PRIORITY: Why Cade Cavalli Alone Won’t SOLVE The Washington Nationals Rotation Woes

Washington Nationals weigh high-stakes offseason moves as Cade Cavalli’s emergence isn’t enough to fill the rotation gap. Should the front office target Shota Imanaga or Shane Bieber to anchor the starting staff, or is bullpen help more critical after the team’s record 42 blown saves in 2026? Ryan Clary breaks down the pros and cons of big-name pitching additions, reveals why starting pitching trumps relief upgrades for the Nationals’ playoff ambitions, and spotlights Foster Griffin’s breakout with the Cleveland Guardians. Analysis covers player development timelines, payroll predictions, and the ripple effect on Josiah Gray, Ben Grable, and DJ Herz’s roles. With hot takes on reliever depth and trade targets, Clary poses the big question: will Washington finally make the bold moves needed to shift from rebuild to contender?

00:00 More Pressing Need: Starting Pitching Or Bullpen?

04:08 Discussing Nationals' pitching options

08:38 Nationals' pitching strategy discussion

13:27 Nationals' pitching priorities debate

14:30 Improving Nationals' pitching depth

18:48 Nationals' pitching challenges and changes

20:47 Foster Griffin postseason performance

24:41 Foster Griffin's unexpected success

Follow Ryan Clary on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ryanclary11

Follow Locked On Nationals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LO_Nationals 

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