St. Louis Cardinals shortstop has reportedly signed a one-year, $1 million deal with the Washington Nationals. The veteran infielder joins Washington after splitting the 2024 season between the Chicago White Sox and Kansas City Royals.
A 2019 All-Star, he was drafted by the Cardinals in 2015 and made an immediate impact in the majors, finishing as the NL Rookie of the Year runner-up in 2017. That season, he hit .285/.325/.532 with 25 home runs—the most among National League shortstops. During his seven-year stint in St. Louis, he was a key part of the lineup, setting both franchise and major league records. He also established himself as a top-tier defender, earning a Gold Glove nomination in 2019.
After a rib injury in his final season with the Cardinals, Paul DeJong struggled offensively. He was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays in 2023 but was released after hitting just 3-for-44 in 13 games. He finished the season with the San Francisco Giants, posting a .207/.258/.355 line. In 2024, he signed with the White Sox and rebounded slightly, batting .228/.275/.430 with 18 homers—his highest total since 2021. After being dealt to Kansas City, he added six more home runs, securing his third career 20-homer season.
What DeJong Brings to Washington
Though injuries have hampered his production in recent years, DeJong has shown flashes of the power that once made him an All-Star. Primarily a shortstop, he has also started games at second and third base, showcasing his versatility across the infield. Known for his steady defense and right-handed power, his consistency at the plate has fluctuated.
For the Nationals, signing DeJong is a low-risk move with potential upside. If he can rediscover his offensive rhythm, he could be a valuable asset, whether as a starter or a depth piece off the bench.