When the Boston Red Sox topped the Los Angeles Dodgers in five games to win their fourth World Series in 14 years, they closed the door on the 2018 campaign and turned the league’s attention toward a highly anticipated offseason.
Of course, the 28 teams not playing in the Fall Classic had already shifted into offseason mode, including the Washington Nationals. A season defined by sluggish performances and missed opportunities only added emphasis to what was already considered an important offseason for the Nats.
The team must balance its desire to drop below the luxury tax threshold with its obvious roster holes to build a contender in the suddenly tight NL East race by next season.