Ranking The NL East: Shortstops
By Ricky Keeler
Jun 17, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals shortstop Ian Desmond (20) fields a ground ball during the game against the Houston Astros at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
1. Ian Desmond (Washington Nationals)
The oldest shortstop amongst this group is number on this list because of the rare power that he has at the plate for the shortstop position. In the last three seasons, Desmond has hit 20+ home runs, including 24 in 2014 with 91 RBI’s. The three-time Silver Slugger Award winner also brings a speed element to the game. His 24 stolen bases last seasons were third among shortstops in the NL behind Jimmy Rollins and Jean Segura of the Brewers. He has stolen 20 or more bases in each of the last four years, including 25 in 2011.
While the strikeout totals are by far the most at his position (183), Desmond’s game as a power hitter reflects this generation of the game that can be mainly home run or strikeout. The one-time All-Star in 2012 has declined extension offers from the Nationals and has been one of the players heavily talked about in trade rumors this winter.
If Desmond were to reach the free agent market next offseason, he is by far the best player on the market at his position for his power. His defense still is an issue in terms of errors (24 last season), but he does provide a mainstay in the Nats’ infield. He has played in less than 154 games only once in the last five years. It has to be a good feeling for manager Matt Williams to know that Desmond is always on the lineup card for his squad.
So, when looking at these shortstops, while they all have great aspects to their game, Desmond is the more complete shortstop out of the five. This is why the third round pick of the then Expos in 2004 ranks number one on this list.