The Washington Nationals entered last season hoping to put things together toward a big step forward.
The step never came, though, and now they'll be trying to do the same in 2026.
At least they know they'll have C.J. Abrams on an affordable contract.
Thursday was the last day for MLB teams to reach agreements with players to avoid salary arbitration, and that's what the Nats did with Abrams.
According to Andrew Golden of The Washington Post, Abrams will earn a salary of $4.2 million for the 2026 campaign.
Abrams was an All-Star shortstop in 2024. He was one of the key pieces the Nats got when they traded Juan Soto to the Padres.
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In 2025, Abrams hit.257 with 35 doubles, five triples, 19 home runs, 60 RBI, 92 runs scored and 31 stolen bases (in 34 attempts).
Abrams put up a.748 OPS in 2025 after a.747 OPS in 2024, so he's certainly got an expectation in that category.
He's not necessarily a perfect defender at shortstop, and there was speculation about potentially moving him to the outfield.
Whatever the long-term move, Abrams is still just 25 years old. His potent lefty swing and impressive speed will be of use wherever the Nationals want to play him.
And for the Nats to put together a special 2026 season, Abrams will need to be at his best.
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