Washington Nationals surprise fans by tendering contracts to all seven eligible players—including Luis Garcia Jr.—upending offseason expectations. Could Garcia Jr.'s future still be uncertain, or will he anchor the Nationals’ infield alongside C.J. Abrams? Host Ryan Clary weighs the implications of this move, debating whether Garcia Jr. could be traded for much-needed pitching or if the team will “run it back” with last year’s struggling middle infield. Key topics include looming offseason priorities: upgrading the bullpen, resolving the Nationals’ catching situation with Keibert Ruiz and Riley Adams, and addressing the rotation’s back end amid injury concerns for Josiah Gray and Cade Cavalli. With free agency heating up and MacKenzie Gore surfacing as a possible trade chip, the Nationals face critical roster decisions. Can Washington’s front office shore up its weaknesses and restore hope for contention? 

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLBfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

0:00 – Nationals Tender Contracts:
Overview of the Nationals tendering contracts to all seven players, with focus on Luis Garcia Jr. and the implications for the middle infield. Ryan Clary discusses why Garcia was a surprising contract tender and explores scenarios for the middle infield.

11:41 – Biggest Team Needs:
Analysis of the three biggest holes for the Nationals: catcher position, middle infield, and back end of the rotation. Insight into potential trades (especially Mackenzie Gore), free agency approaches, and what moves could shift the roster’s outlook.

22:34 – Bullpen Overhaul Needed:
Deep dive into the Nationals’ bullpen struggles, possible solutions through free agency, and whether to trade or sign relievers. Emphasis on why addressing bullpen woes could be critical for short-term performance and longer-term strategy.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.