Join Former Nationals GM Mike Rizzo for a Cold Beer and Fun in DC Before the MLB Home Run Derby!

Recently, former Washington Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said goodbye to the team in a memorable way—he bought beers for fans. On Monday night, Rizzo invited supporters to join him for a “Round on Riz” as they watched the upcoming 2025 MLB Home Run Derby at local bars in Washington, D.C.

This sudden farewell came right after the Nationals let him go, along with manager Dave Martinez, as the team struggled with a disappointing 37-53 record. The Nationals fired Rizzo just one week before they pick first in the 2025 MLB draft, which adds an interesting twist to his departure.

Rizzo has been a significant part of the Nationals since he joined as an assistant GM in 2006. He became the general manager in 2009 and later took on more responsibilities, like president of baseball operations in 2013. Under his leadership, the Nationals celebrated two NL East titles in 2016 and 2017 but fell short in the playoffs.

His biggest success came in 2019 when the Nationals captured their first World Series title. However, the wins have been scarce since then. The team has struggles, finishing last in their division four times in the last five seasons. Rizzo did start a rebuilding process, making key player acquisitions like left-hander MacKenzie Gore and outfielder James Wood during the trade that sent superstar Juan Soto to the San Diego Padres.

Rizzo expressed confidence in the team’s future, stating that the foundation for their rebuild is strong. The Nationals are poised for a pivotal moment as they prepare to make the first overall pick in the draft—something they haven’t done since selecting Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper in consecutive years.

With all this change, fans are watching closely. On social media, reactions to Rizzo’s exit are mixed. Some are nostalgic for the World Series win, while others are looking ahead to the new prospects that could reshape the team.

In a related note, a recent survey from ESPN indicates that almost 60% of baseball fans believe that a strong draft pick can change a team’s fortunes quickly. This makes the Nationals’ upcoming pick even more crucial as they look to rebuild and return to competitiveness in the league.

For more on the Nationals’ draft strategy, you can check ESPN’s analysis here. The future may be uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Nationals are at a crossroads, and the choices made now will shape their path forward.

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