Overview
- The Nationals have begun a multiday move that shifts C.J. Abrams off shortstop and into a rotating role at second base to address his defensive struggles.
- Abrams’s agent, Mike Sanders, said Abrams is “not thrilled” with the timing but will remain team-focused and plans to spend the offseason working to return to shortstop.
- The decision reflects defensive evaluations that flagged Abrams as a below-average shortstop this season, prompting the team to prioritize infield defense.
- Washington will split second-base starts between Abrams and Nasim Nunez while continuing to play Abrams regularly because he is having a career-best offensive season.
- The change preserves Abrams as a tradeable, high-value bat after deadline interest and also creates roster flexibility and clearer development paths for infield prospects as the Nationals balance competitiveness with player development.