Washington’s 2027 first-base/DH picture is unsettled: Andres Chaparro has hit .296 with an .888 OPS against right-handers, Yohandy Morales has four homers in 15 September games, and Abimelec Ortiz has struggled as the only left-handed bat in the mix.
Ortiz is batting .194 with a .592 OPS in 42 games, including .143 and a .390 OPS over his last 28. Morales is hitting .279 with a .930 OPS in 15 games, but has yet to draw a walk and strikes out often. The writer argues Chaparro should get a larger role unless Ortiz makes a major offseason leap.
Washington’s frequent use of platoons could give Ortiz a longer opportunity, though the article says few left-handed corner-infield options are expected to reach free agency. A broadcast mentioned the Nationals are working on Morales’ third-base defense; Brady House also needs playing time and has looked good since being recalled from Triple-A. The writer raises giving Ortiz another chance, seeking a left-handed bat or trading Chaparro, Morales or House as possibilities, not settled plans.
