Washington Nationals: Grading April’s Performance
By Ron Juckett
OUTFIELD
Adam Eaton counts here. Michael Taylor will not as we are focused on the three starters.
Bryce Harper lifted the team onto his shoulders right from Opening Day. His 32 runs are a franchise record, amazing since he hits third. His .391 batting average, 9 homers and 26 RBI would lead most teams, yet they are behind Zimmerman with the Nats. He lays off pitches outside the strike zone, walking 22 times.
His OPS+ of 232 is incredible and his defense improved from last year. Everything you hoped Harper would do has. He posted an OBP of .509! If that somehow held, he would bump Rogers Hornsby’s 1924 season out of 15th all-time. Just three scant points behind Mickey Mantle’s 1957 in 14th.
In the short time Eaton roamed center, Spanky or Mighty Mouse stole the hearts of fans and teammates alike. Moved to the leadoff spot when Turner hit the DL, Eaton was an on-base machine. He drew walks and stole bases. From his top of the lineup perch, he drove in 13.
Defense was the question mark for Eaton after his trade from Chicago. BBRef lists him as the team’s worst defender at -0.6. Yet, it is hard to think of him costing the Nats a win.
Jayson Werth continues to dazzle at 38. With 20 hits, a .282 batting average and 115 OPS+, you cannot expect more.
A+: Harper
A: Eaton
B+: Werth