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The Washington Nationals wrap up their 2025 season today with Game 162 against the Chicago White Sox at 2:05 pm, closing the book on a year filled with ups and downs. While the final record won’t change with one more game, all eyes are on Miguel Cairo, who may be managing his last contest in D.C. The pitching struggles defined much of the Nationals’ season, but bright spots emerged in the form of CJ Abrams, James Wood, and MacKenzie Gore, giving fans a glimpse of what could be the foundation of the next competitive roster. With new President of Baseball Operations Paul Toboni set to take over this offseason, today’s game feels less like a finish line and more like the beginning of a new chapter for the Washington Nationals. The focus isn’t just on the field today but also on the future. Daylen Lile’s breakout September has the Nationals fanbase buzzing, showing signs that he could join Wood and Abrams as key offensive building blocks. James Wood was named Player of the Year for the club, while left-handed pitching prospect Alex Clemmey earned Minor League Player of the Year honors, highlighting the progress in Washington’s farm system. As the Nationals head into an offseason of big decisions, their young talent is beginning to shift the narrative from a struggling ballclub to one on the rise. This episode of the Talk Nats Podcast dives into the final game, the breakout performances, and what’s next for the Washington Nationals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Washington Nationals have finalized a major front office move, hiring Paul Toboni as their new head of baseball operations. Toboni, who previously served as a senior executive in the Boston Red Sox front office, brings a strong background in drafting and player development. For the Washington Nationals, this represents a turning point after years of missed draft picks, a shallow farm system, and constant turnover in leadership. His experience building up Boston’s farm system signals a new emphasis on development and scouting in Washington. The hire comes at a critical time for the Nationals, who have endured six straight losing seasons and are looking to rebuild their organization from the ground up. With no GM currently in place, a vacant scouting director role, and questions about the roster’s future, Toboni will be tasked with reshaping the Nationals both on the field and behind the scenes. From the 2026 draft to future trades and manager hires, this is a reset moment for the Washington Nationals — and the start of the Toboni era. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Washington Nationals are once again searching for stability at first base. Luis García Jr. has been taking reps at the position under interim manager Miguel Cairo, even though he’s been the team’s everyday second baseman since 2022. With Nathaniel Lowe designated for assignment and veterans like Josh Bell, Paul DeJong, and Andrés Chaparro filling in, Washington is experimenting to see who might emerge as a long-term option. García’s versatility could increase his value, especially as his defense at second continues to struggle. Beyond García, the Nationals are testing multiple paths forward. Prospects like Yohandy Morales remain intriguing but inconsistent, while catchers Keibert Ruiz and Riley Adams have each taken practice reps at first. Adams’ August 3 start at the position highlighted Washington’s willingness to get creative to keep his bat in the lineup. With the rebuild in full swing, the Nationals are searching for answers, and the question remains: who’s on first for the Washington Nationals in 2025 and beyond?   🎟 SeatGeek – Your Ticket to the Action!   Heading to a Nats game? Commanders? Caps? A concert? SeatGeek makes it easy to find the best seats at the best price!   🎯 Get $20 OFF your first ticket purchase over $50 Download the SeatGeek app or click the link below: 👉 SeatGeek Link Use promo code: MINUTECAST   Your seat starts here.   http://www.seatgeek.com   ---   🥩 Righteous Felon Craft Jerky – Snack Smarter!   Looking for a high-protein, keto-friendly snack? Try Righteous Felon Craft Jerky — premium Black Angus beef, hormone & antibiotic-free, with flavors like O.G. Hickory!   🎯 Get 15% OFF your order using promo code MINUTECAST: 👉 righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST   Snack smart. Stay fueled. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dylan Crews returns after 3 months & sparks the offense Nationals DFA Nathaniel Lowe in major roster shakeup José Tena delivers clutch hit to beat Phillies 3-2 Cole Henry records first career save in emotional moment Youth movement is ON: Who wins the outfield battle? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Washington Nationals snapped their daytime woes with a 4-2 win over the San Francisco Giants, fueled by James Wood’s leadoff homer, back-to-back blasts from Paul DeJong and Josh Bell, and six solid innings from rookie Brad Lord. Despite going just 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position, the Nats held on as new closer José A. Ferrer earned his first save since September. In other news, Dylan Crews is nearing his MLB return after a strong Triple-A rehab stint, and Cade Cavalli impressed in his first big-league start since 2022, striking out six in 4.1 scoreless innings. The Nationals hope these young players can anchor a brighter future as the season progresses. Nats fans — or Caps, Wizards, Commanders fans... Looking to catch a game or live event in the DC area? Check out SeatGeek — the best ticket app that lets you shop smart, rate every deal, and sit where it matters. And here’s the kicker — SeatGeek is giving Talk Nats listeners $20 off your first purchase over $50. Just use the code: MINUTECAST at checkout. Again, that’s MINUTECAST — for 20 dollars off. Score the seats. Skip the hassle. https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

MacKenzie Gore struggled in what may have been his final start with the Washington Nationals, surrendering six runs over 5⅓ innings in a 9–1 loss to the Astros. Despite some signs of improvement, Gore’s second-half ERA ballooned to 10.66, and with trade speculation swirling, his future in D.C. remains uncertain. While Gore admitted the chatter is hard to ignore, he emphasized focusing on his performance and controlling what he can. Meanwhile, the Nationals leaned fully into their rebuild at the trade deadline, flipping veterans Michael Soroka, Andrew Chafin, Luis García, and Amed Rosario for four minor leaguers, including lefty Jake Eder and infielder Ronny Cruz. These moves reinforce Washington’s long-term plans and reflect their belief in a young core led by CJ Abrams, James Wood, and Brady House. Though the rebuild drags on, the front office’s recent decisions aim to restock the farm and avoid a complete reset. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nationals face a pivotal decision with MacKenzie Gore, their best pitcher and most valuable trade chip. With two more years of team control and a dominant season on the mound, Gore’s trade value is sky-high. Interim GM Mike DeBartolo must weigh whether dealing Gore now — at his peak value — is smarter for a franchise still years away from contention. Given that Gore, like Juan Soto before him, is unlikely to sign long-term, the Nats could follow a familiar pattern: sell high to accelerate the rebuild. Meanwhile, the team suffered a major blow with top pitching prospect Travis Sykora requiring Tommy John surgery, setting back his development until 2026. It’s another setback for a team already dealing with pitching injuries to Cade Cavalli and Jarlin Susana. Veteran Michael Soroka could be the likeliest player dealt by Thursday’s deadline, and while Gore may stay put for now, the front office’s actions this week will shape the Nationals’ next phase of rebuilding. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Luis García Jr. finally broke out of a frustrating slump with a thunderous 390-foot homer Saturday night, leading the Washington Nationals to a 9–3 win over the Twins. The bat-flip moment was both relief and release after several hard-hit outs in recent games. His performance, paired with big nights from CJ Abrams and Alex Call, helped snap a 22-inning scoreless streak and reminded fans what this young team can do when the lineup clicks. Interim manager Miguel Cairo praised García’s resurgence, calling it “the Luis García that we know.” Off the field, the Nationals made their first trade under interim GM Mike DeBartolo, sending veteran Amed Rosario to the Yankees for pitching prospect Clayton Beeter and 18-year-old DSL standout Browm Martinez. Rosario’s leadership and consistent bat (.270/.736 OPS) will be missed, especially by teammates like García. With Rosario gone, infielder José Tena is set to rejoin the big league roster. The move hints at more changes ahead with the trade deadline looming on Thursday. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Boston Red Sox are reportedly targeting Nationals ace MacKenzie Gore after losing Tanner Houck to injury, with Gore seen as a “perfect match” due to his age, team control, and strong 2025 performance. Boston, still in playoff contention, could part with top prospects to bolster their rotation, though it would take a massive offer to pry Gore from Washington. For the Nationals, moving Gore would signal a full reboot as the franchise pivots under new leadership following a rough season and front-office turnover. Meanwhile, Josh Bell has emerged as an unlikely bright spot in a disappointing Nationals lineup. After struggling early, he’s been one of Washington’s best hitters since May, thanks to a return to his natural, all-fields approach. Bell’s resurgence could make him a valuable trade chip or a key veteran presence if retained. His turnaround also underscores the Nationals’ broader development problem: tailoring approaches to individual strengths rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all philosophy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Washington Nationals were rocked early in Sunday’s loss to the Padres, with MacKenzie Gore surrendering eight runs in just 2.1 innings, including a grand slam to Xander Bogaerts. It was Gore’s worst outing of the year, and a sharp contrast to his All-Star form, with his ERA ballooning from 3.02 to 3.59. While Nick Pivetta dominated the Nats again, the lone offensive bright spot came from Riley Adams’ solo homer and James Wood snapping an 0-for-20 slump. On the bright side, Rutledge, Lara, and Henry covered nearly seven innings in relief without allowing a run. Off the field, the Nationals signed No. 1 overall pick Eli Willits for $8.2M and plan to fast-track his development. Cade Cavalli is also nearing a return to the majors as he builds consistency post–Tommy John surgery. With the trade deadline looming, interim GM Mike DeBartolo hinted at dealing veterans like Soroka and Finnegan while protecting core pieces like Gore, Abrams, Wood, and Crews. The Nationals may be struggling now, but their youth movement is gaining real momentum. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Washington Nationals are at a major crossroads after firing longtime president of baseball operations Mike Rizzo. With the team sitting 20 games below .500 and both the GM and manager positions filled on an interim basis, the Lerners must now make the franchise’s most important leadership hire in over a decade. The front-runner internally is Mike DeBartolo, a lifelong Nat who has climbed the ranks from intern to interim GM. His passion for the franchise and call for “real change” has made him a serious contender, with some insiders vouching for his sharp mind and genuine leadership style. Externally, experienced names like Josh Byrnes (Dodgers) and Jed Hoyer (Cubs) top the list, bringing proven track records and championship pedigrees. Jeff Greenberg (Tigers), Gavin Dickey (Astros), and Carter Hawkins (Cubs) also offer intriguing blends of analytics, scouting, and player development. Whether the Lerners stay internal with DeBartolo or swing big for an outsider, this decision will shape the direction of Team Nationals for years to come. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Washington Nationals stunned the baseball world by selecting 17-year-old Oklahoma shortstop Eli Willits with the No. 1 pick in the 2025 MLB Draft. While the outside consensus favored prospects like Ethan Holliday or Kade Anderson, Nationals brass described the decision as "unanimous," citing Willits’ elite contact ability, speed, defensive tools, and makeup. His lack of Scott Boras representation likely contributed to the team’s ability to sign him under-slot and redirect bonus pool money toward other high-upside picks like flamethrower Landon Harmon. This draft marked a strategic departure from the Mike Rizzo era. Under interim GM Mike DeBartolo and scouting head Danny Haas, Washington focused on ceiling and character, drafting 11 hitters and 9 pitchers—many from college but also high-risk, high-reward high schoolers. With Willits compared to Ken Griffey Jr. in youth, the Nationals have placed a major bet on projection and long-term development, one that could define the franchise's rebuild for years to come. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nationals shocked the draft world by selecting 17-year-old Oklahoma high school shortstop Eli Willits with the No. 1 pick — bypassing consensus favorites like LSU ace Kade Anderson and top-ranked prep infielder Ethan Holliday. In a chaotic week that saw GM Mike Rizzo and manager Dave Martinez fired, interim GM Mike DeBartolo claimed the pick was backed by both scouting and analytics. Still, the timing and strategy raise eyebrows. Willits, the youngest No. 1 overall pick in MLB history, has plus speed and glove but limited power projection, making him a high-risk bet in a system desperate for proven offensive upside. The Nationals may save money on his underslot deal, but passing on more polished talent at the top for bonus pool maneuvering feels like a gamble from a franchise in transition — one that could define the next decade, for better or worse. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Washington Nationals are facing a pivotal moment in their rebuild following the firings of GM Mike Rizzo and manager Davey Martinez. Interim GM Mike DeBartolo now has to guide the franchise through a crucial 2025 MLB Draft, trade deadline decisions, and potentially a massive trade involving ace MacKenzie Gore. With Gore’s value peaking and his free agency looming in 2027, the Nationals must decide whether to keep building around him or flip him for a haul of top prospects. As the Nationals prepare to make the No. 1 overall pick in the MLB Draft, the choice between prep slugger Ethan Holliday and college lefty Kade Anderson could shape their long-term identity. Meanwhile, trade chips like closer Kyle Finnegan and veteran Michael Soroka may be on the move as contenders circle. The Nationals stand at a crossroads: double down on their core or hit the reset button once again. DAN ON TWITTER/X https://x.com/dancaps218 PODCAST https://x.com/TalkNatsPodcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In his first public remarks as the Nationals’ interim head of baseball operations, Mike DeBartolo signaled a significant shift in organizational philosophy. While expressing gratitude to former GM Mike Rizzo and manager Davey Martinez, DeBartolo emphasized the need for real change — including integrating more data, technology, and innovation across scouting, player development, and medical evaluations. Though he's held key roles in the front office since 2012, DeBartolo framed himself as a reformer ready to modernize how the Nats operate at every level. Despite the “interim” tag, DeBartolo will lead two major milestones this month: the MLB Draft, where the Nationals hold the first overall pick, and the trade deadline, which may involve tough calls on players like MacKenzie Gore. His bold tone contrasted with new interim manager Miguel Cairo, who paid tribute to Martinez and pledged continuity. Now, DeBartolo's performance in the coming weeks will serve as his live audition to turn a struggling franchise into a consistent contender — if ownership backs his vision with real investment. https://x.com/dancaps218 https://x.com/TalkNatsPodcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the wake of the shocking double firing of manager Davey Martinez and longtime GM Mike Rizzo, the Washington Nationals have named bench coach Miguel Cairo as interim manager. Cairo, a former big league infielder with 17 seasons of MLB experience and a quiet, respected presence in the dugout, will begin his 72-game audition Tuesday in St. Louis. He inherits a coaching staff entirely handpicked by Martinez, keeping continuity in a clubhouse still reeling from instability. Cairo previously served as interim manager for the White Sox in 2022 and earned praise for his leadership during that stretch. Meanwhile, new interim GM Mike DeBartolo steps into a massive month for the franchise. The Nationals hold the No. 1 overall pick in this Sunday’s MLB Draft — their first since selecting Harper and Strasburg — and the trade deadline looms on July 31. DeBartolo’s immediate challenge is steering a sinking team (currently 37-53) toward relevance, while evaluating whether Cairo could be a long-term fit. With tension building and big decisions ahead, this new-look Nationals leadership group has a chance to reshape the team’s direction — or risk falling even further behind in their rebuild. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In a stunning but perhaps overdue move, the Washington Nationals fired both manager Dave Martinez and general manager Mike Rizzo on Sunday night, bringing an end to one of MLB’s longest-running partnerships. Their shared tenure included the franchise’s first and only World Series title in 2019, but the years since have been plagued by losing records, failed free agent signings, and stalled development. With the Nats falling to 37–53 and sitting last in the NL East, ownership declared it was time for “a fresh approach and new energy” to lead the team into a new chapter. Mike DeBartolo, Rizzo’s longtime assistant, takes over as interim GM, with an interim manager to be named Monday. The timing raised eyebrows, coming just hours after James Wood and MacKenzie Gore were named All-Stars — a rare bright spot in a bleak season. Martinez, who recently clashed with media and players over accountability, finishes with a 500–622 record as the longest-tenured manager in club history. Rizzo, the architect of the 2019 title and several rebuilds, now exits amid criticism over recent failures in scouting, development, and player acquisitions. With the No. 1 overall pick looming and the trade deadline ahead, the Nationals face one of the most pivotal stretches in franchise history — and this house-cleaning signals they plan to face it with new leadership, new voices, and a reset from top to bottom. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

MacKenzie Gore pitched like an ace once again, allowing just one run over seven innings with an ERA drop to 3.09, but the Nationals' offense offered no support in a 1-0 loss to the Padres. Despite Gore's 18 whiffs and dominant command, the Nats couldn't get a runner into scoring position and dropped their seventh straight series. Now at 33-48, Washington’s playoff hopes are dimming fast, and they sit 5-18 in June — a brutal fall after showing signs of life in May. But there’s still hope on the horizon: top pitching prospect Travis Sykora has been promoted to Double-A after torching High-A hitters with a 1.21 ERA and electric stuff. Meanwhile, catcher Keibert Ruiz lands on the IL after a freak injury, opening the door for Drew Millas to join the big league club. With young talent like James Wood, CJ Abrams, and Gore continuing to shine, the Nationals still have pieces to build around heading into the second half. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nationals continue misusing pitchers by treating them like Max Scherzer—overworking them past performance limits. This strategy consistently results in fatigue-induced breakdowns, as seen with Gio González, Jake Irvin, Michael Soroka, and Mitchell Parker. Analytics suggest pulling starters early preserves their performance, yet the team refuses to adjust, often causing ERA spikes and dead arms in subsequent starts. Rookie Dylan Crews is making steady rehab progress, recently cleared to travel and begin light swinging, although full activity still lies ahead. Meanwhile, Jay Young's elite speed has been marred by poor sliding technique; his stolen base success has dropped from perfect to 59%. If he adjusts his slides, he'll enhance the team's offensive potential and reduce rally-crushing outs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Washington Nationals delivered one of their most complete performances of the season with a 7–3 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers in front of a record-setting crowd. Jake Irvin outdueled a powerhouse lineup with seven strikeouts and no walks, while the offense exploded for five home runs — two by Nathaniel Lowe and one each from James Wood, CJ Abrams, and Luis García Jr. James Wood’s 451-foot blast opened the scoring and set the tone. The bullpen and defense supported the win, with contributions from Ruiz and Lile rounding out the team effort. As the team continues to struggle overall in June, stars like James Wood and CJ Abrams are building strong cases for All-Star selections. Wood leads the team with 21 home runs, 57 RBIs, and a .935 OPS, while Abrams is among the top shortstops in the NL in several offensive categories. Meanwhile, prospect Robert Hassell III is showing signs of rebounding at Triple-A Rochester after a rocky MLB debut, slashing .311 with six homers in 46 games, positioning himself for a possible call-up later this season. YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTalkNatsPodcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.