Nationals' Lineup Shakeup: New Staff, Old Challenges

0:00You're listening to Washington Nationals News today. Subscribe now for fast daily updates on your team. The Washington Nationals are just 10 days from opening day at Wrigley Field against the Chicago Cubs. After a busy offseason with major changes, the team is ramping up final preparations. Starting pictures are going deeper into gangs, and hitters are getting 3-4 ad bats each interest squad match-up. Key positional battles are shaping the lineup. At catcher, Keybert Ruiz looks set to start. Thanks to his long-term contract through 2030. That move keeps Riley Ford and the minors for extra service time. Over at first base, Luis Garcia Jr. has earned the spot with strong spring play there, shifting the seam Nunez to second base for better defense. The Nationals infilled struggle badly last year, so prioritizing defenders like Nunez makes sense. Fans wanted prospect avamelequarties at first, but his rough spring with a low on base plus lugging has managers holding off. Outfield alignment is trickier with James Wood, Dailin Lyle, Dylan Cruz, and Jacob Young,

1:05all pushing for spots. Only three can play the field, so one designated hitter roll is that for grabs. Wood and Lyle both had defensive issues last season, but Lyle might get more time and left field to build on his minor league skills. Expect the new staff under Blake Snicker to surprise with lineup choices right away. They will lean on top on base guys like Leal and Wood early, even stacking left handed bats against the Cubs lefty starter. Winds may be tough, but better defense could help turn things around. This episode is supported by our sponsor, C Details in the description. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone. Lay back and listen, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com