Nationals Demote All-Star CJ Abrams to Minors After Casino Incident Until 8 AM

Sep 21, 2024, 06:38 PM

The Washington Nationals have demoted All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams to the minor leagues due to an off-field incident. Abrams reportedly stayed out all night at a Chicago casino until 8 AM before a day game against the Cubs, leading to his demotion. Manager Davey Martinez confirmed that the decision was not performance-based but related to an internal issue. Abrams, who has struggled in the second half of the season with a .203 batting average and a .586 OPS, will not play for the Nationals for the rest of the season. The demotion comes with just one day left in the minor league season, effectively ending Abrams' season. Abrams will be sent to West Palm Beach to work out with other Triple-A players. Additionally, he will forgo $36,435 of his salary for the remainder of the 2024 season.