The Washington Nationals made several transactions before this year’s MLB trade deadline, primarily focusing on their pitching staff. Four pitchers—Michael Soroka, Andrew Chafin, Luis Garcia, and Kyle Finnegan—were traded in three separate deals, while only two position players, outfielder Alex Call and utilityman Amed Rosario, changed teams. Despite speculation about first baseman Nathaniel Lowe, designated hitter Josh Bell, and veteran infielder Paul DeJong, no trades involving those players occurred.

Josh Bell’s Role Grows Despite Uncertain Nationals Future

Among the rumored players, Nathaniel Lowe remains under team control beyond 2025, prompting interim manager Miguel Cairo to make several strategic decisions about playing time. Bell’s future with the Nationals is uncertain as he is expected to become a free agent again this offseason. However, unlike previous seasons since 2021, Bell was not traded before this deadline, partly due to a slow start in 2025 that reduced league interest. His improved performance in July has convinced Cairo to keep Bell more involved in the lineup.

“He’s been one of our good hitters, and he’s going to be playing,”

Cairo explained.

“He’s going to be DHing. I’m going to mix it up with giving some time to Woody as DH. Against lefties, I’m going to put someone else to be DH, a right-handed hitter. I’m going to mix it up the best I can. I’m going to try to put the best matchup against any pitcher they would put in there.”

—Miguel Cairo, Nationals Interim Manager

Expanding Bell’s Playing Time at First Base

Sunday’s game against the Milwaukee Brewers marked only the fifth time Bell started at first base this season. Despite Cleveland’s preference for a left-handed-heavy lineup to give left fielder James Wood a rest, Washington kept Bell in the lineup over Lowe, with Wood taking the designated hitter spot. This decision confirms Bell’s increasing role as an everyday player, especially as the Nationals seek to balance playing veterans with developing younger talent.

Youth Movement and Roster Development Amidst Veteran Presence

While Bell remains a regular contributor, the Nationals are also focusing on evaluating younger players such as Daylen Lile, Jacob Young, and Robert Hassell III by providing them more opportunities to play. The upcoming return of prospect Dylan Crews will introduce additional lineup considerations for Cairo, as Washington attempts to blend experience and youth while maintaining competitive flexibility.

Implications for Nationals’ Season and Strategy

The decision to expand Josh Bell’s responsibilities during the season highlights the Nationals’ balancing act between building for the future and maximizing current roster resources. Bell’s established hitting and positional versatility provide stability as the team evaluates its young talent. Moving forward, how the Nationals manage playing time among Bell, Lowe, and emerging players will be critical, especially if health and performance remain steady.