Shortstop CJ Abrams. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Nationals calling up top prospect C.J. Abrams, key piece to Juan Soto trade

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 8/14/22

The Washington Nationals shocked the baseball world earlier this month, trading away star Juan Soto in a blockbuster trade with the San Diego Padres.

Less than two weeks later, one of the key pieces acquired in the deal is ready to make his Nationals' debut.

According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Nationals are calling shortstop and top prospect C.J. Abrams up to the big leagues.

The Washington Nationals are calling up top prospect C.J. Abrams, one of the main returns in the Juan Soto trade, sources tell ESPN.

Abrams, a 21-year-old shortstop, debuted with the Padres earlier this year. Infielder Luis García is headed to the IL to make room on the roster.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 14, 2022

Abrams and starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore were deemed the most major-league ready out of the haul the Nationals received in exchange for Soto and All-Star first baseman Josh Bell.

Drafted sixth overall in 2019 by the Padres, Abrams made his major league debut for the Friars earlier this year. In 46 games, Abrams batted .232/.285/.320 with two home runs and 11 RBI.

Abrams has been with the Nationals' Triple-A affiliate Rochester since the trade. In eight games with Rochester, Abrams went 9-for-29 while slashing .290/.343/.355.

The call-up of Abrams likely means a stint on the injured list is on tap for infielder Luis Garcia.

On Saturday, manager Dave Martinez said Garcia was day-to-day after leaving Friday night's game with left groin tightness.

Luis García is day to day with a left groin strain and will sit tonight. Dave Martinez said he could pinch-hit if needed, but Ildemaro Vargas will play short and Maikel Franco third.
— Jesse Dougherty (@dougherty_jesse) August 13, 2022