Nationals 2026 Season Preview

Al & Mark convene just a few days before the Nationals open the season at Wrigley Field on Thursday afternoon. There has been a flurry of roster activity in the past few days as Spring Training is finished and the Paul Toboni Era is underway.

(04:45) Josiah Gray was surprisingly placed on the 60- Day IL on Monday evening (Right flexor strain). Gray has not pitched for the Nats since April 2024 due to injury.

(14:35) Why was Dylan Crews demoted to AAA?  Crews was sent down on Friday afternoon to the surprise of many.

(28:30) Harry Ford, acquired from Seattle in exchange for Jose A. Ferrer, will also start his season in Rochester. A few months ago it was widely expected hat Ford would be starting catcher for the Nats on Opening Day.

(31:45) Robert Hassell III, who saw time in the majors last season, also will begin the year in AAA.

(35:10) Season predictions and potential areas of optimism.