Washington Nationals: Takeaways From The Cardinals At Home
By Ron Juckett
A few things to keep in mind after the Washington Nationals won two of three over the St. Louis Cardinals. Remember, a curly “W” is always good.
The Washington Nationals are a lucky team.
Sure, they grabbed two of three from the St. Louis Cardinals this week at home. But the bullpen issues, injuries and bad defense are issues. If the Cards were not struggling, this could have easily gone the other way.
The last six games for Washington have not followed the script. The expectations on this team are heavy and real. To get to October, you must play the season first. Over the course of 162 games, you will get clunkers.
When you win despite five errors, as happened Tuesday, call it luck. Over the course of the regular season, you need some to get through.
The good news is the Nats have questions and concerns and are 5-4. Although not the start fans hoped, they trail the New York Mets by a game and are 4-2 at home. Unexpected, sure, but nothing dire. They remain favorites to win the National League East.
Yes, for those of us watching every game, it is frustrating. We see Dusty Baker make decisions we would not or Anthony Rendon struggle overall and want to scream. Remember, unless you are writing a book it never goes to plan.
So, on this off-day before the Philadelphia Phillies return, let’s break down what went right and wrong for the Nats. It is not as bad as you think; they won two of three, but there are clouds on the horizon.
Whether it storms or blows past is one reason we love this game so much.