The Washington Nationals have moved prospect Brady House to third base full-time, general manager Mike Rizzo announced Friday, per Mark Zuckerman of MASN Sports. The Nationals drafted the 6-foot-4 House in the first round in 2021 as a shortstop.
Despite House’s desire to stay at shortstop, moving him to third seemed to be the Nats’ plan. That’s even before the Nationals acquired CJ Abrams last July from the San Diego Padres in the Juan Soto trade. Abrams has gotten tabbed as the franchise shortstop.
House’s frame has warranted third base as a natural fit, going back to his playing days at Winder-Barrow High School (GA).
Last season, Brady House hit .278/.356/.375 with three home runs and 31 RBI in 45 games for Single-A Fredericksburg. However, his season got cut short due to a back injury.
Rizzo added House is healthy and will fully participate during minor league camp.
The update on House’s health and position is significant for Washington’s long-term plans. The club has searched for an answer on the hot corner since Anthony Rendon’s departure in free agency.
Carter Kieboom got pegged as the heir apparent at third. There were hopes of him manning the position much like Nats legend Ryan Zimmerman. However, Kieboom has struggled mightily at the Major League level. Concerns about him increased when he underwent Tommy John surgery last May.
It may be some time for the 19-year House to land in the majors. But Washington can now move forward with the hope of him securing the third base position in the future.
