Bleav in Nationals

The Washington Nationals bring veteran starter Miles Mikolas to a young clubhouse in West Palm Beach, adding leadership and experience to a rebuilding rotation. We break down what Mikolas means for the Nats’ 2026 pitching staff, why Jarlin Susana is the most electric arm in camp, and how Cade Cavalli could change everything with a new sweeper. Is this the start of real progress in D.C.? Let’s dive in. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pitchers and catchers have officially reported to CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches, but this Washington Nationals spring training feels nothing like years past — and umm, that’s the point. In this Nats Minutecast episode, we break down why the Nationals are entering the most uncertain spring training in franchise history, led by an entirely new power structure featuring President of Baseball Operations Paul Toboni (tuh-BOE-nee), GM Ani Kilambi (AH-nee kih-LAHM-bee), and manager Blake Butera (buh-TAIR-uh) — without an ownership change. We dig into an unsettled starting rotation beyond Cade Cavalli (KAYD kuh-VAL-ee) and Jake Irvin (JAYK ER-vin), a bullpen projected by FanGraphs to rank last in MLB again, and the high-pressure Rule-5 situation surrounding Griff McGarry (GRIFF muh-GAIR-ee). Plus, what potential pitching adds like Miles Mikolas (MY-lz mih-KOH-lus) really say about urgency inside the front office. We also examine why even the catcher position remains fluid, with Keibert Ruiz (KYE-burt roo-EEZ), Harry Ford (HAIR-ee FORD), Drew Millas (MILL-us), and Caleb Lomavita (LOH-muh-VEE-tuh) all factoring into a depth chart that could change overnight. This spring isn’t about patience.It’s about auditions, pressure, and survival — and the Nationals aren’t hiding it. 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 Hey, podcast fans! If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, high-protein snack, look no further than Righteous Felon! This family-owned brand is all about premium, pasture-raised Black Angus beef—hormone and antibiotic-free. With mouth-watering flavors like O.G. Hickory and 10 grams of protein per serving, you’ll get the boost you need for all your podcast adventures!ii.... Plus, they have keto-friendly and gluten-free options, and they support sustainability with the Conservation Alliance. Ready to snack smarter? Use promo code MINUTECAST for 15% off your order! Head over to https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST and grab your new favorite snack today!  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 leaning into a new philosophy — and Gavin Fien is the clearest signal yet. In this episode of the Nats Minutecast, we break down why model-driven teams love Gavin Fien, what the data says about his elite bat speed, contact ability, and power ceiling, and why traditional scouting concerns about his swing and batted-ball profile are still very real. This isn’t about what Fien is today — it’s about whether the Nationals’ new development infrastructure can unlock a potential core bat for the future. Then, we zoom out to the 2026 Nationals outlook and answer the uncomfortable but necessary question: what does a successful season actually look like? With the Nats unlikely to contend, success hinges on development — from James Wood, Dylan Crews, Brady House, CJ Abrams, and Harry Ford, to breakout arms like Cade Cavalli and the next wave coming through the farm system. This episode focuses on player development, rebuild strategy, and long-term upside, not just wins and losses — and why 2026 may be more important than the standings suggest 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 traded MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers, and the fan base has every right to be furious. In this Nats MinuteCast episode, we break down why new President of Baseball Operations Paul Toboni made the call, what this trade really says about the state of the rebuild, why this isn’t about payroll, and why the Nationals are officially in a re-rebuild. Painful? Yes. Necessary? Maybe. Honest? Finally.   NATS MINUTECAST PODCAST ON APPLE https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nats-minutecast-with-dan-holmi/id1591427645 Support our sponsor: Looking for a high-protein snack that actually tastes amazing? Check out Righteous Felon — a family-owned brand making jerky from premium, pasture-raised Black Angus beef, free of hormones and antibiotics. With bold flavors like O.G. Hickory, keto-friendly and gluten-free options, and 10 grams of protein per serving, it’s the perfect fuel for your podcast adventures. Use promo code MINUTECAST for 15% off at righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST and snack smarter today! 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 make their first true blockbuster move of the Paul Toboni era, trading left-handed ace MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers for five prospects. In this Nats Minutecast, we break down why the Nationals finally pulled the trigger, what the return actually says about the state of the rebuild, and how this move reshapes the 2026 rotation. Plus, quick hits on Gus Varland being claimed off waivers and Riley Adams getting designated for assignment. Support our sponsor Looking for a high-protein snack that actually tastes amazing? Check out Righteous Felon — a family-owned brand making jerky from premium, pasture-raised Black Angus beef, free of hormones and antibiotics. With bold flavors like O.G. Hickory, keto-friendly and gluten-free options, and 10 grams of protein per serving, it’s the perfect fuel for your podcast adventures. Use promo code MINUTECAST for 15% off at righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST and snack smarter today! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are the Washington Nationals preparing for a major roster shakeup? On this episode of Bleav in Nationals, we break down why MacKenzie Gore trade rumors involving the New York Yankees are more than just offseason noise — and how the Nationals are using Gore’s value as leverage with two years of team control remaining. We dive deep into Cade Cavalli’s unconventional arbitration deal and why it positions him as the most important arm in the Nationals’ 2026 rotation. What does the $4 million club option really say about the front office’s expectations, and how does Cavalli’s health and performance impact the future of Gore? Plus, Nationals interim leadership Paul Toboni says the team isn’t done making moves. We examine realistic targets like Rhys Hoskins for first base, bullpen options that could become deadline trade chips, and whether Washington should cash in on Gore now or bet on a breakout first half. If you’re tracking the Nationals rebuild, pitching strategy, trade market, and what’s next before spring training, this episode connects all the dots. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: RIGHTEOUS FELON: Ready to snack smarter? Use promo code MINUTECAST for 15% off your order! Head over to https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST and grab your new favorite snack today! SEATGEEK: Heading to a NATS game this season? Or maybe the CAPS, WIZZARS — heck, even a concert in DC? Make your life easier with SeatGeek — the only ticket app that rates every deal so you know you're getting the best bang for your buck. And right now, SeatGeek is giving Bucs MinuteCast listeners $20 off your first ticket purchase over $50. Just download the SeatGeek app or visit the link in the show notes — and use promo code: MINUTECAST. That’s MINUTECAST — for 20 bucks off. Your seat starts here. http://SEATGEEK.COM 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 avoided arbitration with most of their young core, but the details behind those decisions reveal far more than clean contract negotiations. CJ Abrams, MacKenzie Gore, Luis García Jr., and Jake Irvin all reached agreements, signaling stability — yet Cade Cavalli standing alone as the lone arbitration case raises questions about how the Nationals truly value their rotation and long-term assets. This episode breaks down what the Nationals’ arbitration outcomes say about the new front office under Paul Toboni, how a $97 million payroll (with $35 million tied to Stephen Strasburg) shapes the rebuild, and why trade speculation around Abrams and Gore isn’t going away. From salary restraint to roster uncertainty at first base and on the pitching staff, this is a clear-eyed look at where the Washington Nationals really stand entering the 2026 season. NATS MINUTECAST https://bleav.com/shows/nats-minutecast-with-dan-holmi/ 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 finally free from MASN — but the fallout may be just as damaging as the marriage itself. In this episode, we break down what the end of the MASN deal really means, why the lack of clarity around Nationals TV rights is alarming, and how looming options like a short-term MASN reunion, MLB-controlled streaming, or a Monumental Sports Network deal all expose the same core issue: ownership uncertainty. With RSNs collapsing, MLB eyeing centralized control by 2029, and Ted Leonsis quietly circling the franchise, this isn’t just a media story — it’s a franchise-defining moment that directly impacts fan access, visibility, and the future of Nationals baseball. We also dive deep into CJ Abrams, the centerpiece of the Juan Soto trade, and why 2026 is the fork-in-the-road season for both him and the organization. From his All-Star-caliber first halves to his recurring second-half collapses, defensive struggles, and looming arbitration years, Abrams represents both massive upside and growing risk. We analyze whether he’s still the Nationals’ long-term shortstop, how Brady House and Eli Willits fit into the infield puzzle, and why this rebuild will ultimately succeed or fail based on timing, patience, and decision-making. This episode connects the dots between media rights chaos, player development, and the uncomfortable reality that the Nationals’ next big move may define the next decade. TWITTER: @dancaps218 @bleavinnats Heading to a Commanders game this season?Or maybe the Nationals, Capitals, Wizards — heck, even a concert in DC? Make your life easier with SeatGeek — the only ticket app that rates every deal so you know you’re getting the best bang for your buck. And right now, SeatGeek is giving MinuteCast listeners $20 off your first ticket purchase over $50. Just download the SeatGeek app or visit the link in the show notes — and use promo code: MINUTECAST. That’s MINUTECAST — for 20 bucks off.Your seat starts here. http://seatgeek.com Hey, podcast fans! If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, high-protein snack, look no further than Righteous Felon! This family-owned brand is all about premium, pasture-raised Black Angus beef — hormone- and antibiotic-free. With mouth-watering flavors like O.G. Hickory and 10 grams of protein per serving, you’ll get the boost you need for all your podcast adventures. Plus, they’ve got keto-friendly and gluten-free options, and they support sustainability through the Conservation Alliance. Ready to snack smarter? Use promo code MINUTECAST for 15% off your order!Head over to https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST and grab your new favorite snack today 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 entering a transformative phase under Toboni, and the biggest immediate shift is the pitching overhaul. His focus on strike-throwing starters, development-driven plans, and a unified organizational process signals a major departure from the patchwork approaches of recent years. The addition of Mathews as pitching coach reinforces this direction, emphasizing movement, arm health, and repeatable mechanics. Fans should expect clearer innings plans, smarter acquisitions, and a commitment to building a sustainable, stable rotation that can actually anchor the future. Beyond pitching, Toboni highlighted two underrated but crucial needs: first base and catcher. Both positions affect the lineup’s consistency and the pitching staff’s performance, so Washington is approaching these upgrades with precision rather than panic. And underneath all of this is a bigger mission — building a new identity centered on accountability, alignment, and player development. If the Nationals can synchronize their culture with their roster strategy, the rebuild becomes more than a collection of moves. It becomes a system built to last. 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 taken another major step in their front office overhaul, hiring Devin Pearson, formerly the Red Sox’s director of amateur scouting, as an assistant general manager. This marks Paul Toboni’s first major hire since being named president of baseball operations. Pearson, 31, worked closely with Toboni in Boston, helping to oversee successful drafts that produced key prospects like Kyle Teel and Connelly Early. Their long-standing connection, dating back to their playing days at Cal, signals Toboni’s trust in Pearson to modernize the Nationals’ amateur scouting and player evaluation systems. The move continues a sweeping transformation in Washington, as Toboni reshapes the Nationals’ baseball operations following the departures of several long-tenured executives. Pearson’s addition reinforces a data-driven, player-development-focused approach reminiscent of Boston’s model. For Nationals fans, this hire could foreshadow a sharper focus on college talent, revamped scouting processes, and a more cohesive draft strategy — all crucial steps in pushing the team’s rebuild forward in 2026 and beyond. 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 officially entered a new era. In this episode of the Talk Nats Podcast, host Dan Holmi breaks down the massive front office shakeup led by newly appointed President of Baseball Operations Paul Toboni. Longtime executives Eddie Longosz, Mark Scialabba, and Kris Kline are among several key departures as Toboni begins what insiders are calling the most sweeping organizational overhaul in team history. From scouting to player development, the Nationals are hitting reset on how they build talent, scout players, and develop prospects for long-term success. Dan dives into what this means for the Nationals’ rebuild, how it impacts the direction of the franchise, and what fans should expect next from Toboni’s vision. With the entire pro scouting department dismissed and key leadership changes across baseball operations, this episode explores the strategy behind the shakeup — and whether the Lerners are finally giving Toboni the resources to create a sustainable winning model in Washington. Perfect for Nats fans who want to understand what’s really happening behind the scenes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

in this episode, host Dan Holmi dives into the growing conversation around the Washington Nationals’ payroll strategy. After years of cautious spending, the Nats face a pivotal moment as young stars like CJ Abrams and MacKenzie Gore emerge as franchise cornerstones. Dan breaks down why new leadership under Paul Toboni insists it’s about process over money — but also why a lack of investment could stall progress in a competitive NL East. Then, we react to Jim Bowden’s harsh ranking of the Nationals among MLB’s non-playoff teams. Are the Nats really that far away from contending, or is national perception lagging behind the rebuild’s reality? We unpack the state of the farm system, the timeline to contention, and how outside voices could be underestimating Washington’s long-term plan. 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 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.