Could the New York Mets provide a draft pick for the Washington Nationals moving forward?

The Washington Nationals, who are coming off another rebuilding season, have something to surprise fans by competing for a Wild Card spot in 2025, much like the New York Mets did, ahead of schedule a few years ago.

Washington’s recent youth movement has already begun to show results as a young core takes shape and develops chemistry that could help them take a big leap forward.

However, one major hurdle remains: unlike the Mets, the Nationals don’t have an MVP like Francisco Lindor to hold the lineup and stabilize the defense. Still, with strategic moves and some breakout performances, Washington could make a Wild Card push sooner than expected.

The Nationals have quietly assembled a promising lineup that includes Keibert Ruiz, C.J. Abrams and two-time rookies James Wood and Dylan Crews, who have each had success this season.

Abrams, in particular, has shown his speed, defense and bat improvement at shortstop, and with continued growth, could be a key spark for the offense if he can recover from his late-season disciplinary demotion.

Meanwhile, Wood and Crews made their debuts in 2024 and gained valuable experience to understand what it takes to succeed in the Major Leagues. If both continue to improve, they could help make up for the lack of a true superstar.

Pitching will also be crucial, and the Nationals have some intriguing young arms.

In 2024, Josiah Gray and MacKenzie Gore showed promise, and if they can take the next step in their development, Washington’s rotation will be much more competitive.

Adding another proven veteran starter in free agency could also help bridge the gap while the young pitchers continue to develop stability.

The bullpen has had its moments this campaign, anchored by closer Kyle Finnegan. If the bullpen can maintain its effectiveness, it will take pressure off the starters and keep the Nationals competitive in rare games — an important factor for a team aiming for a playoff spot.

While the Nationals lack a Lindor-level player, they could make up for it with depth and balance in the lineup.

Washington could also benefit from bringing in a veteran leader who can set the tone in the clubhouse and on the field. Such a presence would help a young team navigate the ups and downs of a potential playoff race.

Ultimately, even though the Nationals have struggled to replicate the Mets’ model, they have the foundation and young energy to surprise in 2025.

With a few targeted additions and development from the inside, Washington could push for a Wild Card spot and possibly make some noise in the postseason sooner than most expect.