Washington Nationals: Five Potential NLDS Game 5 Heroes

By Ron Juckett | Oct 13, 2016

Oct 10, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Jayson Werth (28) celebrates with second baseman Daniel Murphy (20) after hitting a home run during the ninth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game three of the 2016 NLDS playoff baseball series at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

JAYSON WERTH

He knows his best days are behind him. Yet, Jayson Werth has approached this postseason relaxed and happy.

With one huge “Werthquake” in Los Angeles under his belt, he provides the bridge between Turner and Harper in the lineup to Daniel Murphy and Rendon. Hitting 7-for-15 in the series, his three extra-base hits helped Washington get to this point.

Werth’s bat is on fire. His 1.356 OPS leads the team. So do his seven hits. At the plate, he must think the Dodgers are tossing beach balls at him.

A grizzled veteran, Werth knows he carries an extra role now as a team leader. Along with the rest of the top of the lineup, his primary job today is getting Rich Hill out of the game as fast as possible and make the Dodger bullpen beat you. The best lead by example. An early double or home run may set Hill back on his heels and provide all the momentum Washington needs to advance.

After a .244 average this regular season, it sure is nice to see Werth on top of his game one more time. Given the right situation that can continue into next week at Wrigley Field against the Cubs.

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