As Spring Training kicks off, the Washington Nationals are already making waves, and much of that buzz centers around Brady House. The former first-round pick is turning heads with his early performance, suggesting that the Nationals' new management might just help him unlock his potential as an elite third baseman.
Preseason Performance
In just three Spring Training games so far, House is batting an impressive .375, with 5 RBIs and 2 home runs. His recent standout moment came when he led all 35 participating batters with a blistering exit velocity of 110.7 mph. It's the kind of start that has fans excited about what he might bring to the table this season.
Expectations for 2026
House made his MLB debut in 2025, appearing in 73 games and batting .234 with an OPS of .574. While those numbers didn't set the world on fire, they laid the groundwork for what could be a breakout year. Now 23, House is gearing up for his first full season with the Nationals, likely starting at third base and batting seventh in the lineup, according to Fangraphs.
The Nationals have been nurturing House since drafting him at 18, and they’re banking on his slugging ability. In 2025, he ranked in the 90th percentile for exit velocity in Triple-A, a testament to his raw power. His two home runs in Spring Training hint at the potential for more fireworks as the season progresses.
Power and Potential
The Nationals' lineup could use a power boost, and House might be just the player to provide it. While James Wood is coming off a 30+ home run season, players like Daylin Lile and Dylan Crews are still developing their power. If House can tap into his potential, a 25+ home run season isn't out of the question, which would certainly validate his first-round selection.
Looking Ahead
With new, analytics-driven management at the helm, the Nationals are poised for growth. A playoff run in the coming years is within reach, but it hinges on the development of their young talent.
As House and Crews aim to power the offense, the team also counts on pitchers like Cade Cavalli and Brad Lord to anchor the rotation. While Spring Training might seem like a warm-up for many, it's a crucial period for these young Nationals as they prepare for the challenges ahead.