Washington Nationals: 5 reasons they will win their NLDS
By Ron Juckett
HUNGER GAMES
The goal from day one this year was to advance.
Last year left a bitter taste in everyone’s mouth and the perceived mistakes are fixed. The Nats are built for the moment.
After 162 games, you understand this team does not beat itself. Washington allowed only 51 unearned runs. Chicago surrendered 59. Their defensive efficiency is third in the NL. Pitchers were not asked often to work around errors and needless four-out innings.
If there is one thing even Dusty Baker’s harshest critics should give him credit for, it is how even the team plays. No losing streak topped four. Despite the mountain of injuries—including the ones unknown that leak out come November—Washington rarely beat themselves.
As the team matured, they thrived.
Sure, the division revealed itself as terrible. The NL East will look different next year with all four opponents vastly cleaning house to a degree. Washington’s success is deeper than pounding the New York Mets as they have winning records against every NL playoff team.
The Nats come into the 2017 postseason with something to prove. Four trips to the playoffs in six years is an amazing accomplishment, but they know four quick exits shows waste.
It helps Chicago cannot use Clayton Kershaw on one-day rest either.