Nationals option struggling Kieboom to Triple-A
Carter Kieboom won't open the season in the majors after all.
The Washington Nationals optioned Kieboom to Triple-A on Saturday, the team announced.
Kieboom, 23, appeared poised to be the Nationals' everyday third baseman on Opening Day, but he hit just .150/.227/.250 with 15 strikeouts in 44 plate appearances during the spring at the time of his demotion.
The highly touted infielder has showcased an advanced bat at every level of the minors. He hit .303 with 16 home runs and 79 RBIs in 109 games at Triple-A in 2019. However, he owns a .181 batting average and .541 OPS with just two home runs in 44 games.
With Kieboom opening the season in the minors, it appears veteran infielder Josh Harrison will be the club's starting third baseman.
The Nationals also selected the contracts of infielders Hernan Perez and Jordy Mercer and optioned Luis Garcia to Triple-A in corresponding moves.