Looking Ahead

At 29, Nathaniel Lowe is entering what could be the prime years of his MLB career. With his combination of power, consistency, and experience, he remains a sought-after player for teams looking to bolster their lineup. Wherever he lands next, Lowe’s bat and professionalism are expected to make an immediate impact.