The Washington Nationals managed to keep a .500 record for a significant part of the season but eventually transitioned into ‘seller’ mode ahead of the MLB trade deadline. While many of their trades were logical, the most surprising choice may have been the decision not to trade closer Kyle Finnegan.
Despite a flurry of pitcher trades at the deadline, Finnegan remained with the Nationals. Zach Pressnell from FanSided analyzed the situation and concluded that Washington should have dealt Finnegan. This decision could potentially have negative repercussions for the team.
Pressnell pointed out that in a season characterized by strong performances from relief pitchers, the Nationals opted to retain Finnegan, who has been a standout. Given the nature of other trades, it seems they could have secured a substantial return for him. For instance, the Los Angeles Angels acquired four prospects from the Boston Red Sox for Luis Garcia, who, despite being older and having a less impressive season than Finnegan, still netted a significant haul. Similarly, the Oakland Athletics received three promising prospects from the Kansas City Royals for Lucas Erceg, and the Tampa Bay Rays traded for three Top-30 prospects from the San Diego Padres for Jason Adam.
The Nationals could have benefited from trading Finnegan, especially considering the potential returns seen in other deals. The rationale for keeping the 32-year-old closer might be a belief that the team could contend next season. However, given Finnegan’s recent struggles, including a 5.40 ERA in his last five games, the decision to hold onto him raises questions.
Ultimately, it seems that trading Finnegan would have been a wise move. If the Nationals find themselves in a competitive position next season, they may appreciate having retained him, but the missed opportunity at the trade deadline could haunt them.
Washington Nationals slugger Joey Gallo is nearing his return from injury. He is set to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Rochester after missing nearly two months due to a strained left hamstring. Gallo’s plan includes playing five innings at first base on Tuesday, serving as the designated hitter for a full game on Wednesday, and then playing five to seven innings in right field on Thursday.
Gallo, who signed a $5 million contract with the Nationals during the offseason, has had a challenging season. In 46 games, he has struggled at the plate, posting a batting average of .164, along with five home runs and 11 RBIs, significantly below his career averages. Since his injury in June, the Nationals have traded away outfielders Lane Thomas and Jesse Winker, while Juan Yepez has stepped up as a strong performer at first base. Upon his return, Gallo may also see time in right field, expanding his role on the team.
Washington Nationals Listed as Leading Contenders for Superstar Reunion
The Washington Nationals are being recognized as one of the top candidates to potentially reunite with a superstar player. This comes as discussions heat up around the possibility of bringing back the talented athlete, who has previously made a significant impact on the team. The Nationals’ interest highlights their commitment to enhancing their roster and pursuing top-tier talent.
The Washington Nationals are entering the offseason with several needs to address.
As of Saturday’s MLB games, the Nationals have a record of 55-68. While they possess promising young talent, they will require some star players to compete effectively in the 2025 season.
One potential avenue could be reuniting with a former superstar through MLB free agency.
Juan Soto is set to enter free agency and is anticipated to demand a substantial contract. At just 25 years old, he represents a type of free agent who could significantly alter a team’s future, which is precisely what Washington requires.
The two parties have a history, though their previous relationship ended on a sour note. Nevertheless, the Nationals have been mentioned as a possible candidate for his return.
MLB insider Jon Heyman from the New York Post recently identified the top 11 potential suitors for Soto, ranking Washington at No. 9.
While many expect Soto to re-sign with the New York Yankees, there remains a chance he could be persuaded to consider other options.
During the 2024 season with the Yankees, Soto has played 119 games, hitting 34 home runs and driving in 87 runs, with a batting line of .305/.436/.610. These impressive statistics explain why numerous teams are interested in acquiring him.
A recent poll conducted by ESPN among 28 MLB executives revealed that Soto’s contract projections are staggering, ranging from $50 million for one year to $655 million over ten years. The average projection was around $482.5 million over 11.6 years.
Though this is a significant financial commitment, Soto is still young and is expected to be in his prime throughout a potential ten-year deal, unlike older players whose performance may decline in the latter years of their contracts.
If the Nationals are a team Soto would consider, they should definitely pursue him. Despite their past issues, acquiring him could greatly enhance Washington’s chances of returning to competitiveness.
While it may be unlikely for the Nationals to secure Soto this offseason, they are certainly a team to watch.
The Washington Nationals are looking to rebound following a significant defeat against the Philadelphia Phillies.
As of now, the Nationals hold a record of 55-67 and are reeling from a 13-3 loss to the Phillies, who have a commanding lead in the National League. The team is eager to avoid another blowout as they face the Phillies again at Citizens Bank Park. Despite their struggles, the Nationals are hopeful about their potential to improve and are focused on making a strong comeback.
The Washington Nationals are looking to avoid a second consecutive blowout loss when they face the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Friday.
The game is scheduled to start at 6:40 p.m. ET.
The Nationals (55-67) are still feeling the sting from Thursday’s 13-3 defeat against the Phillies (71-50), who currently lead the National League East. In that game, Philadelphia’s Weston Wilson achieved a cycle.
Nationals catcher Keibert Ruiz contributed with a two-run homer, bringing his season total to 11 and raising his batting average to .227 after a 2-for-4 performance.
The Nationals will send left-hander Patrick Corbin to the mound. This season has been challenging for the veteran, who has a record of 2-12 and a 5.98 ERA. He has logged 131 innings over 24 starts, striking out 97 batters while walking 43.
At 35 years old, Corbin is on track for his fifth consecutive losing season as a starter, all with the Nationals. His last winning season was in 2019, when he went 14-7 and played a key role in helping the franchise win its first World Series title. Prior to joining Washington, he played for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Corbin is aiming for his 100th career victory and has a 3.27 ERA in his last two starts against the Phillies dating back to last season. However, he is 1-4 in his last seven outings, with a 7.25 ERA, and only lasted four innings in his most recent start against the Los Angeles Angels on Sunday.
The Nationals’ lineup will face Philadelphia’s right-hander Aaron Nola, who has an 11-6 record and a 3.60 ERA this season. Nola is in the first year of a seven-year contract with the Phillies. Recently, he has struggled, going 2-2 with a 4.08 ERA in his last seven starts. In his last outing against the Diamondbacks, he allowed three earned runs and nine hits over five innings.
Ruiz is one of three Nationals players with at least 10 home runs this season, alongside C.J. Abrams, who leads the team with 17, and Luis García, who has 14.
The Washington Nationals are gearing up for an exciting Spring Training season, and this year, their top prospects are set to shine in a rare opportunity. The organization has announced that several of its promising young players will participate in the inaugural Spring Breakout Series, where they will face off against prospects from the New York Mets on March 15. This event is a fantastic chance for fans to get a glimpse of the future stars of the Nationals.
Among the notable names invited to this year’s Spring Training are outfielders Dylan Crews, Robert Hassell III, and James Wood, along with infielders Darren Baker, Brady House, and Trey Lipscomb. For many of these players, this will be their first experience in Major League Spring Training, and the Nationals’ manager, Davey Martinez, is eager to see how they perform. He believes that being around established big league players will be invaluable for their development.
“I hope they’re all in big league camp because I want to see ‘em play,” Martinez expressed. He emphasized the importance of getting to know the players and helping them understand the team’s approach to the game.
The excitement isn’t limited to the coaching staff; current players are also looking forward to seeing the prospects in action. Pitcher Josiah Gray shared his enthusiasm in a recent interview, stating, “I’m just looking forward to seeing how they work.” He plans to observe closely, eager to witness the preparation and at-bats of the new talent.
As the Nationals prepare for the season, decisions will need to be made regarding where these prospects will start their professional journeys. Crews, who was the second overall pick in last year’s draft, and other top prospects like Hassell III and Wood all finished last season at Double-A Harrisburg. Meanwhile, Baker spent most of his time at Triple-A Rochester. The Nationals have taken an aggressive approach to their development, and new Scouting Director Eddie Longosz is pleased with the challenges presented to these young players.
Determining when these prospects are ready for the next step—whether it’s a promotion to Triple-A or even the majors—will depend on their performance. Longosz noted, “The player will always tell you,” emphasizing that their abilities will dictate their advancement.
This Spring Breakout Series is just one of the many ways the Nationals are investing in their future. With a talented group of young players ready to make their mark, fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead. Keep an eye on these prospects as they showcase their skills and potentially become the next wave of talent for the Nationals!
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