Drew Douglas’ Prediction
Record- 95 wins
Opening Day is right around the corner, and this is a time of optimism and hope for many baseball fans. All the teams who finished just short have had time to get over the heartbreak of October and are excited to improve this year. This is a familiar feeling for Nats fans, but this may be the year that they put it all together.
Bryce Harper struggled through injuries last season, but has looked like his old self this spring. All eyes will be on him, and I believe his hot Spring will carry into the regular season.
It will also be a lot of fun to watch a full season from Trea Turner. He was among the most exciting players in the league last season, and is now moving back to his natural position of shortstop. The Nats have three legitimate MVP candidates in Turner, Harper, and Daniel Murphy.
The Nationals usually boast one of the best starting rotations in the league, and this year will be no different.
Max Scherzer should be great as always, coming off his Cy Young season. Pitching exclusively out of the stretch should keep Stephen Strasburg healthy and allow him to pitch more this season. Look for him to be one of the best pitchers in the league and possibly be in the Cy Young discussion. Tanner Roark will also have another good season and continue to be one of the most underrated pitchers in baseball.
The Washington Nationals have been one of the most talented teams in the league for several years now, but have not been able to make it past the NLDS. They have an excellent all around team, and look to be capable of making a deep run in the playoffs. I expect them to finish with around 95 wins again and possibly a World Series appearance if they are able to avoid major injuries. 2017 has the potential to be a huge year for the Nats.