Washington Nationals: 5 x-factors for Bryce Harper in 2018
By Drew Douglas
Kevin Long
After Dusty Baker was dismissed following yet another early postseason exit, the Nats had several managerial candidates on their short list. Kevin Long ultimately came up short, with Dave Martinez getting the job, but he was hired as the hitting coach.
Long had spent the last few seasons as the Mets hitting coach, but will now join the Nats’ revamped coaching staff.
Throughout Long’s illustrious coaching career, his biggest success has been Daniel Murphy. Long worked with Murphy to make some slight alterations, which resulted in him becoming a completely different hitter. Long transformed Murphy from a good hitter to an elite hitter.
Although Murphy gets most of the credit, since he is the one who is actually performing, he attributes his success to Long. Now, Murphy and Long are reunited with the Nats.
Because of his successes with players like Murphy, Long is among the most well-respected coaches in the league. Now, he will get to work with arguably his best lineup yet.
Obviously, the Nats’ lineup is highlighted by Harper. The 25-year-old superstar has been a terrific hitter thus far, but Long could potentially make him even better.
If Long’s track record is any indication of what is to come with Harper, 2018 could be his best year yet.