José Tena DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Washington Nationals third baseman Jose Tena has won a bench job on the Opening Day roster, reports Andrew Golden. He didn't have an exceptional spring, batting just .156 with a 28.0% strikeout rate in 50 plate appearances. In 2024, he slashed .267/.298/.354 with three home runs in 44 major league games. He isn't likely to see consistent playing time and hasn't shown any potential in terms of fantasy, so he's safe to keep off of your radar.

MASN's Bobby Blanco writes that Washington Nationals infielders Trey Lipscomb, Jose Tena and Brady House are the most likely candidates to compete for the starting third base job in spring training this year. Lipscomb, 24, has the most MLB experience of the trio after making his big-league debut in 2024 and hitting .200/.268/.232 with a homer, 10 RBI and 11 steals in 61 games. He showed a strong glove, but Lipscomb was optioned four times in six months and recalled five times. Tena, 23, started 34 of the team's final 44 games at third and hit .274 with three homers, 15 RBI and six steals in 41 games with the Nats. He didn't outshine Lipscomb in the field but was much more impressive with the bat and produced nice exit velocities. House, 21, has been good on offense and defense but he has only made 51 appearances at third at Triple-A. The former first-rounder has more long-term upside but also needs more experience.

Washington National rookie third baseman Jose Tena is batting fifth in Tuesday's game against the Atlanta Braves. Tena is hitting .293/.330/.380 with two homers, 10 RBI, and nine runs scored in 97 plate appearances since his Nationals debut on June 28. Although overshadowed by the likes of Dylan Crews and James Wood, Tena is one of the young bats the Nationals are counting on to help them return to playoff contention in 2025. Tena continues to fly under the radar in dynasty leagues, but if he is available, find the roster space to stash him away.