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District On Deck

Washington Nationals: Five Potential NLDS Game 5 Heroes

By Ron Juckett

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
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: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

RYAN ZIMMERMAN

Maybe this is a sentimental pick, but Ryan Zimmerman is primed to be a playoff hero.

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When he makes contact, Zimmerman stings the ball hard. The good news is he is 5-for-15 in the NLDS with only three strikeouts. He is seeing the ball as well as he has the last couple years.

If we get the expected eternal battle of the bullpens, his experience at Nationals Park will help against an uncertain Dodgers’ pitcher.

As an original National—their first player drafted after the move from Montreal—his dugout presence can be an inspiration. Although not a great defender, he will not be battling the shadows on hard throws from other infielders.

With patience, he can either a pitcher to make a mistake or create an opportunity on his own. He has a double in the series already and is due for a home run or another extra-base hit. This is his third playoff; he knows you have to make your own luck now.

Next: Metro Shutdown Will Plague Game 5

Because of his long history with the Washington Nationals, would it be great if his play pushed them into the NLCS? The first true franchise star, his legacy is assured. The Game 5 hero today, he becomes a legend.

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