Episode Details

Washington Nationals face a franchise-altering decision: will CJ Abrams become their long-term cornerstone or a trade asset as 2026 approaches? With the potential for a blockbuster 30-40 season, Abrams’s consistency and power surge spark debate over his future in D.C. Could Seaver King’s defensive prowess or Eli Willits’s arrival influence the Nationals’ path at shortstop? The growing analytics investment and shifting roster priorities leave fans wondering which direction the team will take. Ryan Clary spotlights Blake Butera, the 33-year-old manager with roots in the Tampa Bay Rays system, ushering in a youth movement that matches the energy of prospects like James Wood and Brady House. Catcher Harry Ford’s rise and overlooked standout Drew Millas are poised to disrupt the lineup, raising questions about Keibert Ruiz’s role. Are the Nationals ready to prioritize their best talent over contract commitments, or will promising players get left behind in the shuffle?

00:00 "CJ Abrams’ Future Uncertain"

03:41 CJ's Surprising Power Potential

09:02 "Seaver King's Path to MLB"

11:41 "Seaver King's MLB Potential"

13:00 "Blake Butera's Youth"

18:07 "Nationals' Youth Movement and Leadership"

22:29 "Finding the Right Candidates"

23:59 "Dark Horse: Drew Millas"

27:13 Nationals' Roster Frustration

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

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

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