Washington Nationals: September storylines to follow
By Ron Juckett
OCTOBER ROSTER SPOTS
As with the Grapefruit League every spring, there are roster spots to fight for in September.
With four starters, you know Edwin Jackson will become the long man out of the bullpen. Enny Romero is returning from his injury. Whether we see Koda Glover this year remains a mystery but, if he returns, there is a good chance he joins Romero and Jackson.
You know Brandon Kintzler, Ryan Madson and Sean Doolittle are locks if healthy. Sammy Solis, Oliver Perez and Matt Albers are October bound. Assuming an eight-man pen, where does that put Shawn Kelley and Joe Blanton?
This month is crucial to their future. If Glover does not return, there is a spot for one, but which? Do not count out the possibility of Erick Fedde making starts and cracking the postseason roster if he is effective. Without the designated hitter, the Nats cannot afford to carry 13 pitchers. They need a fifth bat off the bench.
The other place to watch is catcher. Matt Wieters will carry the October load, but who backs him up? Jose Lobaton has struggled all year. With Pedro Severino due when Triple-A Syracuse finishes, can he unseat Lobaton with a strong September?
Enquiring minds want to know.