Washington Nationals Rapid Reaction: Clint Robinson Saves The Day For Nats Offense

Jul 3, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals first baseman Clint Robinson (25) is congratulated by right fielder Bryce Harper (34) after hitting a two run homer against the San Francisco Giants during the seventh inning at Nationals Park. The Washington Nationals won

2-1. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Robinson Finally Makes Peavy Pay

All night long, the Nats had trouble taking advantage of their opportunities to score against Jake Peavy. Even though the Giants right-hander walked four batters in the game, the Nats were 0-for-3 with runners in scoring position and only had one extra base hit until the seventh. That hit was a two out double by Yunel Escobar in the bottom of the first.

Then, in the bottom of the seventh, with the Giants up 1-0, Jake Peavy did go after Bryce Harper, but ultimately walked him. That set the stage for Robinson to play hero. In the first inning, with two men on and two out, Robinson flew out to right to end the inning.

Six innings later, the first baseman took a 1-1 changeup from Peavy and hit it over the fence in right center for his fourth home run of the season and his second in four games. The Nats have scored 10 runs in the last four games and Robinson has driven in four of those runs.

James Wagner of the Washington Post tweeted about the value Robinson has had since he has to play more due to injuries to Jayson Werth and Ryan Zimmerman:

When you think about the great stretch that Robinson has had, the Nats have been able to see the power that he had in the spring, when he was able to make the roster after being a non-roster invitee. With these injuries to key players in the lineup, manager Matt Williams is seeing which guys are going to step up and take advantage of their opportunity. Robinson has definitely been one of those players, whether it’s at first base or in the outfield.

Next: Harper Staying Patient