Mike Rizzo and Davey Martinez brought Washington a championship in 2019. They built a roster and culture that delivered one of the most unforgettable playoff runs in recent MLB history, and for that, they earned the fanbase’s respect. But in the seasons that followed, the Nationals clung to old ways, old players, and outdated philosophies. The team prioritized familiarity over adaptation, and that loyalty played an outsized role in the organization’s decisions. In the end, it cost Rizzo and Martinez their jobs.
Since winning it all, Washington hasn’t finished above fourth place in the NL East.