WASHINGTON — The Washington Nationals made C.J. Abrams available for trade during the 2026 season but ultimately kept him after no team presented an offer compelling enough to meet their asking price. Abrams remained with the club and went on to deliver a standout offensive performance, leading all National League shortstops in virtually every major offensive category.
Abrams posted a .291 batting average, .392 on-base percentage, .544 slugging percentage, and .936 OPS during the 2026 season, along with 12 home runs and 47 RBIs. His performance has led to the decision not to trade him being viewed as one of the most consequential non-moves by Nationals president of baseball operations Paul Toboni in his first season with the team.
Toboni had informed other clubs that Abrams was available but maintained a high standard for any potential return. He also communicated directly with Abrams throughout the process, a practice he said he also used with pitcher MacKenzie Gore. "I told both of them if there’s something out there that just isn’t true, I’ll let you know. And if you have any questions, and there is some truth, we’ll talk about it," Toboni said.
Abrams said the open line of communication helped him stay focused. "It meant a lot," Abrams told USA TODAY Sports. "I was able to ignore things out there because I was in communication with Paul."
Toboni credited Abrams’ dedication for his transformation into one of the league’s top performers. "He was really good before, but now he’s turned himself into an awesome, awesome player. He’s working his tail off," Toboni said. Abrams, who made his first All-Star team in 2024, has continued to build on that success through the 2026 season.