Washington Nationals: 3 keys for end of Spring Training
By Ron Juckett
As the countdown begins in earnest, the Washington Nationals have worked hard in West Palm Beach. Here are three things to focus on before April.
With under two weeks until the regular season begins, the Washington Nationals have work to do. No, the record and stats still do not matter. Except Koda Glover, everyone is on track to go north to Cincinnati healthy.
Although you knew Max Scherzer would dominate his starts, the show Victor Robles puts on took us by surprise. Jose Marmolejos, Chris Dominguez and Juan Soto have impressed in Grapefruit League action. Matt Wieters’ weight loss is a difference maker.
Throw in a few camels visiting and Washington’s camping trip is on track for rave reviews. The new coaching staff, led by rookie manager Dave Martinez, has brought a new energy and enthusiasm to the club.
As the minor-leaguers return to their camp to prepare for that season, pitchers in the big leagues get stretched out to full starts and hitters come closer to playing full games. Almost as if we are watching real baseball. Throw in an ejection and a walk-off and we can pretend it’s mid-September in Washington.
Without an off day until the Nats come home for their annual exhibition game at the park—this year against the original Washington franchise, the Minnesota Twins—now is the time for Martinez to get a grasp of what he has. The good news is they are the home team most their Florida time left.
As we get ready to say goodbye to a second successful March in West Palm Beach, here are three things they must do before the games count.