As the Washington Nationals struggle with a disappointing record, shortstop CJ Abrams is establishing himself as a key player. His current season is marked by a .287 batting average, with 11 home runs and 16 steals, showcasing his offensive potential. Abrams attributes his success to improved pitch selection and a modified stance that enhances his swing mechanics. These changes have allowed him to make better contact and achieve higher exit velocities. His patience at the plate is evident, and he’s taking more pitches in the shadow zone, leading to a notable increase in his Run Value metrics.

Despite the Nationals’ overall struggles, Abrams represents a bright future for the franchise. With fellow youngsters like James Wood emerging, the team is beginning to see the fruits of its rebuilding efforts post-World Series victory. Abrams, who acknowledges his growth as a hitter, emphasizes the importance of being disciplined at the plate against more skilled MLB pitchers. As a fantasy asset, Abrams ranks highly among shortstops, making him a player to watch as he continues to develop his game.