Locked On Nationals - Daily Podcast On The Washington Nationals

Washington Nationals sign veteran pitcher Miles Mikolas, but will his steady presence actually shift the team's trajectory? Ryan Clary unpacks Mikolas’ expected impact and the questions forming around the rotation. With Cade Cavalli, Josiah Gray, and Brad Lord competing for spots, which young arms might get bumped, and can Mikolas help save Washington’s bullpen during a crucial rebuilding phase? Spring training heats up as Ryan Clary spotlights dark horse candidates Brad Lord, Brady House, and Nasim Nunez—players primed for breakout 2026 campaigns. The episode tackles Wood’s potential to represent Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, exploring how Jame...

Daylen Lile emerges as the Washington Nationals’ next breakout star—could he dominate Major League Baseball in 2026? Ryan Clary spotlights Lile’s impressive stats, including a .324 batting average, 10 triples, and elite percentile rankings in speed and exit velocity over the summer. The conversation assesses Lile’s defensive challenges and how the Nationals’ analytically driven player development team aims to unlock his full potential. Competition from Robert Hassell III adds intrigue to the outfield mix. The Nationals acquire Andre Granillo from the St. Louis Cardinals, bolstering bullpen depth with a high-spin slider.

00:00 "Daylen Lile: Nationals' Breakout Star"

04:15 "D...

Washington Nationals fans brace for a bumpy start as the pitching staff faces uncertainty. Can Cade Cavalli and Josiah Gray become reliable arms, or will the lack of elite arms plague the rotation all season? Ryan Clary breaks down the depth chart after the MacKenzie Gore trade, assessing the upside of newcomers like Foster Griffin and Brad Lord while questioning whether the Nats will chase veteran talent before Opening Day. Bullpen woes persist as Ryan Clary spotlights Clayton Beeter’s closing potential, the development of Cole Henry and Griff McGarry, and the uphill battle to recover from the National Le...

Washington Nationals shake up their pitching staff by claiming former Yankees and Athletics top prospect Ken Waldichuk off waivers. Could this high-upside lefty crack the Opening Day rotation and revive his MLB career in D.C.? Ryan Clary explores Waldichuk’s four-pitch mix, the current vulnerabilities in the Nationals’ rotation, and how injuries across the staff might open the door for Waldichuk to make 15+ starts in 2026. The episode also breaks down the controversial Mackenzie Gore trade, spotlighting the upside of new prospects like Gavin Fien and Alejandro Rosario. Is this the prospect haul that finally elevates the Nationals’ farm system...

Is it time to buy low on Dylan Crews? With his stock at its lowest, the Washington Nationals’ future could hinge on his breakout potential. Ryan Clary analyzes why Crews remains a core piece despite his struggles with breaking pitches and what his path to becoming an elite five-tool talent might look like. Will the Nationals’ development staff unlock his high ceiling and transform him into a star? Roster surprises continue as Luis García Jr. and Keibert Ruiz’s roles face uncertainty amidst prospect surges and blockbuster trades. Is García’s inconsistency signaling an imminent move, and can Ruiz f...

Washington Nationals face an outfield logjam as Opening Day approaches—will a trade shake up the roster? Ryan Clary breaks down the Nationals’ crowded outfield, spotlighting rising stars like James Wood, Dylan Crews, and Robert Hassell III. Should Jacob Young be dealt to bolster pitching or first base? Baseball America ranks the Nationals’ farm system 16th, but Ryan argues the talent pool deserves more credit, citing recent acquisitions and high-upside prospects. DJ Herz’s return from injury offers hope for a shaky starting rotation, while changes in team leadership signal renewed focus on player development. Plus, the shutdown of the Wash...

Washington Nationals face a pivotal offseason—will bold moves accelerate their rebuild, or is a tough year ahead? Ryan Clary examines the merits of targeting free agents Rhys Hoskins and Paul Goldschmidt to fill Washington’s first base void and inject much-needed veteran leadership. Max Scherzer’s emotional return is debated, but does nostalgia outweigh on-field realities for this Nats icon? Key topics include the Nationals’ outfield future with rising stars James Wood, Dylan Crews, and Daylen Lile, as well as infield uncertainties and a thin starting pitching staff. Are the 2026 Nationals destined for growing pains, or do secret weapons...

Washington Nationals prep for spring training with a heated battle at catcher—will Harry Ford seize the role from Keibert Ruiz and redefine the team’s future behind the plate? Ryan Clary assesses Ford’s athletic upside, Ruiz’s defensive struggles, and why prioritizing prospects like Ford could be pivotal for the Nationals’ rebuild. Ryan Clary spotlights rising stars including Seaver King, Caleb Lomavita, Andrew Pinckney, and Yo-Yo Morales as top non-roster invitees to watch at camp. The Nationals’ stagnant bullpen and potential targets like Tommy Kahnle and Jake Cousins are dissected, with questions about whether new additions could bolster one...

Washington Nationals face a pivotal decision as CJ Abrams lands squarely in the center of trade rumors. Should the Nats risk their All-Star shortstop and potential cornerstone, or lock him in for the future? Ryan Clary explores how Abrams’ youth, elite athleticism, and team control make him a unique asset—and why a blockbuster offer may be the only way to justify a trade. The episode also spotlights rising prospects Devin Fitz-Gerald and Alejandro Rosario, evaluating their potential impact on Washington’s future rebuild. Plus, Ryan Clary breaks down the Nationals’ broadcast shakeup, with Dan Kolko stepping in as the new...

Washington Nationals’ rebuild hits a turning point as MacKenzie Gore is traded for a promising prospect haul—does this signal a brighter future, or confirm past failures? Ryan Clary tackles the core question facing Nationals fans, spotlighting the moves that defined the organization’s attempt to reset. From leadership shakeups to the disappointing performance that triggered sweeping changes, the episode breaks down why the rebuild faltered long before Gore’s departure. Key discussions include the emergence of top prospects like Eli Willits, Travis Sykora, Harry Ford, and Jarlin Susana in MLB Pipeline’s latest rankings, and how the new regime’s p...

Washington Nationals shock MLB by trading left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers, signaling a bold new direction for the franchise’s rebuild. Can a five-prospect haul featuring 2025 first-rounder Gavin Fien accelerate Washington’s return to contention faster than expected? Ryan Clary breaks down the blockbuster trade, dissecting the talents of Gavin Fien, and the 4 other prospects in this deal. Discussion centers on Washington’s player development overhaul, the risks and rewards of parting with an All-Star arm, and whether Scott Boras clients fit the Nationals’ long-term plans. Key talking points include potential impact on the Nationals’ farm system rank...

Washington Nationals set their sights on a new era as top prospect Eli Willits becomes the centerpiece of their rebuilding hopes. Is Willits destined to be the next franchise cornerstone, or will lofty expectations prove too much for the number one overall pick? Ryan Clary examines the Nationals' revamped player development system and weighs the risks around ace lefty MacKenzie Gore’s future. The conversation explores trade scenarios, including fit with contenders like the Yankees, Brewers, and Giants, and questions whether holding onto Gore might cost Washington crucial value. Dive into analysis of the farm system’s depth, MLB draft...

Washington Nationals set their sights on a player development revolution as a new era begins. Can a revamped focus on analytics and culture under manager Blake Butera finally unlock the potential of top prospects like CJ Abrams, Brady House, and James Wood? Ryan Clary dissects why player development—not win-loss records—will define a successful 2026 season, spotlighting past struggles with Victor Robles and the need for consistency at both the major and minor league levels. Roster shake-ups make headlines as the Nationals DFA former top pitching prospect Andry Lara and claimed versatile utility player Mickey Gaspar. Ryan Clary explores how...

The Washington Nationals still have yet to address the 1B position in a meaningful way... Ryan Clary tells you why Paul Goldschmidt could be the best short term answer for 1B. Veteran leadership and big-game experience meet a young core as Ryan Clary weighs Goldschmidt’s value against alternatives like Rhys Hoskins, Carlos Santana, and Luis Arraez. 

00:00 Nationals' First Base Dilemma

03:56 Nationals Eyeing Paul Goldschmidt Option?

08:51 "Paul Goldschmidt to Nationals?"

12:40 "Nationals Considering Rhys Hoskins?"

15:27 Goldschmidt's Leadership vs. Hoskins

18:07 Luis Arraez: Nationals Fit Uncertain

22:38 "Nats Simulcast Ide...

LA Dodgers shake up MLB’s balance with record deals—can teams like the Washington Nationals ever catch up? Ryan Clary spotlights the Dodgers’ $240M signing of Kyle Tucker and explores the impact of massive TV revenues on free agency, competitive parity, and salary cap debates. The episode contrasts big market powerhouses with mid-market clubs, bringing the Nationals’ end of the long-standing MASN TV dilemma into focus and asking if fair revenue sharing could level the playing field. James Wood rockets to the 53rd spot on MLB Network’s Top 100, but is that enough recognition for his flair? Ryan Clary weig...

Washington Nationals prime Dylan Crews for a breakout 2026 campaign—is a star turn on the horizon? Ryan Clary spotlights Crews' five-tool upside, the impact of lineup protection with names like James Wood and CJ Abrams, and why injuries and mismanagement might have masked Crews' true potential last season. Can the Nationals unleash his power and all of his other tools? Ryan Clary analyzes the Nationals' investment in player development, from acquiring trajekt arc machines to launching prospect minicamps under Paul Toboni. The conversation shifts to trade rumors around MacKenzie Gore, exploring the Yankees’ recent deal for Ryan Weathers and why...

Washington Nationals’ quiet offseason sparks debate—are patient moves laying a foundation for 2026 success or signaling trouble ahead? Ryan Clary and Bobby Blanco break down the front office’s calculated approach, new leadership under Paul Toboni and the glaring need for bullpen and first-base upgrades. Will the Nationals finally splash on free agents, or are they content hunting for undervalued veteran relievers and trade chips as spring training looms? The spotlight turns to MacKenzie Gore and CJ Abrams—should Washington trade away its young core or double down on their development? Hear why Gore’s value may peak by the deadli...

Washington Nationals weigh a blockbuster decision as MacKenzie Gore remains on the roster amid swirling trade rumors. Could their ace anchor the rotation or headline a franchise-altering deal this offseason? Ryan Clary explores the value disparity between the Nationals’ internal assessment and league-wide interest, revealing which teams—the New York Mets, New York Yankees, and San Francisco Giants—have the prospect capital to tempt a trade. Joey Wiemer joins the Nationals, sparking questions about potential moves involving outfielder Jacob Young. 

00:00 Nationals Likely Keeping MacKenzie Gore?

03:42 MacKenzie Gore's Value Debate

13:10 Mets In The Mix For Gor...

Washington Nationals’ franchise direction hangs in the balance—was trading superstar Juan Soto the move that saved the team’s future? Ryan Clary spotlights how the Soto deal brought in key talents MacKenzie Gore, CJ Abrams, James Wood, and top prospect Jarlin Susana, transforming what could have been a roster crisis into a promising rebuild. Would Washington even crack 60 wins in a season? Amid swirling MacKenzie Gore trade rumors, Ryan Clary tackles the awkward reality of shopping the staff ace while balancing clubhouse chemistry. Hear critical insight on the Nationals' rebuild timeline, future management shake ups, and the looming uncert...

Washington Nationals set bold New Year’s resolutions amid major organizational shake-up. Can a revamped front office and fresh analytic-driven approach finally ignite prospect development and deliver a cleaner brand of baseball? Ryan Clary spotlights key issues for the Nationals in 2026, including improving defensive fundamentals, cutting baserunning mistakes, and determining the future of star shortstop CJ Abrams—is an extension imminent or could a blockbuster trade be on the horizon? The episode examines roster projections, the need for more than 70 wins, and raises questions about free agency clarity and ownership’s financial commitment. Plus, the uncertain fate of Nationals TV broa...

Ryan Clary investigates the highs and lows of Nationals baseball, including MacKenzie Gore's opening day dominance and an 11-game losing skid that led to the firing of longtime manager Davey Martinez and president Mike Rizzo. Key topics cover player development struggles, bullpen woes, and the arrival of Blake Butera and Paul Toboni. Plus: reflections on Anthony Rendon’s legacy in D.C. and bold predictions for 2026. Will Washington Nationals fans finally see the light at the end of the tunnel?

00:00 "2025: Nationals' Biggest Disappointment"

05:53 Nationals' Future: Changes Ahead

07:44 "Team Rebuild and Leadership Shift"

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Ryan Clary takes aim at the team’s reluctance to make significant signings, noting every MLB team has handed out a $20 million contract  since Washington’s last big spend. He questions whether ownership is playing it smart or risking a “Pirates 2.0” scenario, as teams like the Marlins and Orioles outpace the Nats in free agency. Prospect excitement burns bright with Ryan Clary’s spotlight on Alex Clemmey, a power lefty with breakout potential for 2026. The discussion examines recent roster strategies, struggles with making trades—especially the uncertain status of MacKenzie Gore—and the impact of a new, analytics-focused regime in D.C. Can the...

Washington Nationals shake up their prospect rankings as Ryan Clary reveals his bold new top 10. The conversation spotlights Washington's focus on athletic, high-ceiling prospects, draft strategy evolution, and pressing roster decisions.

00:00 "Nationals’ Updated Top 10 Prospects"

06:39 "Jarlin Susana: Nationals' Rising Star"

09:30 Harry Ford's Uneven Prospect Journey

14:07 Perales' Potential as Nationals Starter

16:43 "Walk Rate Issues For Clemmey"

19:27 "Seaver King: Prospect to Watch"

22:20 "Promising Talent: Coy James"

26:15 "Nationals' $20M Contract Drought" 

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Washington Nationals shift gears for an analytics-driven future under GM Ani Kilambi and player development expert Paul Toboni. Can smart data and revamped systems position the Nats among MLB’s best? Ryan Clary explores bold front office moves, renewed confidence in Washington’s direction, and what setting the analytical standard means for fans eager for a return to October baseball. Key discussions spotlight why trading MacKenzie Gore could accelerate the Nationals’ rebuild, maximizing value before contract concerns and a potential 2027 lockout. Meanwhile, should Washington hold onto rising star CJ Abrams, whose power-speed combination could anchor the lineup for years? Ryan C...

Washington Nationals chart a bold new course by naming Ani Kilambi—Philadelphia Phillies’ assistant GM and R&D mastermind—as their new general manager. Ryan Clary spotlights Kilambi’s rapid rise from Tampa Bay Rays intern to Philly’s analytics innovator, emphasizing his hands-on influence with pitchers like Jose Alvarado and Jeff Hoffman.

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Washington Nationals shake up their rotation, signing Foster Griffin from Japan. Is Griffin a diamond in the rough, or a risky wildcard? Ryan Clary examines Griffin’s stats, his journey from first-round MLB disappointment to NPB success, and questions whether this underwhelming addition signals bigger plans on the horizon—like the anticipated trade of MacKenzie Gore. Hot topics include the Nationals’ crowded starting pitching room, possible trades involving Mitchell Parker or Trevor Williams, and the front office’s aggressive pursuit in the Japanese and Korean markets. Ryan Clary explores competition within spring training, the evolving influence of Paul Toboni, and the...

Washington Nationals shake up their pitching future with a bold swap: top prospect Jake Bennett heads to the Boston Red Sox, while flame-throwing right-hander Luis Perales joins DC’s rotation mix. Is this high-upside gamble the spark the Nationals need for a rebuild under Paul Toboni’s new data-driven regime? Ryan Clary breaks down the implications of the Nationals’ evolving player development approach, the contrast with the Mike Rizzo era, and how analytics and player options now shape roster moves. Key topics include Harry Ford’s potential at catcher, Perales’ electric arsenal post-Tommy John surgery, and a rough draft of the Nati...

Washington Nationals shake up the offseason by holding onto Mackenzie Gore for now and staying quiet on starting pitching signings—could an evaluation year be ahead? Ryan Clary unpacks trade rumors swirling around Gore, the intrigue of a possible deal with the New York Mets, and what Jonah Tong or Jett Williams could bring to Washington. The conversation spotlights why Lucas Giolito might be the veteran leadership this young Nationals roster desperately needs and examines missed opportunities with pitchers like Dustin May. Key storylines include the potential reshuffling of Luis Garcia Jr. to first base, the organization’s focus on p...

The Washington Nationals tee up a spring training showdown between Harry Ford and Keibert Ruiz for the starting catcher spot. Is Ford set to become a fan favorite and opening day starter, or will Ruiz’s experience win out? Insight into player development, prospect buzz, and the Nationals’ shifting clubhouse culture fueled by Blake Butera & Paul Toboni.

Ryan Clary probes the growing trade market for MacKenzie Gore, analyzes C.J. Abrams’ status amid swirling rumors, and questions the long-term outlook for the NL East as the Phillies and Mets make puzzling moves. Key topics include the Nationals’ approach...

Washington Nationals hesitate as MacKenzie Gore trade rumors intensify—will an NL East rival land the star southpaw? Ryan Clary examines the high-stakes negotiations, weighing why trading Gore to the Mets or Phillies could boost the Nationals’ rebuild—if the in-division “tax” is right. Clary also assesses C.J. Abrams’ future, exploring what could keep the promising shortstop in D.C. as the franchise plots its next steps. Key storylines include the Nationals’ selection of Griff McGarry in the Rule 5 Draft and how his elite strikeout ability could shape Washington’s rotation or bullpen. With half the league showing interest in Gore...

Washington Nationals could shake up their rebuild by trading MacKenzie Gore, with 2027 emerging as a potential year for contention. Could a blockbuster deal with the Baltimore Orioles, featuring top prospects like Coby Mayo, set the stage for a new era in D.C.? Rising stars James Wood, Dylan Crews, and Daylen Lile fuel hopes for an elite outfield, while the bullpen remains the biggest question mark heading into next season. Ryan Clary covers the latest MLB trade rumors, the ongoing impact of the draft lottery on the Nationals’ future, and key Rule 5 draft targets. 

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Washington Nationals shake up MLB trade talk as rumors swirl around C.J. Abrams and MacKenzie Gore at the Winter Meetings. Will Washington risk trading their dynamic All-Star shortstop or frontline lefty starter, and what would it mean for the future of the franchise? Ryan Clary explores the soaring value of Abrams in a thin shortstop market and breaks down why Gore’s nasty stuff is attracting interest from more than half the league. Key insights include possible blockbuster trade returns, the impact of player control years, and the evolving Juan Soto trade tree’s influence on the Nationals’ rebuil...

Washington Nationals pull off a blockbuster, landing top catching prospect Harry Ford from the Seattle Mariners in exchange for bullpen ace Jose Ferrer. Could Ford's rare combination of power and speed make him an Opening Day starter and signal a new era behind the plate? Host Ryan Clary dissects the analytics behind Ford's booming Triple-A season and rising prospect status, sparking intrigue around his offensive upside and defensive skill set. With Ferrer's departure, Washington’s already-struggling bullpen reaches historic lows—will new POBO Paul Toboni address the team’s glaring relief pitching void at Winter Meetings? Key discussion includes the un...

MASSIVE news with the Washington Nationals as they have traded for a consensus top prospect in baseball, catcher Harry Ford from the Seattle Mariners. Ryan Clary reacts to this news as the Nats sent Jose A. Ferrer to the Mariners in exchange for a top 50 prospect in baseball. 

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Washington Nationals set sights on transformation at the MLB Winter Meetings—will bold signings and blockbuster trades spark a resurgence? Ryan O'Hearn and Dustin May headline the free agent wish list, with multi-year deals and leadership potential driving Ryan Clary's predictions. Could these strategic moves finally elevate the Nationals’ offensive power and shore up a shaky rotation? Ryan Clary breaks down the latest on MacKenzie Gore and CJ Abrams, as trade rumors swirl and insider odds point to an imminent deal for Gore. Key topics include the Nationals’ aggressive approach to veteran acquisitions, the high-stakes trade environment, and the importa...

Washington Nationals face a pivotal offseason as speculation swirls around a potential MacKenzie Gore trade. With his value at its peak, could moving Gore before the season reshape the team’s rebuild and bring in essential young talent? Ryan Clary examines whether delaying a deal risks diminishing returns, invokes the comparison to the Juan Soto trade, and explores the real impact of lingering trade rumors on the clubhouse. Key discussion points include Nationals’ strategy at the upcoming MLB Winter Meetings, the possibility of a C.J. Abrams trade, and the front office’s approach to acquiring major and minor league...

Washington Nationals fans brace for major shakeup as trade buzz swirls around C.J. Abrams and MacKenzie Gore. Could the front office risk it all by dealing away key young talent? Ryan Clary breaks down the latest MLB rumors, analyzing why a trade involving shortstop C.J. Abrams over pitcher MacKenzie Gore could alter the Nationals’ rebuild timeline. The discussion highlights potential landing spots—including the Pittsburgh Pirates, San Francisco Giants, Cleveland Guardians, and Kansas City Royals—for Abrams, and explores what top prospects or MLB-ready arms would justify such a blockbuster move. Key insight focuses on Abrams’ unique power-spe...

Washington Nationals fans shouldn’t fear the youth movement—could this dynamic new coaching staff finally spark the rebuild? Ryan Clary breaks down why the Nationals’ shift toward younger, analytics-driven coaches like Blake Butera and Simon Matthews represents a bold step away from old-school thinking and puts development at the forefront. The conversation explores the value of energy and innovation in the dugout, compares last year’s staff with the incoming group, and explains how these hires might finally unlock the roster’s young talent. Hot topics include Luis García Jr.’s future in trade rumors, Keibert Ruiz’s contract and...

Washington Nationals fans have a new reason to believe—Daylen Lile’s breakout rookie year signals a bright future in D.C. Can Lile surpass expectations and cement his place as a true franchise cornerstone alongside James Wood and Dylan Crews? Ryan Clary spotlights Lile’s elite hitting metrics, second-half surge, and impressive adjustments to breaking pitches, arguing his success is no fluke and that further improvements, especially in plate discipline, could elevate him to stardom. The conversation expands to fact-or-fiction prompts, covering whether the Nationals' rebuild is ahead of schedule, James Wood’s MVP potential, and Paul Toboni’s clear vi...

Washington Nationals eye bold moves as Mackenzie Gore trade rumors swirl—could Seattle Mariners land the All-Star lefty and shake up the AL West? Ryan Clary breaks down potential packages centered on top prospects like Kade Anderson, Harry Ford, and Johnny Farmelo, while weighing alternate suitors including the Chicago Cubs and Detroit Tigers. Is a blockbuster deal on the horizon to supercharge the Nationals' rebuild? Anthony Rendon’s impending retirement headlines heartfelt reflections on his legacy in D.C., from clutch playoff heroics to unforgettable moments in the 2019 World Series. Key topics include Seattle’s strategic urgency, top prospects blocke...