Washington Nationals’ bullpen collapses, shattering save records and postseason hopes. Can a new wave of arms—like Yovanny Cruz and Joe Glassey—spark a turnaround in 2027? Ryan Clary breaks down the Nationals’ disastrous relief pitching and the organizational struggle to develop late-inning talent. The conversation shifts to promising bullpen reinforcements, trade deadline moves, and the emergence of players such as Josiah Gray and Will Dion. Key topics include the impact of rookie coaching staff, player development challenges, and bold predictions for the franchise’s future. Ryan Clary also delivers a Postseason preview, forecasting a dramatic Yankees vs. Dodgers showdown, and questions if payroll powerhouses are destined to dominate October once again.

00:00 Nationals' bullpen struggles

03:51 Nationals bullpen struggles and history

12:00 Nats Bullpen Has Talent For 2027

19:33 Bullpen talent and future potential

21:00 World Series Prediction

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals 

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Washington Nationals offense explodes in 2026—are they MLB’s next powerhouse? James Wood’s breakout season, combined with career-best performances from CJ Abrams, Curtis Mead, Luis Garcia Jr., and Keibert Ruiz, propels the Nationals to a top-three National League ranking in home runs, OPS, and total runs. Ryan Clary breaks down the impact of coaching, key trades, and the emergence of young talent, examining if this elite run production is sustainable heading into 2027. Clary discusses the stakes of replacing departed stars, rising expectations for Daylen Lile and Dylan Crews, and which free agent or trade moves could keep the offense among baseball’s best. Plus: why Nationals fans should root for the Atlanta Braves over the Philadelphia Phillies in the postseason—could a Philly collapse reshape the NL East? Don’t miss this sharp take on the Nationals’ offensive transformation and what’s next for D.C.'s baseball hopes.

00:00 Where I Was Right With The 2026 Nats

06:00 Nationals' offensive capabilities evaluation

07:09 Nationals improve offensive performance

15:49 Improving Nationals' Offensive Lineup

17:22 Discussing Nationals' prospects and strategy

24:02 Austin Riley's crucial home run

25:56 Discussion on Dave Dombrowski's future

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

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KALSHI
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FanDuel
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Washington Nationals ownership faces its defining test: will the Lerners finally open the checkbook and power a return to World Series contention? Ryan Clary spotlights how the future of the franchise hinges on off-field decisions, with Nationals fans demanding a renewed investment after a promising season powered by rising stars like Seaver King and a much-improved farm system. Ryan Clary analyzes the Nationals’ trajectory, weighing the impact of a looming MLB lockout on free agency, the lingering possibility of team ownership change, and whether Mark Lerner will emulate past bold moves like the Jayson Werth signing. Key topics include the transformation under Paul Toboni and Blake Butera, declining fan attendance, and lessons from teams like the Dodgers and Brewers about the necessity of spending. Can the Nationals build on their momentum, or will excuses and inaction stall a potential playoff push? Nationals fans: don’t move the goalposts—expect more.

00:00 Biggest Question Is Ownership

08:49 Discussing payroll and winning strategy

14:00 How The Lockout Impacts The Nats

17:28 Potential sale of the Nationals

18:21 Speculating on team ownership changes

25:26 Spending and winning in baseball

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

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KALSHI
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Washington Nationals ignite hope for 2027 with a breakout season as CJ Abrams joins the 30-30 club and James Wood emerges as the franchise’s new cornerstone. With 77 wins, the Nationals defy preseason expectations and showcase a top-5 offense, sparking questions about just how far a solid bullpen might have taken them this year. Ryan Clary spotlights key player development, managerial moves under Blake Butera, and what Paul Toboni’s leadership means for the club’s future. The episode unpacks the Nationals’ midseason trades, Cade Cavalli’s ascension to ace status, and a heartbreaking AAA championship loss for the Rochester Red Wings fueled by Clayton Beeter’s blown save. Can the Nationals transform this momentum into a legitimate postseason push in 2027?

00:00 Nationals' season wrap-up

03:33 Nationals' bullpen issues debated

07:20 Discussing team lineup strategy

10:45 Nationals' postseason hopes debated

15:42 Hypothetical Nationals trade strategy

18:44 Nationals' offense and season recap

24:39 Red Wings' Season-Ender in AAA Championship

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

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KALSHI
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FanDuel
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Washington Nationals face pivotal decisions as veterans eye their possible final games in D.C. Could Jake Irvin’s upcoming start against the New York Mets mark his last as a National? Ryan Clary breaks down the shifting state of the Nationals’ rotation, spotlighting Irvin’s inconsistency, arbitration status, and the surging competition from young arms like Cade Cavalli, Andrew Alvarez, and Connelly Early. The conversation covers Alvarez’s breakout, Simon Matthews’ off-season job security, and the Rochester Red Wings’ electrifying run to the Triple-A championship—fueled by top prospects. With trade rumors swirling around CJ Abrams and intriguing free agency possibilities, every inning could reshape the Nationals’ 2027 outlook. Will D.C.’s new wave push out established names, or is there still a place for veterans? Don’t miss this hard-hitting look at the Nationals’ future and the prospects ready to seize their moment.

00:00 Jake Irvin's Final Start In DC?

06:43 Trading for Luis Perales

09:25 Jake Irvin's Tryout Weekend?

15:14 Andrew Alvarez's breakout season 2026

19:52 Connelly's bullpen debut anticipation

23:36 AAA championship excitement

26:06 Jarlin Susana pitching in championship

27:41 Rochester's AAA championship excitement

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

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KALSHI
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Gametime
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel.  Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM
 

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Washington Nationals weigh key contract extensions as young stars shape the franchise's future. Could left fielder Daylen Lile be the next cornerstone, or will top prospect Seaver King receive a pre-debut long-term deal? Ryan Clary breaks down POBO Paul Toboni’s latest comments, analyzing why Lile's growth as a clubhouse leader and Seaver King's breakout power make them prime extension targets. As the Nationals build toward another World Series run, rumors swirl that Max Scherzer—a Nationals icon and future Hall of Famer—may be retiring. Clary spotlights Scherzer’s legacy, his place among all-time MLB strikeout leaders, and the emotional farewell baseball fans may soon witness. Don’t miss this strategy-packed look at contract talks, prospect promotions, and what could be Scherzer’s final MLB appearance.

00:00 Extend Daylen Lile!

05:18 Predicting Nationals' contract extensions

07:46 Nationals considering player contracts?

13:16 Extend Seaver King?

19:09 Discussing Seaver King's potential

25:43 Max Scherzer Likely Retiring 

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals 

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Use promo Code LOCKEDON at checkout for 20% off your purchase.  Learn more at https://Stance.com.
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KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. 
 

Gametime
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel.  Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Washington Nationals fans slept on CJ Abrams—and he just became one of MLB’s most electrifying power-speed threats. With 33 home runs, 30 doubles, 30-plus stolen bases, and over 100 RBIs, Abrams joins Pete Crow-Armstrong in a historic statistical club. Ryan Clary questions whether the Nationals can afford to lose such a dynamic presence and explores the front office's next move: extend their breakout star or trade him at peak value? Could the window for keeping Abrams in D.C. already be closing? Clary also spotlights Andrew Alvarez’s rise as a rotation lock for 2027, breaking down the lefty’s elite groundball rates and transformative pitch mix. Plus, the Nationals shake up their international scouting with the hiring of Brian Rogers from the Houston Astros—a move that could reshape player development and restore D.C.’s pipeline of homegrown talent. 

00:00 CJ Abrams' power hitting transformation

06:36 Considering CJ's Future with the Nats

08:54 CJ Abrams' second-half performance

16:13 Andrew Alvarez's potential with better defense

20:01 Andrew Alvarez's potential in Nationals rotation

23:30 Nats Hire New International Scouting Director

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals 

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Indeed
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Odoo
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5-Hour ENERGY
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Stance
Check out the ICON collection from Stance—premium comfort, performance, and durability designed for whatever your day brings. 
Use promo Code LOCKEDON at checkout for 20% off your purchase.  Learn more at https://Stance.com.
Stance. The Official Sock Partner of Major League Baseball.

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. 
 

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel.  Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Washington Nationals’ future rotation takes shape as DJ Herz returns to the mound. Can Herz, alongside Cade Cavalli and Connelly Early, anchor a dominant pitching staff in 2027? Ryan Clary spotlights Herz’s electric arsenal and what his comeback means for Washington’s rebuild, while also addressing the immediate impact of prospect development and organizational strategy. Key topics include the critical Nationals-Tigers series and its major implications for MLB Draft lottery odds, the Rochester Red Wings’ first playoff appearance in 13 years, and how minor league success fuels a winning culture. Ryan Clary breaks down the importance of tanking for draft position, the rise of young arms like Jarlin Susana and Andrew Alvarez, and why learning how to win at Triple-A could be the final piece in the Nationals’ playoff puzzle. Will the Nationals embrace a youth movement and secure a top draft pick to accelerate their return to contention?

00:00 Future potential of DJ Herz

03:13 Connelly Early's pitch development

07:28 Developing Nationals' 2027 pitching rotation

14:41 Discussing Nationals' draft lottery chances

16:26 Pro-tank for draft advantage

24:20 Nats Prospects Learning To Win Is Crucial

27:02 Nationals farm system development

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals 

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Indeed
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Washington Nationals lock up ace Cade Cavalli with a team-friendly deal—could this extension signal a new era of stability and ambition in D.C.? Ryan Clary unpacks the impact of Cavalli’s breakout 3.02 ERA season, the front office’s strategy for rewarding homegrown stars, and the contract’s message to the likes of CJ Abrams, Daylen Lile, and James Wood. Is the Nationals’ young core about to get even stronger? Accountability takes center stage as first-year manager Blake Butera benches James Wood for a lack of hustle, spotlighting a major culture shift for the Nationals clubhouse. Plus, DJ Herz’s inspiring return to the starting rotation after Tommy John surgery adds fresh optimism to the pitching staff, while Connelly Early and Andrew Alvarez spark key discussions on depth and the future of the rotation. 

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals 

00:00 Cade Cavalli's new contract deal

03:10 Signing Cade Cavalli's contract extension

07:29 Nationals' positive structural changes

13:22 James Wood Benched vs STL

17:14 James Wood's leadership approach

23:18 DJ Herz Is BACK!

26:43 DJ Herz's standout 2024 performance

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KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. 
 

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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel.  Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel.  Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM
 

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Washington Nationals secure their future by reportedly locking up ace Cade Cavalli with a long-term extension—the smartest move this front office has made in years. Is this a turning point for the franchise’s rebuild and payroll strategy? Host Ryan Clary breaks down Cavalli’s breakout season, eye-popping second-half stats, and why locking up homegrown talent like Daylen Lile should be the next priority. The conversation explores the Nationals’ shifting approach as key contracts leave the books, the potential impact on future free agency, and how Josiah Gray’s inspiring return from Tommy John surgery reshapes pitching depth. Can Washington now build the foundation for a new era of competitiveness in the NL East?

00:00 Nats Reportedly Extend Cade Cavalli

06:49 Cade Cavalli's impressive second half

12:24 Daylen Lile's Impact on Nationals

22:46 Josiah Gray's Return Potential

26:04 Josiah Gray's pitching strategy

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