Nats Minutecast with Dan Holmi

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’ farm system is in transition — and that’s by design. In this episode of the Nats MinuteCast, we break down the realistic timelines for the Nationals’ top prospects, including Eli Willits, Jarlin Susana, Travis Sykora, Luis Perales, and Harry Ford. Why the drop in farm rankings isn’t a failure, how Paul Toboni’s long-term player development vision is reshaping the organization, and which prospects could realistically debut in 2026, 2027, and beyond. A clear-eyed, opinionated look at why patience — not panic — defines the Nationals’ next competitive window. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For the first time in franchise history, the Washington Nationals are officially free from MASN. In this episode of the Nats Minutecast, we break down what the Nationals’ new MLB-produced broadcast deal actually means — for fans, for streaming access, for on-air talent, and for the long, messy history with the Orioles. Why this move is more about control than cash, why fans should cautiously celebrate, and why this feels like the true end of the Expos-to-D.C. saga. Streaming, cable, Kevin Frandsen, the search for a new play-by-play voice — it’s all here. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Daylen Lile’s breakout season with the Washington Nationals wasn’t luck — and it wasn’t just a September heater. In this Nats MinuteCast episode, we break down why Lile’s 2025 rookie campaign is backed by elite underlying metrics, including MLB-best line-drive rates, top-tier contact quality, and a low strikeout profile that suggests long-term success. We revisit Lile’s rapid rise from Double-A to the majors, his early struggles, and the adjustment that turned him into one of the most productive rookies in the National League. We also dive into his historic triples total, how his speed and swing plane drive sustainable offense, and why his defense remains the biggest question heading into 2026. Is Daylen Lile a future cornerstone for the Washington Nationals? Can he carry his momentum into next season as pitchers adjust? And how does he fit into the Nationals’ long-term rebuild? This episode connects the stats, the eye test, and the big-picture implications for the Nationals’ future. ️ 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. @dancaps218 @bleavinnats 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 turning the page offensively, and new hitting coach Matt Borgschulte is at the center of it. In this episode of the Nats MinuteCast Podcast, we break down Borgschulte’s simple but bold hitting philosophy — score runs, own the zone, and stop overthinking at the plate. After years of bottom-tier rankings in home runs and walks, are the Nationals finally embracing a modern approach that fits today’s MLB pitching landscape? We dig into what Borgschulte’s track record with the Orioles and Twins means for a young Nats core featuring James Wood, CJ Abrams, Dylan Crews, Brady House, and Daylen Lile. From strikeout concerns to second-half drop-offs and untapped upside, this episode makes the case for why Washington’s offense is closer to a breakout than the numbers suggest — and why Borgschulte’s emphasis on simplicity, player trust, and in-zone damage could be the turning point. Natitude, development, and optimism — it’s all here. 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 BLEAV IN NATS POD https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-nationals/ 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 made the most shocking decision in franchise history on July 6, 2025, firing both longtime general manager Mike Rizzo and manager Davey Martinez in the middle of a rebuilding season. In this episode of the Nats MinuteCast Podcast, we break down why this moment marked the true end of the Nationals’ championship era and why ownership finally chose urgency over comfort. From years of organizational stability to sudden upheaval, this episode examines how a stalled rebuild, mounting losses, and a lack of forward momentum forced the Lerners to make a move many fans never believed they would make. The conversation then turns to what came next — and why the Nationals’ future now looks radically different. With Paul Toboni installed as president of baseball operations, Anirudh Kilambi hired as general manager, and Blake Butera named the youngest manager in modern MLB history, the Nationals have fully embraced a youth-driven, data-forward reset. This episode explores the risks, the philosophy shift, and the long-term implications of betting on baseball’s next generation of leadership — and why the fall of 2025 may ultimately be remembered as the most important turning point since the franchise arrived in Washington. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: ️ SeatGeek — Official Ticket Partner Alright, quick one before we get back into it… Heading to a Nationals game this season? Maybe Commanders, Capitals, Wizards — heck, even a concert in DC, right? Make your life easier with SeatGeek — the only ticket app that actually rates every deal, so you know you’re getting the best bang for your buck. And right now — yeah, this is good — MinuteCast listeners get $20 off your first ticket purchase of $50 or more. Just download the SeatGeek app Or click the link in the show notes Use promo code MINUTECAST That’s MINUTECAST — for 20 bucks off, right? Your seat starts here. http://SeatGeek.com Righteous Felon — Snack Like a Pro Alright, podcast fans — stay with me here… If you’re looking for a snack that actually fills you up — and doesn’t taste like ugh, regret — you’ve gotta try Righteous Felon. This is a family-owned brand using premium, pasture-raised Black Angus beef No hormones No antibiotics Just bold flavor and 10 grams of protein per serving, right? Flavors like O.G. Hickory absolutely bring it They’ve also got keto-friendly and gluten-free options And — this matters — they support sustainability through the Conservation Alliance So yeah… snack smarter Use promo code MINUTECAST for 15% off your order Head to http://righteousfelon.com   https://x.com/BleavInNats 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 stayed busy, adding roster depth and rotation stability in two under-the-radar but telling moves. The Nats signed local product Matt Mervis to a minor league deal with a spring training invite, bringing added competition to a wide-open first base picture. While Mervis’ major league numbers with the Cubs and Marlins have been modest, his signing signals the Nationals’ continued search for answers at a position that remains unsettled. With names like Andrés Chaparro, Trey Lipscomb, and several prospects in the mix, this move feels more like insurance than a solution—and a sign that president of baseball operations Paul Toboni may not be finished shopping. The bigger impact move came on the pitching side, where the Nationals signed left-hander Foster Griffin to a one-year, $5.5 million deal after three standout seasons in Japan. Griffin reinvented himself overseas, posting elite numbers with the Yomiuri Giants and earning an All-Star selection, all while rebuilding his pitch mix and starter’s mindset. His return gives Washington much-needed experience in an otherwise young rotation and reflects a front office focused on stability and structure as the rebuild enters its next phase. Together, these moves highlight a Nationals organization quietly laying groundwork rather than chasing headlines. Nats MinuteCast on Twitter https://x.com/BleavInNats 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. Your host Dan Holmi on Twitter https://x.com/dancaps218 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 face a defining decision with MacKenzie Gore as the left-hander enters the heart of his prime and moves closer to free agency. On the Nats Minutecast Podcast, we break down Gore’s 2025 season, from his dominant All-Star first half to a turbulent second half shaped by organizational upheaval, injuries, and some of the worst run support in Major League Baseball. Despite a 5–15 record and a 4.17 ERA, Gore’s swing-and-miss stuff, elite breaking balls, and league-leading strikeout rates tell a very different story — one of a frontline starter whose true value goes far beyond the win-loss column. With new president of baseball operations Paul Toboni emphasizing player development, the Nationals must decide whether they can realistically contend during Gore’s remaining years of team control or whether trading him at peak value makes more sense. Interest from contenders like the New York Yankees underscores just how coveted Gore is around the league, especially at his projected arbitration salary. This episode explores whether Washington should build its future rotation around Gore or leverage his value to accelerate the rebuild, making it clear that whatever choice comes next will reveal exactly where the Nationals believe they are in their competitive timeline. Nats MinuteCast on Twitter https://x.com/BleavInNats 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 turned the page by hiring Anirudh Kilambi as their new general manager, and the backstory matters just as much as the résumé. Kilambi’s lifelong obsession with baseball — forged as a Giants fan in Northern California and sharpened through years of self-imposed limits, rule-bending inning counts, and relentless curiosity — paints the picture of a front-office executive who didn’t just fall into the sport, but lived it. At just 31 years old, Kilambi becomes one of the youngest GMs in Major League Baseball, joining the Nationals after four years with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he rose to assistant GM and gained a reputation as a sharp, data-driven evaluator with strong people skills. For the Washington Nationals, this hire signals a philosophical shift under new president of baseball operations Paul Toboni. Kilambi represents a modern MLB executive: analytically inclined, development-focused, and deeply invested in process over flash. As the Nationals continue their rebuild and attempt to turn elite draft capital and young talent into sustainable success, Kilambi’s obsession-turned-expertise could be the defining factor. This isn’t just a new general manager — it’s a bet on vision, preparation, and a long-term plan to bring winning baseball back to Washington. Nats MinuteCast on Twitter https://x.com/BleavInNats 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 shook up their offseason plans by trading emerging closer Jose A. Ferrer to the Seattle Mariners in exchange for top catching prospect Harry Ford and young right-hander Isaac Lyon. Ferrer, a 25-year-old lefty with elite velocity and years of team control, had been viewed as a long-term bullpen anchor. But with the market for high-leverage left-handed relievers thin and Ferrer drawing strong leaguewide interest, the Nationals capitalized on the opportunity to address a major organizational weakness behind the plate. Ford, once one of Seattle’s most touted prospects, had trouble finding playing time behind star catcher Cal Raleigh but now gets a clear runway to develop into Washington’s everyday starter. 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 launched a bold organizational reset by handing the managerial job to 33-year-old Blake Butera and empowering new president of baseball operations Paul Toboni to reshape the franchise from the inside out. Butera’s age isn’t a flaw but a clear signal of the Nationals’ direction. His background in the Rays’ development-centric system makes him a natural fit for a young roster and a front office that values process, communication, and alignment. His emphasis on relationships, daily habits, and individualized growth suggests the Nationals want a manager who can turn prospects into core players and unite veterans and young talent under one message. At the same time, Toboni’s structural overhaul is poised to redefine how the Nationals operate at every level of the organization. From staffing and analytics to scouting philosophy and development pipelines, his approach indicates deep, foundational change rather than superficial adjustments. The shared stage between Toboni and Butera during their introduction highlighted the unified strategy D.C. wants to build. For Nationals fans, the next 6 to 18 months will be the first real test of this new era, as coaching hires, roster moves, and the progress of key prospects reveal whether this cultural and developmental reset becomes the long-term engine that lifts the Washington Nationals back into contention. 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’ new head of baseball operations, Paul Toboni, is already making his mark as the offseason ramps up. Speaking at the GM Meetings, Toboni identified three major priorities for reshaping the Nationals — strengthening the starting rotation, addressing needs at first base and catcher, and building a player development culture that drives sustainable success. He emphasized that pitching remains the organization’s most pressing need, but noted that roster building will be guided as much by development and structure as by big-ticket acquisitions. Toboni’s comments suggest a shift in how the Washington Nationals plan to operate in 2026 and beyond. Rather than chasing expensive free agents, the focus will be on acquiring and cultivating players who fit the Nationals’ long-term blueprint. With key staff hires still to come, Toboni’s vision centers on blending analytics, scouting, and coaching to maximize internal growth and make smarter, more strategic roster additions. It’s a pivotal moment for a team seeking to turn the corner in its rebuild — and Toboni’s decisions this winter could define the Nationals’ next 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 made a strategic move by hiring Blake Butera as their new manager, emphasizing his strong background in player development from his time with the Tampa Bay Rays organization. Nationals president of baseball operations Paul Toboni highlighted Butera’s ability to connect with young players, align with organizational values and help guide a roster built around emerging talent. With the Nationals in a rebuild, his experience shaping prospects into major leaguers could be a key advantage as Washington looks to accelerate its competitive timeline. While Butera lacks MLB managerial experience, the Nationals believe his leadership, communication skills and developmental approach match the long-term plan for the franchise. The move signals a deeper commitment to growth, organizational alignment and modern baseball strategy. As the Washington Nationals continue shaping their young core, Butera will play a vital role in player improvement, clubhouse culture and the team’s overall future. 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 ushering in a new era with the hiring of 33-year-old Blake Butera as their next manager — making him the youngest skipper in Major League Baseball in decades. Once a player development leader in the Tampa Bay Rays organization, Butera brings a reputation for communication, teaching, and modern player development philosophies to a Nationals team ready for a fresh voice. His hiring signals a franchise pivot toward youth, alignment, and long-term growth after several years of inconsistency and rebuilding. In this episode of The Talk Nats Podcast, host Dan Holmi breaks down what Butera’s hire means for the Nationals’ clubhouse, how his coaching staff could shape the future, and what fans should expect in year one. Can Butera’s modern approach help rebuild accountability and fundamentals in D.C.? Or will his inexperience at the big-league level pose early challenges? Dan explores both sides — and explains why this could be one of the most defining managerial hires in Nationals history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

James Wood crushed 31 homers in 2025 — but can he sustain that success for six full months? Dylan Crews, meanwhile, battled injuries and inconsistency in his first full MLB season. In this episode of The Talk Nats Podcast, host Dan Holmi breaks down what’s next for the Washington Nationals’ two cornerstone outfielders: Wood’s strikeout problem and how he can adjust to stay hot all season Crews’ recovery plan, areas for growth, and signs of a 2026 breakout What it all means for the Nationals’ rebuild and lineup next year 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.