Nationals Land Harry Ford, Ruiz's Starting Role in Question
Washington's offseason acquisition of Harry Ford from Seattle signals a potential shift behind the plate, with Keibert Ruiz coming off three poor seasons.
The Nationals acquired catcher Harry Ford from the Mariners in an offseason trade. The move puts pressure on Keibert Ruiz, who posted -1.9 WAR over the past three seasons and ranked as the worst defensive catcher in baseball during that span. Ruiz is under contract through a $50 million, eight-year extension signed in March 2023. His status as the team's primary catcher is now uncertain heading into the season.
More on the Nationals wire.

Nationals Surprise at .500-Plus Through May 2026
Washington enters June one game over .500 at 30-29, defying preseason skepticism about their bullpen, rotation, and offense.
Nationals Shuffle Lineup vs. Padres, Benching Mead for Vivas
Manager Blake Butera makes multiple positional changes to go left-handed heavy against San Diego, shifting Wood and Crews in the outfield.
Curtis Mead Emerges as Nationals' Everyday Third Baseman
Once a struggling prospect, Mead has earned a full-time role in Washington with his bat, validating his pre-prospect hype.

Nationals Land Harry Ford, Ruiz's Starting Role in Question
Washington's offseason acquisition of Harry Ford from Seattle signals a potential shift behind the plate after Ruiz's three-year slump.

Nationals Shuffle Lineup vs. Padres With Crews Back in RF
Manager Blake Butera makes multiple lineup tweaks, slotting Crews back into right field and shifting Wood to designated hitter for the Nats-Padres matchup.

Nationals Land Harry Ford, Clouding Keibert Ruiz's Future
Washington's acquisition of catching prospect Harry Ford from Seattle signals a potential shift away from Ruiz behind the plate.