Nationals' fire sale could give Rays exactly they need for a championship run

The Washington Nationals have won 71 games or less since their unbelievable run that led to their first and only World Series championship in 2019. Therefore, ownership is shopping nearly all of their current players with any type of trade value. Instances like this for clubs are often knows as fire sales for the dramatic rebuild that generally follows. The first domino to fall was ace lefty Mackenzie Gore. Gore was dealt to the Texas Rangers for a barrage of prospects, and the haul of youngsters must have excited the Nationals because they are now shopping two more key members of their 2025 roster. One of those talented players would be an instant difference maker for the Rays.

Rays should pursue up-and-coming shortstop CJ Abrams

The 25-year-old CJ Abrams has played like an All-Star ever since he was dealt to the Nationals in the massive blockbuster deal that sent Juan Soto to the Padres. San Diego must be kicking themselves as Soto wound up being a two-year rental which included his worst offensive season in 2022. Meanwhile, Abrams has blossomed into a noteworthy everyday middle infielder.

His defense has been above average as the former first round pick led the majors in putouts and double plays turned in 2023. That campaign seemed to be a turning point for Abrams as he has appeared in at least 138 games each season since then. The left-handed power threat has also consistently produced at least a 3.4 WAR each of those three seasons for the Nationals. It's worth questioning why Washington isn't considering him to be a franchise-type player for them to build around, but either way, the Rays could take advantage of the desperation.

There are a few reasons that a deal like this could work out really well for Tampa Bay. First of all, he's not an expensive commodity. CJ Abrams is currently on a $4,200,000 contract for the 2026 season, and the Rays would have to decide on his pay for the next season through arbitration.

Not only would his services be beneficial financially, but his youth could also be a huge asset for the Rays. Abrams is four years younger than current shortstop Taylor Walls and therefore, he's also four years away from free agency. The Rays don't normally have the luxury of building a future around a middle infielder of this caliber, but it could certainly be the case with him if the front office decides.

Thirdly, CJ Abrams would join a club in desperate need of offensive production. After watching Brandon Lowe leave for the Pirates, the Rays instantly lost a multitude of home runs and RBIs. Adding second baseman Gavin Lux improves the lineup's contact abilities, but the power is still severely lacking. The young Abrams could solve that issue without hurting the team on the defensive side of the ball.