Robinson Contributing Off The Bench
With Daniel Murphy out of the lineup because of the sore hamstring, Clint Robinson was inserted to the lineup to play first base. Whether it’s been for Murphy or Ryan Zimmerman (currently on the DL), Robinson has played in five of the Washington Nationals last six games.
During those six games, Robinson is 4-for-14 with three runs scored, two home runs, and five RBI’s. Including last night, the 31-year-old has driven in a run in each of his last four games. His five RBI’s in July are fourth on the team behind Bryce Harper (six), Danny Espinosa (eight), and Murphy (13)
Coming into last night, Robinson only had 11 at-bats against left-handers this season, but he had a good game against Francisco Liriano. He had two hits in the three at-bats against him, including the base hit to center in the fifth that scored Wilson Ramos and tied the game at one.
Two innings later, Robinson ended up being the last batter that Liriano faced when he singled to right after Espinosa was walked on four pitches to begin the inning. He later came around to score on a wild pitch and an errant throw to third base by Pittsburgh’s catcher, Eric Fryer.
This season, the Washington Nationals bench has been one of the strengths of this team. Right now, Robinson is a good short-term option while Zimmerman is on the DL and Murphy takes the time to heal the hamstring. For now, Robinson is a good depth piece on a team competing for a division title.
Next: Espinosa Plays Big Role In Win