Overview
- Earlier this week the Nationals announced Abrams will move off shortstop and split time at second base with Nasim Núñez while still appearing occasionally at shortstop or as a designated hitter.
- The change was driven by clear defensive data showing Abrams led MLB in errors and ranked at the bottom in Statcast fielding run value and outs above average.
- Abrams’ agent said the player is “not thrilled” with the timing but committed to being a team-first player and plans to spend the offseason working to return to shortstop.
- The decision lets Washington keep Abrams’ potent bat in the lineup — he is having a career-best offensive season — while the front office evaluates prospects such as Seaver King and Eli Willits and keeps trade options open.
- The move raises concrete roster and contract questions for the Nationals because Abrams has two years of team control remaining and his positional status will affect offseason trade talks and extension discussions.