Washington Nationals: Takeaways after Bryce Harper’s scare
By Ron Juckett
CHANGE THE LINEUP
Until the game starts, starting lineups can change without losing a player for the game.
More from District on Deck
- Latest DraftKings Sportsbook Promo Code in Maryland: Bet $5, Win $200 Guaranteed
- Nationals Claim Jeter Downs Off Waivers
- Washington Nationals Minor League Spotlight: Robert Hassell III
- Washington Nationals Tuesday Q&A
- 3 Free Agents the Nationals Should Gamble On
After a three-hour delay following two nights of downpours, coupled with a huge divisional lead, is it worth risking the best player on the team to face a last place team?
Sometimes, you have no choice. If Harper’s injury happened against the New York Mets in September as the teams battled for a playoff spot, then no. It is all hands on deck.
Saturday was not one of those nights.
In situations where games must play under less than ideal conditions, MLB should encourage teams to quietly rest superstars. Will the fans who drank too much beer be happy someone got yanked after three hours of crappy weather? No.
But all those attending the rest of the homestand along with every game Harper misses will be unhappy too. The health of Harper and others is more important than a grumbling fan’s ticket. Baseball is a marathon, not a sprint. But, you cannot run if you do not play.
Again, there are not usually meaningless games in August. Just go check the American League Wild Card standings. Yet, the closer we get to September, the more teams play out the string.
Next: Impact of Harper's injury
Unlike the NBA where teams are criticized for players resting in back-to-back games, MLB should tell their teams to give breathers in bad conditions.