Nationals Recalibrate as CJ Abrams Emerges as Trade Chip in Evolving Roster Strategy
Since the 2022 blockbuster deal that sent Juan Soto to San Diego, the Washington Nationals have been a team with promise - a young, energetic core that looked like it was just a few arms and bats away from turning the corner. But the recent decision to trade All-Star lefty MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers signals a possible shift in strategy. Rather than doubling down on their current core, the Nationals appear to be reshuffling the deck - and that could mean more movement ahead.
One name generating buzz? CJ Abrams.
MLB insider Jon Morosi floated the idea that Abrams could be on the move before this season’s trade deadline. And the potential fit he mentioned? The New York Yankees - a team that’s not only in win-now mode, but also facing some real uncertainty at shortstop.
Let’s unpack what this could mean for both clubs.
Volpe’s Uncertain Outlook Opens the Door
Anthony Volpe was supposed to take a leap in his third season in pinstripes. Instead, he stalled.
A .212 batting average and a league-high error total were a far cry from the Gold Glove-caliber play the Yankees had hoped for. Now, with Volpe recovering from offseason surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, he’s expected to miss Opening Day - and possibly more.
That leaves the Yankees with a gap at a critical position, and a roster that’s built to contend right now. With Aaron Judge still in his prime and the pressure mounting to capitalize on a championship window, the Yankees can’t afford to fumble the shortstop spot. That’s where Abrams enters the conversation.
Abrams: A Rising Star with Trade Value
CJ Abrams has quietly become one of the most intriguing young shortstops in the National League. He earned his first All-Star nod in 2024 and followed it up in 2025 with his most complete season yet - batting .257 with career highs in hits, runs scored, and OPS. His blend of power and speed makes him a dynamic presence at the top of the lineup, and his glove has held up well at a premium position.
He’s also just 25 and under team control - the kind of player you typically build around. But with the Nationals now short on proven pitching after moving Gore, flipping Abrams could be a way to address that need in a big way.
A Match with the Yankees?
The Yankees have no shortage of young arms, and the Nationals might be eyeing that depth. Names like Cam Schittler and Luis Gil could headline a potential return if Washington decides to make Abrams available. Both are high-upside pitchers who could slot into a rotation that now looks light on experience and frontline talent.
From New York’s perspective, acquiring Abrams would be a bold but logical move - especially if Volpe’s recovery stretches into the season or if his performance doesn’t rebound. Abrams would give the Yankees a proven, athletic shortstop who can impact the game on both sides of the ball, and who’s ready to contribute right away.
Nationals’ Bigger Picture
Trading Gore and possibly Abrams isn’t just about tearing things down - it’s about retooling with purpose. The Nationals still have a strong offensive foundation, but they need arms. If the front office sees a path to adding top-tier pitching talent by moving from a position of depth, it could accelerate their return to contention.
It’s a delicate balance, especially when dealing with players who were key pieces in the Soto trade. But if the Nationals believe this is the best way to round out the roster and build a more complete team, it’s a move worth considering.
As we inch closer to Spring Training, keep an eye on Washington. They may not be done making noise. And if the Yankees come calling with the right package, CJ Abrams could be the next big name on the move - a potential win-win for two franchises with very different timelines, but equally urgent goals.