Washington Nationals: Five Potential NLDS Game 5 Heroes
By Ron Juckett

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.
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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.