Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams has been demoted to the minor leagues after breaking curfew by staying at a casino until 8 a.m., just hours before a game against the Chicago Cubs. The demotion marks the end of Abrams' season, as the minor league seasons are concluding this weekend.
Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams' promising season has come to an abrupt end after he violated team curfew by staying at a casino until 8 a.m., just hours before the team's game against the Chicago Cubs.
According to multiple reports, Abrams spent the early hours of Friday morning gambling at Bally's casino in Chicago. The Nationals had a game scheduled at 1 p.m. that afternoon, and despite being reportedly at the casino until roughly five hours before first pitch, Abrams managed to play in the game and went 0-for-3 with a walk.
CJ Abrams' Season Ends Abruptly After Curfew Violation
The curfew violation has resulted in a demotion to the Nationals' minor league complex in West Palm Beach, effectively ending Abrams' 2023 season. The demotion is reportedly not performance-based but rather an "internal issue," according to general manager Mike Rizzo.
Abrams, 23, has had a solid season, earning his first All-Star selection. He boasts career highs with a .246/.314/.433 slash line. He was acquired by the Nationals as part of the blockbuster trade that sent Juan Soto to the San Diego Padres.
CJ Abrams' Season Ends Abruptly After Curfew Violation
The demotion comes at a time when the Nationals are struggling, entering Saturday with a 68-86 record. Since winning the World Series in 2019, the Nationals have finished well below .500 in each season, including a 55-107 record in 2022.
Abrams' absence will further hinder the Nationals' hopes of a late-season surge. The team will rely on other infielders, such as Luis García and Ildemaro Vargas, to fill the void left by Abrams' departure.
CJ Abrams' Season Ends Abruptly After Curfew Violation
It remains to be seen whether Abrams' curfew violation will have any long-term implications for his career. He is arbitration-eligible for the first time this offseason, and the incident could potentially affect his financial negotiations with the Nationals.
Regardless of the outcome, Abrams' demotion serves as a reminder of the importance of following team rules and maintaining professionalism on and off the field. As a young player with star potential, Abrams will need to learn from this mistake and strive for a more disciplined approach in the future.
