What happened: Yahoo MLB highlighted a breakdown of eight college hitters viewed as likely first-round targets for the Washington Nationals. The report frames college bats as a central focus for Washington as the 2026 MLB Draft approaches.

Why it matters: The Nationals hold the No. 11 pick, giving the front office a chance to add an advanced bat to a system still being reshaped. With Washington’s game currently in progress and tied 2-2, the draft discussion sits alongside a club trying to build both immediate momentum and longer-term depth.

What to watch: Watch whether Washington’s pre-draft links continue to center on college hitters as draft boards tighten. The club’s next signals will come from workouts, late mocks and front-office comments before the pick.