District on Deck family, my name is Nicholas Wilkerson, and I am honored for the opportunity to cover the Washington Nationals 2025 journey for you all. I am a 23 year old New Jersey Native so you might ask yourself “What does he know about the Nationals.” Well I had the opportunity to cover the Nationals multiple times over the 2024 season for “Foul Territory," one of the top baseball shows out there right now. During that time I went to spring training with the team in West Palm Beach and attended several games at Nationals Park. After being around the players and coach staff enough I can tell you exactly what the Nats fans motto should be heading into 2025.
WE ARE SO BACK!!
Just 6 years ago this team won a World Series. While it's a very different team now and the star of that squad is now playing in the division, the Nats are set up for a wild card and possibly a run thereafter. This is because they’ve decided to be the “prove it deal” team of 2025. Something similar to the 2024 Mets the Nats have signed multiple free agents including Josh Bell, Amed Rosario and Jorge Lopez to one year deals where if these guys want a longer term contract in the offseason they are going to have to perform. Not to mention the acquisition of veteran Nathaniel Lowe.
However it all starts with the young core. 3 of the best young players in the game in CJ Abrams, James Wood, and Dylan Crews will be looking to take that next step this season for the Nats. This means at least 2 out of 3 should be all stars and they will undoubtedly be productive. I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing all 3 of these guys and they are exceptional in the way they carry themselves as well as their interactions with fans who cherish them as the heart and soul of this team. Their mindset along with their extraordinary talents will be the cornerstone of a wild card run for this franchise this year as well as future playoff runs thereafter.
All in all, expect content such as this from me this year every Tuesday. Overviews on the team, exclusive interviews and conversations with players, as well as coverage of the biggest games that the Nats play in this year. Once again, I’m excited to join the team and can’t wait to take this journey with you all!