What happened: The Washington Nationals signed 11th overall pick Chris Hacopian, a second baseman out of Texas A&M and Maryland, to a $5.7 million contract. The deal lands about $430,000 below the $6.13 million slot value assigned to the 11th pick.

Why it matters: The savings give the Nationals room to sign other 2026 picks before the deadline, including high schoolers Luke Williams and Cooper Harris, who are expected to command over-slot deals to buy out their college commitments. Hacopian was part of the Nationals' 20-player 2026 draft class, and the quick signing gives Washington early clarity on its top pick.

What to watch: The Nationals face a July 27 deadline to sign their remaining draft picks, with catcher Francisco Rivero seen as a likely add and outfielder James Wood already on Washington's active roster as the club looks to build around its DMV-area picks.