Today, the Washington Nationals made the decision to call up top prospect, outfielder Victor Robles. What can be expect from him in a curly W uniform?
As the Washington Nationals are closer to clinching their fourth NL East title in six years, another level of excitement is around the franchise today. Jeff Passan of YAHOO Sports was the first to report this afternoon that the Nats made the decision to call up top prospect, outfielder Victor Robles, to the big leagues
Source: Top prospect Victor Robles is joining the Washington Nationals today. Outfielder with huge tools and knack to get on base. Only 20.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) September 7, 2017
Robles is not in the lineup tonight as the Nats begin their series against the Philadelphia Phillies. While he probably won’t get much playing time, the team is in need of outfield help with Bryce Harper out, Jayson Werth dealing with a bad shoulder, and Brian Goodwin suffering a setback according to Chelsea Janes of The Washington Post.
Brian Goodwin had a setback with his injury, which is what prompted Nats to call on Robles, according to person familiar with situation.
— Chelsea Janes (@chelsea_janes) September 7, 2017
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With High-A Potomac and Double-A Harrisburg this season, the 20-year-old Robles had a slash line of .300/.382/.493 with ten home runs, 47 RBI’s, and 27 stolen bases in 37 attempts. Once he got the call up to Harrisburg, he hit .324 over the course of 37 games.
One thing Robles is going to bring to the table is his speed. Since the Nats like to be aggressive on the bases, he will fit right in when he gets a chance to be in the lineup. However, even if he is on the bench, don’t be surprised if Dusty Baker doesn’t use Robles to pinch-run late in the game to try to either tie or win a game.
Before the season began, I got to talk to Potomac manager Tripp Keister about Robles and he had nothing but high praise for the outfielder and how he adjusted to being the youngest player in the league
"“He’s a dynamic player. He’s fearless. He can do anything to win a baseball game. He is exciting to watch and exciting to see every day,” replied Keister about Robles."
For Robles, this is just another step in his development. After the Nats clinch the division, don’t be surprised to see Robles get more starts at center field, but he does have minimal experience playing the corner outfield spots as well. A month from now, he will be in Arizona taking part in the Arizona Fall League.
Dating back to last year, opposing teams have wanted Robles, but the Washington Nationals decided to hang out to him because he could be a part of their long-term future. Not many people expected him to be up in the short-term, but it also speaks to all the injuries the Nats have had in their outfield this year.
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Robles is one of the top prospects in all of baseball and now is finally going to get a chance to showcase his talents on the big stage. It’s an exciting time in D.C. for sure.