The 2010 season was disappointing for the Nationals as a great start was squandered, and it seemed as the team failed to reach its potential. 2011 is redemption for some players who were expected to have great seasons, and the biggest sting from 2010 was the injury to Stephen Strasburg. The history of baseball in the DC area is not rich with winning, but 2010 was still a step forward. 2011 should bring more growing pains as this team will seek its identity, although 82 wins would be huge strides forward for the future.
Washington Nationals’ Resolutions for 2011 :
1. More innings and improved ERA from the starting pitchers
Improved infield and more intelligent defensive play should shorten pitch counts for our pitching staff. The ERA has to be no higher than 4.50 so that our offense can win more games.
2. Drew Storen must take the reigns as the Nationals closer
Drew had the opportunity to stake his claim as the closer, but he became overwhelmed and got himself out of rhythm. Now with an off season under his belt to reflect, Drew must get his confidence and take what is his. Storen has the ability to dominate hitters and must trust his stuff and go get the job done.
3. Score 500 plus runs
The Nationals have chosen speed for power, which is a philosophy that has won championships. The base running has to improve and the coaches must sget more aggressive. The Nationals can be a .500 club if they score 500 runs and keep the team era at 4.50 or better.
4. Better Base Running
A philosophy and system must be implemented by Bo Porter to improve scoring. The Nationals ran themselves out of countless games last season. Often with our power hitters at the plate or on deck, runners were picked off or caught between bases. Fundamentals and execution will get the job done and Bo Porter may have the answer. The Nationals have not had a third base coach to speak highly of as the same mistakes and fear of failure was seen day to day. Porter can help the Nationals develop a swagger on the bases that will distract pitchers and force mental errors from the opposing team.
5. Better Defense
Implement a philosophy or system and when the players execute it we will have the best defense in the National League period.
6.Situational Hitting
The great Bob Coleman (3 ASA Hall of Fames, VA) has always said, “Lets not make it harder than it already is” . Our hitters need to follow the Eckstein philosophy because it works. Zimmerman starts hitting to right field and he has a great season, and now with Werth bringing his ability to hit to all fields this lineup has gotten tougher. Lets hit the ball and run the bases because its fun to do and watch.
7. Steal 150 bases
Why? Because we can. Reaching 150 SB in 2011 means that we will lead the National League in this category and the chances of scoring 500 runs improves greatly. Desmond 25, Pudge 2, Espinoza 25, Bernadina 35, Morgan 35, Werth 25, Harris 3.
8. Dominate the Mets
Lets start by picking on the beat up Mets. The swagger development starts with dominating a team within the divison next season. 12 -6 against the Mets next season makes a statement in the division that we are coming out of the cellar. Lets do it.
9. 82 wins
No explanation needed!
10. Nationals fans improve their support
National fans support your team at home with Washington colors, and be proud to wear Washington gear. We will have our day! Fair weather fans need to go! We must also hit the road in greater numbers as the Boston, New York, and Philly fans do quite well.
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