The Talk Nats Podcast recently announced the return of Kyle Finnegan as the closer for the Washington Nationals in 2025 after he signed a one-year, $6 million contract. This decision comes after a surprising non-tender earlier in the offseason, highlighting the Nationals’ need for a proven closer. Finnegan’s performance last season showcased his capability, as he recorded a 1.98 ERA with 23 saves in the first half, ultimately finishing with a 3.68 ERA and 38 saves in 43 opportunities. His durability and consistency have made him a vital asset to the bullpen, which should now benefit from his leadership as the longest-tenured player on the roster.

Additionally, the podcast shifted focus to 20-year-old pitching prospect Travis Sykora, who faced challenges due to hip issues but showed resilience throughout the past season. Following successful hip surgery, Sykora is on track for a return to minor league games by mid-May, showcasing impressive stats with a 2.33 ERA and an average of 13.7 strikeouts per nine innings. He remains optimistic about regaining his fastball velocity, potentially reaching speeds of 100 mph again. Sykora's journey reflects his determination to overcome obstacles while adapting his pitching mechanics for sustained success.

The Talk Nats Podcast recently discussed the introduction of the Automated Balls and Strikes (ABS) challenge system as the Nationals prepare for their third Grapefruit League game. This innovative "robot ump" system enhances pitch call accuracy using camera angles and measurements specific to each batter, allowing players to challenge calls by simply tapping their heads. Each team has two incorrect challenges per game, making strategic use of these challenges essential. Catchers like Drew Millas have a higher success rate in challenging calls, reinforcing the importance of their role in the game. The data collected during spring training will be crucial in evaluating the system's potential implementation in regular MLB games as soon as 2026. The podcast also highlighted the impressive development of Dylan Crews, who is establishing himself as a major league player. His performance in spring training, including a key RBI single in the exhibition opener against the Astros, showcases his growth and situational awareness. Manager Davey Martinez praised Crews for his composure at the plate, emphasizing the importance of situational hitting. Additionally, Nathaniel Lowe’s acquisition is viewed as a pivotal move for the Nationals, providing much-needed leadership and performance at first base as the team rebuilds. Lowe's offensive stats indicate he could significantly elevate the team's competitiveness, making him a player to watch this season.

In the latest episode of the Talk Nats Podcast, the spotlight is on promising performances from the Nationals' spring training. Robert Hassell III shone with a crucial three-run double that helped secure a 6-3 victory over the Astros. After struggling with injuries last season, he’s looking to stay healthy and strengthen his performance in the minors as competition heats up with other top prospects like James Wood and Dylan Crews. Manager Davey Martinez recognized Hassell’s potential impact on the team's success moving forward. Additionally, pitcher Jake Irvin impressed with a quick inning, while Jarlin Susana showcased his striking speed despite a challenging outing.

The podcast also highlighted CJ Abrams' new role as the leadoff hitter for the upcoming season, which aims to solidify the batting order. Abrams has demonstrated consistent performance over the past year, though he faced a slump that briefly reset his position. Dylan Crews, another top prospect, is also a competitive factor for the lineup, but Martinez expressed confidence in Abrams leading off. As the spring season approaches, there's noticeable excitement around Abrams’ revamped conditioning and the overall potential of the Nationals' roster.

The Talk Nats Podcast discussed the potential starting rotation for the Washington Nationals in 2025, highlighting several key pitchers. MacKenzie Gore is positioned as the ace, showcasing impressive strikeout numbers and promising talent at just 25 years old. Jake Irvin, slated as the number two starter, demonstrated a solid 4.41 ERA last season with a ground ball-inducing sinker. Michael Soroka brings veteran experience, while DJ Herz is rising with a strong debut season. Trevor Williams is in contention for the fifth spot, along with promising arms like Mitchell Parker and Cade Cavalli, both of whom have intriguing potential despite past injuries. In related news, Lucas Sims has joined the bullpen on a one-year contract, providing the team with a veteran presence as they aim to improve. The Nationals have been proactive in managing their roster, placing Mason Thompson on the injured list to make room for Sims. Meanwhile, owner Mark Lerner reaffirmed the family's commitment to the team, emphasizing a focus on stability and competitive prospects after overcoming past challenges. With the 20th anniversary of MLB in D.C. approaching, Lerner expressed optimism for the team's direction moving forward.

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The Washington Nationals have made a significant roster addition by signing former All-Star shortstop Paul DeJong to a one-year, $1 million contract. DeJong, known for his power-hitting abilities, will transition to third base, a position that has faced consistency challenges since Anthony Rendon's departure. At 31, DeJong's extensive experience is expected to bolster the Nationals' power-hitting capabilities after they finished last in the National League with only 135 home runs last season. To accommodate DeJong on the 40-man roster, the team placed right-hander Josiah Gray on the 60-day injured list due to his recovery from Tommy John surgery. With DeJong joining the team, fans are optimistic about the upcoming season, especially with his right-handed bat providing valuable options against left-handed pitchers. Manager Davey Martinez and General Manager Mike Rizzo are focused on building a balanced roster while nurturing promising prospects. DeJong's prior experience at third base and the addition of veterans like Amed Rosario, alongside young players such as José Tena and Trey Lipscomb, will create a competitive environment as the team prepares for spring training and a potential turnaround season.

The Nationals have made a historic move by signing Japanese left-hander Shinnosuke Ogasawara to a two-year contract worth $3.5 million, marking the first time the team has signed a player directly from Asia. Ogasawara, a former All-Star with a 3.12 ERA in 2023, is expected to join the rotation, though some scouts suggest he may be more effective as a reliever. In addition, the team has re-signed Josh Bell to a one-year deal for $6 million, with plans for him to serve primarily as a designated hitter after his previous successful stints in Washington. This shift in signing strategy reflects general manager Mike Rizzo's evolving approach, moving beyond a past focus on Latin American talent.

1. The Washington Nationals have made notable offseason moves, most recently trading for first baseman Nathaniel Lowe from the Texas Rangers, while sending left-handed reliever Robert Garcia to Texas. This trade addresses the Nationals' need for a reliable first baseman, as Lowe boasts impressive stats, including a .272 batting average and a stellar performance that earned him a Silver Slugger and a Gold Glove in recent years. Additionally, the team signed pitcher Michael Soroka to a one-year, $9 million deal, hoping he can regain his rookie form despite not being the sought-after hitter or closer they need. Looking ahead to the season, Manager Davey Martinez is shaping a pitching rotation that includes Soroka, MacKenzie Gore, and Jake Irvin, while also considering the potential addition of another veteran starter.

Mitchell Parker and DJ Herz are two promising young pitchers for the Nationals as they head into the 2025 season. Parker, 25, had a noteworthy rookie year in 2024, finishing with a 7-10 record and a 4.29 ERA over 29 starts, while showcasing resilience despite some inconsistency down the stretch. He struck out 133 batters and impressed early on, filling in for an injured teammate. Meanwhile, 24-year-old DJ Herz also displayed potential in his rookie season with a record of 4-9 and a 4.16 ERA across 19 games. Herz overcame early command issues to end strong with a 2.76 ERA over his last 10 starts, drawing comparisons to Stephen Strasburg due to standout performances. Both pitchers will be key to the Nationals' future, with their development critical to the team's success.