Washington Nationals set their sights on a player development revolution as a new era begins. Can a revamped focus on analytics and culture under manager Blake Butera finally unlock the potential of top prospects like CJ Abrams, Brady House, and James Wood? Ryan Clary dissects why player development—not win-loss records—will define a successful 2026 season, spotlighting past struggles with Victor Robles and the need for consistency at both the major and minor league levels. Roster shake-ups make headlines as the Nationals DFA former top pitching prospect Andry Lara and claimed versatile utility player Mickey Gaspar. Ryan Clary explores how these moves reflect the franchise’s shift toward a data-driven front office, and what establishing a winning culture will mean for young stars and the team’s future in the NL East.

00:00 "Nationals' Success In 2026"

06:08 Nationals' Need for Breakout Stars

09:36 "Nationals' Success & Blake Butera"

15:31 "Building Culture Through Hard Work"

18:31 "Patience, Analytics, and Consistency"

20:14 Nationals DFA Lara, Claim Gasper

23:27 "Mickey Gasper Joins Nationals"

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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

The Washington Nationals still have yet to address the 1B position in a meaningful way... Ryan Clary tells you why Paul Goldschmidt could be the best short term answer for 1B. Veteran leadership and big-game experience meet a young core as Ryan Clary weighs Goldschmidt’s value against alternatives like Rhys Hoskins, Carlos Santana, and Luis Arraez.

00:00 Nationals' First Base Dilemma

03:56 Nationals Eyeing Paul Goldschmidt Option?

08:51 "Paul Goldschmidt to Nationals?"

12:40 "Nationals Considering Rhys Hoskins?"

15:27 Goldschmidt's Leadership vs. Hoskins

18:07 Luis Arraez: Nationals Fit Uncertain

22:38 "Nats Simulcast Idea: Zimcast"

23:39 Nationals' Broadcast and YouTube TV Plans

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern.FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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

LA Dodgers shake up MLB’s balance with record deals—can teams like the Washington Nationals ever catch up? Ryan Clary spotlights the Dodgers’ $240M signing of Kyle Tucker and explores the impact of massive TV revenues on free agency, competitive parity, and salary cap debates. The episode contrasts big market powerhouses with mid-market clubs, bringing the Nationals’ end of the long-standing MASN TV dilemma into focus and asking if fair revenue sharing could level the playing field. James Wood rockets to the 53rd spot on MLB Network’s Top 100, but is that enough recognition for his flair? Ryan Clary weighs Wood’s prodigious power against talents like Elly De La Cruz and breaks down the Nationals’ fresh broadcast era, highlighting new faces and changes in coverage.

00:00 "Baseball's Parity Issue"

06:30 Nationals’ TV Rights Struggles

09:49 "MLB Salary Cap and TV Future"

13:35 "Locked On Nationals Updates"

15:22 James Wood’s Power Dominance

17:33 James Wood vs. De La Cruz

22:58 Nationals Play-By-Play Uncertainty

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

Rocket Money
Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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

Washington Nationals prime Dylan Crews for a breakout 2026 campaign—is a star turn on the horizon? Ryan Clary spotlights Crews' five-tool upside, the impact of lineup protection with names like James Wood and CJ Abrams, and why injuries and mismanagement might have masked Crews' true potential last season. Can the Nationals unleash his power and all of his other tools? Ryan Clary analyzes the Nationals' investment in player development, from acquiring trajekt arc machines to launching prospect minicamps under Paul Toboni. The conversation shifts to trade rumors around MacKenzie Gore, exploring the Yankees’ recent deal for Ryan Weathers and why Baltimore Orioles and New York Mets could be new contenders. Get the latest on Washington’s bold front office moves and what it means for the future of Nationals baseball.

00:00 "Dylan Crews' 2026 Breakout"

06:01 "Dylan Crews' Development Focuses Forward"

09:14 Nationals' Faith in Dylan Crews

12:06 "Nationals Focus on Player Development"

16:03 Nationals' Prospect Development Camp

17:06 Nationals Improving Player Development

22:26 Yankees' Pitching Trade Prospects

23:24 "Potential Teams for MacKenzie Gore"

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

Rocket Money
Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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

Washington Nationals’ quiet offseason sparks debate—are patient moves laying a foundation for 2026 success or signaling trouble ahead? Ryan Clary and Bobby Blanco break down the front office’s calculated approach, new leadership under Paul Toboni and the glaring need for bullpen and first-base upgrades. Will the Nationals finally splash on free agents, or are they content hunting for undervalued veteran relievers and trade chips as spring training looms? The spotlight turns to MacKenzie Gore and CJ Abrams—should Washington trade away its young core or double down on their development? Hear why Gore’s value may peak by the deadline and why Abrams’ blend of speed and power should make him a franchise cornerstone.

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

Rocket Money
Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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

Washington Nationals weigh a blockbuster decision as MacKenzie Gore remains on the roster amid swirling trade rumors. Could their ace anchor the rotation or headline a franchise-altering deal this offseason? Ryan Clary explores the value disparity between the Nationals’ internal assessment and league-wide interest, revealing which teams—the New York Mets, New York Yankees, and San Francisco Giants—have the prospect capital to tempt a trade. Joey Wiemer joins the Nationals, sparking questions about potential moves involving outfielder Jacob Young.

00:00 Nationals Likely Keeping MacKenzie Gore?

03:42 MacKenzie Gore's Value Debate

13:10 Mets In The Mix For Gore?

16:53 Yankees' Prospects: Schlitler & Lombard

17:49 "Nationals and Prospect Trade Debate"

21:57 Nationals' Aggressive Moves Analyzed

26:00 Nationals' Outfield Speculation Brief

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

Rocket Money
Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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

Washington Nationals’ franchise direction hangs in the balance—was trading superstar Juan Soto the move that saved the team’s future? Ryan Clary spotlights how the Soto deal brought in key talents MacKenzie Gore, CJ Abrams, James Wood, and top prospect Jarlin Susana, transforming what could have been a roster crisis into a promising rebuild. Would Washington even crack 60 wins in a season? Amid swirling MacKenzie Gore trade rumors, Ryan Clary tackles the awkward reality of shopping the staff ace while balancing clubhouse chemistry. Hear critical insight on the Nationals' rebuild timeline, future management shake ups, and the looming uncertainty over their TV broadcast home as MASN’s deal expires.

00:00 "Juan Soto Trade Impact"

05:29 Nationals' Revival from Soto Trade

06:34 Nationals' GM Decisions and Future

15:29 MacKenzie Gore: A Trade Likelihood

17:12 Trade Uncertainty's Impact on Players

25:15 Nationals' Future Plans Uncertain

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

Rocket Money
Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-77

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 bold New Year’s resolutions amid major organizational shake-up. Can a revamped front office and fresh analytic-driven approach finally ignite prospect development and deliver a cleaner brand of baseball? Ryan Clary spotlights key issues for the Nationals in 2026, including improving defensive fundamentals, cutting baserunning mistakes, and determining the future of star shortstop CJ Abrams—is an extension imminent or could a blockbuster trade be on the horizon? The episode examines roster projections, the need for more than 70 wins, and raises questions about free agency clarity and ownership’s financial commitment. Plus, the uncertain fate of Nationals TV broadcasts with MASN sparks a critical discussion on the future of the franchise’s media presence.

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

00:00 "Nationals' Future Driven by Analytics"

04:28 Nationals' Goals: Development & Discipline

09:49 "Nationals' Future and FanDuel"

11:53 Nationals' Resolutions: C.J. Abrams

16:01 "Clarity on Spending and Commitment"

18:35 "Injecting Life Into the Team"

21:40 Future of MASN Broadcast Uncertain

Rocket Money
Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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