The Washington Nationals’ third base position posted a -0.9 WAR over the past five seasons. That is the worst in the MLB, according to Fangraphs.com. The off-season goal was to improve. Recent developments are pointing in that direction.

Converted second baseman Jose Tena is still the favorite Nationals third baseman among the fantasy baseball population. That latest average draft position compilation, compiled by fantasypros.com, has Tena valued at 512 overall. The highest number on the list is 960. While this is well below average, it neither considers the defensive problem Tena would pose nor his lack of power.

Recently signed Paul DeJong is the next Washington player. He appears at 549. Fantasy favors power. DeJong hit 17 doubles, 24 home runs, and 56 RBI in 2024. He also swings and misses often. DeJong inked a one-year contract, worth $1 million. Many do not expect DeJong to play daily, but he may help when he plays.

The leagues aiming at Nationals appear to be deep groups – associations that allow holding players for the future. Brady House is the next Nat mentioned at 667. House only has 278 minor league games under his belt in four years. His greatest hitting success came in the rookie league and an A+ ball. Former No.1 pick or not, House still has to prove himself in pro ball. Trey Lipscomb is 810. When Lipscomb had a cup of coffee in the bigs last summer, major league hurlers baffled him.

What does this mean for down the road? Nasim Nunez is probably the first infielder out. He only hit .233 and slugged .644 in 341 minor-league games. He is 24. Hopefully, the infielder will survive waivers and get sent to the farm to work on his hitting. House and Lipscomb will likely follow.