WASHINGTON D.C., - The Washington Nationals have officially broken camp, with just one exhibition game remaining before Thursday’s Opening Day at Nationals Park on March 27, 2025.

After a busy spring training, the team has been finalizing its 26-man roster, and according to a source, Juan Yepez, José Tena, Riley Adams, and Andrew Knizner might be among the players considered for spots with the team. However, nothing is set in stone yet; we should know more tomorrow after the exhibition game with the Baltimore Orioles at Nationals Park. These players have earned their spots with impressive performances during the 2025 spring training, bringing a mix of power, versatility, and defensive stability to the roster. Let’s dive into their spring stats and what they’ll bring to the Nationals as the regular season kicks off.

Juan Yepez, a 27-year-old first baseman and designated hitter, has solidified his case for a roster spot with a strong showing this spring. In 2025 spring training, Yepez has appeared in 15 games, slashing .310/.375/.524 over 42 at-bats. His stat line includes 13 hits, three home runs, and nine RBIs, showcasing his ability to provide pop in the lineup. Yepez also drew five walks while striking out eight times, posting a respectable .899 OPS. His most recent performance on March 22 saw him go 2-for-2 with a walk and an RBI, further proving his consistency.

Yepez’s experience playing a bit of left field during Spring Training and his ability to handle first base and serve as a DH could offer manager Dave Martinez some flexibility. Following a solid 2024 season with the Nationals, where he recorded a .738 OPS against right-handers and .812 against lefties, Yepez could be a contender for a complementary spot in the lineup in 2025.

Infielder José Tena, acquired in a trade last year, brings speed and defensive versatility to the roster. During spring training 2025, Tena played in 18 games, hitting .268/.333/.415 across 41 at-bats. He collected 11 hits, including two doubles and a home run, while driving in six runs. Tena also stole three bases, though he was caught once—most notably on March 22 when he was thrown out trying to steal home in a 0-for-2 day with a walk. His spring OPS sits at .748, and he struck out nine times while drawing four walks.

Tena’s ability to play third, short, and second base makes him a valuable utility option. At 24 years old, he’s still developing, but his speed (evidenced by his stolen bases) and knack for getting on base could see him carve out a role as a sparkplug off the bench or a spot starter at multiple infield positions.

Catcher Riley Adams, a 28-year-old backstop, has secured his spot as a reliable backup option. In 2025 spring training, Adams appeared in 12 games, hitting .286/.355/.429 over 28 at-bats. He notched eight hits, including two doubles and a home run, while driving in five runs. Adams struck out seven times but drew three walks, finishing with a .784 OPS. His steady glove and experience make him a strong candidate to back up primary catcher Keibert Ruiz.

Adams appears to have a slight edge for the backup catcher role now that Drew Millas has been assigned to Triple-A Rochester, despite Millas’ stronger defensive reputation. With a career MLB slash line of .233/.314/.374 entering 2025, Adams might provide a steady bat and solid pitch-framing skills, potentially ensuring depth behind the plate if he’s included.

Andrew Knizner, a 30-year-old veteran catcher, rounds out the roster as additional catching depth. In 2025 spring training, Knizner played in 14 games, hitting .250/.308/.375 across 32 at-bats. He recorded eight hits, including two doubles and a home run, with four RBIs. Knizner struck out six times and drew three walks, posting a .683 OPS. While not a standout offensively, his experience and consistency make him a steady hand.

Knizner, who spent time with the Cardinals and Rangers before joining the Nationals, brings a career MLB slash line of .216/.286/.315 into 2025. His role will likely be situational, providing insurance behind Ruiz and Adams, with the potential to step in if injuries arise.

With Juan Yepez, José Tena, Riley Adams, and Andrew Knizner who might be added to the 26-man roster, the Nationals blend youth and experience as they head into the 2025 season. Yepez’s power, Tena’s speed and versatility, and the catching tandem of Adams and Knizner give the team flexibility and depth. As the Nats prepare for their final exhibition game and the opener against an opponent yet to be announced, these players’ spring performances suggest they’re ready to contribute in meaningful ways.

Stay tuned for Opening Day—it’s shaping up to be an exciting start for Washington baseball!