#washington_nationals

Retired Substitute Teacher Makes Historic Radio Call for Phillies Lewis Kalb, a 73-year-old substitute teacher from New Jersey, fulfilled a lifelong dream by calling a game for the Philadelphia Phillies during Wednesday’s matchup against the Washington Nationals. The opportunity arose when Kalb won the team’s annual auction for the chance to broadcast a segment from the radio booth, a bid that totaled approximately $22,000. His appearance came during the top of the third inning of the 10-4 loss, where he seamlessly stepped into the role of play-by-play announcer, delivering a polished performance that captivated listeners. Kalb’s call of the game was marked by both professionalism and lightheartedness. He quickly adapted to the fast-paced environment, incorporating humor about the day’s heavy rain while maintaining a sharp focus on the action. His highlight came in the top half of the third inning, where he announced an Andrew Painter strikeout of Keibert Ruiz, securing a key moment for the Nationals. “Swung on and missed! He got him,” Kalb exclaimed, before noting the outcome: “Andrew Painter picks up the strikeout, and that’ll do it for the Nationals. No runs here in the top of the third. We go to the bottom half, Phillies lead it, 2-1.” The moment gained widespread attention, with The Athletic reporting that Kalb’s performance had already become a viral sensation. The Phillies’ social media post featuring his broadcast received over 200,000 views, with additional shares from other accounts amplifying its reach. Kalb’s ability to deliver a professional-level call, despite his lack of formal broadcasting experience, underscored the rarity of such an opportunity. According to The Athletic, Kalb has spent over three decades as a play-by-play voice for more than 3,000 recreational and school-league games.#washington_nationals #mlb #the_athletic #philadelphia_phillies #lewis_kalb

MLB Trade Deadline Approaches with Major Deals and Strategic Moves The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline looms just eight days away, with teams across the league actively preparing for a flurry of transactions. The deadline, set for August 3 at 6 p.m. ET, has already seen significant activity, including a major trade between the Boston Red Sox and Washington Nationals. On Saturday, the Red Sox sent pitcher Connelly Early to the Nationals in exchange for infielder Curtis Mead. This deal marks the first major trade of the summer and highlights the growing urgency as teams position themselves for the postseason. The Nationals, meanwhile, are reportedly open to exploring offers for All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams, who is in the midst of a career year. The Miami Marlins, once a playoff contender, now face a critical juncture as their eight-game losing streak has drastically altered their Trade Deadline outlook. On July 10, The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reported that the Marlins intended to retain ace Sandy Alcantara and focus on adding depth, “barring an utter collapse.” However, the team’s recent 11-game losing streak has pushed their playoff odds below 10%, according to FanGraphs. MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi suggested that the Marlins are “heading toward sellers-ville,” emphasizing their strong rotation and potential to capitalize on a shallow market for elite talent. Morosi noted that the Marlins’ current situation could position them to build for future success against teams like the Phillies and Braves. Fellow insider Joel Sherman echoed this sentiment, stating that the Marlins’ losing streak is “well-timed” for a long-term strategy. He argued that the team’s current roster, including Alcantara, provides a foundation to compete in 2027, rather than embarking on a rebuild for the mid-2020s.#washington_nationals #boston_red_sox #miami_marlins #toronto_blue_jays #mlb_trade_deadline

2026 MLB Trade Deadline Grades: Report Cards for Every Deal The 2026 MLB trade deadline saw the Boston Red Sox acquire infielder Curtis Mead from the Washington Nationals in exchange for left-handed pitcher Connelly Early. ESPN analysts Bradford Doolittle and David Schoenfield evaluated the deal, emphasizing the role of advanced metrics in shaping the trade. Mead, a breakout performer for the Nationals, had transformed into a formidable hitter in 2026, posting a 137 OPS+ and 2.0 bWAR. His offensive surge, however, came with defensive limitations, as his Savant page showed poor fielding and running ability. The trade was framed as a data-driven decision, with Early’s Savant page featuring predominantly blue and gray bars (indicating poor performance) compared to Mead’s pink and red bars (suggesting strong offensive metrics). Doolittle noted that traditional valuation models, such as Baseball Trade Values, viewed the deal as unfavorable for Boston. Early, a top-50-to-75 prospect entering the season, had a 126 ERA+ over his first 21 big league starts. However, his command issues and tendency to allow hard contact—highlighted by a 3.8% home run rate—raised concerns. Mead’s improvements were attributed to changes in his batting approach, including a more upright stance and closer positioning at the plate. These adjustments led to a flyball-heavy profile, which thrives in Fenway Park’s hitter-friendly environment. Doolittle highlighted that Statcast data supported Mead’s evolution, showing enhanced strikeout and walk rates, as well as a spike in isolated power. The Red Sox were banking on this breakout being sustainable, despite Mead’s defensive shortcomings. The Nationals, meanwhile, saw the trade as a strategic move to bolster their rotation.#washington_nationals #boston_red_sox #curtis_mead #connelly_early #bradford_doolittle

Red Sox Ship Starter Connelly Early to Nationals for Curtis Mead The Boston Red Sox completed a trade late Saturday night, sending lefthander Connelly Early to the Washington Nationals in exchange for infielder Curtis Mead. The deal marks the third trade involving Mead in less than a year, as the 25-year-old Australian native continues to move between teams. Mead, who has primarily played third base this season, brings offensive production to the Red Sox, while the Nationals acquire a potential starter to bolster their rotation. Curtis Mead, a native of Adelaide, Australia, has emerged as a standout performer for the Nationals this season. Primarily a third baseman, he has also showcased versatility at first base and second base. This season, Mead has hit .254 with an .856 OPS, tallying 17 home runs and 48 RBIs. His ability to hit against left-handed pitching stands out, as he has posted a .276 average with a .897 OPS against lefthanders. Since joining the Nationals on March 28, Mead has significantly improved his on-base percentage, raising it from .300 over parts of three seasons to .351. The trade also reflects Mead’s recent history of movement. He was acquired by the Nationals in a March 28 deal that sent catching prospect Boston Smith to the team. Prior to that, Mead had been traded from the Tampa Bay Rays to the Chicago White Sox as part of a four-player deal on July 31, 2023. His journey through multiple teams highlights his value as a player with offensive upside and adaptability. For the Red Sox, the acquisition of Mead addresses a need for offensive production. The team has struggled to score runs throughout the season, despite maintaining the second-lowest ERA in the American League.#washington_nationals #boston_red_sox #paul_toboni #curtis_mead #connelly_early

Washington Nationals Impulsan 23 Carreras en Derrota 23-4 sobre los Atléticos Los Nacionales de Washington registraron una victoria abrumadora de 23-4 sobre los Atléticos de Oakland en un partido disputado el viernes 17 de julio de 2026 en West Sacramento, California. El venezolano Andrés Chaparro fue el destacado de la noche, al conectar dos jonrones y impulsar ocho carreras en su partido, lo que lo llevó a un rendimiento de 5-4. Su actuación fue clave para que los Nacionales superaran a los Atléticos, quien sufrirían su décima derrota consecutiva. El partido marcó un hito histórico para la franquicia de los Nacionales, ya que las 23 carreras anotadas empataron con el segundo récord más alto en la historia del equipo. Esta cifra igualó la marca establecida el 30 de abril de 2017 contra los Mets de Nueva York, y superó en dos carreras el récord anterior del club, que fue alcanzado el 31 de julio de 2018. Además, los Nacionales lograron un total de 21 hits en la noche, su máximo de la temporada. Curtis Mead fue otro jugador destacado, al anotar cuatro veces y registrar tres carreras impulsadas, lo que ayudó a los Nacionales a interrumpir una racha de tres derrotas. Mead y Chaparro se convirtieron en los principales impulsadores del ataque, mientras que el equipo completo mostró una ofensiva colectiva de gran nivel. En el pitcheo, Cade Cavalli (6-4) fue el encargado de la victoria, lanzando seis entradas con nueve ponches y sin permitir bases por bolas. Solo permitió un jonrón de dos carreras de Tyler Soderstrom en la cuarta entrada. Riley Cornelio, relevista de los Nacionales, lanzó dos entradas sin permitir carreras, ponchando a cinco bateadores.#washington_nationals #atlticos_de_oakland #west_sacramento #andrs_chaparro #curtis_mead

Bryce Eldridge caps wild Giants rally from 9-1 deficit with walk-off grand slam to stun Nationals: 'I want to be the face of this franchise' The San Francisco Giants called up top prospect Bryce Eldridge in May, hoping he could provide a spark to a sluggish offense. He delivered Wednesday beyond any reasonable expectations to cap one of the wildest finishes of this or any MLB season. The Giants entered the eighth inning of Wednesday's home game trailing the Washington Nationals 9-1. They proceeded to score five runs in the eighth inning, then loaded the bases in the ninth while facing a 10-7 deficit. Eldridge took the plate and delivered a walk-off grand slam to secure an 11-10 win and stun the visiting Nationals. "I want to be the face of this franchise," he said, per NBC Sports Bay Area. "I want to be in that moment. I want to be that guy, so it was pretty special." Needless to say, the rookie was mobbed by his celebratory teammates once he crossed home plate. How a 9-1 lead gets blown in 2 innings The Giants looked down and out in this game, so much so that the local NBC Sports Network's social media mockingly tweeted about an eighth-inning Rafael Devers home run that cut Washington's lead to 9-3. That home run followed a leadoff blast by Matt Chapman for the second San Francisco run of the game. Two walks, a double, an RBI groundout and a wild pitch later, the Giants had cut the deficit to 9-6 heading into the ninth. Nationals reliever Paxton Schultz didn't record an out in the frame and was tagged with 5 earned runs on 4 hits, 3 walks and 2 home runs allowed after getting three outs in the seventh. His replacements on the mound didn't fare much better. After the Nationals added a run in the top of the ninth, Gabe Varland took the mound for Washington in care of a 10-6 lead.#washington_nationals #bryce_eldridge #san_francisco_giants #rafael_devers #mitchell_parker

CJ Abrams Can Make Nationals/Expos History With All-Star Nod Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams is on the verge of securing his second All-Star selection, a milestone that could etch his name into the franchise’s history books. The Nationals, formerly the Montreal Expos, have long struggled to produce All-Star shortstops, but Abrams’ elite season has positioned him as the most likely candidate to break that drought. With a .293 batting average, 12 home runs, 47 RBIs, nine stolen bases, and the highest OPS (.919) among qualified shortstops, Abrams has dominated the National League’s shortstop position this season. Abrams’ performance has placed him in a tight race for the All-Star starting spot, with Miami Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez as his primary competitor. Lopez leads in batting average (.332) and is also a strong contender for the starting role. However, Abrams holds the edge in key advanced metrics, including on-base percentage (.381) and slugging percentage (.522), while tying with Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz in home runs (12) and hits (65). De La Cruz, however, is sidelined with a right hamstring strain, reducing the competition to a duel between Abrams and Lopez. The Nationals’ historical context adds significance to Abrams’ potential All-Star nod. Since the Expos joined Major League Baseball in 1969, only seven shortstops have earned All-Star selections, including Trea Turner (2021), Ian Desmond (2012), Wil Cordero (1994), Hubie Brooks (1986 and 1987), and Cristian Guzmán (2008). None of these players were named the starting shortstop, leaving a void in the franchise’s All-Star history. Abrams, if selected as the starting shortstop, would become the first Expos/Nationals player to achieve that honor. MLB.#washington_nationals #cj_abrams #elly_de_la_cruz #otto_lopez #montreal_expos

Series Preview: Nationals at Guardians The Cleveland Guardians will face the Washington Nationals in a three-game series starting on Memorial Day, with the games scheduled for Monday through Wednesday. The matchup promises to be a test of the Guardians’ offensive capabilities, as the Nationals enter the series with a -14 run differential and a fifth-place wRC+ of 108, while the Guardians hold a +23 run differential and a stronger overall performance. The Nationals rank 28th in starting pitcher ERA at 4.87 (4.75 FIP) and 26th in bullpen ERA at 4.77 (4.73 FIP), whereas the Guardians are sixth in starting pitcher ERA at 3.46 (3.80 FIP) and 13th in bullpen ERA at 3.69 (3.82 FIP). The Guardians’ success in this series will likely depend on their ability to score consistently, given the Nationals’ defensive struggles and subpar pitching statistics. The series will feature three key matchups. Game one on Monday will see Zack Littell, the Nationals’ right-handed pitcher with a 6.42 ERA (7.54 FIP), facing off against Tanner Bibee, the Guardians’ right-handed starter with a 3.75 ERA (3.97 FIP). The following day, Cade Cavalli, the Guardians’ right-handed pitcher with a 3.86 ERA (3.16 FIP), will take the mound against Joey Cantillo, the Nationals’ left-handed hurler with a 3.05 ERA (4.15 FIP). The final game on Wednesday will feature Miles Mikolas, the Nationals’ right-handed starter with an 8.28 ERA (6.40 FIP), versus Gavin Williams, the Guardians’ right-handed pitcher with a 3.25 ERA (3.34 FIP). These matchups highlight the contrast in pitching performance between the two teams, with the Guardians’ rotation appearing more reliable.#washington_nationals #cade_cavalli #cleveland_guardians #tanner_bibee #zack_littell

Ronny Cruz is on the verge of becoming a top 100 prospect for the Washington Nationals The Washington Nationals’ prospect rankings have undergone a significant shift this season, with Ronny Cruz emerging as one of the most notable risers. Once considered a high-upside but raw gamble in the Michael Soroka trade, Cruz has transformed into a top-four prospect in the Nationals’ system and is now on the cusp of cracking the top 100 list. His meteoric rise has been fueled by a combination of elite bat speed, raw power, and athletic tools, earning comparisons to Fernando Tatis Jr. and positioning him as a key piece of the Nationals’ future. Cruz’s ascent began with his performance in the 2026 season, where he quickly became a standout for the Fred Nats, the Nationals’ rookie affiliate. In just 14 games, he slashed .333 with three home runs and 15 stolen bases, posting an OPS of 1.087. His ability to hit for both power and average, coupled with his twitchy athleticism, caught the attention of scouts and analysts. The Nationals, recognizing his potential, promoted him to High-A Wilmington before many of his peers, including Luke Dickerson and Yeremy Cabrera, who had more Low-A experience. This decision signaled the organization’s confidence in Cruz’s upside. Despite initial concerns about his contact rates and tendency to chase pitches, Cruz has adapted quickly to the higher level. In his first three games at Wilmington, he hit two home runs and posted an OPS of 1.186, proving his ability to thrive against advanced pitching. His swing mechanics, which generate elite bat speed, allow him to tap into his raw power while also hitting the ball at optimal angles. Scouts have noted his natural feel for the barrel, which makes him a dangerous hitter in any count. The comparison to Fernando Tatis Jr.#washington_nationals #fernando_tatis_jr #ronny_cruz #fred_nats #high_a_wilmington

Washington Nationals Defeat Pittsburgh Pirates in 10-Inning Thriller The Washington Nationals secured an 8-7 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates in a tightly contested game on Thursday, April 16, 2026. The contest, which stretched into the 10th inning, featured dramatic plays, clutch performances, and a decisive moment in the final frame that sealed the win for the Nationals. The game took an early turn in the top of the fifth inning when the Nationals erupted for four runs. Rookie Konnor Griffin, making his MLB debut, committed a throwing error that allowed three runs to score. Luis García Jr. later grounded into a fielder’s choice, and Griffin’s failed attempt to tag second base resulted in a wild throw to first, enabling Drew Millas, Jorbit Vivas, and Nasim Nuñez to cross the plate. Despite a Pirates challenge questioning Nuñez’s slide for illegal contact, the call was upheld, leaving the Nationals with a 4-0 lead. The Pirates responded in the bottom of the fifth with four runs of their own. Oneil Cruz doubled to plate Billy Cook, and Marcell Ozuna followed with a three-run home run, evening the score at 4-4. The game remained tied until the sixth inning, when Joey Wiemer doubled to break the deadlock for the Nationals. Griffin added a career-high triple in the same inning, scoring a run and extending the Nationals’ lead to 6-4. The Pirates narrowed the gap in the seventh, but the Nationals’ bullpen held steady. Reliever Clayton Beeter, making his major league debut, pitched the top of the ninth and recorded his first career win despite allowing a run that sent the game into extra innings. Beeter walked Jake Mangum and then hit Brandon Lowe with an infield single, setting the stage for the dramatic 10th.#washington_nationals #pittsburgh_pirates #konnor_griffin #luis_garcia_jr #drew_millas

Washington Nationals Seek Stability in Three-Game Series Against Cardinals The Washington Nationals faced a significant setback as they lost their fifth consecutive game to the Los Angeles Dodgers, despite their offense managing to score at least five runs in each of their last four contests. The defeat, which occurred on April 6, 2026, marked a turning point in the team’s season, as they now find themselves in a precarious position after a promising 3-1 start to the year. The loss came in a tightly contested game that saw the Nationals take an early lead but ultimately falter under pressure, allowing the Dodgers to secure a 8-6 victory and complete a series sweep in Washington. The game began with the Nationals in control, building a 6-1 lead in the sixth inning thanks to a combination of clutch hits and home runs. Luis Garcia Jr. contributed a two-run home run, while Keibert Ruiz’s single, which ricocheted off the first base bag, allowed CJ Abrams to score. James Wood then added a three-run laser beam to the scoreboard, putting the Nationals in a strong position. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the eighth inning when Cionel Perez allowed the first five hitters to reach base, leading to a run before he was replaced by Clayton Beeter. Beeter managed to end the inning with a force out, a sacrifice fly, and a strikeout, but not before two additional runs scored, making it 7-6 in favor of the Dodgers. The game concluded with the Dodgers adding an insurance run in the ninth inning via a solo home run from Teoscar Hernandez, securing their victory. The loss exposed critical flaws in the Nationals’ pitching staff, which ranks last in the league with an ERA of 6.69 and a collective -1.1 fWAR. The bullpen, ranked 26th with a 5.#washington_nationals #los_angeles_dodgers #teoscar_hernandez #st_louis_cardinals #clayton_beeter

Washington Nationals Open Season with Strong 10-4 Victory Over Cubs The Washington Nationals kicked off their 2024 season with a commanding 10-4 win over the Chicago Cubs, powered by unexpected contributions from several players. The game, which marked the start of a new era for the Nationals under manager Blake Butera, saw the team’s offense come alive in a way that surprised many, particularly given their quiet performance during Spring Training. Butera also secured his first managerial victory in this game, adding to the significance of the result. The Nationals’ offensive surge began in the second inning when Joey Wiemer, a relative newcomer to the team, made an immediate impact. Despite strong winds pushing the ball out of the park, Wiemer launched a changeup from Matthew Boyd into the left field seats, giving the Nationals an early lead. Wiemer continued to dominate the game, finishing 3-for-3 with a walk and showcasing his athleticism and defensive skills. His aggressive baserunning, though resulting in one costly out, highlighted his potential as a key contributor to the outfield. Wiemer’s performance was particularly notable against left-handed pitching, where his career OPS of .638 jumped to .779, suggesting he could be a valuable asset in that matchup. The game’s momentum shifted further in the fourth inning when Jacob Young, a player known for his contact approach, delivered a two-run home run that capped off a six-run inning. Young’s power display, which included multiple well-struck balls, hinted at his potential to contribute more offensively in the future. However, not all players found their rhythm. James Wood, who had struggled in previous seasons and during Spring Training, went 0-for-5 with four strikeouts, raising concerns about his readiness for the 2024 season.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #chicago_cubs #james_wood #joey_wiemer

Nationals' Blake Butera Makes History as MLB's Youngest Manager Blake Butera, 33, will become the youngest manager in Major League Baseball history when he takes the field for the Washington Nationals’ Opening Day game against the Chicago Cubs on March 26. His appointment marks a significant shift in the sport’s leadership, as he will be the first manager in MLB named Blake, a name that has steadily climbed in popularity over the decades. While the focus on his age may overshadow his qualifications, Butera’s background as a key figure in the Tampa Bay Rays’ organization and his ability to connect with younger players position him as a promising leader in the evolving landscape of baseball. Butera’s rise to the managerial role is part of a broader trend of generational change in the sport. The name “Blake” has transitioned from a relatively obscure choice in the 1960s and ’70s to a more common name by the 1990s, peaking at No. 84 in popularity. Today, it ranks around No. 95, but its cultural presence has grown significantly, from preschool classrooms to youth sports teams. Butera, a new father himself, represents a new era of leadership in baseball, where younger managers are increasingly shaping the game. The Nationals’ decision to hire Butera, a 33-year-old with extensive experience in player development and management, reflects their commitment to a rebuild centered around youth and innovation. The team’s roster includes several players younger than Butera, with only veteran starter Miles Mikolas, 37, older than him. This dynamic has prompted discussions about whether his age provides an edge in relatability, though Butera emphasizes that his focus is on preparation and performance.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #chicago_cubs #tampa_bay_rays #miles_mikolas

Where to Watch Nationals vs. Cubs: TV Channel, Start Time, Streaming for March 26 Baseball is back, and finding the right channel for your favorite team has become more complex since MLB announced plans to produce and distribute broadcasts for nearly a third of the league. Here’s a breakdown of how to watch the Nationals vs. Cubs matchup on Thursday, March 26. The first pitch between the Washington Nationals and Chicago Cubs is set for 2:20 p.m. ET at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois. The game will be televised on Marquee Sports Network and Nationals.TV. Fans can also stream the matchup through Fubo, though regional restrictions may apply. For those seeking additional options, ESPN Unlimited offers access to MLB coverage throughout the season. To stay updated on the game, fans can check MLB scores and results on usatoday.com. The article includes a link to USA TODAY’s sortable MLB schedule, allowing users to filter by team or division. For those interested in exploring other games, the article highlights the availability of real-time scores and results. It also notes that recommendations are independently selected by editors, and the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission if purchases are made through provided links. Additional information includes disclaimers about gambling risks, emphasizing that all betting activities carry financial consequences and that users should verify details before placing bets. The article also mentions Gannett’s potential revenue from sports betting operators and provides resources for those seeking help with gambling-related issues. All times and details are accurate as of March 26, 2026, at 3:03 a.m. ET. Fans are advised to confirm schedules and availability, as regional restrictions or last-minute changes may affect viewing options.#washington_nationals #chicago_cubs #wrigley_field #marquee_sports_network #nationals_tv

2026 Washington Nationals Season Kicks Off with Cubs Clash at Wrigley Field The 2026 Washington Nationals season officially began with a matchup against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, marking the start of a challenging Opening Day for the team. Manager Blake Butera unveiled an unconventional lineup, setting the tone for a season filled with experimentation and adjustments. Leadoff hitter James Wood’s placement was expected, but the rest of the order featured several surprises, including Andres Chaparro’s unexpected second-hole slot and CJ Abrams’ move to the sixth spot. Abrams, who has primarily served as the team’s leadoff hitter in recent years, will likely shift to a higher position against right-handed pitchers but will face lefties in the sixth slot. Joey Wiemer’s Opening Day start was anticipated due to his strong performance against left-handed batters, while Luis Garcia Jr.’s absence from the lineup was unsurprising given his struggles against lefties. Cade Cavalli, making his 12th career big league start, will take the mound as the team’s Opening Day pitcher. The Cubs’ lineup presents a formidable challenge, featuring high-profile players such as Alex Bregman, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Dansby Swanson. Michael Busch, the Cubs’ leadoff hitter, is noted for his underrated hitting ability, adding depth to their offensive threat. The Cubs’ lineup is described as strong and deep, making it difficult for Cavalli to navigate. Matthew Boyd, who experienced a late-career resurgence in 2025, was also named to the Opening Day rotation. The game will be broadcast on 106.7 The Fan, with fans eagerly anticipating the start of the season. While the Nationals may not be considered a strong contender, the excitement of baseball returning has sparked optimism.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #chicago_cubs #wrigley_field #james_wood

Nationals-Cubs 2026 Opening Day FAQ The Chicago Cubs, returning to the postseason after a four-year absence, are entering the 2026 season with ambitions of securing a National League Central title and advancing to the World Series. Their journey begins on Opening Day at Wrigley Field, where they face the Washington Nationals, a team focused on long-term growth under a new front office and coaching staff. The game will mark a symbolic start to the season, with both teams aiming to set the tone for the year. The Nationals, led by their youngest president of baseball operations, general manager, and manager trio in Major League Baseball, are preparing for the challenge. Blake Butera, 33, will make his MLB managerial debut, while Cade Cavalli, the Nationals’ Opening Day starter, is eager to lead the team. Cavalli, 27, has overcome three years of injuries to earn his first Opening Day assignment. He made his MLB debut in 2022 and returned in 2025, posting a 4.25 ERA in 10 starts last season. “There’s nobody more deserving of this opportunity than Cade,” said Butera, highlighting Cavalli’s role in shaping the pitching staff’s culture. The Cubs, managed by Craig Counsell, are also looking to build momentum. Matthew Boyd, a veteran left-hander with a 3.21 ERA in 2025, will start for Chicago in his first Opening Day assignment. Boyd, who previously pitched on Opening Day for the Tigers, was named an All-Star last season and has emerged as a key leader for the team. Counsell emphasized that Boyd’s performance and recovery from injury have earned him the opportunity. “You earn these things,” Counsell said, “and Matthew has earned this.” The game will feature distinct start times and broadcast networks. The Nationals’ first pitch is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET on Nationals.TV, while the Cubs’ game begins at 1:20 p.m.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #chicago_cubs #cade_cavalli #matt_boyd

Yankees Acquire Pitching Prospect in Trade with Nationals The New York Yankees completed a roster adjustment by trading infielder Jorbit Vivas to the Washington Nationals in exchange for right-handed pitcher Sean Paul Liñan. The deal was finalized as the Yankees finalized their 2026 spring training schedule against the Philadelphia Phillies. Vivas, 25, was not on the team’s Opening Day roster and had exhausted his minor league options. With limited opportunities to contribute at the major league level, the Yankees opted to trade him. Last season, Vivas appeared in 29 games for the Yankees, posting a batting line of .161/.266/.250 with one home run and five RBIs. The Nationals’ acquisition of Vivas comes with the addition of Liñan, a 21-year-old pitching prospect ranked as the 27th overall in their system by MLB Pipeline. Liñan, who was previously signed as an international free agent by the Los Angeles Dodgers, has experience as both a starter and reliever. During the 2025 season, he primarily played in High-A ball but also made two starts at the Triple-A level. The trade also clears a spot on the Yankees’ 40-man roster, allowing the team flexibility in managing their depth. Liñan’s potential as a versatile pitcher could provide the Nationals with options to bolster their rotation or bullpen, while the Yankees gain a young arm with development upside. The move underscores the Yankees’ focus on streamlining their roster while addressing areas of need, particularly in the pitching department. With Liñan’s inclusion, the Nationals add a player with a track record of adapting to different roles, which could be valuable as they build toward future seasons.#washington_nationals #new_york_yankees #los_angeles_dodgers #jorbit_vivas #sean_paul_linan

Yankees trade with Nationals to swap infielder for pitcher before Opening Day The New York Yankees and Washington Nationals finalized a trade on Sunday, exchanging an infielder for a pitching prospect ahead of the upcoming Opening Day. The deal, reported by Andrew Golden of the Baltimore Banner, involves the Nationals acquiring INF Jorbit Vivas from the Yankees in exchange for right-handed pitcher Sean Paul Liñan. Vivas, a 25-year-old left-handed hitter, was not expected to make the Yankees’ Opening Day roster. The infielder, who can play second and third base, had limited MLB experience last season, appearing in 56 games with nine hits and a .161 batting average. In 2025, he played 100 games at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he hit .270 with 21 doubles, a triple, four home runs, and 12 stolen bases. His MLB performance and lack of immediate impact made him a trade candidate. The Yankees received Sean Paul Liñan, a 21-year-old right-handed pitcher from Colombia. Liñan reached High-A with the Dodgers before spending the latter part of last season with the Nationals. In his minor league career, he posted a 3.62 ERA in 65 appearances, including 26 starts. Notably, Liñan has shown potential as a strikeout pitcher, averaging 11.6 strikeouts per nine innings. The Yankees’ acquisition of Liñan is seen as a strategic move to add a young arm with upside, particularly for a player unlikely to contribute significantly at the MLB level this season. The Nationals’ decision to acquire Vivas reflects their need for infield depth. While the Yankees sought a pitching prospect, the Nationals prioritized adding versatility to their infield, leveraging Vivas’ ability to play multiple positions.#washington_nationals #new_york_yankees #jorbit_vivas #sean_paul_linan #scranton_wilkes_barre

Nationals Option Dylan Crews, No. 2 Pick in 2023, to Triple-A The Washington Nationals have sent outfielder Dylan Crews to Triple-A Rochester, a move that was initially seen as unlikely but ultimately decided as part of their strategy to manage the development of their young talent. Crews, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, struggled during spring training, leading to his demotion just a week before Opening Day. Manager Blake Butera emphasized the team’s confidence in Crews, stating that the decision was made to prioritize his growth and the organization’s long-term goals. Crews, 24, has faced challenges in his major league debut, posting a .211 batting average with a .634 OPS through 116 games. His minor league performance, which included only 652 plate appearances before his call-up, and a left oblique injury that sidelined him for nearly three months in 2025, have contributed to his struggles. Despite his offensive limitations, Crews has been a valuable asset in the clubhouse, excelling as a base runner and team leader. However, the high expectations placed on him as a key figure for the Nationals have created pressure that the team believes is best addressed in Triple-A. Butera highlighted that Crews has embraced the demotion, viewing it as an opportunity to focus on his development without the distractions of a large fan base. The manager noted Crews’ maturity and professionalism, assuring that the move would not negatively impact his mindset. “He’s very mature, he’s a pro, he’s a confident kid,” Butera said. “We don’t have any real concerns that this will affect his mentality negatively.” The manager also mentioned that Crews has often fallen behind in the count during spring training, and the team plans to work with him in Rochester to refine his approach at the plate.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #dylan_crews #triple_a_rochester #2023_mlb_draft

DRAFT PICK OPTIONED TO TRIPLE-A AS NATIONALS MAKE SPRING CAMP MOVES The Washington Nationals made a notable roster adjustment as spring training neared its conclusion, sending outfielder Dylan Crews to Triple-A Rochester on Friday. The decision came after Crews, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 Draft, struggled to make an impact in his first 12 Grapefruit League games, posting a .103/.206/.103 slash line with a .309 OPS. Manager Blake Butera acknowledged the difficulty of the move, emphasizing the team’s confidence in Crews’ potential. Crews, who joined the majors in August 2024, faced challenges in his first full season with the Nationals, batting .208 in 85 games. His performance in spring training, combined with previous struggles, led to the decision. Butera noted that Crews’ response to the news was professional, with the player expressing commitment to improving in Triple-A. “He took it like a pro,” Butera said. “He understood the plan and is ready to work on the adjustments our hitting group will outline for him.” The move aims to provide Crews with a focused environment to refine his offensive approach. Butera highlighted Crews’ recent progress, including a five-pitch walk in his first at-bat against the Cardinals. The manager also stressed that the decision was not a reflection of Crews’ value to the team, stating, “We envision him running in from the outfield to that dog pile” during potential playoff runs. Crews will join Triple-A Rochester’s outfield rotation, where he will play all three positions alongside Robert Hassell III and Andrew Pinckney, a No. 19 prospect. Butera praised Crews’ defensive skills, calling him a “plus-defender,” and hopes the reduced pressure will allow him to focus on improving his hitting.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #dylan_crews #triple_a_rochester #robert_hassell_iii