Washington Nationals vs. Houston Astros - February 24, 2024

New Astros GM Randy Flores has an ironic connection to sordid Cardinals hacking scandalThe Houston Astros have their new GM in Randy Flores, but he come with some Cardinals connections that are anything but new to long-time Astros fans.

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Offseason Update: Oct. 31, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesWith all the games rained out yesterday (this is Arizona, right?), time to go right into the next season review. The 2026 Wilmington Blue Rocks The players that helped the '26 FredNats win 46 in the first half moved on to the Blue Rocks and helped the Nats' High-A affiliate to a 38-28 mark in

Instant reactions to Astros hiring Randy Flores as general managerThose of you paying attention will realize that the picture above is not new Houston Astros general manager Randy Flores. That is Mike Rizzo formerly of the Was

Nationals Claim Pitcher from Giants

Nationals Communications

@NationalsComms

The Nationals have announced the following roster moves: -Claimed RHP Braxton Roxby off outright waivers from the San Francisco Giants. -Designated RHP Zak Kent for assignment.

Astros' GM search reaches boiling point (with a potential complication)I should say out front that I am not an insider or a newsbreaker. I follow the reporting just like everyone else and some of the reporting is speculative and so

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Astros Hire Randy Flores as GMHouston fills vacant position with former Cardinals exec (Heyman)

Astros News: Ryan Weiss decision, Red Sox & Pirates steal coaches, Lance McCullers Jr.With the World Series now in the rearview mirror, the Major League Baseball offseason is officially underway, and the Houston Astros are already making moves. A

Predicting MLB Teams' Qualifying Offers 🔮Examining if the top players will accept or reject what their respective teams propose 📲

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Remembering the Washington Nationals 2019 World Series title seven years laterThe Nationals won the World Series 7 years ago today. Here is what makes that moment so special for me

MLB Power Rankings Entering Free Agency 🔢Where the Nationals stand heading into the offseason ➡️

Ranking 10 Most Likely 1st-Time Champions 🏆Looking at which teams are most likely to follow the Brewers' path to glory ➡️

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Jarlin Susana just dominated the Arizona Fall League with his second-best pitchThe Arizona Fall League has been in action and one National has stood tall. That is, Jarlin Susana. The Nationals' No. 4 prospect is cited as throwing absolute

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AFL Update: Oct. 30, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesSalt River's early 1-0 lead went buh-bye as Mesa torched the Rafters relievers for 15 runs from the 3rd to the 5th en route to a 21-5 demolition. As per usual this fall, three Nationals appeared in the game: Teo Banks was the #7 batter and started in centerfield but went 0-for-3 with a walk

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Tatsuya Imai's decision on his Astros option doesn't change his uncertain futureThe Houston Astros still don't have a general manager, but that could change at any minute now that executives from the Milwaukee Brewers have free time on thei

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Brad Lord and Orlando Ribalta were the Washington Nationals steadiest relievers in 2026The 2026 Nats did not get much reliability in the bullpen, but Orlando Ribalta and Brad Lord were relatively consistent

Imai Expected to Opt InAstros starter set to make $18.7M next season (Heyman)

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Astros zeroing in on stealing Brewers exec for GM role as contract details remain in fluxThe Houston Astros appear close to ending their search for a new general manager, assuming that Matt Kleine actually takes the job.

Everything to Know on Lockout and Key Upcoming Dates ⚾Outlining what to watch for during the MLB offseason ➡️

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Examining the state of the Washington Nationals 40-man roster entering the offseasonAs we enter the offseason, this is what the Nationals 40-man roster looks like at the moment

Way-Too-Early 2027 MLB Playoff Predictions 🔮Looking ahead to how the Nationals could fare next season ➡️

1 Player Every Team Should Re-Sign in Free Agency 💰Who the Astros must prioritize bringing back 📲

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Complete list of Astros 2026-27 free agents and their outlookThe MLB offseason has arrived, and the Astros have a myriad of decisions ahead, not the least of which is centered around their impending free agents.

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3 Washington Nationals players poised to break out in 2027This past season for the Washington Nationals saw Cade Cavalli establish himself as the ace of the rotation and it showed that CJ Abrams and James Wood are two

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AFL Update: Oct. 29, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesThe Rafters bounced back from Tuesday's defenestration to shut out the Scorpions, 4-0 on three hits. Three Nationals appeared in the game: Kevin Bazzell started behind the plate on defense and went 1-for-2 with two walks on the left side of it on offense. Teo Banks was in right field and was 1-for-3 with a

MLB's New Winning Formula 🏆Brewers title proves there's another path to World Series success

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Best World Series Moments of Modern Era 🏆Ranking the 10 most memorable Fall Classic moments of the last 25 years 📲

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Lingering Jeremy Peña question will be Astros' biggest decision of the offseasonWe have mentioned a ton of decisions as we move position by position on the diamond, but they all are leading up to this decision. What do the Houston Astros do

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Luke Williams has the potential to be a breakout prospect for the Washington Nationals in 2027The Nats third round pick has the athleticism and raw tools to become a huge riser with a strong 2027 campaign

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Will Jake Irvin be on the Washington Nationals in 2027?Jake Irvin has been a mainstay for the Nats but after another difficult season, he could be a non-tender candidate

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Pitching Wild MLB Trade Ideas 😮The stunning moves that could actually happen this offseason ➡️

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Astros interviewing long-maligned former Nationals GM for front office vacancyAs the World Series wages on after a surprising extra innings victory from the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday night, the offseason will have to wait another night. W

Latest MLB Rumors 👂

👀 Manager openings ♨️ Free agent buzz 📳 LIVE with insider Jon Heyman

MLB Player Choice Awards 🗳️Peer voting results here 📲

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AFL Update: Oct. 28, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesThe Rafters used up all their runs on Monday as the Desert Dogs shut them out, 1-0 yesterday afternoon. Jarlin Susana started and pitched five full innings, no-hitting Glendale for four and a 1/3rd innings before he gave up a double. He was charged with the loss as he let in the sole run on

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Former Washington Nationals GM Mike Rizzo getting interviewed by the AstrosThe long time Nationals GM is interviewing with the club he beat in the 2019 World Series

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B/R's 2026 All-MLB Team ⭐Who we selected for our squad of this year's best hitters and pitchers ➡️

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Astros interviewing Nationals' Mike Rizzo throws significant wrench in Matt Kleine's GM pursuitThe Houston Astros interviewed Mike Rizzo for their GM vacancy, throwing a wrench into the idea that Matt Kleine is the favorite for the job.

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Three under the radar free agent pitchers I like for the Washington NationalsDavid Peterson, Kris Bubic and Kyle Hart are three sleeper pitching free agents I like for the Nationals

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Astros hire new director of hitting from Guardians, but MLB insider smells a ratThe Houston Astros have now installed a new director of hitting and a director of pitching, but have yet to hire a general manager. What gives?

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AFL Update: Oct. 27, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesApparently, there is no mercy rule in the AFL as Salt River scored in each of its "ups" in a 20-4 defenestration of Surprise. Teo Banks was the sole National in the Rafters starting lineup. The 23-y.o. Texan batted 7th and started in left field. He went 2-for-4 with two runs scored and two RBI,

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Adrian Morejon is the bullpen addition the Washington Nationals desperately needThe flamethrowing reliever is the most direct way to upgrading Washington’s bullpen

Bold MLB Predictions For Offseason 🔮Wild moves we could see this winter 📲

Top 10 Hitters in Free Agency 💥How landscape looks for teams in search of a big bat in 2027 📲

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Where are the starters from the Washington Nationals World Series winning team now?It has almost been 7 years since the Nationals won the World Series. I took a look at where the starters are now

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Scouting is True World Series MVP 👀Brewers, Rays prove there's still room for old-school scouting 📲

What To Make Of The Washington Nationals Catching UnitAnalyzing the 5 Nats catchers most likely to make a big league impact in 2027

AFL Update: Oct. 25, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesThe Saguaros got three in the 4th and single runs in the 6th and 7th and held off a late charge to sink the Rafters, 5-3. Just two Nationals position players appeared in the game. ● Kevin Bazzell was the starting backstop and went 1-for-3 with a double at the plate from the #6 spot

Astros may have struck gold with undrafted 19-year-old pitching prospect Jagger BeckBeck had a breakthrough campaign for Class A Fayetteville

Important dates for Nationals fans to know in the 2026-27 MLB offseasonThe MLB offseason is almost here, bringing a mixed bag of emotions for baseball fans. Some fans are excited to see who their favorite team will sign or trade fo

Colt Stadium Gets Marker 📍

Houston Astros

@astros

A piece of Houston baseball history is officially marked forever. Yesterday, a Texas Historical Marker was unveiled at Reliant Park honoring Colt Stadium, the original home of Houston's Major League Baseball franchise, the Houston Colt .45s. Congrats to SABER for making this

These three Washington Nationals relievers could break out in 2027Yovanny Cruz, Riley Cornelio and Luis Perales all have elite stuff and could break out if the command develops

Manfred Defends Salary CapMLB commissioner uses Brewers vs. Rays World Series matchup as reason to push proposed change

Nationals Minor League Offseason Update: Oct. 24, 2026With no Arizona Fall League game yesterday, we continue our series of season reviews with the 2026 edition of the Low-A Fredericksburg Nationals

How should Astros solve their third base logjam when Carlos Correa returns?The Houston Astros have to move pieces around to accommodate Isaac Paredes and Carlos Correa at third base.

Thrilling WS Game 1 🍿Highlights, storylines and reaction from Brewers 3-2 win over Rays 📲

Ranking Every Player in World Series 🔢A closer look at each hitter and pitcher on the Rays and Brewers ➡️

Miguel Sime Jr. exceeded expectations in his first season in the Washington Nationals systemNats 4th rounder Miguel Sime Jr. still has control issues but his stuff was too hot for lower minors hitters to handle

Top prospect Travis Sykora is a wild card for the Washington Nationals in 2027Travis Sykora returns from Tommy John Surgery next season. Here is what to expect from the Nats elite pitching prospect

Former Nationals outfielder has fortuitous chance to win World Series ringThe World Series begins tonight, Friday, October 23rd. The matchup pits two small-market, low-payroll teams against each other: the Milwaukee Brewers and the Wa

AFL Update: Oct. 23, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesSalt River erased an early 2-0 lead to take a 5-2 lead but the 'pen collapsed for a 15-7 loss to Scottsdale. Teo Banks was the sole National to appear in the starting lineup. He went 3-for-4 with a walk and a stolen base to push his fall line to a Nintendo-esque .400/.438/.659 in 14

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Astros Could Soon Face a $200 Million Contract Decision

Will the Washington Nationals make any big moves before the lockout?With the lockout looming, could Paul Toboni make big moves before the work stoppage buzzer

Next MLB Players to Sign $200M Contracts 💰Assessing how CJ Abrams and James Wood are set to cash in over the coming years 📲

World Series Predictions 🔮Full Rays vs. Brewers preview with both teams chasing first title ever 📲

Blake Butera retains his entire coaching staff for his second season as Washington Nationals managerThe Nats are keeping the same coaching staff but 2027 will be a big year for pitching coach Simon Mathews

Breaking down Astros' offseason options on the second base market, from expensive to cheapA lot of this offseason is the continuation of thought. Last time, we took a look at the wisdom of moving Jose Altuve into the primary DH position. In that scen

Washington Nationals in the AFL Update: Oct. 22, 2026The Rafters rallied for three in the 5th and four in the 4th as they stung the Scorpions, 7-5. Jarlin Susana made the start and let in a run on one hit and three hits over three innings. He struck out six. Kevin Bazzell, perhaps still starstruck by his batterymate, also started and went 0-for-2

Astros insider floats manager candidate that would infuriate the Angels (and we are here for it)The Houston Astros need a new manager. If they hire Albert Pujols for the job, it would certainly raise eyebrows and cause the Angels to throw a fit.

Brandon Lowe could be Nats’ top target if they decide to make free agency splashThe former Pirate could make the Washington Nationals offense even better

Latest MLB Rumors 👂

🗣️ Yankees leadership updates 👀 Phillies eyeing Japanese star 📳 LIVE with insider Jon Heyman

The Rays and Brewers both rely heavily on trades, which is a guide for the Washington NationalsThis World Series matchup shows how important trades can be in building a championship caliber roster

Top 5 Nationals players who helped define my love for the franchise through the yearsAs I write my last article for District on Deck, I can't help but look back fondly upon my love for the franchise that I cover here. I moved to the Washington,

Unbreakable World Series Records 🔒Seven accomplishments players can only dream of surpassing ➡️

Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ Landing Spots 🛬Ranking where Cubs' top free agents could be headed this offseason 📲

AFL Update: Oct. 21, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesAfter blowing an early 3-0 lead, erasing a 9-3 deficit, and twice tying the game late, Salt River was walked off in the 9th for an 11-10 loss. Teo Banks was the sole National to appear on the game. Washington's 18th Rd. pick in the 2024 FYPD homered twice, scored thrice, and drove in four

What will Yohandy Morales’ role be for the Washington Nationals in 2027?Yohandy Morales did nothing but rake in 2026, but his role entering 2027 remains uncertain despite his production

Teruaki Sato Landing Spots📍Why the White Sox would be a terrific fit for the Japanese star 📲

Teams That Must Spend Big in Free Agency💰Breaking down which franchises need to make major investments this winter ➡️

Astros Rumors: Houston appears to be circling top Brewers exec during search for new GMThe Houston Astros' search for a new general manager appears to be narrowing in focus, with Matt Kleine emerging as a top candidate.

Even more relievers the Nationals could pursue in free agency this offseasonWe're starting to get into the weeds now. Two weeks ago, I ran a piece detailing five potential free agent relief targets the Nationals could pursue this upcomi

Five 2026 Washington Nationals pitchers you might have forgotten aboutThe Washington Nationals used 41 pitchers in the 2026 season, here are five of the most forgettable ones

Aaron Boone returning to Yankees shows how dire Astros' pre-lockout manager market really isWith Aaron Boone returning to the Yankees, the Houston Astros are already running out of options to replace Joe Espada.

AFL Update: Oct. 20, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesThe Rafters led from start to finish as they neutered the Desert Dogs, 7-1. Three Washington players appeared in the game: Kevin Bazzell batted seventh and caught the game. He went 1-for-3 with a single to improve his Fall BA to .350 Teo Banks was the #9 batter and started in right field. He was

Updated MLB Postseason Picture 🏆And then there were two 📲

The Washington Nationals need to spend money this offseasonThe Washington Nationals have not spent money in many years. Mark Lerner and team ownership need to change that

MLB Qualifying Offer Rises 📈Price for this year's free agents is highest since system was implemented in 2012 (AP)

2 free agents the Nationals should sign to instantly improve their offenseWith the Washington Nationals season over it’s time to look ahead to free agency. Although the Nats missed the playoffs for the seventh consecutive season there

It's time for Jim Crane to accept that the Astros need a rebuildThe golden era of Astros baseball was truly something special. Seven straight ALCS appearances, four World Series appearances and two World Series titles. It wa

Will the Washington Nationals trade Jacob Young this offseason?With rumors of the Yankees being interested in Jacob Young, I took a look at whether moving him makes sense for the Nats

A Possible Trade Made by Every Team This Offseason ⚾What the Astros could do to bolster their roster ➡️

Ranking Most Lopsided Trades in Recent MLB History 🔢Looking back on the move that the Astros capitalized on 📲

Should Yankees Target Jacob Young? 🤔Tap to find out why the Nats CF could help end New York's World Series drought 📲

AFL Update: Oct. 18, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesSalt River got one in the 1st and two in the 3rd, either of which would be enough as five pitchers combined on a 5-0, six-hit shutout in seven inings. Just two Nationals appeared in the game: Teo Banks came in on defense in the 5th and grounded out in 7th. He had one putout.

Washington Nationals prospect Alejandro Rosario is finally throwing againAlejandro Rosario was the most mysterious piece of the Gore trade but also the one with the most upside. Now he is back

Billy the Kid 🐐

Houston Astros

@astros

H-Town Legend 🤘 Earlier this week, Billy Wagner was inducted into the @HC_HSA Hall of Fame alongside Houston sports legends JJ Watt and Brian Ching!

3 Nationals you won't see back on the team next yearThere was a lot of good last year for the Washington Nationals -- the emergence of Cade Cavalli, CJ Abrams and James Wood establishing themselves as All-Stars,

FAs Who Need Change of Scenery 🔁8 MLB players who could develop into superstars on a new team

Nationals Minor League AFL/Offseason Update: Oct. 17, 2026The results from yesterday's game in the Arizona Fall League, plus a review of the 2026 Florida Complex League team for the Nats

The Washington Nationals Were Dangerous On The Base Paths In 2026The Nats vastly improved on the base paths in 2026 compared to previous seasons

MLB Contract Predictions 🔮Projecting 10 biggest deals in free agency 📲

3 Nationals roster moves from 2026 that transpired far better than expectedAs I reflect on the 2026 Nationals season, I see it as a half-full glass. The team did not make the playoffs, but they accomplished great things. Specifically,

Jose Altuve's future is the most delicate question of the Astros' offseasonThere are important questions every offseason. There are impactful questions every offseason. Yet, there is one question that is the most uncomfortable question

Most Expensive Payrolls That Didn't Win World Series 🏆The teams that invested the most but failed to live up to expectations 📲

Ranking Tarik Skubal's Top Landing Spots 🛬Where the two-time Cy Young Award winner could be headed in free agency 📲

3 primary Joe Espada concerns Astros must consider as they seek their next managerI make no bones about the fact that I was not Joe Espada's biggest fan. That makes me somewhat different than most of the people around these parts. The common

AFL Update: Oct. 16, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesSalt River battled back from deficits of 4-0 and 5-1 to take leads of 8-7 and 9-8 before Mesa scorched them for five in the 10th to hand them a 14-9 loss. Here's how the five Nationals who appeared in the game did: Teo Banks got the start in right field and went 3-for-5 with

10 Most Expensive Memorabilia Sales of 2026 🤑It has been a eye-opening year for purchasing sports cards ➡️

New Managerial Moves 👀

MLB insider Jon Heyman breaks down latest on Mattingly and Espada

New Offseason Rumors ♨️

MLB insider Jon Heyman discusses latest buzz around players

Daylen Lile named Gold Glove finalist for first time after dramatic improvementThe offseason is in full swing for the Washington Nationals, as the team is doing the same thing that 26 other MLB teams are doing: sitting on the couch at home

New MLB Rumors 👂

🫨 Latest manager buzz 👀 Ohtani's postseason outlook 📳 LIVE with insider Jon Heyman

MLB salary arbitration: How does it work, and which Nationals are eligible?As the Nationals offseason gets into gear, one of the biggest questions facing every team is how to approach their players eligible for arbitration. If you're n

Daylen Lile’s impressive defensive season rewarded with an NL Gold Glove nominationDaylen Lile worked hard to improve defensively after a rough 2025. Now the Nationals LF is a gold glove finalist

Gold Glove Finalists RevealedPCA and Vladdy headline nominees. Full list here 📲

🚨 Astros Dismiss Joe EspadaHouston parting ways with manager after Wild Card exit

MLB Free Agents to Avoid ⚠️Buyer beware on these players hitting the market 📲

Erik Tolman and Jack Sinclair emerged as homegrown relief options for the Washington NationalsIt was an ugly season for the Nats bullpen but Erik Tolman and Jack Sinclair showed promising flashes late in the year

Every MLB Team's Best Player Under 25 ⭐Assessing Houston's top young talent who can elevate the franchise ➡️

AFL Update: Oct. 14, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesThe Rafters blew leads of 3-2 and 5-3 but prevailed in extras to win 6-5 over the Desert Dogs. Teo Banks once again made the start, this time in right field and in the #8 slot. He went 3-for-5 with a two-run homer that gave Salt River a 5-3 lead in the 6th. Defensively, he

Andrew Alvarez pitched his way into the Washington Nationals future plans this yearAndrew Alvarez was not expected to be part of the Nats future rotation but he has forced the issue with a great season

Astros May Have Found Their Next Breakout Starting Pitcher in Ethan PeckoThe Astros rookie starter could be a big (and cost effective) boon to a rotation that has been ravaged by injuries for three straight seasons.

M's Eyeing Astros Manager 😮Joe Espada to meet with division rival about managerial position (MLB.com)

Astros appear to be moving on from Joe Espada as Mariners interview report sends clear signalIt is becoming evident that the Houston Astros will have a full regime change in 2027

MLB Offseason Predictions 🔮Early takes on big FA signings and trades to expect 📲

Former Nationals All-Star pitcher performs admirably in first career ALCS startThe Washington Nationals might be already trying to figure out what their offseason is going to look like, but that doesn't mean that guys who used to be in the

The Washington Nationals have built up a very deep farm system under Paul ToboniThe Nats farm system is in a very healthy state after the first year of Paul Toboni’s regime

Astros face a $20 million Christian Walker dilemma: Why trading him could make Houston betterThe Houston Astros have an important decision to make at first base.

AFL Update: Oct. 13, 2026 - News and Notes on the Nationals Minor LeaguesTwo of the three games in the Arizona Fall League game were posptponed due to "expected weather" (as opposed to "unexpected weather?") an undisclosed date, presumably in the future. The game between Salt River and Mesa was one of those games. The Rafters venture to Glendale this afternoon to play the Desert Dogs. R.J. Sales

New Truths from NLCS, ALCS 🧐What we learned after Brewers take 2-0 lead, Guardians win Game 1 ➡️

Family Bikes to 30 MLB Parks ❤️Dad and son covered nearly 10,000 miles to every team's stadium for charity 🎥

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How Allen-Dubon Deal is Today 🔍Astros shed salary in preseason trade 📲

Nationals prospect Jarlin Susana is at the Arizona Fall League throwing heat in the desertJarlin Susana has lit up the Arizona Fall League with his insane velocity and good enough strike throwing

WTF Happened to Stephen Strasburg? 🤔

Former No. 1 overall pick and World Series champion only played 8 games after signing $245M contract with Nationals 🤯