Interim GM Vows Fresh Voice as Manager Cairo Struggles to Replace Martinez

Washington Nationals Undergo Major Leadership Changes

Washington Nationals interim general manager Mike DeBartolo and interim manager Miguel Cairo are stepping into leadership roles with the goal of revitalizing an organization that has struggled significantly since 2020, posting the second-worst record in Major League Baseball. The team’s recent performance has led to significant changes, including the firing of manager Dave Martinez and longtime president of baseball operations Mike Rizzo following a 6-4 loss to Boston. This loss brought Washington’s season record to 37-53, with a particularly poor 9-23 record since June 1.

DeBartolo emphasized the need for substantial change as he takes on his new role. “We have a lot of interesting, exciting young pieces to build on,” he said. “We have a lot more we need to build. Simply stepping up our game is not enough. We need real change.” He aims to bring a fresh approach by integrating more data, technology, and innovation into decision-making across all levels of the organization. His vision includes leveraging analytics and new technologies to improve player performance and overall team strategy.

The Nationals have not had a winning season since their 2019 World Series victory, marking a challenging period for the franchise. With a current record of 325-474, the team faces a long road to recovery.

Miguel Cairo, who had been the Nationals' bench coach since last year, took on the interim manager role after receiving the blessing of his close friend and mentor, Dave Martinez. “I wouldn’t get the job without talking to him,” Cairo said. He acknowledged Martinez’s contributions and expressed the difficulty of the situation, stating, “He worked. He let us work. He worked hard. He made sure he put every player in the right position to succeed.”

Cairo brings a wealth of experience from his time as Tony La Russa's bench coach with the Chicago White Sox, where he also served as an interim manager during La Russa’s medical leave. DeBartolo praised Cairo’s professionalism and work ethic, highlighting his extensive background in both playing and coaching roles.

Despite the challenges, Cairo is determined to lead the team forward. However, the Nationals suffered another loss, falling 4-2 to the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday night, extending their losing streak to four games.

In addition to the managerial changes, the Nationals announced several roster moves. Catching and strategy coach Henry Blanco was promoted to bench coach, while Bob Henley joined Cairo’s staff as major league field coordinator. These changes aim to provide stability and support as the team navigates through the season.

DeBartolo is also focused on the upcoming 2025 amateur draft, where the Nationals hold the No. 1 overall pick. He has been with the organization since 2012, starting as an intern and later becoming assistant general manager in 2019. His goal is to implement his own vision for the baseball operations department, emphasizing the integration of analytics and technology into the team’s processes.

As the July 31 trade deadline approaches, DeBartolo will be busy managing the team’s roster. Closer Kyle Finnegan is set to become a free agent after the season, and All-Star left-hander MacKenzie Gore is due for a raise in arbitration. With two years of club control remaining, the team must make strategic decisions to strengthen its lineup.

On the field, the Nationals made several recent moves. Right-hander Luis García was signed, and catcher Drew Millas was recalled from Triple-A Rochester. Meanwhile, catcher Keibert Ruiz was placed on the seven-day concussion injured list after sustaining an injury from a foul ball. Right-hander Eduardo Salazar was optioned to Rochester, and right-hander Trevor Williams was transferred to the 60-day injured list due to an elbow issue.

These changes reflect the ongoing efforts to stabilize and rebuild the Nationals as they look to turn their fortunes around. With new leadership and strategic adjustments, the team hopes to lay the foundation for a stronger future.