Attention baseball fans! The Nationals' rebuild is in full swing, and it's creating quite a buzz around the league. With new leadership in the front office, the team is making moves and generating interest, especially in the form of infielder CJ Abrams.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the Nationals have been linked to trade rumors surrounding left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore, the real story is the aggressive push for Abrams. According to The Athletic, the Nats are open to dealing both players, but they're setting a high bar for any potential trade.
Abrams, a 25-year-old shortstop, has been a speculative trade candidate for some time, but his market status is now in the spotlight. Why? Well, it's not just about his talent, but also his contract. With three seasons of team control and a projected salary of just $5.6MM in 2026, the Nationals have the flexibility to hold onto him for a while.
And this is the part most people miss: Abrams' longer-term control and affordable price tag make him an attractive option for any team in need of infield help. Despite some defensive concerns, his offensive potential is undeniable. Over the past two seasons, he's shown power and speed, with a slashing line of .252/.315/.433 and 62 stolen bases.
Teams like the Braves and Rays, who are seeking shortstop help, could benefit from adding Abrams, even with his defensive misgivings. He could also be a great fit at second or third base for teams like the Pirates, Mariners, Red Sox, Tigers, and Cubs, who have shown interest in the infield market this winter.
However, it's important to note that Abrams is not a true star yet. His defensive lapses at shortstop limit his overall value, and while he had a solid season this year, it was his first three-win season by fWAR. His on-base ability is also a work in progress, with a career OBP of .306.
So, is Abrams the missing piece for a contending team? Or is he just a complimentary player? As the Winter Meetings approach, the baseball world will be watching to see if the Nationals make a move and if Abrams can take his game to the next level. What do you think? Should the Nationals trade Abrams, or hold onto him and see what he can do? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
