CJ Abrams Demoted by Nationals amid Rumors 2024 MLB All-Star Was at Casino Until 8 AM

Despite only having one week remaining in the 2024 MLB season, the Washington Nationals made an interesting move to demote All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams.

Nationals manager Davey Martinez confirmed the move prior to Saturday's game against the Chicago Cubs, noting it wasn't a performance-based move. He didn't provide any additional information.

The Athletic's Britt Ghiroli first reported the Nationals were optioning Abrams to the minors. He will report to the team's spring-training facility in Florida to workout with other members of the Triple-A team in the event they are needed before the end of the season.

General manager Mike Rizzo addressed the rumors that Abrams was at a casino in Chicago until the early morning hours prior to Friday's game that started at 1:20 p.m. local time.

Martinez emphasized the move was made due to "an internal issue" and not anything related to Abrams' on-field performance.

Abrams is making $752,400 this season as a pre-arbitration player. ESPN's Jesse Rogers reported the demotion will cost him around $30,000, but he would potentially file a grievance through the MLB Players Association for lost pay if he feels the move is unjust.

The Nationals' Triple-A team, based in Rochester, New York, has games on Saturday and Sunday to end its season.

Abrams had a breakout 2024 for the Nationals that resulted in him being named to the NL All-Star team. He hit .268/.343/.489 with 15 homers and 15 stolen bases in 89 appearances before the All-Star break.

In 49 games since the break, Abrams is only hitting .203/.260/.326 with five homers and 16 stolen bases. He was finishing the season strong with a .271/.308/.458 slash line in 52 plate appearances this month.

The Nationals acquired Abrams from the San Diego Padres in August 2022 as part of the Juan Soto trade. He has been their full-time starting shortstop since the deal.

Washington has eight games remaining in the regular season, including Saturday's matchup with the Cubs. The team has already been eliminated from playoff contention with a 68-86 record.