Washington Nationals: Again, it’s Max Scherzer time

After a rough night, the Washington Nationals plan to bounce back with Max Scherzer. That and the best reads in today’s Daily Washingtonian.

Good morning Washington Nationals fans!

Today is Wednesday, April 4, 2018.

The Nats and Atlanta Braves play the rubber game of their three-game set at Noon with Max Scherzer on the hill for Washington.

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Sometimes in sports, you are a bug. While, others have you play the windshield. In Tuesday night’s 13-6 hammering, the Nats were the proverbial bug.

Over the course of a long 162-game season, bad games will happen. You want them out of the way in April and not October. No one likes getting blown out, but it is inevitable.

With no off day before Washington’s home opener Thursday, they turn to Scherzer and the “Law Firm” to pitch all nine later today. Odds are in Washington’s favor.

You wonder, after a rough game, in this age of eight-man bullpens why teams do not carry a long man. Back when bullpens were considerably shorter, it was not unusual to have a pitcher who could eat three or four innings when things went bad.

By having so many pitchers limited to an inning, you are asking for trouble down the line. The team which masters the art of long relief can go far in October.

On that note, onto the links:

The Washington Post profiles Adam Eaton

The Nats had one of the best offenses in the league in 2017, but it was missing something. They got away with the hole in the regular season, but it was evident in the postseason. That hole was Adam Eaton‘s absence, but now he is back and better than ever. Barry Svrluga discusses Eaton’s impact.

Call to the Pen compares Dave Martinez to Gabe Kapler

The Phillies got off to a rocky start to 2018, highlighted by some crucial errors from rookie manager Gabe Kapler. Meanwhile, the Nats have their own rookie manager, Dave Martinez, but have thrived. Tim Boyle compares the two first-time skippers.

Ballpark Digest previews Nationals Park

Built in 2008, Nationals Park is among the youngest ballparks in the league. Along with great baseball being played on the field, the park creates a fantastic atmosphere. Zach Spedden previews Nationals Park, including what was added this offseason.

MASN raves about Pedro Severino

When Matt Wieters was surprisingly placed on the disabled list with a mild oblique strain, Pedro Severino was recalled from Triple-A. Martinez didn’t waste any time, penciling Severino into the lineup in the first game the young catcher was active for. Byron Kerr compliments Severino on a job well done.

Next: Patience needed for Severino and Montero

The best thing about baseball is you have little time to dwell on mistakes. Enjoy your Wednesday!