Washington Nationals: Jayson Werth moves on
By Ron Juckett
The Washington Nationals will have to wait another day for real baseball and a former cornerstone of the franchise has a new home. That and more in today’s Daily Washingtonian.
Good morning, Washington Nationals fans.
Today is March 29, 2018. It’s OPENI….oops, no it is not Opening Day as the possibility of bad weather has postponed the game between the Nats and Cincinnati Reds. We will try again Friday at 4.
As you watch ESPN’s tripleheader later, wish Jayson Werth well.
Werth signed a minor-league deal with the Seattle Mariners Tuesday. (If someone didn’t yap as much during staff meetings, this would have been in yesterday’s Daily Washingtonian, Ron.)
Although we knew Werth and the Nats were history, it stings to see the first major player to sign with Washington leave. Between his clubhouse presence, ability to grind out long at-bats and grow monstrous facial hair, he leaves a tremendous legacy of winning.
Think of it this way, the Nats have never earned a postseason series without him. That is not an accident.
If he makes his way on the Mariners roster, Werth should get some time in left field and chances to play as a designated hitter.
From his “Werthquakes” to his long discussions with umpires about the strike zone, his personality and talent are attached to the rich history of Washington baseball.
Yes, the last couple years were injury filled. But, they should not take anything away from what Werth did here.
Onto the links:
District on Deck names five must-watch players
From the top to the bottom, the Nats have an immensely talented roster. With that in mind, some players are more exciting to watch. Our very own Brian Foley names five must-watch Nats for 2018.
The Washington Post says to enjoy 2018
Although the Nats have failed to advance past the National League Division Series in all four of their trips to the postseason, they have been a fascinating team to watch. Now, with several high-profile players in a contract year, the team may be as good as they are going to be for a while. Despite the excruciating pain October has caused, Thomas Boswell recommends that you enjoy 2018.
Call to the Pen ponders the Miguel Montero signing
This offseason, the Nats signed veteran backstop Miguel Montero to a minor league deal. It has appeared to pay off thus far, seeing as he is now Matt Wieters‘ backup. However, Tim Boyle wonders if it was the best move for the team.
Like most of the Nats’ relievers, Sammy Solis has an extensive injury history. The lefty is dominant when healthy, but he has battled several arm injuries throughout his professional career. Byron Kerr discusses the impact that Solis can make if he is healthy.
Next: Where should Trea Turner hit in the lineup?
Enjoy all of the real baseball today! Mother Nature has forced us to wait another day to see the Nats play in a meaningful game, but it will be here before you know it.