The Washington Nationals joined the American Association in the league's third season as four teams were added to increase the total to 12. At the same time there was team in the Union Association a third league that lasted just one season also called the Washington Nationals.

The AA team was alternatively called the Statesmen to distinguish the team. Washington's AA played their games at Athletic Park and they were managed by Holly Hollingshead.

The Nationals were by far the worst team in the American Association, holding a record of 12-51, when they decided to cease operations on August 2nd. Frank Fennelly led the team in hitting with a .

292 average, while Bob Barr was their top pitcher, posting a record of 9-23 with a respectable 3. 46 ERA.