What two major additions could mean for Nationals in top-heavy NL East

Lowe, 29, who played for the Texas Rangers the past four seasons, is coming off one of the best seasons of his career, with an on-base percentage of .361, the highest in a season for him. 

Lowe's defensive prowess earned him a Gold Glove just a season ago, making him a crucial asset at first base. However, with Bell and Lowe vying for the same position, the Nationals will need juggle their lineup effectively to fit in both players.

The most likely scenario would see Lowe taking on the primary role at first base, while Bell could serve as the designated hitter. This arrangement would allow the Nationals to maximize the strengths of both players while keeping their defense strong. 

Despite the two acquisitions, the Nationals face an uphill battle in the competitive NL East. Per FanDuel, the projected over/under win totals for the 2025 season paint a challenging picture for Washington:

Atlanta Braves: 94.5 wins
Philadelphia Phillies: 92.5 wins
New York Mets: 91.5 wins
Washington Nationals: 70.5 wins
Miami Marlins: 63.5 wins

The additions of Lowe and Bell will bolster the lineup —- Washington finished 10th in the NL in batting average last season (.243) — but it may not be enough to bridge the gap between them and the division's top contenders. 

However, baseball is a game of surprises, and the impact of these new acquisitions could extend beyond mere statistics. The presence of experienced, high-caliber players such as Lowe and Bell could inspire the rest of the young ballclub.

While the road to the top of the NL East is steep, the addition of the two first basemen give the Nationals more of a chance. As the season unfolds, the true impact of these acquisitions will be revealed.