Nationals Notes: Garcia, Parker, Gray

"García began taking pregame drills at first base a little over a month ago. The Nats got to a point where they felt comfortable playing the 25-year-old there in a game. García is a middling defender at the keystone. Washington doesn't have an answer at first base for the 2026 season. García's .253/.290/.399 slash line wouldn't play as a regular there either, but there's no downside in expanding his flexibility."

"The former highly-regarded prospect could find himself on the roster bubble as he'd be due a raise on this year's $4.5MM salary if tendered an arbitration contract. He may have a better chance of remaining on the roster if he's not locked into the keystone. Teams generally prefer not to carry second base-only players on the bench. García's inability to play shortstop still leaves him as an imperfect fit for a utility role."

"Nuñez might be a better candidate for that job. He's the team's best defensive infielder. The 5'8″ switch-hitter has had a very light bat for most of his career, but he has connected for an out-of-nowhere four home runs in 12 games since being recalled from Triple-A at the start of September. He has picked up a few more starts down the stretch as he tries to stake a claim to an Opening Day roster spot."

Luis García Jr. started his first career game at first base and played all eight defensive innings during Tuesday's loss in Atlanta. García began pregame drills at first base a little over a month ago and the team felt comfortable using him there in a game. García is a middling second baseman with a .253/.290/.399 slash line, and Washington lacks a clear first-base answer for 2026. García faces a roster bubble given a likely arbitration raise, and expanding his positional flexibility could improve his roster odds. Nasim Núñez has emerged as the team's best defensive infielder and has unexpectedly hit four homers in 12 games since his September recall, earning more late-season starts. Lefty Mitchell Parker was moved to the bullpen and recorded a save with 3 2/3 scoreless innings in his first relief outing.

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