Crews' Health Key to Nats' Rebuild

0:00You're listening to Washington Nationals News today. Subscribe now for fast daily updates on your team. Washington Nationals fans head into the new baseball season with low hopes after a tough 2025 campaign. The team took a big step back, shifting focus from winning now to building through young talent. Outfielder Dylan Cruz stands out as a player to watch closely. Earlier this week, the 24-year-old got hidden the thumb by a pitch during batting practice. He missed Sunday's lineup, but X-rays came back negative. Now he's his day-to-day with a contusion, which is a relief for the Nats. Fans feel the sting of the rebuild, with expectations dialed way down. The organization cleaned house last year and traded pitcher Mackenzie Gore in January. More moves could come, by possibly dealing shortstop CJ Abrams by 2026. Cruz, the number 2 pick from the 2023 draft, missed nearly three months last season with an oblique injury. In 85 games, he hit just 0.208 with 10 home runs and 27 RBIs.

1:04A full healthy year could change everything. Meanwhile, he's teaming up with all-star outfielder James Wood as cornerstones. If Cruz shakes off the setback and finds his swing, it could light the way for Washington's next chapter. The Daily News Now is powered by our sponsor, Link in the description. No need to switch positions. The sound is already where your head is, S-O-L-I-N-E-I-SoliPillow.com.