Washington Nationals: 2017 NLDS Tale of the Tape

Right Field

While Harper hasn’t played in a full nine-inning game since returning from his knee and calf injuries, the fact that he is even going to play in this series is a miracle in itself. Of course, we all remember Joe Maddon putting Harper on-base repeatedly in May of 2016.

Despite missing time, Harper still put up another great season. He had a slash line of .319/.413/.595 with 29 home runs and 87 RBI’s. He went 3-for-18 last week, so his timing and patience at the plate will be key question marks.

As for Heyward, the Cubs have to hope his impact in the postseason will be more than just a speech during a rain delay in Game 7 of last year’s Fall Classic. While he hit just .259 this year, his defense is the star tool that he brings to the table. Hopefully, the Nats don’t try to run as much on his arm.

The Nats did an excellent job against Happ in the seven meetings this year (4-for-23, nine strikeouts). However, don’t sell the rookie short. In a year where Cody Bellinger and Rhys Hoskins have been standouts, Happ has been a big part of the Cubs offense.

Happ has played 10+ games at four different positions and 14 of those games were in right field. His 24 home runs were tied for fifth among National League rookies and he had the sixth highest .OPS (.842).

Advantage: Even if it is just as a decoy, Harper gets the checkmark for the Washington Nationals. At the very least, Harper’s presence in the lineup will help the other hitters in the Nats order and it gives Maddon something else to think about. That chess match should be entertaining to watch.