Over the last few seasons, The Nationals have accounted for plenty of roster turnover. But finally, 2025 can bring the same faces, as well as dependable new ones to the big league ballclub. With that being said, here is a way too early prediction about the 26-man roster in 2025.
Starting Pitchers: RHP Jake Irvin, LHP Mackenzie Gore, RHP Trevor Williams, LHP Parker/Herz, RHP Walker Buehler
Subtractions: LHP Patrick Corbin
With Josiah Gray beginning the season on the injured list and assuming RHP Cade Cavalli does the same, it opens up a spot for either Mitchell Parker or DJ Herz in the 2025 rotation. Whoever does not make the rotation will likely be a long reliever in the bullpen. I believe Trevor Williams will be resigned, preferably getting a 1-year deal. Before being injured, Williams had a 2.22 ERA over 11 starts and will be 33 in 2025. Williams is a perfect 5th man in next season's rotation. Like many fans thought in 2024, Rhys Hoskins would have been the perfect fit for DC. Coming off a lost season due to injury, Hoskins needed a “Prove-it deal” and the Nationals needed a first baseman. Of course, Hoskins would sign with the Milwaukee Brewers. I want to bring that fantasy back, but this time the Nationals pull the trigger and sign RHP Walker Buehler to a 1-year contract. Buehler is coming off a rough season in LA after returning from Tommy John surgery. Rizzo can flip Buehler at the deadline and get a few prospects.
Relievers: RHP Kyle Finnegan, RHP Phil Maton, RHP Jacob Barnes, RHP Tanner Rainey, LHP Parker/Herz LHP Jose A. Ferrer, LHP Danny Coulombe, RHP Eduardo Salazar
Subtractions: RHP Derek Law, LHP Joe La Sorsa
Jacob Barnes and Derek Law have both been decent relievers in 2024, which has come as a surprise. Barnes will get another year, and Law will likely sign elsewhere. Law has struggled with inherited runners this season regardless. Just like Dylan Floro, Rizzo is going to look for a veteran RHP to add, which I predict will be Phil Maton. Danny Coulombe will also be a sneaky signing for Rizzo, as Coulombe has had a sub 3 ERA over the last 2 seasons. Eduardo Salazar has also been a great addition from waivers, holding a 1.13 ERA in 2024.
Catchers: Keibert Ruiz, Drew Millas
The catching situation remains the same, and with no big catchers hitting the market in 2025, Rizzo is going to stick with his $80 million dollar guy. The Carousel of Millas and Adams also seems likely to continue until one becomes a consistent backup.
First Base: Andres Chaparro, Juan Yepez
Subtractions: Joey Gallo, Joey Meneses
Chaparro and Yepez have been a great duo since being added to the Roster, and with both being on the younger side, there is no reason to change, unless Rizzo signs a big bat. But that doesn’t seem likely. Joey Meneses’ time with the organization also appears to be ending, as he is already 32, while Chaparro is 25 and Yepez is 26.
Second Base: Luis Garcia Jr, Darren Baker
Darren Baker will be the biggest surprise addition to the 2025 roster, as Baker will take on the same role that Nasim Nuñez did in 2024. Utilizing Baker’s speed will be important. Luis Garcia Jr. will again be the everyday 2nd baseman, as 2024 has truly seemed like a breakout season for Luis.
Third Base: Jose Tena, Ildemaro Vargas
Mike Rizzo is NOT signing Alex Bregman, so 3rd base will remain with Jose Tena until Brady House gets the Call. Ildemaro Vargas is also an important name that Rizzo will resign. Vargas has been a great pinch -itter throughout his career in DC.
Shortstop: CJ Abrams
Subtractions: Nasim Nunez
I believe that CJ Abrams is the first big extension of the new era, and that extension comes in this offseason. With CJ struggling, Rizzo might be able to get him for a little cheaper now, too. The Nasim Nuñez experience will be over, as I still believe the only reason he is still here is because of the Rule 5 draft.
Outfielders: Dylan Crews, James Wood, Jacob Young, Alex Call, Anthony Santander
Subtractions: Stone Garrett
I want Juan Soto just as much as the next guy, but it is not going to happen. However, in some way I believe that Rizzo’s big splash in 2025 comes from Anthony Santander. Santander is 3rd in the league this season with 41 homers, hitting .242 in 141 games. Santander would be a huge addition to this young lineup offers versatility as he can play 1st base as well. Alex Call is also someone I want to see back. Even on the bench, Call would be a good number to call