Washington Nationals set their sights on a new era as top prospect Eli Willits becomes the centerpiece of their rebuilding hopes. Is Willits destined to be the next franchise cornerstone, or will lofty expectations prove too much for the number one overall pick? Ryan Clary examines the Nationals' revamped player development system and weighs the risks around ace lefty MacKenzie Gore’s future. The conversation explores trade scenarios, including fit with contenders like the Yankees, Brewers, and Giants, and questions whether holding onto Gore might cost Washington crucial value. Dive into analysis of the farm system’s depth, MLB draft strategy, and the impact of recent front office changes shaping the Nationals’ long-term trajectory.

0:00 "Eli Willits: Nationals' Top Prospect"

03:14 "Eli Willits: Nationals' Top Talent"

08:18 Nationals' Challenge: Developing Eli Willets

12:26 "Why Mackenzie Gore Stays"

15:59 "Nationals' Gamble on Gore's Value"

17:30 Nationals' Risky Trade Decisions

20:16 Nationals' Talent, Strategy, and Risks

24:06 Mackenzie Gore Trade Implications

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern. FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.