WASHINGTON -- Get ready: The start of your week is also the start of James Wood¡¯s Major League career.

The Nationals' top prospect will bat sixth and start in left field for his big league debut tonight at Nationals Park in the series opener against the Mets. Wood has powered his way through the Minors, and now the time has come for him to showcase his tools on the big stage. Here are some key questions and answers.

How can you watch the game?
Tonight¡¯s Nationals vs. Mets game begins at 6:45 p.m. ET. It will be shown on MLB Network, MLB.TV and MASN and can be heard on 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7. For tickets to the game, click here.

• Get to know Nationals top prospect James Wood

What position will Wood play?
With Lane Thomas in right field and Jacob Young in center field, Wood is likely to play left field on a regular basis. Having played center field for the majority of his Minor League career, Wood has been getting reps in left this season. He made 22 starts (164 innings) at the corner spot this season.

Who will have to move in the outfield to make room?
Left fielder Jesse Winker can shift to the designated-hitter role or see time at first base. Outfielder Eddie Rosario, who was batting .183 with a .555 OPS, was designated for assignment.

Why is this happening now?
It has not been a question of if but when Wood would debut this season. He has recovered from an IL stint (hamstring) and returned to power form. In 52 games at Triple-A this season, Wood slashed .353/.463/.595 with 10 home runs, 37 RBIs and 10 stolen bases.

The Nationals, meanwhile, are struggling to find consistent offense. They have recorded the fourth-fewest runs and second-fewest homers in the NL with a need for run support for their starting staff.

How highly is Wood rated?
MLB Pipeline ranked Wood as Washington's No. 1 prospect and No. 3 overall in baseball. His scouting grades are hit: 50, power: 70, run: 60, arm: 55, field: 55, overall: 65.

Will he play every day?
Yes. The Nationals have emphasized they are not going to call up a prospect for the sake of it, and there would need to be a clear path for consistent playing time so he can continue his development.

Are there any special promotions for Wood¡¯s debut?
Yes. The first 10,000 fans in attendance will receive a James Wood ¡°Welcome to the Show¡± T-shirt.

How did Wood get here?
Wood, from Rockville, Md., attended high school at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla. He was selected by the Padres in the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft. At the ¡®22 Trade Deadline, Wood was acquired by the Nationals in the blockbuster Juan Soto deal. He began in High-A with the Nats and quickly rose through the organization.

What number will Wood wear?
Wood is listed on the roster with uniform No. 50. The last player to wear that number on the Nationals was left-hander Anthony Banda in 2023.

How many players have debuted for the Nationals this season?
Wood will be the fifth prospect to make his Major League debut with the Nats in 2024, joining infielder Trey Lipscomb, March 30 at Reds; infielder Nasim Nu?ez, March 30 at Reds; left-hander Mitchell Parker, April 15 at Dodgers; No. 12 left-hander DJ Herz, June 4 vs. Mets.