Washington Nationals Rapid Reaction: Bryce Harper continues to lead Nats to greatness
By Pablo Roa
May 17, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Washington Nationals second baseman Danny Espinosa (8) hits a three run home run during the fifth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Danny Espinosa continues to do his part…
For all the buzz that the Nationals’ offense has gotten in recent weeks, few players have garnered less recognition than Danny Espinosa.
While the switch-hitting infielder hasn’t put up the numbers that we’ve seen from the likes of Harper and Yunel Escobar, he’s still been a key player for the Nationals all season long and was a key player for the team yesterday afternoon. Espinosa went 1-for-3 on the day with three RBIs.
Although the Nationals would ultimately run away with the victory, the team was in a hole until Espinosa’s big, three-run homer in the top of the fifth gave the Nationals the lead for good. Espinosa’s homer was a turning point in last night’s game and demonstrated just how important he has been to the Nationals this season.
Espinosa hasn’t seen a whole lot of playing time this season, but he’s made the most of the at-bats he’s had and has been a big part of this offense all season long. Over his last 10 games, Espinosa’s hitting .343 with three home runs, eight RBIs and six walks.
No, he’s not Bryce Harper and he’s not Yunel Escobar. But with the way he’s been swinging the bat, he’s not Danny Espinosa either—at least not the Danny Espinosa we’ve seen over the last few years.
Only time will tell if this is really a breakout season for Espinosa or if he’s just a hot hitter destined for a miserable slump. Right now, however, Espinosa is tearing it up and helping his team win. The infielder was an essential part yesterday’s game, and if he keeps it up, he’ll be a key player for the Nationals as the race for the NL East carries over into the summer.