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Washington Nationals Reaction: The Nats Need to Figure Things Out Offensively

By Matt Weyrich

May 5, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Jayson Werth (28) celebrates with Washington Nationals shortstop Danny Espinosa (8) after he hits a two run homer scoring Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) in the ninth inning against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Jayson Werth (28) celebrates with Washington Nationals shortstop Danny Espinosa (8) after he hits a two run homer scoring Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) in the ninth inning against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 5, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Joe Ross (41) delivers against the Chicago Cubs in the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Joe Ross (41) delivers against the Chicago Cubs in the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports /

Joe Ross Really is Something Special

When the Nats traded for Trea Turner in December of 2014, not many analysts discussed the unpolished 21-year old first round pick. Well, when Turner finally joins the major league ballclub at some point this season, his trade partner will have already been around the block. And so far, he’s dominating that block.

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After throwing six and two-thirds last night in which he allowed two runs on five hits with two walks and nine strikeouts, Ross proved he could handle even the best offensive unit in the league. While he took the loss due to the Nats’ inability to give him any run support, he certainly gave Washington every opportunity he could to stay in the game.

Through five starts this season, Ross sports a sparkling 1.23 ERA and has yet to allow a home run. Opponents are hitting a mere .194 against him, leaving the door open for people to wonder just how good this kid can be. He’s only 22, has never thrown more than 155 innings in a season at the professional level, and is still developing pitches.

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The California native struggled down the stretch in 2015, a sign of fatigue young arms often deal with. He will only get stronger as his career progresses. For now, the Nats aren’t placing any innings limits on their right-hander, and rightfully so. Ross will continue to do what he does out on the mound, and until that changes, it’s in Washington’s best interests not to mess with it.

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