The Washington Nationals are in a bit of a tough spot right now as an organization. Since their franchise has come under the leadership of Paul Toboni on the Baseball Operations side of things, the Nationals have begun to look up in a major way after struggling for over half a decade after winning the World Series in 2019.
For the Nationals to fully turn the corner, they will likely need to change the way they have operated for several years now when it comes to the deadline. For too long now, the Nationals have been so focused on rebuilding their farm system via flipping rental players for prospects, but do they need to do the same thing this year?
Nationals can vault themselves into playoff position over this weekend
With the Nationals facing off in a 3-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks beginning tonight, they have a golden opportunity to be able to flip the narrative of their rebuild. Although many fans are conflicted about whether or not the team should actually sell, a big weekend series performance by the Nationals would be able to fully cement themselves as buyers.
The Nationals enter the series 2 games back of the final Wild Card spot in the National League, and sit a game above .500 at 52-51. The Diamondbacks currently occupy the final spot, and have a record of 54-49 heading into the weekend. To say that this weekend could have massive implications on the route both clubs choose to undergo within the next couple of weeks would be an understatement.
For the Nationals, a team still deciding what they want to do with key pieces like Luis Garcia Jr. or Foster Griffin, both of whom could be 2 of the most coveted pieces on the open market, a decision to buy instead of sell could drastically alter the market. A series victory, especially a sweep, would make the Nationals' decision a much easier one for the front office, whereas getting swept could result in the team selling.
If the Nationals emerge with a convincing series victory or sweep over a team that is certainly playoff-caliber, it might even urge the front office to add assets rather than just standing pat. For a first time front office group navigating their first deadline together, this weekend certainly could make their decision a lot easier depending on how things play out on the field.
What do you think of the Nationals' chances to cement themselves in a big way this weekend? As always, please let me know on X, @DCBerk.
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