5 questions for Nats entering offseason after promising 2026

The Washington Nationals are entering the 2026-27 offseason facing five major roster questions after finishing 77-85 under manager Blake Butera and president of baseball operations Paul Toboni. The club marked an 11-win improvement from the previous season, their highest win total since 2019. Front office leaders must now address payroll flexibility in free agency, CJ Abrams' trade status or defensive role, veteran clubhouse leadership, rotation depth, and bullpen stability.

Key issues include sorting out Abrams' future between shortstop and second base as prospect Seaver King approaches the majors. In pitching, Cade Cavalli secured an extension while rotation spots remain contested, and the front office seeks to reinforce a bullpen that set an MLB record for most blown saves in a single season.