Washington Nationals Editorial: How does the Nats Bullpen Stack Up in the NL East?
By Matt Weyrich
Our National League East rankings for 2016 continue as we take a look at the bullpens.
After we complete our NL East 2016 Preview by ranking the top performers at each position, we will then rank the teams based on a system in which each club is awarded five points for a player ranked first place, four points for a player ranked second place, and so on. After taking a look at our third base, center field, second base, and shortstop rankings, read on to see how the Nats’ bullpen ranks among the relieving corps’ in the division.
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Last season, Washington entered 2015 coming off a year in which they led finished fourth in all of baseball with a 3.00 bullpen ERA. Former number ten overall pick Drew Storen was gearing up for his first season as the Nats’ full-time closer in four years. Behind them sat New York, who finished eighth in the MLB with a combined 3.14 ERA by their relieving corps. The Mets were in the midst of making the questionable decision of relying on the likes of 25-year old Jeurys Familia for ninth inning duties.
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Meanwhile, the Braves had signed former All-Stars Jim Johnson and Jason Grilli to split the closer’s role. In Philadelphia, the ever-reliable Jonathan Papelbon had already cemented his position as the Phillies’ closer. Not to be forgotten are the Miami Marlins, who were betting on late bloomer A.J. Ramos, who had never recorded a major league save prior to 2015.
How do the teams stack up this season? Read on to find out.
Stepping at No. 5 in our rankings…
Next: #5 Bullpen in the NL East