Foster Griffin’s success in Japan has translated so far for the Washington Nationals
Foster Griffin has been crafty and effective against three elite lineups to start the season for the Nats
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 11: Foster Griffin #22 of the Washington Nationals throws a pitch in the first inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on April 11, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) | Getty Images So far this season, Foster Griffin has been the Washington Nationals best pitcher. The soft tossing lefty has used his craftiness and deep pitch mix to weather the storm against three really good lineups.
He has faced the Phillies, Dodgers and Brewers, and has gone at least five innings while allowing two or fewer runs in all of those starts. The Nats have to be thrilled with what they've seen from LHP Foster Griffin in his first 3 MLB starts. After a lengthy stay in Japan, the 30-year-old has excelled vs 3 projected playoff teams.
PHI: 5 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 5 K's LAD: 5 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 6 K's MIL: 5. 1 IP, 1 H, 0 ER, 1 K — Grant Paulsen (@GrantPaulsen) April 12, 2026 Griffin is not the type of pitcher who will overpower you with stuff. That made it crucial for him to truly learn how to pitch.
Griffin did just that in his three seasons in Japan. When Griffin left the US to go to Japan, he was a four pitch guy. He threw a 4-seam fastball, a cutter, a changeup and a curveball.