Washington Nationals left fielder Stone Garrett. Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Stone Garrett on fire to start 2023 for the Nationals after nearly retiring

By Michael Carpenter | Last updated 4/24/23

Breaking into the majors last year with the Arizona Diamondbacks after eight seasons in the minor leagues, Washington Nationals outfielder Stone Garrett was on the brink of retirement and beginning the next chapter of his life as a real estate agent until a LinkedIn message changed his life.

Now with a second chance at his childhood dream, Garrett is making the most of his opportunity. With the Nationals struggling mightily and projected to lose over 100 games, Garrett has been one of the few bright spots.

Opening the season with a .393 batting average, four extra-base hits and 5 RBI in only 28 at-bats, Garrett is doing everything he can to earn more playing time from manager Davy Martinez.

His production is too hard to hide now with the team struggling and the fans wanting something to root for.

Stone Garrett Power. pic.twitter.com/Nuj8OvFSc5
— District on Deck (@DistrictOnDeck) April 9, 2023

Garrett is a strong man with huge power just looking for a place to showcase his talents. After hitting 25 and 28 HR in back-to-back minor league seasons he got the chance with the Diamondbacks.

During his small sample with Arizona, he hit .276 with eight doubles and four HR in only 76 at-bats. This would earn him the one-year deal he signed with Washington over the offseason.

With the Nationals looking to be a bottom-five team, there should be plenty of playing time in store for Garrett as the season goes on.

The Nationals franchise is in full rebuild mode after winning a World Series title in 2019. Garrett's hot start could make him an interesting trade piece as teams look for offensive help over the next few months before the trade deadline.

More must-reads: