Nationals Option CJ Abrams to Minor Leagues

The Washington Nationals have optioned All-Star shortstop C.J. Abrams to the Triple-A Rochester Red Wings for the final week of the season, citing internal issues rather than performance as the reason for the move. Despite a strong first half, in which he batted .268 with 15 home runs, Abrams struggled significantly in the second half, posting a .203 average. Reports suggest his late-night outing at a casino prior to a day game may have influenced the decision, though manager Davey Martinez declined to specify the reasons for the demotion. Abrams was seen as a key player for the Nationals, acquired in the Juan Soto trade, and had recently shown improvement, hitting .324 in the last two weeks. Martinez emphasized that the demotion is not performance-based, as Abrams has been a building block for the team. He will work out in West Palm Beach until the season concludes.