C.J. Abrams Developing As Star Shortstop for Nationals
Although the Nationals are still in the midst of a rebuilding year, C.J. Abrams has begun his development as the shortstop of the future (Photo by Alex Brandon, AP)
The Washington Nationals are still deep into their rebuild. They sit with a 47-63 record and are likely to finish last in the NL East yet again, but talent is beginning to develop at the MLB level.
While older faces such as Lane Thomas and Joey Meneses have shown progress of their own, the main pieces to watch are in the youth. The likes of Keibert Ruiz, Stone Garrett, and Luis Garcia have shown improvement, with all three likely to set career highs in most offensive categories. Various young pitchers have also shown flashes of brilliance, such as Jake Irvin, Mackenzie Gore, and all-star nod Josiah Gray. However, the true star of the show has been shortstop C.J. Abrams.
After struggling in the early stages of his Nationals career, the young shortstop has found his stride in 2023 (Photo by Mike Stobe, Getty Images)
Abrams, 22, was a centerpiece in the Juan Soto trade from the Padres but struggled in his first stretch in Washington. In 44 games last season, he only hit .258 with an OPS of .603, adding only 10 RBIs. However, in his first full campaign, his production has increased noticeably.
In 102 games this season, his OPS has grown to .714, with his on-base percentage growing from .276 to .304. He has also begun to hit for more power, hitting 19 doubles, four triples, and 10 homers.
Abrams is in the midst of a historic streak on the basepaths, owning 22 consecutive stolen bases without being thrown out,
However, what’s really made the difference for Abrams is his speed. Abrams has 25 steals this season, a sharp jump from his seven between San Diego and Washington last season, and that number has come with an unprecedented streak. He has an active streak of 22 stolen bags without being caught, the longest active streak in MLB. In the Nationals’ franchise, it’s the longest mark they’ve had in a single season, and it’s only two short of Roger Bernadina’s outright record that spanned two seasons.
While his numbers can certainly improve with the bat, it is important to note his career is very young and he can still develop with time. With that in mind, this season has shown the upside he can boast in future seasons. Boasting a hot streak on the bases and a developing bat, Abrams can potentially be a face that guides the Nationals out of the rebuild and back onto the contending scene.
