Nationals Surprise at .500-Plus Through May 2026
Washington enters June one game over .500 at 30-29, defying preseason skepticism about their bullpen, rotation, and offense.

The Nationals sit at 30-29 heading into June, a record few anticipated given their offseason outlook. The team was expected to struggle with a patchwork bullpen and a rotation lacking star power. Their offense, while still inconsistent, has shown enough flashes to keep Washington competitive. The unexpected positioning raises questions about whether the Nationals are a legitimate factor in the NL standings.
More on the Nationals wire.
Nationals Land Harry Ford, Ruiz's Starting Role in Question
Washington's offseason acquisition of Harry Ford from Seattle signals a potential shift behind the plate, with Keibert Ruiz coming off three poor seasons.
Nationals Shuffle Lineup vs. Padres, Benching Mead for Vivas
Manager Blake Butera makes multiple positional changes to go left-handed heavy against San Diego, shifting Wood and Crews in the outfield.
Curtis Mead Emerges as Nationals' Everyday Third Baseman
Once a struggling prospect, Mead has earned a full-time role in Washington with his bat, validating his pre-prospect hype.

Nationals Land Harry Ford, Ruiz's Starting Role in Question
Washington's offseason acquisition of Harry Ford from Seattle signals a potential shift behind the plate after Ruiz's three-year slump.

Nationals Shuffle Lineup vs. Padres With Crews Back in RF
Manager Blake Butera makes multiple lineup tweaks, slotting Crews back into right field and shifting Wood to designated hitter for the Nats-Padres matchup.

Nationals Land Harry Ford, Clouding Keibert Ruiz's Future
Washington's acquisition of catching prospect Harry Ford from Seattle signals a potential shift away from Ruiz behind the plate.