
CJ Abrams is getting a new look in the Washington Nationals’ infield as the club continues evaluating its young core down the stretch.
Abrams made his first start of the season at second base Sunday, with manager Blake Butera moving him from shortstop. The change comes after the Nationals spent the past two weeks preparing Abrams for the position switch.
The move also puts rookie Nasim Nuñez at shortstop, giving Washington a different defensive alignment while keeping Abrams’ bat in the lineup.
Nationals’ CJ Abrams is starting today at second base for the first time this season.
— Kyle W (@K_Williamsmedia) August 30, 2026
The original source of the update was Kyle Williams’ verified post on X. Abrams has been one of the Nationals’ most productive hitters this season, making the decision to move him more about finding a better defensive fit than reducing his role.
The 25-year-old entered Sunday with 29 home runs and 92 RBIs through 130 games. His production has made him an important piece of Washington’s long-term plans.
Abrams’ move also comes after a challenging season defensively at shortstop. The Nationals are hoping second base will allow him to continue producing offensively while giving the club another option for improving its infield defense.
The timing makes the move particularly notable. With Washington using the final weeks of the season to evaluate its young players, Abrams will now have an opportunity to establish himself at a different position before the offseason.
For the Nationals, the experiment could ultimately help shape their infield plans for 2027. Abrams remains a major part of the team’s future, and finding the right defensive home for his bat will be an important piece of that process.
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