Predicting the Nats' Opening Day roster has been a difficult task in recent years, due to the strong consideration they give to non-roster invitees. Outfielder Chris Heisey and reliever Matt Belisle made the team out of Spring Training in 2016, and they stuck around for the entire season.
Here's a first look at who will emerge from this year's group heading into Spring Training:
Catchers (2): Derek Norris and Jose Lobaton
Both Norris and Lobaton are under contract. Norris was brought in to become the starter, while Lobaton has familiarity with a pitching staff that enjoys throwing to him.