Nationals option Abrams after reported late night at casino
The Washington Nationals optioned All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams to Triple-A and recalled infielder Trey Lipscomb, the club announced Saturday.
The Nationals made the move after Abrams stayed out all night at a Chicago-area casino ahead of Friday's matinee game against the Cubs, sources told ESPN's Jesse Rogers.
"We're all aware of the report, but beyond that, it's an internal issue that we will keep in the family," Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said, according to The Athletic's Britt Ghiroli.
Davey Martinez confirmed CJ Abrams’ demotion was not performance-based but would not confirm any other details. Said Abrams will go to West Palm Beach and work out this final week with a few other AAA guys who are staying in shape in case they’re needed.
— Mark Zuckerman (@MarkZuckerman) September 21, 2024
Abrams has struggled in the second half of the season, hitting .203 with a .586 OPS since the All-Star break.
The 23-year-old made his first All-Star appearance after hitting 15 home runs with 48 RBIs, 15 stolen bases, and an .832 OPS across 89 games in the first half of the campaign.
Abrams posted the first 20-30 season of his career and has 79 runs scored, 65 RBIs, and a .747 OPS in 138 games in 2024.
The Nationals acquired Abrams as part of the blockbuster trade that sent Juan Soto to the San Diego Padres in August 2022.