With just nine days left in the 2024 MLB regular season, the Washington Nationals have made the decision to demote shortstop CJ Abrams to Triple-A, as announced by the team on Saturday. Despite being an All-Star this season, Abrams has struggled significantly in the second half and is currently ranked as one of the worst defensive shortstops in the game with a minus-18 outs above average. However, his demotion was not solely based on his second-half performance.
“I want to clarify that it wasn’t due to his performance,” stated Nationals manager Davey Martinez regarding Abrams’ demotion (via the Washington Post). “It’s an internal matter, and I won’t be disclosing specifics.”
Although the official transaction indicates that Abrams will be sent to Triple-A, Martinez confirmed that he will be reporting to the team’s spring training complex in West Palm Beach, Fla., for workouts. The Rochester Red Wings, the Nationals’ Triple-A affiliate, did not make it to the postseason, and their regular season concludes on Sunday. With the rest of the team’s minor-league affiliates also finishing their seasons, Abrams will not have official minor league games to participate in come Monday.
It was confirmed by Martinez that Abrams’ demotion was due to an “internal matter,” hinting at the demotion being either punitive or a wake-up call. This move will result in Abrams losing approximately $36,000 in salary if he does not return to the big leagues this season. CBS Sports’ Jim Bowden provided additional insights into the situation.
“We are aware of the report, but beyond that, it’s an internal matter that we will keep within the organization,” stated GM Mike Rizzo (via The Athletic).
At 23 years old, Abrams was the sixth overall pick in the 2019 draft and joined the Nationals as part of the Juan Soto trade with the San Diego Padres during the 2022 deadline. After a strong finish in 2023 and an All-Star first half this year, it seemed like Abrams was starting to fulfill the potential that made him a highly regarded prospect. However, he now finds himself demoted to the minors as of September 21.
The Nationals are expected to give Nasim Nuñez, a Rule 5 Draft pick from the Miami Marlins, the opportunity to play shortstop for the remainder of the season. Nuñez has been on Washington’s MLB roster throughout the year but has only started 13 games with 52 plate appearances. Known for his defensive skills, Nuñez requires more time to develop his batting abilities. He will have an eight-game trial to finish out the season.
With a record of 68-86, the Nationals have already been eliminated from postseason contention. Since winning the 2019 World Series, they have not achieved a winning record or made it to the postseason. Infielder Trey Lipscomb has been called up to take Abrams’ place.
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The cat lounged in the sun, relishing the cozy heat on its fur.