District On Deck
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Washington Nationals: 5 things they must do in 2018

By Ron Juckett

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 13: Daniel Murphy #20 of the Washington Nationals reacts after scoring on an RBI single by Michael Taylor of the Washington Nationals against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning in game five of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park on October 13, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 13: Daniel Murphy #20 of the Washington Nationals reacts after scoring on an RBI single by Michael Taylor of the Washington Nationals against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning in game five of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park on October 13, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) /
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Yes, for themselves and you, the Nats must get over the hump and play in the NL Championship Series. The talent is there, but the belief has not arrived yet.

Doubt is a cruel mistress. Those negative thoughts creep through at the wrong times. The team feels it as much as you. Although what the Washington Capitals do not do on the power play in May is not in their heads like yours, the pain of Game 5’s is.

With Martinez as manager, Washington hopes they have the missing piece. From daily “Circles of Trust” in West Palm Beach to camels in practice, his ability to change and frame the mindset is crucial. The power of positive thinking works.

As the dust cleared from last year’s disappointment, there were obvious signs of disconnect between Baker and the team. When you win a division as easy as Washington did last year, motivation becomes a factor. The Nats were not. Once the switch hits neutral, it is hard to turn it back on.

Next: Nats ready to win it all

Motivation is not an issue this year. Washington has the right balance of stars and role players to make something special happen. This is the year they do.

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