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Washington Nationals: Grading April’s Performance

By Ron Juckett

Apr 30, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals first baseman Adam Lind (26) celebrates with Nationals first baseman Ryan Zimmerman (11) after hitting a home run against the New York Mets in the eighth inning at Nationals Park. The Nationals won 23-5. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals first baseman Adam Lind (26) celebrates with Nationals first baseman Ryan Zimmerman (11) after hitting a home run against the New York Mets in the eighth inning at Nationals Park. The Nationals won 23-5. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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DUSTY AND THE BENCH

The Nationals have the biggest lead and best record in baseball. Give Dusty Baker credit for holding things together.

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Sure, he can make head scratching decisions. Cannot anyone get three outs in the ninth inning? How do you bat Michael Taylor second? Washington is second in the NL in saves with eight and Taylor had three hits hitting second.

Between a rocky series in Philadelphia and the Mets implosion in DC, Baker has steered his ship to a record inconceivable three weeks ago. His lineups are so powerful they are historic. His are the hands you want on the wheel.

As far as bench production, Adam Lind has fit in.  With 10 hits and two home runs, he can pinch hit and fill in for Zimmerman when needed.

Wilmer Difo will be a good player someday. His defense is already there. Filling in for Turner, and Stephen Drew when he went down, Difo did an adequate job and learned a ton.

Taylor struggled before his surprise promotion to the starting lineup. Fast as anything, his defense is solid.

Chris Heisey has been unspectacular, but has started a scant two games.

Next: 5 Great Dustyisms From April

A+: Baker

A: Lind

C: Difo, Heisey

D: Taylor

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