Washington Nationals Editorial: Is Anthony Rendon The Best Third Baseman In NL East?

#1 – Anthony Rendon – Washington Nationals

Just like Wright, Rendon is coming off an injury-plagued 2015. It all started in March down at spring trainingwhen Rendon sprained his MCL while making a diving play at third base. He ended up being out till June after he injured his oblique while rehabbing at double-A Harrisburg.

Rendon would briefly come back to the lineup for a month, but he could never get into a rhythm in 2015. In 80 games, the 25-year-old had a slash line of .264/.344/.363 with five home runs and 25 RBI’s. All five of those home runs occurred in August and September.

The one thing that could help Rendon bounce back in 2016, besides health, is the third baseman returning to the hot corner. With Yunel Escobar now in Los Angeles due to the Trevor Gott trade, Rendon will be back at third base this season. In 2014, despite making 15 errors, he had 12 defensive runs saved that season, which was third among third baseman in the NL and one behind Wright.

If Rendon can return to his 2014 form where he finished top five in the NL MVP voting with 21 home runs, 83 RBI’s, and a 6.6 WAR, he will be another key addition to the Nationals’ offense, especially if he can get on-base and give Bryce Harper more run-scoring opportunities.

Next: District Daily: Will Nats Upgrade At The Catcher Position?

We want to hear from you. How would you rank the third baseman in the NL East and where does Rendon rank on your respective list?