2. CJ Abrams
No surprise here, as CJ Abrams has a legitimate shot to establish himself as the face of this franchise. Think about it: it was Ryan Zimmerman, then Bryce Harper, then Juan Soto, not to mention Max Scherzer, Trea Turner, Anthony Rendon, etc. All of those players are gone now. This franchise needs an identity again, and Abrams will have the first crack at it.
Now he doesn’t necessarily need to perform to that level in 2023 – he can certainly be productive in his own right without setting the world on fire. But it would be nice if this speedy Shortstop helped us get over the speedy, face of the franchise Shortstops in years past…
Nevertheless, the Nationals seemed to have found a long term answer at a premiere position. Reese also detailed why here. And while you’re at it, check out these highlights with some more phenomenal calls from the great play-by-play guy, Don Orsillo.