The Washington Nationals are facing a series of significant decisions as they enter the offseason following a promising 2026 campaign. While the team demonstrated progress across much of its roster, front office and coaching staff officials acknowledge the challenges ahead, particularly with a potential Major League Baseball lockout looming.
MLB owners and players appear unlikely to reach a collective bargaining agreement by the December 2 deadline, raising the prospect of another work stoppage. Such a lockout would halt communication between teams and players and restrict access to club facilities in both Washington, D.C., and Florida. Nationals manager Blake Butera noted that players would be encouraged to train at alternative locations if a lockout occurs. Club president Carl Toboni emphasized the importance of preparation and communication within allowed limits to ensure the team enters spring training ready to compete.
In addition to the restrictions on training, a lockout would suspend all roster transactions, including free agency and trades. Reflecting on the previous lockout in 2021, which saw a rush of signings in the final hours before spring training, Toboni said it remains uncertain how this situation might unfold but stressed the Nationals’ need to be ready for any outcome.
A key roster question centers on infielder Josh Abrams, who recently experienced time on the trade block. Toboni acknowledged the inevitability of trade inquiries but said the organization plans to keep Abrams on the roster for the coming season. Abrams spent much of the latter part of 2026 alternating between shortstop and second base after the team initially indicated a position change. Butera indicated a decision about his primary position would be made during spring training, highlighting Abrams’ versatility and strong defensive play.
The Nationals boast several middle infield prospects who could factor into their plans. Nasim Nuñez, noted for his speed and defense, led Major League Baseball with 49 stolen bases this season, setting a new franchise record. Seaver King, who excelled at Double-A and Triple-A, and top prospect Eli Willits, a defensively skilled and speedy player, also represent potential contributors.
Offensively, the Nationals ranked third in MLB runs scored, trailing only the playoff-bound Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers. Abrams and Luis García Wood emerged as standout performers, hitting 33 and 30 home runs respectively. Wood, however, experienced a downturn toward the end of the season, with a decline in extra-base hits potentially related to an oblique injury or fatigue. At age 24, the club believes Wood still has room for growth.
Other players such as Dylan Crews, Daylen Lile, and Brady House showed signs of development throughout the season. Crews struggled overall but showed improvement late in the year, while Lile’s confidence blossomed alongside his nine home runs down the stretch. House improved significantly against left-handed pitching and in his defensive play, with the hope he will maintain that upward trajectory.
First base remains an open competition with Andrés Chaparro, Abimelec Ortiz, and Yohandy Morales all vying for playing time. Morales will also work on his third base skills this offseason, potentially adding depth to Washington’s corner infield options.
Despite the advances made by many players in 2026, Toboni cautioned against complacency heading into the new season, noting that regression is always a risk. The Nationals appear positioned to build on their progress but face uncertainty given the possibility of a lockout and the need for strategic roster decisions.