Nationals Place Lane Thomas on IL with Knee Sprain, Recall Trey Lipscomb

The Washington Nationals have placed outfielder Lane Thomas on the 10-day injured list with a left knee MCL sprain. Thomas sustained the injury while stealing second base in Tuesday's game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. An MRI revealed the extent of the injury, which is expected to sideline Thomas for more than the minimum 10 days.

Thomas, 28, has struggled at the plate so far in the 2024 season, batting just.184 with two home runs, 10 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases in 22 games. "It felt like a hyperextended elbow," Thomas said, describing the discomfort as a "joint jam." Despite his high pain tolerance, the Nationals opted to place him on the IL to allow proper recovery time.

To fill Thomas' roster spot, the Nationals have recalled infielder Trey Lipscomb from Triple-A Rochester. Lipscomb, 23, made his major league debut with the Nationals on March 30 and became the first player in franchise history to record a hit and a stolen base in his debut. In 14 games with the Nationals earlier this season, Lipscomb batted.224 with one home run, four RBIs, and four stolen bases before being optioned back to the minors.

Why this matters: Thomas' injury is a blow to the Nationals' outfield depth and offensive production. The team will rely on veterans Joey Gallo and Eddie Rosario to step up in Thomas' absence, while also providing an opportunity for Lipscomb to showcase his skills at the major league level. The Nationals, currently 10-12 on the season, will need to find ways to generate offense and maintain defensive stability as they navigate this early setback.

In Thomas' absence, the Nationals have shifted veteran Joey Gallo from first base to right field. The team opted not to call up highly touted outfield prospect James Wood, instead wanting him to continue getting regular at-bats in the minors. Lipscomb's versatility will be valuable for the Nationals, as he can play multiple positions and provide defensive flexibility. As Thomas focuses on his recovery, the Nationals will look to their depth to fill the void and maintain their competitiveness in the National League East division.

Key Takeaways

• Nationals place OF Lane Thomas on 10-day IL with left knee MCL sprain
• Thomas batting .184 with 2 HR, 10 RBIs, 11 SB in 22 games this season
• Nationals recall INF Trey Lipscomb from Triple-A to fill Thomas' roster spot
• Gallo shifts to RF, Nationals opt not to call up top prospect Wood
• Nationals seek offensive production, defensive stability during Thomas' absence