Washington Nationals outfielder Adam Eaton has gotten off to a hot start after missing nearly all of 2017, but he will likely be placed on the disabled list shortly.
Everyone knows that Washington Nationals outfielder Adam Eaton missed nearly all of last year with a torn ACL. However, what people fail to remember is that when he suffered his season-ending injury, he also tore up his ankle.
Eaton has gotten off to a great start in 2018, and his knee has held up well, but his ankle has given him some problems. He had a scare earlier this year after breaking up some scar tissue on an awkward slide, and he is now suffering from a bone bruise.
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Unfortunately, Eaton’s bone bruise will likely send him to the disabled list. The good news, though, is that he expects to return as soon as he is eligible and will use the time off to strengthen his leg.
With Eaton on the disabled list, Andrew Stevenson or Moises Sierra will likely receive a promotion. Victor Robles may have gotten an opportunity to prove himself in Eaton’s absence, but he is hurt as well.
While Eaton is on the disabled list, expect Brian Goodwin, Matt Adams, Matt Reynolds, and whoever they call up to receive playing time in left field. Howie Kendrick can play there as well, but he has mostly been filling in for Daniel Murphy at second base.
Although a trip to the disabled list is never good, this may be a blessing in disguise. If this ensures that Eaton’s leg will not give him any more trouble for the rest of the year, that is a great thing.
Now, here is what we are reading:
District on Deck analyzes Brandon Kintzler’s early-season struggles
After a strong 2017 campaign, Brandon Kintzler has gotten off to a rough start in 2018. Although he was an elite reliever just a year ago, we should expect some regression moving forward. Ross Shinberg analyzes Kintzler’s early-season struggles.
FanGraphs recalculates Trea Turner’s fantasy value
Entering 2018, Trea Turner appeared to be an under-the-radar fantasy star. After all, he has the potential to hit 20+ homers while leading the league in stolen bases. However, moving down in the batting order diminishes his value. Jeff Zimmerman recalculates Turner’s fantasy value.
MASN discusses Howie Kendrick’s minor injury
The Nats certainly miss all-star second baseman Daniel Murphy, but Howie Kendrick has made his absence somewhat tolerable. Unfortunately, Kendrick, who has gotten off to a great start, may have to miss a couple days after his leg tightened up on him last night. Mark Zuckerman discusses the Nats’ second base situation moving forward.
The Washington Times blame bullpen and baserunning for skid
Throughout the Nats’ uncharacteristic five-game losing streak, their bullpen and baserunning were among the worst in the league. Enny Romero, one of the main culprits, has since been designated for assignment, but other relievers have struggled as well. The Nats’ baserunning hasn’t been great either, which was especially evident in their loss to the Mets on Sunday night. David Driver analyzes their struggles.
Next: Stephen Strasburg dominates in series-clinching win
Until we hear more on Eaton, we have this afternoon’s game to look forward to. A.J. Cole and the Nats will attempt to sweep the Braves before taking on the Colorado Rockies in a four-game set.