Nationals Set to Embrace Rotating DH Strategy in 2025
For years, the Nationals have leaned on a traditional approach to the designated hitter spot-plug in a veteran bat and let him ride. From Nelson Cruz to Josh Bell, the Nats have typically opted for a set-it-and-forget-it DH. But as the franchise turns a page under new leadership, that strategy is shifting.
With Josh Bell and Nathaniel Lowe both gone, the Nationals are steering away from the idea of a full-time designated hitter. Instead, they’re embracing a more flexible, matchup-driven rotation at the position-a move that reflects both the modern game and the current makeup of Washington’s roster.
And frankly, it makes a lot of sense.
Unless you’ve got an elite, game-changing bat like Shohei Ohtani or Kyle Schwarber anchoring your lineup, using the DH spot as a revolving door has become the smart play across the league. It gives managers the ability to rest regulars without pulling their bats from the lineup, and it opens the door to optimize matchups on a nightly basis.
According to reporting from Mark Zuckerman, the Nationals’ new front office led by Paul Toboni is fully on board with this approach. And when you look at the roster, especially the surplus of young outfielders, the strategy fits like a glove.
Let’s take a closer look at how this DH rotation might shake out.
James Wood: A Prime Candidate for Rotational DH
James Wood is one of the most intriguing young talents in the Nationals’ system-and he’s already seen time at DH, logging 33 games there last season. While he’s not a liability in the outfield, he’s also not a defensive standout. The team wants him improving in the field, but giving him a day or two a week at DH could help keep him fresh while keeping his bat in the lineup.
Wood’s athleticism is undeniable, and as he continues to develop, the Nationals are clearly betting on him to be a big part of their future. A rotational DH role gives him the space to grow without overloading him early.
Daylen Lile: Another Young Bat Who Could Benefit
Much like Wood, Daylen Lile is a talented outfielder with more upside at the plate than in the field. He’s still young, still learning, and the DH spot gives the Nationals a way to get his bat in the lineup while allowing a stronger defender-like Jacob Young-to patrol the outfield.
Lile is part of the Nats’ long-term vision, and giving him regular at-bats without forcing the issue defensively is a smart play. But make no mistake: improving his glove work will be a big focus this season.
First Base Options Could Cycle Through DH, Too
Whoever ends up manning first base in 2025 is likely to get some DH days as well. It’s one of the least demanding defensive positions, and rotating those players through the DH slot is a natural extension of the strategy.
Luis García Jr. is another name to watch here. He’s currently penciled in as the starting second baseman, but his defensive struggles have been well-documented. The team has already experimented with him at first base, and DH could be another way to keep his bat in the lineup without exposing him in the field.
Nasim Nunez and the Defensive Shuffle
Manager Blake Butera will have some interesting decisions to make when it comes to deploying his infield. There will likely be days when he wants Nasim Nunez’s glove in the lineup, which could push García into the DH role.
Don’t be surprised if we see some experimentation with CJ Abrams sliding over to second base on those days. While the organization has made it clear they see Abrams as a long-term shortstop, giving him reps at second could add some valuable versatility to his game.
And while Nunez might be the better pure shortstop defensively, the Nationals are clearly investing in Abrams as the face of their infield. Still, it will be interesting to see how creative the coaching staff gets with these alignments.
A New Era in the Nation’s Capital
This shift to a rotating DH isn’t just a tactical decision-it’s emblematic of a broader philosophical change in Washington. Under Toboni’s leadership, the Nationals are leaning into flexibility, development, and maximizing every roster spot.
Gone are the days of the everyday DH. In their place comes a more modern, fluid approach-one that gives young players like Wood and Lile more opportunities, allows veterans to stay fresh, and gives Butera the tools to play the matchups.
It’s a new era for the Nationals, and the rotating DH is just one more sign that the franchise is evolving with the times.