After the signings of a couple familiar faces in Josh Bell and Trevor Williams became official earlier this week, the Washington Nationals found their 40-man roster completely full in early January. While the club is likely (hopefully) not done making more moves in free agency or in the trade market this offseason, if MLB talent is added, guys will have to be removed from the 40-man roster.
With that being said, should the Nationals add a couple bullpen arms like maybe a reunion with Kyle Finnegan perhaps, the club will need to clear at least one spot to make room for them on the 40-man. So who are some Nationals players that could find themselves on the chopping block?
Amos Willingham
I would consider Amos Willingham the most likely player to be removed from the 40-man roster if the Nationals make another move, and it appears as if time might be running out for the former Top 30 prospect in the organization. In 19 career appearances in the big leagues, he has pitched to an unimpressive 7.11 ERA with a 1.82 WHIP, and has struck out just 16 batters in 25.1 innings.
Seeing as the Nationals are likely to make another bullpen addition or two before the 2025 season begins, the 26-year-old Willingham is squarely on the roster bubble, and if he gets Designated for Assignment, he likely would pass through waivers without being claimed.
Joan Adon
The final name on this list is another guy who is running out of time to prove he can be a legitimate MLB caliber pitcher. Joan Adon, who made his MLB Debut in Game 162 back in 2021 against the Boston Red Sox and performed admirably, is trying to establish himself as a swing-man type pitcher at the big league level.
After coming up as a starter, his lack of consistent control forced him to move to the bullpen, but bouts of inconcistency have continued to plague him. He has a 6.66 career ERA with a 1.69 WHIP, and the numbers have not improved enough since transitioning to a reliever to warrant him sticking around for much longer. If the Nationals make a big move, I would guess that the 26-year-old is the next man to go after Willingham.
Riley Adams
The inclusion of Riley Adams on this list solely depends on how the Nationals feel about Drew Millas and his development. Out of all 3 of the names on the list, I would consider this one almost unlikely, as it makes sense for the Nationals to keep 3 catchers on the 40-man in case of injury.
However, the 28-year-old Adams took a major step back in 2024, even being demoted down to AAA Rochester at one point due to some mental lapses defensively and subpar performance at the plate. In parts of 4 seasons as the primary backup catcher for the Nats, he has a sub .700 OPS, and after posting an .807 OPS in 2023, he posted a .628 OPS in 2024. Spring Training will be big for Adams, and if Millas performs well it could mean the end for Adams' tenure in DC.
Which of these players do you think would be the first to go? As always, please let me know on X, @DCBerk.