MAKE OR BREAK: Why 2026 Is The Most Important Season For CJ Abrams & The Washington Nationals

MAKE OR BREAK: Why 2026 Is The Most Important Season For CJ Abrams & The Washington Nationals

27:01 Feb 27, 2026
About this episode
CJ Abrams faces a make-or-break season that could shape the Washington Nationals’ rebuild—will his breakout finally secure his future in D.C., or prompt a blockbuster trade? Ryan Clary explores Abrams’ soaring potential, the front office’s extension dilemma, and whether young stars like Eli Willits and Seaver King are ready to step up if the Nationals shift direction at shortstop. Key discussions spotlight first base battles between Matt Mervis, Andrés Chaparro, and rising favorite Abi Ortiz, bringing added intrigue to Spring Training. Insights include Nationals’ prospect development, the impact of new player development hires, and tough questions about defensive consistency and lineup fit, especially surrounding Luis García Jr. and Nasim Nuñez. Can the Nationals assemble a sustainable contender, or will shifting roster chips define another transitional year at Nationals Park? 00:00 "CJ Abrams' Potential Breakout Year" 03:42 Nationals Future: Abrams Trade Debate 09:10 Nationals' Dilemma: Trade or Extend? 10:12 CJ's Future Hinges on Performance 15:13 Eli Willits: Future Clubhouse Leader? 18:00 Seaver King's Versatility & Potential 21:12 "Nunez's Value Over Garcia" 25:44 Nationals' First Base Battle Unfolds Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11 Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals   Everydayer Club Link: https://lockedonnationals.supercast.com/   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.  Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit 
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