Locked On Nationals - Daily Podcast On The Washington Nationals

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.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 

Follow Ryan Clary on T...

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. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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...

Ryan Clary prepares Nationals fans for the inevitable Mackenzie Gore trade while tempering expectations on the return package. He argues this won't be a franchise-altering deal like the Juan Soto blockbuster, citing Gore's remaining contract years, inconsistency issues, and potential market complications from a Tarik Skubal trade. Clary breaks down realistic trade scenarios with the Mariners (Harry Ford and Cade Anderson), Cubs (Moises Ballesteros and Jaxson Wiggins), Astros (Brice Matthews package), and humorously, the Padres (Ethan Salas headlining). He emphasizes that while Gore is an All-Star caliber pitcher, his value doesn't match the generational haul Washington received for Soto...

Ryan Clary and Bobby Blanco break down the Washington Nationals' surprising hire of 33-year-old Blake Butera as manager, examining why the team chose a low-A manager with player development expertise over a veteran skipper. They explore what this signals about the franchise's timeline and Paul Toboni's long-term vision. The conversation shifts to potential blockbuster trades, particularly MacKenzie Gore's market value and whether he can command a Garrett Crochet-level return despite inconsistency concerns. They debate C.J. Abrams' future, discussing his defensive limitations and offensive potential while questioning if now is the right time to move him. The duo also...

The Washington Nationals officially name Blake Butera as their new manager in what many would say it's an outside the box hire.  This episode breaks down what Nationals fans should expect from Butera's player development-focused approach and how it signals a major culture shift for the organization. We explore the new front office structure, including Mike DeBartolo's role as Senior VP (not GM), and why the Nationals won't be hiring a traditional general manager anytime soon. Plus, meet the key additions: Devin Pearson overseeing player development and Justin Horowitz handling amateur scouting and trades—both bringing proven track records fro...

Ryan Clary breaks down the Washington Nationals' heating trade market as teams inquire about All-Stars MacKenzie Gore and CJ Abrams. He argues the Nationals should only trade one—likely Gore—while extending Abrams at second base. Clary explains why Gore's Scott Boras representation makes an extension unlikely, while Abrams' potential and ROC Nation representation offer better retention odds. He explores the value dynamics of trading now versus the deadline, emphasizing the need to retain young talent after years of rebuilding. Beyond the headliners, Clary predicts savvy moves involving the team's logjammed outfield prospects—Robert Hassell III, Christian Franklin, and Andrew...

The Washington Nationals officially hired Blake Butera as their new manager, marking a bold departure from traditional baseball hiring. At 33, Butera becomes the youngest MLB manager in 50 years, jumping from Low-A ball with a unique background in player development from the Tampa Bay Rays organization. This unconventional hire signals a complete organizational shift under new President Paul Toboni, emphasizing analytics, player development, and outside-the-box thinking. While expectations should remain measured given Butera's inexperience at the major league level, his coaching pedigree and development expertise could revolutionize how rebuilding teams approach the managerial position. The episode explores why this hire...

*EPISODE RECORDED BEFORE HIRING BLAKE BUTERA.... CURRENTLY AT THE DENTIST* 

Ryan Clary examines whether new GM Paul Toboni would have selected Eli Willits first overall in the 2025 MLB Draft. He breaks down Willits' defensive prowess, switch-hitting ability, and development potential, arguing the pick aligns with Toboni's scouting philosophy favoring high-ceiling high school shortstops. The episode explores critical Rule 5 Draft decisions facing the Nationals, particularly protecting left-handed pitcher Jake Bennett, who's dominating the Arizona Fall League after Tommy John recovery. Clary also discusses outfield prospect Christian Franklin's uncertain roster status and the surprising managerial interview with Portland Sea D...

The Washington Nationals make a bold, unconventional move by hiring 33-year-old Blake Butera as their next manager—the youngest MLB skipper in over 50 years. Butera comes from Tampa Bay's player development system, where he compiled a 258-144 record as a Double-A manager while serving as senior director of minor league player development. Host Ryan Clary breaks down why this stunning hire makes perfect sense for a rebuilding franchise prioritizing analytics, coaching, and cultural transformation. The move signals ownership's commitment to modernizing the organization, pairing Butera with President Paul Toboni to create alignment between front office and dugout. Clary explores th...

Ryan Clary breaks down the Washington Nationals' managerial search as Miguel Cairo exits the running and the coaching staff faces a complete overhaul. With hitting coach Darnell Coles and pitching coach Jim Hickey likely departing, the organization signals a fresh start under Paul Taboni's leadership. The episode explores two intriguing candidates: Rocco Baldelli, the former Twins manager who won 101 games in his debut season, and Danny Lehmann, the Dodgers' bench coach fresh off a World Series run. Clary offers a nuanced defense of Brandon Hyde, still in contention despite fan skepticism, arguing his experience navigating Baltimore's rebuild mirrors Washington's...

Ryan Clary tackles the Washington Nationals' biggest offseason dilemma: what to do with underperforming catcher Keibert Ruiz. Despite being under contract through 2030, Ruiz's defensive struggles and offensive regression make him a liability worth cutting loose. Clary argues the $40 million remaining shouldn't hold the team back from upgrading. He also makes a compelling case for Nasim Nunez as Paul Toboni's biggest beneficiary—a defensively elite shortstop with 30-steal potential who could be the Nationals' hidden gem. The episode wraps with a spirited takedown of Bryce Harper's recent comments about trade speculation during his Nationals tenure, with Clary calling out the in...

The Athletic tied the Washington Nationals as one of the teams that could BEST FIT defensive stud Ha-Seong Kim. Ryan discusses why this could be the difference making move the Nats NEED to make as he solves multiple issues with this team. This move could also lead to a major shakeup in the infield, and the player in question would be Luis Garcia Jr. Could the Nats seek a trade, or even possibly something else with the inconsistent 2B? Stephen Strasburg has come back into the spotlight and has taken a coaching role in baseball... Not with the Washington Na...