What the Nationals are hoping for in 2022

A year that saw so many negative developments has now ended, and not a moment too soon for anyone around here. When we look back on 2021 in the annals of Nationals history, there's not going to be much we want to remember, aside perhaps from the recognition that it served as the first step in the rebuilding of a former championship organization back into a regular postseason contender again.

Now as 2022 arrives, we wait anxiously to see what the Nats will look like once pitchers and catchers report. In theory, that will be happening in six weeks. In reality, that's only going to happen if Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association can strike a deal for a new collective bargaining agreement before then.

At some point, though, the lockout will end and teams will be free to start making transactions again. You would think the Nationals will be busy, with several roster holes that still need to be filled. But without knowing yet what's in store in that regard, let's look at some of the folks who are already here and what they might be hoping for in the new year. ...

Juan Soto - As many pitches over the plate as possible. (A $500 million contract offer wouldn't be too shabby, either.)

Josh Bell - Big numbers in April.

Carter Kieboom - Success in March and April. Because if not ...

Keibert Ruiz - A chance to grow, and occasionally fail, and to end 2022 as one of the best young catchers in the game.

Riley Adams - As many opportunities to bat as possible, no matter his defensive position.

Lane Thomas - A chance to prove those 45 games were no fluke.

Victor Robles - A chance to prove those 107 games were a fluke.

Stephen Strasburg - At least 24 starts and an ERA under 3.50.

Patrick Corbin - An ERA under 4.00 and a whole lot fewer home runs surrendered.

Josiah Gray - Consistency from start to start, sealing a permanent place in the rotation.

Cade Cavalli - A strong big league debut and no reason to be sent back to the minors.

Paolo Espino - Every reason to keep smiling and keep appreciating life as a major leaguer.

Joe Ross - No Tommy John surgery.

Tanner Rainey - A full year pitching effectively at the back end of the bullpen.

Davey Martinez - No more health issues of his own, a stable coaching staff and a bullpen that inspires at least some confidence.

Mike Rizzo - The freedom to continue this rebuild as he sees fit. (A $500 million check from ownership to offer Soto wouldn't be too shabby, either.)

Rob Manfred and Tony Clark - A compromise that produces a new CBA before any games are lost.