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José Ferrer trade grades: Who won Mariners-Nationals deal?
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- José Ferrer trade grades: Who won Mariners-Nationals deal?
The Seattle Mariners are trying to bolster their 2026 MLB title chances by trading for Washington Nationals pitcher Jose A. Ferrer .
Ferrer is now headed up to Seattle in exchange for Nationals pitcher Isaac Lyon and catcher prospect Harry Ford , per MLB Network .
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The move shows an aggressiveness from Seattle to add to its bullpen and a willingness from Washington to further embrace its rebuild. Who won this trade between a World Series contender and a franchise in repair?
Let's break the deal down real quick and determine who wins between these two MLB teams on different sides of the competitive spectrum.
Seattle grade
TORONTO, ONTARIO - OCTOBER 20: Julio Rodriguez #44 of the Seattle Mariners reacts after striking out to end game seven of the American League Championship Series against the Toronto Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre on October 20, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images)
We love the Mariners not getting complacent with its bullpen, even if giving up Ford is a big move for the Mariners. Ferrer, a decent reliever, can strengthen the backend pitching for Seattle and keep them in 2026 World Series talks. Sure, you never love giving away one of your best prospects, but having Ferrer should at least be a solid win for a win-now Mariners outfit.
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Grade:B+
Washington grade
Sep 1, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals relief pitcher Jose Ferrer (left) and catcher CJ Stubbs (36) celebrate after the game against the Miami Marlins at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images
The Nationals are not near contending, and getting Ford back is a really nice return for a franchise that needs young players who can grow into stars. Lyon gives them a new arm, and Ford gives them a potential starting catcher for the future. We really like this for Washington.
Grade:A
This article originally appeared on For The Win: José Ferrer trade grades: Who won Mariners-Nationals deal?
