On the latest episode of the DC Roundtable Podcast, we dive into the Washington Nationals' blown saves issues, CJ Abrams flip-flopping positions and James Wood making a rehab appearance
Hosted by Tyler Lochte and Ahmed Ghafir on the next episode of DC Roundtable diving into the Washington Nationals, we dive into the latest news and rumblings with the 2026 regular season winding down on year one of the Blake Butera and Paul Toboni era.
The Nationals were on the cusp of a four game win streak heading into Sunday with a chance to also secure the early series win -- until the bullpen struggles loomed large once again. The 35th blown save of the season shed additional light on the biggest concern after six runs allowed in the top of the ninth inning led to boos pouring in at Nationals Park. Although the Nationals were able to salvage the series by pulling out a win on Monday night courtesy of another encouraging outing from Daylen Lile, how much concern should there be on a potential makeover this offseason? Will the Nationals be willing to spend unlike their past? Time will tell, but we dive into the overwhelming concern heading into the final three weeks.
Yet Sunday also marked a notable day not just because of the result, but because of the debut of CJ Abrams at second base, roughly two weeks after news of a potential position switch first surfaced courtesy of Butera and Toboni. Though the outing ended with an 0-for-4 day with three strikeouts, Abrams moved back to shortstop on Monday with uncertainty about how much the Nationals see their two-time All Star suit up at his new position. Does the move make sense? Does the move add concern to Abrams' long-term future with the organization?
Plus, after some skepticism about whether he would ultimately return in 2026, James Wood made his return to the field after making an appearance with Double A Harrisburg over the weekend. With uncertainty as to whether a second rehab appearance will materialize, the plan is for Wood to make his return if he continues to trend well as he has appeared to over the last week. With a chance for the Nationals to inch closer toward full strength by the season's end, can Wood deliver an opportunity for Washington to end 2026 on a high note? And does it make sense for him to return?
Make sure to like and subscribe to the podcast as we dive into everything you need to know surrounding the Washington Nationals, and make sure to watch the full episode here.
