Washington Nationals: Gio Gonzalez starts 2018 his way

The Washington Nationals go for the sweep with Gio Gonzalez pitching. That and more previews in the Sunday Washingtonian this Easter morning.

Today is Easter Sunday, April 1, 2018. For those of you who celebrate Passover, a very Happy Passover to you.

The Nats go into their last game in Cincinnati this year tied for first with those pesky New York Mets at 2-0. The Milwaukee Brewers are the other undefeated National League team at 3-0.

More from District on Deck

Because it is Easter, today’s game starts at 4:10. Gio Gonzalez takes the hill against right-hander Sal Romano. For Romano, this is his first career start against Washington.

This promises to be a tense game for you as Gonzalez makes his first start of the year. He goes into his contract year with plenty to prove.

First, Gonzalez wants to show last year was not a fluke. If the off-speed stuff is working, ground balls will follow. As tough as you fans can get on him, he can beat himself up after a bad game too. He must keep those thoughts in between the ears positive. No reason he cannot win 14 or 15 again.

It will be curious if Matt Wieters, who helped so much last year, or Miguel Montero catches Gonzalez. Wieters is due for a rest and manager Dave Martinez is keen on using all his players.

Now, the links:

District on Deck profiles Sean Doolittle

The “law firm” trio of Sean Doolittle, Ryan Madson, and Brandon Kintzler got off to a great start with three shutout innings on Opening Day. Although this was impressive, they could improve even more. Ross Shinberg says Doolittle could become an elite closer.

MASN recaps Adam Eaton’s career day

After missing most of last year, Adam Eaton is off to an incredible start in 2018. He turned in a historic performance on Saturday, going 5-for-5 and finishing a triple short of the cycle. Mark Zuckerman discusses Eaton’s great game.

Call to the Pen analyzes Bryce Harper

In case you had not heard, Bryce Harper is in a contract year. His impending free agency has been a hot topic of discussion for several years now, but talks will only heat up as the season wears on. Jacob Chatfield analyzes what will go into his scrutinized season.

NBC Sports Washington previews 2018

2018 may be the most important season in franchise history, so there will naturally be many questions surrounding the team. How the Nats answer these questions may even determine their ultimate fate. A poor season leaves fans wondering what could have been, but a great season could result in a parade on South Capitol Street. Cam Ellis lists five pressing questions for the Nats in 2018.

Next: Adam Eaton's career day

Congrats to Michigan and Villanova and good luck to Notre Dame and Mississippi State tonight in the Women’s Final Four!

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