Washington Nationals DoDcast: Spring Training In Full Swing
By Ricky Keeler
On the latest episode of the DoDcast, we talked about what’s gone on Washington Nationals spring training and the upcoming exhibition games
Last night, we recorded another episode of the DoDcast as co-editors Ron Juckett and myself dove into the latest topics surrounding the Washington Nationals. Since our last show, the full team has reported to West Palm Beach and there have been plenty of headlines to talk about.
Our first topic of conversation involved Mike Rizzo’s comments yesterday about who the three finalists would be for the closer role. We discussed the rise of Koda Glover to becoming a closer finalist less than two years after being drafted. In addition, we talk about who the favorite should be for the position and should the team still try to trade for a closer?
Next, we looked at Dusty Baker saying Sunday he would like to get an extension done with the Nats. Could this end up being a distraction during the season if it’s not done? Also, with the Washington Nationals history of only having a manager for three years at the most, does that help or hurt Baker’s chances at an extension?
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After looking at the manager’s contract status, the two of us looked at Bryce Harper not talking about his injury from last year and what he thought was the best thing about the offseason? Plus, would Jayson Werth’s time in D.C. be a faiure if the Nats don’t reach the postseason or fail to win in the postseason in 2017?
The big injury news in spring training this past week was Max Scherzer’s Opening Day status in doubt. Should Washington Nationals fans be concerned about the ace’s injury and the amount of pitches that he threw in April last season? We both say that the team is better off being cautious with him going into the season.
On Saturday, spring training games will get underway as the Washington Nationals will take on the Mets at Port St. Lucie. Ron and I debate what are some of the things to look at while you watch exhibition games. Then, we answer a viewer question about the impact a new facility can have from a training perspective for players.
Finally, we take a quick look outside the Washington Nationals and talk about the situation with the Yankees and Dellin Betances. If New York is out of it by the trade deadline, should the Nats make an effort to acquire Betances and bolster the bullpen?
Next: Nats Staying Internal For Closer Role?
Tune in next Monday night to another episode of the DoDcast. On that episode, Ron and I will talk about the latest spring training news, the three Washington Nationals exhibition games that will be played between now and next week, and we will start to preview the other teams in the NL East heading into 2017. As always, send your questions to be read on air.