The Nationals came into Wrigley Field on a windy, chilly afternoon against the Chicago Cubs, trotted out an unorthodox lineup and left with a 10-4 victory.

Even in what will likely be a season with more losses than wins, there are important storylines to follow. Here’s what we’re watching for from the Nationals this season.

Fans can purchase in-market streaming packages for Nationals.TV for $99.99 a year or $19.99 per month.

Can the Orioles return to winning after a 2025 debacle? How will the team look under new manager Craig Albernaz?

Washington acquired infielder Jorbit Vivas in a trade with the New York Yankees on Sunday afternoon, but most of its roster spots were decided before the team left West Palm Beach. With Vivas, the Nationals will carry seven infielders.

The Banner spoke with six scouts from opposing clubs to take stock of the Orioles’ strengths and weaknesses.

Washington’s farm system looks vastly different than it did this time last year. There’s been an influx of talent acquired through trades and the draft, a revamped coaching staff and an implementation of new technology.

Gray, 28, underwent Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery, including an internal brace procedure, in July 2024

The Nationals also optioned 2019 first-round pick Jackson Rutledge to Rochester.

On Thursday, Yannis Charles and Eugene Harney will make history as the first NCAA qualifiers in Morgan State’s Division I era, after the program had been on a hiatus for over two decades.