Nationals Face Decision on Catcher Keibert Ruiz After Bounceback Season

The Washington Nationals are evaluating their options regarding catcher Keibert Ruiz after he experienced a bounceback season in 2026. The team, which won the World Series in 2019, has been in rebuild mode since trading key players like Max Scherzer and Trea Turner in 2021.

Ruiz, who was acquired as part of the Scherzer trade, signed an eight-year extension in 2023. His performance declined in 2024 and 2025, but he improved in 2026, posting a .280 batting average and better defensive metrics. Despite this, the Nationals have added catching prospect Harry Ford, raising questions about Ruiz's future.

With the Nationals' pitching staff struggling and the offense showing potential, the team must decide whether to trade Ruiz while his value is up or keep him as a safety net for Ford, who is still developing. Other teams may have alternative catching options available, complicating the decision.