All-Star CJ Abrams is demoted to the minors by the Nationals for nonperformance reasons

 All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams was demoted to mir leagues by Washington Nationals on Saturday for a reason t related to his on-field performance and is t expected to play for m rest of season.

Nationals manr Dave Martinez anunced unusual decision before Saturday's game against Chicago Cubs.

“I just want it to be kwn, it wasn't performance-based — it's an internal issue,” Martinez said. “I'm t going to give specifics or talk about specifics because I need to keep se guys and everything on down low. I've got or guys out re that I want to support. I'm going to support CJ. He's a big part of our Nats family, and he will be. At this point, for me, it's right thing to do.”

Abrams is hitting .246 with 20 homers, 65 RBIs and 31 stolen bases.

decision to option Abrams to Triple-A Rochester will cost player $18,885. His contract calls for a $752,400 salary while in major leagues and $362,100 while in mirs, and he will get lower rate of pay for final nine days of 186-day season.

Rochester did t qualify for International League postseason and plays its final game on Sunday. Martinez said Abrams will t play for Red Wings and will fly to Washington and n travel to team's training complex at West Palm Beach, Florida.

Martinez said he spoke with Abrams for a significant time Friday and termed it an emotional conversation, during which two wept toger. Martinez repeatedly emphasized his support of Abrams, who turns 24 on Oct. 3.

“For me, it's about taking care of person first, and t player, and I'm going to do everything I can to help him,” Martinez said. “I love kid. He's a good kid. He's going to be back.”

Acquired from San Diego in August 2022 tre that sent Juan Soto to Pres, Abrams hit .268 with 15 homers and 48 RBIs before All-Star break but .203 with five homers and 17 RBIs since. He was batting .271 in September.

“I'm hoping that he understands and that he becomes a better person, and understands what his job means here for us, Nats family,” Martinez said. “We're going to get it right, and he's going to help us win games.”

Infielder Trey Lipscomb was recalled from Rochester.