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Washington Nationals: 5 to watch in Beltway Series

By Ron Juckett

May 7, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Jayson Werth (28) gets congratulations from third base coach Bob Henley (13) after hitting a home run during the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
May 7, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Jayson Werth (28) gets congratulations from third base coach Bob Henley (13) after hitting a home run during the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /
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TREA TURNER

May has not been kind for Trea Turner.

Pressed back to the leadoff spot with Adam Eaton on the shelf, Turner is slumping. In six games this month, his slash line of .154/.241/.192 is terrible. In 26 at-bats, he struck out nine times. Sunday, Phillies pitchers held him to an oh-for-five day.

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He is pressing and not working count. As the leadoff guy, Turner must work counts and get on base. He swings at bad pitches and is frustrated. A punch out Saturday saw him nearly hit Werth in the on-deck circle with a thrown bat.

Blessed with talent, this is the first serious slump of his career. He compounded his hitting woes by making his first error on the field Sunday.

Ideally, a day off and video work would do him a world of good. Unfortunately, the Nats do not have the luxury to spell him. Turner needs to fight through this and simplify his game.

Sometimes things go too fast. With Turner, the eye test says is happening. He needs to slow down, be patient with himself and let things happen.

Next: Rendon player of the week

Turner owned the Orioles last August. In four games, he went 10-for-17 hitting .588. With nine singles, he stole two and scored three runs. He would take that again in a minute.

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