Washington Nationals Rapid Reaction: Jordan Zimmermann Stumbles As Nats Struggles Continue
By Ricky Keeler
Jun 12, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) scores a run during the eighth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Harper Helps Offense In Early Stages
Even though Jordan Zimmermann did not get off to a great start in the early stages of the game, Bryce Harper did everything he could to try to keep the Nationals in the game. It started in the second inning when Harper took a 1-2 fastball from Fiers and hit it barely over the right field wall for his 21st home run of the season and his second in the last four games to cut the deficit to 2-1.
One inning later, after Milwaukee extended the lead to 3-1, Harper stepped up to the plate with Anthony Rendon on second and one out. This time, Fiers left a changeup over the plate in a 1-0 count and Harper lined it to right field for a base hit and another RBI.
While Harper was outshined by Aramis Ramirez and his three double, five RBI performance, this game showed how the Nationals offense has been recently. Usually, Harper is at the plate with nobody on and his long home runs only amount to one run on the scoreboard. You have to wonder where this Nats team would be without Harper right now.
However, just like the bunt issue on Tuesday, Harper tried to do a little too much in last night’s game. During the fourth inning, Gennett lined a single to right field. On the play, Harper threw the ball home to try to get Segura, but the Brewers shortstop was stopped at third. Since Harper airmailed the cut-off man, Gennett went to second and would eventually score on the Lucroy single.
While Harper might do a little bit too much at times, you have to give him credit for trying to make a play. With two outs in the bottom of the eighth in a 8-3 game, Harper scored all the way from first on a RBI double by Wilson Ramos to cut the lead to 8-4. Again, it has to be said, where is this team without Harper?
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