In August 2022, the Nationals were three years removed from their improbable World Series win; however, it was the beginning of the end. A year prior, Washington shipped off Trea Turner and Max Scherzer in a blockbuster trade with the Dodgers, getting a hefty prospect haul in return. Juan Soto was one of the last remaining key contributors from their championship team and was expected to get one of the most significant contracts in MLB history.
Just two hours before the trade deadline passed, Juan Soto would headline a deal to San Diego for several prospects.