Locked On Nationals - Daily Podcast On The Washington Nationals

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...

Washington Nationals set the stage for blockbuster moves as the starting pitcher trade market heats up. Could Mackenzie Gore’s potential trade yield a franchise-altering return after the Sonny Gray deal? Ryan Clary explores how the Nationals can maximize their assets, spotlighting trade buzz around stars like Mackenzie Gore and Luis Garcia Jr.—whose consistency and future are both questioned. With the Cubs, Red Sox, and Mariners emerging as possible trade partners, will the Nationals find their perfect fit? Ryan Clary assesses which young talents should be developed or traded, including first-round pick Seaver King and Gold Glove finalist Jacob...

Washington Nationals fans, get ready for a new era as the team signals a longer rebuild than expected—are short-term pains setting up a future powerhouse? Ryan Clary breaks down why the Nationals' latest front office and coaching hires—including Paul Taboni and Blake Butera—point to a strategic shift focused on player development, patience, and a sustainable winning culture. Will the Nats’ faith in prospects like Elijah Green and Cristhian Vaquero pay off, or is a shake-up on the horizon? Key discussions include trade-or-develop scenarios for top talents such as Robert Hassell III, the evolving outfield picture with names li...

Washington Nationals surprise fans by tendering contracts to all seven eligible players—including Luis Garcia Jr.—upending offseason expectations. Could Garcia Jr.'s future still be uncertain, or will he anchor the Nationals’ infield alongside C.J. Abrams? Host Ryan Clary weighs the implications of this move, debating whether Garcia Jr. could be traded for much-needed pitching or if the team will “run it back” with last year’s struggling middle infield. Key topics include looming offseason priorities: upgrading the bullpen, resolving the Nationals’ catching situation with Keibert Ruiz and Riley Adams, and addressing the rotation’s back end amid injury conc...

Washington Nationals face a pivotal crossroads as franchise icon Ryan Zimmerman calls for a big veteran signing. Is now the moment to invest, or would it sidetrack a crucial rebuild? Host Ryan Clary explores the pros and cons, spotlighting potential targets like Alex Bregman, Pete Alonso, and bounce-back candidates Marcelo Ozuna, Zach Gallen, Rhys Hoskins, and Michael King. Can a bold roster move accelerate the Nationals’ return to playoff contention, or do they risk repeating the mistakes of the past? Ryan Clary breaks down the importance of player development amid front office shake ups, citing key prospects like Brady Hou...

Ryan Clary examines the explosive rumor that the Washington Nationals might package both MacKenzie Gore and C.J. Abrams in a blockbuster trade. Initially resistant to moving Abrams, Clary walks through his evolving perspective on why trading both players together could maximize value—particularly if it brings back MLB-ready prospects rather than lottery tickets. He explores potential trade scenarios with teams like the Detroit Tigers, discussing prospects like Kevin McGonigle and Max Clark. The episode also covers the Nationals' new coaching hire of Tyler Smarslok from the Miami Marlins, who will focus on cleaning up the team's defensive mistakes an...

The Red Sox are pursuing MacKenzie Gore, and Ryan Clary believes the Red Sox could EASILY put together an appealing package for the All-Star. Ryan is joined by Gabby Maljanian from Locked On Red Sox to discuss a potential Gore trade, and what exactly the Nats could get in return. Could there be a package surrounding Kristian Campbell? 

0:00- Intro

1:00- Red Sox Set For A Gore Trade?

3:58- Why The Nats Are Trading Gore

7:51- Pros & Cons of Gore

11:40- Potential Trade Packages

Blake Butera's introductory press conference as Washington Nationals manager revealed his primary mission: rebuilding the team's culture. The former Tampa Bay Rays coach emphasized competition, player development, and data-driven decision-making as cornerstones of his approach. Butera's unique background—spanning minor league management, front office work, and analytics—positions him to transform the Nationals' identity. He received strong endorsements from Hall of Famer Mike Piazza and Rays executives, validating this unconventional hire. The episode also covers Sean Doolittle's return to the coaching staff, Rule 5 draft protection decisions for prospects Jake Bennett and Christian Franklin, and potential MacKenzie Gore trade scenarios. Bute...

Ryan Clary explores the Washington Nationals' catching situation and potential offseason moves. He explains why trading for Baltimore's Adley Rutschman doesn't make sense, arguing the Nationals shouldn't sacrifice Mackenzie Gore for a player with only two years of team control and declining offensive numbers. Instead, Clary makes a compelling case for targeting Seattle's Harry Ford—a 22-year-old catching prospect blocked by Cal Raleigh. He outlines a realistic trade package centered on Gore that could land Ford plus additional prospects, including top draft pick Cade Anderson. The episode also covers the Nationals' first offseason move: signing former prospect Eddy Yean to...

Ryan Clary makes a compelling case for why the Washington Nationals should keep CJ Abrams despite trade rumors swirling around the All-Star shortstop. He breaks down Abrams' untapped ceiling, three years of team control, and extension potential as reasons to hold firm. Clary contrasts this with his willingness to trade Mackenzie Gore, explaining the strategic differences. He warns Nationals fans to brace for a dramatically different offseason under new POBO Paul Toboni, predicting unexpected moves including minor league swaps, potential non-tenders, and a complete philosophical shift from the Mike Rizzo era. Clary also previews how the upcoming MLB Draft...

Ryan Clary breaks down the Washington Nationals' promising offseason position as MLB teams hunt for everyday outfielders—a commodity the Nats have in abundance. With James Wood, Dylan Crews, and Daylen Lile locked in as the future outfield, plus depth pieces like Robert Hassell III and Jacob Young, Washington sits perfectly positioned to make strategic trades. Clary explores potential deals that could address critical needs in starting pitching, first base, and catcher while capitalizing on their outfield surplus. He examines GM Paul Toboni's stated priorities for swing-and-miss pitchers and discusses whether now is the right time for ownership to sp...

The Washington Nationals are rebuilding their coaching staff with a bold, youth-focused approach. Host Ryan Clary breaks down the hiring of 30-year-old Simon Matthews as pitching coach, highlighting his Driveline Baseball background and data-driven methodology. Matthews comes from the Cincinnati Reds, where he worked under Terry Francona, bringing modern analytics and player development expertise the Nationals desperately needed. The team also added Bobby Wilson from the Texas Rangers as catching coordinator. Clary argues these hires address the organization's biggest weakness: outdated coaching that failed to develop young talent. With manager Blake Butera (33) and bench coach Michael Johns also on...

The Washington Nationals have named Michael Johns as their new bench coach for 2026, bringing another Tampa Bay Rays veteran to the organization. Johns, who served as the Rays' first base coach for two seasons and managed their AAA affiliate, brings extensive player development experience that aligns with the team's rebuilding strategy. The hire complements manager Blake Butera's vision, though questions remain about whether the staff needs a former major league manager. Meanwhile, reports suggest the Nationals are motivated to trade catcher Keibert Ruiz, whose defensive struggles have made him one of baseball's worst at the position despite a team-friendly...

The MLB GM meetings kick off in Las Vegas with Paul Toboni representing the Washington Nationals for the first time as their top baseball executive. Expect significant trade rumors surrounding All-Stars MacKenzie Gore and C.J. Abrams as teams inquire about their availability. The episode explores what these meetings mean for the Nationals' offseason strategy and how Toboni's data-driven approach could reshape the roster. Also discussed: James Wood's Silver Slugger finalist nod and how his impressive rookie numbers stack up against winners like Kyle Tucker and Corbin Carroll. Plus, a realistic assessment of Josiah Gray's role returning from Tommy...