The Nationals 2026 season officially begins on Thursday, when a team constructed by a revamped front office and coaching staff takes the field in the Windy City at 2:20 p.m. ET against the Cubs.
The Nats are coming off a 66-96 season in which they ranked third-to-last in the National League in run production and had the second-highest ERA as a pitching staff. They have not had a winning record since 2019.
President of baseball operations Paul Toboni is prioritizing development and long-term success as the Nats build a foundation for the future. While James Wood remains the centerpiece of the offense, players you saw in the big leagues last season are spending more time in the Minors this year, like Dylan Crews and Robert Hassell III.
On the pitching side, manager Blake Butera is looking for consistency from the starting rotation, prioritizing quality of innings versus quantity. Relievers will be tasked with pitching multiple innings.
“I learned how hungry and motivated these guys are,” said Butera. “They want to be great. They want to work. There was no pushback on anything we asked of them. They came in with eyes and ears wide open, and wanted to try new things, wanted to be challenged.”
What Needs to Go Right: Young core takes next step
Development is key at the Major League and Minor League level. For example, Wood, 23, will look to carry his offensive power throughout the entire season; Crews, 24, will look to re-establish consistent production beginning the season in Triple-A; and No. 3 prospect Harry Ford, 23, will get regular playing time in Rochester after appearing in just eight Major League games with Seattle. The Nationals are creating continuity among pro levels to ensure there is a consistent development plan for players, whether they are on the Major League roster or working toward being called up.
