James Wood

Contract Value Index (CVI)

James Wood's rookie scale deal at just $780K AAV earns an A+ CVI, representing exceptional value for a 23-year-old outfielder delivering A-level production in his second MLB season. The former second-round pick (62nd overall in 2021) has transformed from developmental prospect to legitimate offensive threat, with early 2026 home run success validating years of organizational investment at a fraction of what established left fielders command on the open market. At under $1M annually, Washington is capturing peak pre-arbitration value from a player whose explosive power surge has generated franchise-cornerstone buzz throughout the organization and media. The one-year term carries minimal financial risk while maximizing the Nationals' control over a player whose defensive improvements and continued offensive development could make him a cornerstone piece. With the organization publicly backing Wood's trajectory and media projections calling for his best season yet, this rookie deal represents the exact type of cost-controlled talent acquisition that builds sustainable contention. The only downside is the short runway before arbitration kicks in, but given Wood's current production level, that's a high-class problem for a franchise clearly committed to his long-term development.

Fan & Media Sentiment