Washington Nationals Eyeing Extensions with James Wood, CJ Abrams

The Washington Nationals will soon have roster decisions to make about the rest of the offseason with free agency in full swing amid a slew of roster moves officially announced by the front office this week. The Nationals also made additional moves by turning to the waiver wire for one roster move, in addition to another infielder acquisition in exchange for a pitcher prospect. With all the focus on the Nationals eyeing pieces to become part of the solution in year two under Paul Toboni, whether the front office makes headway to retain its two biggest pieces will be a question mark to answer.

The front office is expected to attempt to extend its pair of All Stars this offseason in right fielder James Wood and infielder CJ Abrams. Jim Bowden of The Athletic also noted that the Nationals are expected to leave the door open to the trade market, an approach by a front office that has remained consistent as they evaluate, not shop, offers for their top players. The rumors led to all types of speculation surrounding Abrams dating back to last offseason into the regular season. Toboni, meanwhile, at one point disputed rumors surrounding Wood a potential trade after noting he's a key piece of the organization.

How much headway the front office is able to make with either player marks another question with Wood, a Rockville, Md. native, able to ink a deal with his hometown team. Toboni noted during an interview on 106.7 that he had dinner with Abrams in Atlanta this offseason and highlighted the ongoing plan for the offseason and vision for improvements in 2027. Abrams will also enter the offseason with a chance to stick at shortstop after manager Blake Butera pointed to his elevated play over the final six weeks of the regular season as reason to give him a chance in spring training. Still, whether he ultimately sticks at shortstop or moves to second base will be another key part of Abrams' offseason, yet the latest signal could prove the Nationals are serious about building.

The news also came weeks after the Nationals announced a new contract for right handed pitcher Cade Cavalli with a deal through 2030 and team option for 2031, a signal that the front office can be serious about committing to the core pieces on the roster. Wood and Abrams will mark a bigger test for Toboni and company with all eyes on tangible progress over the next five months.