Power-focused shift has Nats’ CJ Abrams off and running early
The Washington shortstop may have unlocked something in his approach
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 14: CJ Abrams #5 of the Washington Nationals celebrates his solo home run with teammates during the third inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on April 14, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) | Getty Images Ever since coming to Washington as one of the main headliners in the infamous Juan Soto trade from the San Diego Padres, Nationals’ shortstop CJ Abrams has been excruciatingly close to proving his worth as a franchise player. The 25-year-old made his Major League debut in 2022 and has been a steady contributor for the Nats, averaging 3.
4 Wins Above Replacement per season across 433 games from 2023-2025. Abrams has flashed superstar potential offensively, generating plenty of excitement among the fanbase about the player he could become. For all the success he’s had, however, consistency has remained a struggle; seemingly continuing to plateau and settle in the good-not-great tier.
The 2026 season is still in its earliest stages, but this may be the year that Abrams finally takes that offensive leap and transcends into a full-on star. He’s had hot stretches before, so why might this one be different? He’s finally doing what Nats fans have been pleading with him to do since he arrived in the organization: pulling the ball in the air with authority.
On the surface, there’s plenty to love with how Abrams has begun his 2026 campaign. In 77 plate appearances, he’s already racked up 1. 2 bWAR, is slashing .