The Washington Nationals made a notable move this week, trading left-hander MacKenzie Gore - the first major piece from the Juan Soto deal to be shipped out. But don’t expect the front office to stop there. With the Gore trade now in the books, attention has shifted to shortstop CJ Abrams, and there’s growing chatter that he could be the next big name on the move.
According to reports, the Nationals have been actively gauging interest in Abrams this offseason. League-wide buzz around the 23-year-old has been steady for months, dating back to December when it was reported that multiple teams were showing serious interest in acquiring him. Add to that the inclusion of speedy outfielder Jacob Young - widely regarded as a defensive standout - in trade discussions, and it’s clear the Nationals are exploring a variety of paths as they reshape their roster.
But here’s where things get interesting: the tone from the front office, particularly from Assistant GM Paul Toboni, has been noticeably different when it comes to Abrams. With Gore, Toboni was transparent - the team was listening and open to deals.
With Abrams, the message has been more cautious, more protective. Toboni recently told 106.7 The Fan that while he’s picking up the phone, he still views Abrams as the team’s starting shortstop.
That kind of statement, especially in the often-cagey world of front office speak, carries weight.
Of course, that doesn’t mean Abrams is untouchable. This is baseball, and things can change quickly.
Just ask anyone who thought Gore was staying put - he was traded not long after that seemed unlikely. But from everything we’ve seen this offseason, the Nationals appear far more reluctant to move Abrams unless they’re absolutely blown away by an offer.
And that’s the key. Abrams still has three years of team control left, which means there’s no urgency to make a move.
If a deal does happen, the trade deadline might be the more logical time. By midseason, teams that feel comfortable with their infield depth today may be in a very different place.
The Red Sox, Yankees, and Royals are just a few clubs that could find themselves reevaluating their shortstop situation come July. If Anthony Volpe struggles in New York, for example, Abrams could become a very attractive solution for a team with postseason aspirations.
The Nationals have every reason to be patient here. Unlike Gore, whose service time and representation (Scott Boras) added a layer of urgency, Abrams doesn’t come with the same immediate pressure.
There’s still time to evaluate his long-term fit in D.C., and even the possibility of a contract extension isn’t off the table. That’s not to say it’s likely, but the door isn’t closed - and that’s something worth watching.
Meanwhile, don’t rule out surprise suitors. Gore’s trade to the Rangers wasn’t exactly telegraphed.
Teams like the Yankees, Orioles, and Cubs were more frequently mentioned in connection with him, but it was Texas that ultimately pulled the trigger. Could something similar happen with Abrams?
The Mariners, for instance, have been relatively quiet this offseason and could be in the market for a versatile middle infielder if they miss out on other targets like Brandon Donovan.
Still, unless a team comes forward with a package too good to pass up, it feels more likely the Nationals will hold onto Abrams - at least for now. With a new player development regime in place, there’s real interest internally in seeing what they can unlock in a talent like him. And if they do decide to keep him long-term, an extension would not only solidify a key position but also send a strong message to a fan base that’s seen its share of stars walk out the door.
All of that said, Nationals fans have learned not to get too comfortable. The front office has shown it’s willing to make bold moves when the right opportunity presents itself. Whether Abrams stays or goes, the Nationals are clearly in the middle of a pivotal transition - and more moves could be on the horizon.