The Washington Nationals organization's focus has shifted to 2026. Hiring Paul Taboni as the Head of Baseball Operations was the first phase of an overhaul in D.C. A shift at the top of the organization won't be the only chance in the organization this offseason. When focusing on the Major League roster, how much change is possible? It would be shocking to see the entire 25-man roster be completely different in 2026. Important decisions will have to be made about how to distribute playing time next season. One player forced his way onto the scene in '25 and should see an expanded role for the Nats in '26. Then, we'll discuss a player who needs a change of scenery.
Expanded: Daylen Lile
While not necessarily a "sleeper" prospect, Daylen Lile flew under the radar in the Nationals' minor league system due to the pedigree of James Wood and Dylan Crews. Selected in the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft, Lile missed the entire 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery. He returned to action in 2023 and produced an .807 OPS in 106 games at the A/A+ level. Lile's numbers took a dip in 2024 as he advanced through the ranks of the minor leagues, posting just a .735 OPS. His development hit the next level in 2025, earning him a promotion to the Major Leagues.
Lile's first two months in the Majors were average at best. In May, he had a slashline of .208/.286/.661 followed by a similar line in June. In July, things started to pick up for the rookie, producing a .711 OPS in 73 at-bats. He finished the season as one of the best hitters in Major League Baseball during September. Lile hit .391 with six home runs, seven triples, and 19 RBI. The 22-year-old finished with an astounding 11 triples. You read that correctly: Daylen Lile hit 11 triples in only 91 games.
Lile played so well down the stretch for the Nats, there shouldn't be a situation where he's not starting in the outfield to begin the 2026 season. While Lile's defensive metrics aren't favorable, his offensive impact outweighs that. The Nationals' starting outfield for Opening Day 2026 should be Daylen Lile, Dylan Crews, and James Wood.
Lessened: CJ Abrams
A change of scenery is needed for CJ Abrams. No, I'm not recommending that the Nats trade Abrams. I'm advocating for the Nats to move Abrams from shortstop to second base. The Nats' defense has been sloppy for the past few seasons, and it's time to make changes. Abrams committed 22 errors at shortstop this season for the Nats, second-most in all of baseball. His total error increased by five from '24 to '25. Nothing has been done by the Nats' coaching staff or front office to address the ineptitude of their defense over the past few seasons.
While I can tear Abrams to shreds about his defensive play, he's likely never been disciplined for his errors. Issues like poor defense, among others, led to Davey Martinez and Mike Rizzo being fired. Nats fans are hoping an organization structured by Paul Taboni holds their players to a higher standard.
CJ Abrams could thrive as a second baseman. It's a much shorter throw to first base, and it commands much less responsibility. He's struggled to find the form that made him an All-Star in '24, but the flashes of talent are apparent. In theory, a reduced defensive role could lead to more success at the plate for Abrams.