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Currently on the 40-Man: Keibert Ruiz, Riley Adams, Drew Millas, Jorge Alfaro

This position has become far messier than expected. When Ruiz was acquired from the Dodgers in 2021 and later extended for 8 years at $50 million, it looked like the position was locked down. Instead, poor defense, lack of hard contact, and now concussion issues have left his future in doubt. Since his promising 2022, he has produced a -1.8 fWAR from 2023–25. Adams has offered occasional power but limited consistency, and his defense hasn’t been an upgrade. Millas, while unproven, has shown enough defense to stand out, making him the most intriguing option.

2026 Outlook: The Nationals need to acknowledge that Ruiz may be a sunk cost. Millas deserves a longer look, and while Alfaro adds veteran experience, he isn't a long-term solution. The trade market could support a depth move, but free agency seems more likely. Austin Hedges’ elite defense or Victor Caratini’s switch-hitting profile could complement Millas well.

2026 Roster Projection: Victor Caratini (S), Drew Millas

Currently on the 40-Man: Josh Bell, Andres Chaparro

The failed Nathaniel Lowe trade left this position unsettled. Bell has been a positive clubhouse voice and productive hitter, but his glove remains below average. Chaparro has not hit enough even in a platoon role.

2026 Outlook: Spending big on Pete Alonso or Josh Naylor doesn’t fit the Nationals’ timeline. Developing Yohandy Morales could be the best route, hoping his swing decisions improve under new coaches. A veteran like Bell, Ty France, or Rowdy Tellez could provide stability, but this position won’t be a top priority financially.

2026 Roster Projection: Yohandy Morales, Josh Bell (S)

Currently on the 40-Man: Luis García Jr., Nasim Nuñez

After a breakout 2024, García regressed in 2025, both offensively and defensively. Nuñez, while light with the bat, has shown strong defensive utility at both middle infield spots.

2026 Outlook: García’s rising arbitration salary could make him a non-tender candidate. Long-term, the more logical move may be sliding CJ Abrams to second base, where his athletic tools can thrive.

2026 Roster Projection: CJ Abrams (L)

Currently on the 40-Man: Brady House, Paul De Jong, Trey Lipscomb, Jose Tena

This has always been House’s spot to claim, and in 2025 he finally reached the majors. While the rookie season exposed his groundball tendencies and chase issues, his defense was solid enough to hold the position.2026 Outlook: García’s rising arbitration salary could make him a non-tender candidate. Long-term, the more logical move may be sliding CJ Abrams to second base, where his athletic tools can thrive.

2026 Outlook: Still just 22, House deserves another full year as the team reshapes its foundation.

2026 Roster Projection: Brady House

Currently on the 40-Man: CJ Abrams

Abrams rebounded from his 2024 scandals with an improved 2025 at the plate, posting solid power-speed numbers despite continued defensive concerns.

2026 Outlook: While Abrams has established himself as a very good hitter in the league, he is not a reliable enough defender at the position. Nasim Nunez, who has shown some flashes offensively, can provide much stronger defense at the most difficult position on the diamond

2026 Roster Projection: Nasim Nunez (S)