The Nationals open their season on Thursday night, but they will do so shorthanded, a harsh reminder that despite the new season, COVID-19 still hangs over the game.
General manager Mike Rizzo said on a Zoom call with reporters Wednesday that a player has tested positive for COVID-19, and with five other personnel being deemed close contact, the team could be significantly shorthanded when it opens the season against the Mets.
Rizzo said that Washington would still play on Thursday, and any ineligible players would be replaced by players from Fredericksburg camp.
Last season, when the 2020 campaign began in late July, the Nationals were without star outfielder Juan Soto on opening night after he tested positive for COVID-19. He went on to win the batting title.
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
Follow WFAN on Social Media
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Twitch