James Wood’s season followed a familiar pattern for the Washington Nationals

Sam Sallick argues that Washington Nationals outfielder James Wood produced another elite first half followed by a frustrating second-half slump in 2026. The 24-year-old hit 28 of his 30 home runs before the All-Star break, finishing with an .891 OPS and a 4.1 WAR.

Sallick points out that Wood battled an oblique injury, hit his final home run on July 26, and posted a .650 OPS in the second half. Sallick notes that while Wood's talent remains exceptional, overcoming late-season declines is crucial for his MVP potential.