What you need to know about James Wood
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WASHINGTON -- Mark your calendars. The start of your week is also the start of James Wood’s Major League career.
The Nationals' top prospect is expected to make his debut on Monday night at Nationals Park in the series opener against the Mets. Wood has powered his way through the Minors, and now the time has come for him to showcase his tools on the big stage.
Here are some key questions and answers, with more to follow as we get closer to game day.
How can you watch the game?
Monday’s Nationals vs. Mets game begins at 6:45 p.m. ET. It will be shown on MLB Network, MLB.TV and MASN and can be heard on 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7. For tickets to the game, click here.
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What position will Wood play?
With Lane Thomas in right field and Jacob Young in center field, Wood is likely to play left field. Having played center field for the majority of his Minor League career, Wood has been getting reps in left this season. He has made 22 starts (164 innings) at the corner spot entering Saturday.
Who will have to move in the outfield to make room?
Left fielder Jesse Winker can shift to the designated-hitter role or see time at first base. The Nationals will have to make a roster move to clear a spot for Wood. Outfielder Eddie Rosario, who is batting .183 with a .555 OPS, could be impacted.
Why is this happening now?
It has not been a question of if but when Wood would debut this season. He has recovered from an IL stint (hamstring) and returned to power form. Through 52 games this season, Wood is slashing .353/.463/.595 with 10 home runs, 37 RBIs and 10 stolen bases entering Saturday.
The Nationals, meanwhile, are struggling to find consistent offense. They have recorded the fourth-fewest runs and second-fewest homers in the NL with a need for run support for their starting staff.
How highly is Wood rated?
MLB Pipeline ranked Wood as Washington's No. 1 prospect and No. 3 overall in baseball. His scouting grades are hit: 50, power: 70, run: 60, arm: 55, field: 55, overall: 65.
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Will he play every day?
Yes. The Nationals have emphasized they are not going to call up a prospect for the sake of it, and there would need to be a clear path for consistent playing time so he can continue his development.
How did Wood get here?
Wood, from Rockville, Md., attended high school at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. He was selected by the Padres in the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft. At the ‘22 Trade Deadline, Wood was acquired by the Nationals in the blockbuster Juan Soto deal. He began in High-A with the Nats and quickly rose through the organization.
What number will Wood wear?
Wood is currently wearing No. 23 with the Red Wings. The last player to wear it on the Nationals was Corey Dickerson in 2023.
How many players have debuted for the Nationals this season?
Wood will be the fifth prospect to make his Major League debut with the Nats in 2024, joining infielder Trey Lipscomb, March 30 at Reds; infielder Nasim Nuñez, March 30 at Reds; left-hander Mitchell Parker, April 15 at Dodgers; No. 12 left-hander DJ Herz, June 4 vs. Mets.