Locked On Nationals - Daily Podcast On The Washington Nationals

Washington Nationals shake up their pitching staff as Luis Perales is called up for a surprising bullpen role. Will his electric fastball and high ceiling secure him a spot in the rotation, or is his future as a dominant reliever? Ryan Clary discusses Perales' debut, discussing his recovery from Tommy John surgery, his impressive AAA stats, and what this move signals for the Nationals’ long-term pitching plans. Seaver King’s MLB readiness takes center stage as Ryan Clary questions the Nationals’ hesitancy to promote their top prospect amidst team struggles. Key discussion points include 40-man roster complications, the impact of the...

Washington Nationals’ playoff dreams take a turn as Cade Cavalli cements his status as the team’s ace with nine straight quality starts, sparking hope for 2027 contention. CJ Abrams makes franchise history, joining Alfonso Soriano as the only Nationals to post a 25-25 season. Can this new generation propel Washington out of their recent funk and toward the top of the NL East? The conversation focused on the Nationals’ internal development, the emergence of top prospects, and the impact of key trades, including the deadline move of Foster Griffin. Several points were raised, including James Wood’s injury status, the cauti...

Washington Nationals’ top prospects surge as a new wave of young talent sparks hope for the future. Has 18-year-old Eli Willits emerged as the next face of the franchise, and can recently acquired Jack Cebert stabilize the rotation for years to come?

Ryan Clary breaks down his Nationals’ updated top 10 prospects list, spotlighting breakout stars like Ronny Cruz, power-hitting Devin Fitz-Gerald, and pitching phenoms Travis Sykora and Jarlin Susana. The discussion explores player development, surprising sleeper pick Marconi German, and which prospects could make an immediate MLB impact. Key topics include Seaver King’s versatility, Chris Hacopian’s offens...

Washington Nationals ride Cade Cavalli's dominant pitching to snap a losing streak. Is Cavalli ready to anchor this rotation, or do the Nats still need an ace to fuel a playoff push? Locked On Nationals highlights Cavalli's impressive 11-strikeout shutout, examines the analytics behind his rise, and raises concerns about Abrams’ transition from shortstop amid mixed feelings regarding the move. The conversation explores Paul Toboni’s revealing comments, the team's cautious handling of young arms after arm injuries, and the controversial decision to option Yovanny Cruz despite his electric stuff. With roster uncertainty and postseason hopes fading, can the Natio...

Washington Nationals set the stage for a blockbuster offseason as CJ Abrams’ move to second base fuels trade speculation. Will the All-Star shortstop's future remain in D.C., or are the Nationals preparing to cash in on his superstar potential? Ryan Clary breaks down the signals, from missed extension opportunities to candid remarks by Abrams’ agent, and compares a potential trade to the Juan Soto deal that reshaped the franchise. Attention shifts to the Nationals’ pitching staff with calls to promote top prospect Luis Perales and updates on Josiah Gray’s promising injury rehab. Can these moves spark a slumping...

Washington Nationals spark controversy by moving CJ Abrams off shortstop during a career-best season. Could this bold decision fractured the relationship between player and club? Ryan Clary breaks down the surprising timing of the position change, questions if Abrams’ future in Washington is in limbo, and explores how the move might impact his trade or extension value. Key topics include the absence of a Seaver King call-up despite his hot streak in AAA, Nasim Nunez’s defensive role, and the Nationals’ evolving infield makeup. Plus, is a revenge start brewing as MacKenzie Gore lines up against his old team? 

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Washington Nationals shake up their infield as CJ Abrams moves from shortstop to second base—right decision, wrong timing? Trade rumors swirl this offseason, and questions mount about Abrams’ long-term fit and defensive future. Nasim Nunez’s elite glove locks down shortstop, while host Ryan Clary explores whether this shift signals a new era or a prelude to further moves. Is Abrams’ value rising as a second baseman, and could Seaver King be the next Nationals call-up? August woes intensify as the Nationals suffer a sweep by the New York Mets, risking their postseason hopes. Highlights include Abi Ortiz’s home run...

Washington Nationals pitcher Cade Cavalli dazzles with seven no-hit innings against the Chicago Cubs—could he be the rotation anchor Washington has been searching for? Ryan Clary breaks down Cavalli’s dominant stretch, analyzes his long-term potential in the Nationals’ rotation, and addresses whether Washington still needs to chase an ace as they eye the future. Key stats, recent milestones, and Cade’s resurgence after Tommy John surgery set the stage for an electrifying discussion. Rising prospect Ronny Cruz also earns the spotlight as the Nationals’ farm system surges to a top-10 ranking. Ryan Clary explores Cruz’s recent hot streak fo...

Washington Nationals' historic offense sparks debate—missed opportunity or a new era in D.C.? Ryan Clary weighs the Nationals’ rare feat of leading MLB in runs, home runs, and stolen bases, stacking them alongside legendary Yankees and Dodgers teams. Fans and pundits question whether ownership squandered a golden chance by not making bold moves at the trade deadline, while the team's lack of pitching depth and defense remains a sticking point. Key storylines include Jackson Kent’s MLB debut, Alex Bregman’s relentless power against the Nats, and the ongoing struggles of Nasim Nunez at the plate. Ryan Clary hig...

Washington Nationals face pivotal roster decisions as top prospect Seaver King pushes for a big-league call-up. Could King’s offensive firepower at second base elevate the Nats’ playoff hopes, or should elite defender Nasim Nunez hold onto his spot? The conversation focused on Seaver King’s standout minor league stats, defensive versatility, and how a looming MLB lockout might affect his timeline. A key theme that emerged was the Nationals’ dynamic offense, with players like Jacob Young and Dylan Crews notching double-digit home runs, and the team weighing recent pitching performances from Jake Irvin. The discussion explored electric prospect Jarlin Su...

Washington Nationals welcome top prospect Jackson Kent for his highly anticipated MLB debut, signaling a new era for the rotation. Can Kent’s elite five-pitch mix and recent dominance at Double-A and Triple-A give the Nats’ pitching staff the boost they need in the playoff race? Ryan Clary breaks down Kent’s meteoric rise, the DFA of Zack Littell, and why this move is more than a short-term fix. The show spotlights Abi Ortiz’s power surge at first base, the strategic impact of Andres Chaparro’s breakout, and the bullpen’s resurgence with newcomers like Will Dion and Yovanny Cruz...

Washington Nationals refuse to quit, surging back into Wild Card contention after sweeping the Cincinnati Reds. Can newcomers like Will Dion and Yovanny Cruz transform this bullpen into a playoff-caliber force? Ryan Clary spotlights AbI Ortiz and Andres Chaparro’s power platoon at first base, Daylen Lile’s Reds-crushing stretch, and the team’s relentless drive despite tough odds. Big questions loom as top prospects Luis Perales and Jackson Kent eye rotation spots—will their arrival revamp the Nationals’ pitching staff and fuel a late-season push?

00:00 Evaluating Will Dion's Role

06:21 Nationals' first base tandem analysis

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Washington Nationals face tough decisions on CJ Abrams’ future—extend their rising star or cash in while value is high? Could a potential trade reshape D.C.’s long-term plans? Ryan Clary spotlights the Nationals’ cautious approach to building a championship foundation amid ownership’s reluctance to spend. He dissects inside reports of CJ Abrams being shopped, ownership’s spending strategy, and parallels to the Tampa Bay Rays and Kansas City Royals. Key updates include promising rehab progress from DJ Herz and concerning news for recent acquisition Connelly Early. The analysis covers player development moves, the urgency of forming a sustainable...

The Washington Nationals acquired a ton of pitching at the deadline to set themselves up to contend in 2027. Ryan Clary gets into why he believes this group did a good job at the deadline addressing one of their biggest needs as they try to contend in 2027. Paul Toboni was on yesterday and Ryan played one of his clips courtesy of 106.7 The Fan as it's time to have an ownership conversation. Will the Nats ever be top spenders? Nats made another roster move as Zack Littell has been DFA'd. 

 0:00 Nats could contend in 2027

13:30 Nats...

Washington Nationals face uphill battle after trading key bats and ace Foster Griffin at the deadline. Can CJ Abrams, James Wood, and rising players like Brady House and Abi Ortiz fill the power void and keep their offense among MLB’s best? Ryan Clary analyzes the Nationals’ bold roster overhaul, the challenge of replacing Griffin’s ace-level production, and the uncertain playoff outlook as the team relies on untested arms like Travis Sykora and Jarlin Susana in the future. The episode explores Luis Garcia Jr.’s impact, injury updates for James Wood, and Andrew Pinckney’s major league call-up. Will Washin...

WashingtonNationals overhaul bullpen with bold trade deadline blitz. Can this revamped relief corps finally close out games and provide hope for the future? Ryan Clary spotlights the Nationals’ aggressive moves—dealing Luis Garcia Jr., Foster Griffin, and Christian Franklin for a haul of young arms, including Connelly Early, Jack Cebert, Ben Grable, and Josh Hartle. Discussion centers on Washington’s shift toward “quantity over quality” prospects, the philosophy behind adding bullpen depth, and how recent blown saves highlight the urgency. With Andrew Pinckney poised to rise as a top outfield prospect, Clary questions if this new pipeline can energize the roster...

Washington Nationals trade Foster Griffin to Cleveland Guardians, reshaping their bullpen with a wave of promising pitching prospects. Is this the turning point for the Nationals’ struggling relief corps? The conversation focused on the Nationals’ bold move, sending Foster Griffin—an unexpected Cy Young contender—to Cleveland for lefty Josh Hartle, flamethrower Kendeglys Virguez, Will Dion and OF Nick Mitchell. Several points were raised, including the value of acquiring multiple arms close to MLB-ready status, the state of the Nats’ bullpen, and the front office’s strategic pivot after a tough losing streak. The discussion explored additional moves, like the trade of...

Washington Nationals shake up the roster, trading Luis Garcia Jr. to the New York Yankees for a promising package of young arms. Is Washington’s bullpen ready for a youth-driven resurgence? Ryan Clary assesses the strategic value of the Garcia trade, spotlighting Yovanny Cruz’s electric stuff, Ben Grable’s closer potential, and Jack Cebert’s upside as a back-end starter. The episode explores how Foster Griffin’s expiring contract positions him as a top deadline trade chip, weighing possible returns from the Milwaukee Brewers and Philadelphia Phillies—including prospects Luke Adams and more. Key questions include whether the Nationals’ f...

Washington Nationals shake up their future by trading red-hot Luis Garcia Jr. to the New York Yankees for four pitching prospects. Is this bold move the key to revitalizing the Nationals’ rotation and bullpen, or will losing a top bat derail their playoff hopes? Ryan Clary breaks down why selling high on Garcia Jr. addresses critical roster needs, spotlighting key additions like Yovanny Cruz—a flamethrower poised to make an instant impact—and top prospect Jack Cebert, who could soon anchor the starting rotation. Will Washington’s aggressive strategy pay off, or is more turbulence on the horizon for the Nats...

Washington Nationals face pivotal trade deadline decisions as Foster Griffin emerges as a top asset. Is this the last start we'll see from the left-handed pitcher in D.C.? Ryan Clary breaks down why selling high on Griffin could shape the Nationals’ rebuild, questioning whether ownership will invest to keep him or risk losing him for nothing. Insights focus on Griffin’s standout season stats, contract situation, and the potential fallout if Washington stands pat. Luis Garcia Jr.’s breakout performance sparks debate over his future with the Nationals. Should the team trade the lefty first baseman while his value p...

Washington Nationals eye a bold buy-and-sell strategy at the MLB Trade Deadline—can they upgrade for a postseason push without sacrificing the future? Ryan Clary breaks down Paul Toboni's candid interview, where the Nationals' President of Baseball Operations reveals plans to simultaneously pursue upgrades and build for tomorrow. Hot topics include Foster Griffin’s status as a top trade chip, Luis Garcia Jr.’s breakout season and trade value, and the front office’s approach to retooling around stars like CJ Abrams. Key discussions spotlight the Nationals’ MLB-leading offense, potential bullpen targets like Jeff Hoffman and Tyler Rogers, and the tough d...

Washington Nationals face a pivotal turning point as Curtis Mead’s out as their consistent right-handed power bat—can Brady House step up and fill the void? Ryan Clary explores how the arrival of pitching talent Connelly Early reshape the Nationals’ lineup and postseason hopes, just as the team inches closer to wildcard contention. Key topics include Brady House’s development, his potential new role at first base, and the tactical implications for the Nationals’ offense heading into the trade deadline. Clary also breaks down Dylan Crews’ resurgent power surge, the Nationals’ thrilling 8–6 win over the Toronto Blue Jays, and what these ch...

Washington Nationals fans are buzzing as Connelly Early joins the rotation, but is he truly the future ace or more of a dependable middle-of-the-rotation arm? Ryan Clary unpacks Early’s arsenal, highlighting his underused but dominant sweeper and urging realistic expectations compared to stars like Max Scherzer. The Nationals’ roster strategy intensifies with Brady House taking reps at first base—does this hint at a Luis Garcia Jr. trade, especially with Garcia experiencing a career offensive year as the deadline approaches? Clary breaks down how these moves could reshape Washington’s infield and pitching staff while analyzing trade market scenarios...

Washington Nationals shake up their rotation, landing lefty Connelly Early in a blockbuster trade with the Boston Red Sox while sending Curtis Mead north. Can Early become the steady force Washington needs for a playoff push, or will the loss of Mead’s power prove costly? Ryan Clary spotlights Early’s six-pitch arsenal, years of team control, and why this move could anchor the Nats’ starting staff for seasons. Key storylines include Foster Griffin’s likely departure after contract talks stall, with Andrew Painter emerging as a bold potential return from the Phillies. Ryan Clary breaks down CJ Abrams’ record-brea...

Washington Nationals eye Emerson Hancock trade as playoff push intensifies—will shaking up the roster change their fate? Ryan Clary spotlights trade rumors around Mariners pitcher Emerson Hancock, debating whether right-handed bats like Brady House or Dylan Crews should be on the move to strengthen Washington’s rotation. The episode examines statistical profiles, contract situations, and organizational trust in top prospects, raising questions about the Nationals’ long-term vision. With a critical series against the Arizona Diamondbacks on deck, Ryan Clary breaks down postseason implications, pitching matchups, and the team’s struggles at home. Updates on Yohandy Morales’ injury, Luis Perales’ AAA...

Washington Nationals eye major shakeup as Foster Griffin’s trade appears “inevitable.” Will moving their ace pitcher derail a surprise playoff push? Ryan Clary breaks down trade deadline rumors swirling around Foster Griffin and the rising Nationals, spotlighting how executives view his value and the dilemma of extending versus trading him. Key discussion points include strong series wins over the Rockies, Blake Butera’s influence on a young roster learning to compete, and whether Washington could become both buyers and sellers. Get insights on CJ Abrams and Luis Garcia Jr. as potential trade pieces, bullpen needs, and how the Nats migh...

Washington Nationals’ playoff hopes waver after CJ Abrams’ power surge isn’t enough in a wild 8-7 loss to the Colorado Rockies. Is the bullpen unraveling at the wrong time, or can reinforcements like Jake Irvin and Eddie Yean steady the ship? Ryan Clary spotlights Abrams’ historic home run pace, questions looming over Miles Mikolas and Andrew Alvarez in the rotation, and the impact of upcoming roster moves as the trade deadline nears. The NL East landscape comes into focus with the Phillies’ and Braves’ windows narrowing, while Miami and New York face their own struggles. Key topics include bullpen manag...

Washington Nationals bullpen silences Colorado Rockies after early drama and power surge from Andres Chaparro. Ryan Clary breaks down the Nationals’ 7-3 victory, highlighting Chaparro’s three-run blast, Jacob Young’s long-awaited homer, and Tom Cosgrove’s standout bullpen outing. The episode explores the near-benches-clearing incident sparked by Kyle Freeland, the team’s chippy mentality, and Foster Griffin’s future—should Washington trade or extend their hottest arm? With crucial decisions looming at the trade deadline and a pivotal series against the Rockies, Ryan Clary examines offensive trends, pitching matchups, and the Nationals' wild card prospects.

00:00 Nats Get A Big Win<...

Washington Nationals weigh blockbuster Luis Garcia Jr. trade as postseason push intensifies. Is this the moment to sell high and gamble on pitching depth for a shot at October? Ryan Clary breaks down the Nationals’ potential trade scenarios, the emergence of CJ Abrams and James Wood as offensive cornerstones, and the implications of a looming MLB lockout on front office decisions. Other hot topics include Daylen Lile's possible breakout, prospects Yohandy Morales and Luke Williams entering the spotlight, and pitching shake ups with Zack Littell's struggles and the bullpen’s inconsistency. The episode previews the crucial Nats-Rockies series, spotlighting key m...

Washington Nationals eye a Wild Card push as James Wood and CJ Abrams ignite the offense. Will Blake Butera’s analytical approach be enough to keep Washington in playoff contention, or could roster shakeups change the second-half narrative? Ryan Clary breaks down the Nationals' key second-half goals, including keeping afloat in the NL Wild Card race, managing guys like Brady House and Yohandy Morales, and addressing late-inning bullpen woes. Insights on Foster Griffin’s All-Star surge, the impact of trading Robert Hassell III to the Pittsburgh Pirates, and report cards for front office and core players spotlight Washington’s evolvin...

Washington Nationals make a statement by calling up top catching prospect Harry Ford. Is he the future behind the plate, or will Keibert Ruiz's strong season keep him platooned? Ryan Clary unpacks Ford’s journey—his initial struggles, recent hot streaks, and the implications for the Nationals’ lineup as they chase a Wild Card spot. Key discussion points include trade deadline scenarios: should the Nationals move first baseman Luis Garcia Jr. after his breakout campaign, or keep him for a potential postseason push? Plus, Clary breaks down the signing of first-round pick Chris Hacopian to a below-slot deal and why his...

Washington Nationals shock MLB with Foster Griffin’s All-Star breakout—could the 30-year-old rookie ace be the trade deadline’s hottest commodity? Ryan Clary spotlights Griffin’s incredible journey from 2014 first-round pick to Japan League standout, now dominating the Nationals rotation with a unique seven-pitch arsenal and earning Cy Young buzz. With elite stats, a 3.3 bWAR, and a flawless All-Star Game inning under his belt, Griffin’s rise raises big questions: should the Nationals lock him up long-term or capitalize on his skyrocketing value? Key trade deadline storylines include the potential market for Griffin, a possible nine-figure extension, and what rival...

Washington Nationals fans can breathe easy—James Wood isn’t going anywhere. Ryan Clary dismantles rumors of the Nationals shopping their MVP-caliber outfielder, questioning Bob Nightingale’s report and explaining why trading Wood would make zero sense for Washington’s rebuild. Is CJ Abrams in the same untouchable category, or could the All-Star shortstop draw blockbuster interest this offseason? Clary debates the odds and strategic reasoning as the Nationals weigh short-term moves against long-term growth. Plus, can the Nationals truly fix their bullpen woes at the trade deadline? Clary outlines why patchwork relief pitching won’t solve the rotation’s deeper issu...

Washington Nationals play it safe with Chris Hacopian’s MLB Draft selection—could his elite bat-to-ball skills spark a new era in the nation’s capital? Ryan Clary breaks down why Hacopian, a hometown standout from Texas A&M, fits the Nationals’ vision and how his offensive consistency recalls early hype around Dylan Crews. The story dives into lineup philosophy, positional flexibility, and whether the Nats can develop Hacopian’s power the way they did with past stars like Anthony Rendon. Meanwhile, Foster Griffin earns All-Star honors after a remarkable comeback from Japan, but the Nats’ embattled bullpen threatens to derail a p...

Washington Nationals gear up for a high-stakes showdown as the New York Yankees come to D.C.—does this feel like postseason baseball? Ryan Clary highlights the Nationals’ explosive offense led by CJ Abrams, Luis Garcia Jr., and James Wood while questioning whether the Nats’ firepower outweighs the Yankees’ reputation, especially with Aaron Judge sidelined. Can Washington’s bats outslug big names like Cody Bellinger and Jazz Chisholm Jr. and seize this critical series? The MLB Draft looms large, with Ryan Clary breaking down strategy for the Nats’ No. 11 pick. Should the Nationals target University of Florida ace Liam Peterson, ban...

Washington Nationals surge past Houston Astros behind Foster Griffin’s dominant run—should he be an All-Star? Ryan Clary breaks down Griffin’s historic streak of seven consecutive starts allowing one earned run or fewer, comparing his stats to MLB’s elite pitchers and questioning whether the Nationals’ ace deserves national recognition. Key topics include James Wood, Luis Garcia, and CJ Abrams making Nationals history as the first trio with 20+ home runs before the All-Star break, the franchise’s offensive firepower, and pressing trade deadline decisions. Clary also explores Baseball America’s mock draft, weighing the merits of selecting third baseman A...

Washington Nationals rising star James Wood is on pace to join MLB legends like Alex Rodriguez, Ted Williams, and Joe DiMaggio with a historic run total before age 23. Can his electric leadoff presence power the Nationals’ offense into contention? Luis García Jr.’s All-Star-worthy hot streak sparks excitement, yet questions linger about his long-term future and consistency at the plate. Host Ryan Clary breaks down the Nationals’ recent loss to the Houston Astros, highlighting pitching struggles including Andrew Alvarez’s control issues and Blake Butera’s candid accountability for bullpen management. The conversation focused on Foster Griffin’s breakout pitch...

Washington Nationals survive bullpen chaos in wild 12-11 win over Houston Astros—can they fix their relief pitching before it costs them more games? The conversation focused on the Nationals’ explosive offense, highlighted by James Wood’s grand slam and CJ Abrams breaking out of his slump, but a key theme that emerged was ongoing bullpen instability—optioning arms like Eddy Yean and Cole Henry after taxing outings. The discussion explored the Nationals’ draft strategy with the 11th overall pick, raising the question: Will the front office target a college arm like Liam Peterson or cut a deal to maximize ta...

Washington Nationals fans celebrate as CJ Abrams becomes the All-Star starting shortstop, while superstar James Wood earns a deserved All-Star nod—but should Wood have been a starter too? Ryan Clary breaks down both players’ impact, highlights Luis García Jr.’s hot streak, and questions surprising bullpen decisions after Eddie Yean's electric debut followed by a puzzling demotion. Big roster shakeups hit as former top prospect Robert Hassell III is designated for assignment to make room on the Nationals’ 40-man roster, signaling a dramatic shift in the club’s prospect priorities. Ryan Clary explores what Hassell’s exit means for Wash...

Washington Nationals face a pivotal MLB Draft with the 11th overall pick—should they finally draft for need and boost a struggling pitching staff? The roster’s glaring shortage of arms, from prospects rehab uncertainties to the lack of ready prospects, forces the front office into a high-stakes decision rarely seen. Key prospects like Cameron Flukey (Coastal Carolina), Hunter Dietz (Arkansas), and Liam Peterson (Florida) emerge as top college pitchers who could make an immediate impact. Meanwhile, prep standout Gio Rojas and local product Chris Hacopian (Texas A&M, formerly Maryland) add intrigue to the selection debate. The conversation explo...