Washington Nationals
Nationals Park
Washington D.C., United States
The Washington Nationals were originally known as the Montreal Expos, founded in 1969 as MLB's first expansion into Canada, making them the league's first team outside the United States. However, due to a combination of poor attendance, financial instability, ownership turmoil, and stadium issues, the franchise struggled. Ultimately, Washington’s offer presented a lucrative opportunity for a fresh start.
Washington’s MLB journey began in 1901 with the Washington Senators, who relocated to Minnesota in 1961. A new Senators team was introduced the same year but also moved in 1972, leaving the capital without a team for 33 years. In 2005, the Montreal Expos relocated to Washington, marking the Nationals' debut. The franchise’s pinnacle came in 2019, when they won their first World Series title as a Wild Card team, defeating the Houston Astros in a thrilling seven-game series. The Nationals also honor the Homestead Grays, a Negro League team that played many home games in D.C., by celebrating their history and contributions to baseball.
As they built their legacy, the Nationals became home to standout players, including Ryan Zimmerman (known as Mr. National), Max Scherzer, and Stephen Strasburg. Back in the Montreal Expos era, legends such as Vladimir Guerrero Sr., Pedro Martinez, Gary Carter, Tim Raines, and Andre Dawson left their mark.
The Nationals share notable rivalries, especially with the Baltimore Orioles in the Beltway Series, fueled by their geographic proximity, and with the Philadelphia Phillies as fierce NL East competitors. They play their home games at Nationals Park, opened in 2008, offering modern amenities and serving as a central hub for baseball fans in the region.