Paul Toboni has taken his first step of 2026. The Nats claimed Joey Wiemer off waivers from the San Francisco Giants. Wiemer was a former top 100 player in the Brewers system, but his unrefined offensive play has led to him struggling to carve out an MLB role.
The Nats appear to be giving Wiemer a chance. He is a 6’4 226 pound outfielder with elite athleticism. However, he has major problems with scent and plate discipline. So far in his career, the 26-year-old has played for the Brewers, the Reds and the Marlins. He was picked up by the Giants this offseason but was later DFA’d. Now he’s with the Nats.
Wiemer’s best tools are his legs and his glove. Last season Wiemer posted three zeros above average in just 27 games. When he got real playing time in 2023, Wiemer had a field run value of +10. His reach combined with an absolute cannon of an arm makes him a weapon in the outfield.
Wiemer also has great power. In 499 career at-bats, Wiemer has 16 home runs. His exit speeds are also very good. However, his aggression and strikeouts have made him a liability at the plate. For his career, Wiemer has an average of .203 with an OPS of .638.
Last season, Wiemer was solid in a short stint with the Marlins. He posted a .715 OPS in 61 PAs. But he did strike out 37.7% of the time and walked only 3.3% of the time. With the record you just hope Wiemer comes across one.
His splits intrigue me a bit, though. Wiemer is much better against left-handed throwing. For being careerWiemer has a .255 average with a .779 OPS against lefties. Meanwhile, he has a .178 average with a .559 OPS against righties.
If Wiemer remains on the roster, he will likely become the platoon’s midfielder. Given the number of outfielders the Nats have, I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets DFA again at some point. The Nats are probably hoping he goes unclaimed and becomes part of their system.
This move fills the Nats’ 40-man roster. If/when the Nats make another move, they’ll have to DFA someone. To be fair, there are plenty of candidates, including Wiemer himself. Hopefully Joey Wiemer can establish himself as a strong midfield defender who can crush lefties.
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