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Washington Nationals: Five To Watch Against Spiraling Phillies

By Drew Douglas

May 6, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon (6) runs towards home after hitting a three run home run against Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Vince Velasquez (28) during the sixth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
May 6, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon (6) runs towards home after hitting a three run home run against Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Vince Velasquez (28) during the sixth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /
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Ryan Zimmerman

Ryan Zimmerman is currently enjoying a comeback season for the ages. The face of the franchise leads the MLB with a .393 batting average and 13 homers, and has been arguably the best player in the league.

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The 32-year-old first baseman has gotten off to an outstanding start in 2017, but struggled a bit during the series against the Orioles, going just 1-for-14. The Phillies coming to town should be just what the doctor ordered, as Zimmerman has a slash line of .308/.333/.769 in nine games against them this year.

He has hit especially well against a couple of the Phillies’ probable starters. Nick Pivetta, a former Nats prospect, will be starting for Philadelphia on Friday night. During his second career start last Friday, Zimmerman went 2-for-3 with a homer against him. Seeing Zimmerman step into the batter’s box will not be a pleasant sight for the rookie as he seeks his first win.

Zimmerman also has good career numbers against Saturday’s probable starter, Vince Velasquez. He is 4-for-8 with a homer, double, and four RBI’s against the right-hander.

Zimmerman will also have a little extra motivation this weekend since it’s Mother’s Day weekend. His mother, Cheryl, suffers from multiple sclerosis (MS), and this is an issue near and dear to Zim’s heart. He has even founded the ziMS foundation to raise money towards finding a cure. He will undoubtedly want to have a great weekend in honor of his mother.

Zimmerman has been on fire to begin the 2017 season, but he has especially crushed the Phillies. Look for him to stay locked in and have a solid weekend series.

Next: Our Conversation With Andrew Stevenson

The Nationals have gotten off to a phenomenal start in 2017, while the Phillies are quickly spiraling out of control. Jayson Werth, Aaron Altherr, Koda Glover, Shawn Kelley, Odubel Herrera, and Ryan Zimmerman should be players to watch during what looks to be a great Mother’s Day weekend series between the Nats and Phillies.

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