Washington Nationals: Max Scherzer offers hope with start
By Ron Juckett
The Washington Nationals again turn to Max Scherzer to break a losing streak plus the latest on Anthony Rendon. Today in the Daily Washingtonian.
Good morning, Washington Nationals fans!
Today is Saturday, April 14, 2018. The Nats sit with an 6-8 record in fourth place. They trail the New York Mets by six games.
For the second time this week, Max Scherzer hopes to right the ship.
More from District on Deck
- Washington Nationals Minor League Spotlight: Robert Hassell III
- Washington Nationals Tuesday Q&A
- 3 Free Agents the Nationals Should Gamble On
- A Washington Nationals Christmas Wishlist
- Washington Nationals: Is Seth Lugo Still an Option?
His 102-pitch two-hitter Monday was a thing of beauty over the Atlanta Braves. Combine with Stephen Strasburg‘s gem Tuesday night, the Nats starting pitching remains Washington’s strongest asset.
But, Scherzer should not need to channel his inner Pedro Martinez for Washington to win. Although it is beautiful to watch, this team is capable of scoring runs while making life easier for the pitchers. Something we have not seen the last 10 games.
Remember, there are a good 20 teams in Major League Baseball who would love to have Washington’s roster. The talent is too good to play this poorly.
Best of luck to the Washington Wizards as they begin their NBA playoff run. They open with a tough series with the Toronto Raptors after the Nats game today. You can follow the Wiz at our sister site Wiz of Awes. Go get ’em!
On to the links:
District on Deck compares Adam Eaton’s contract to Charlie Blackmon’s extension
Part of why the Nats were willing to part with their top three pitching prospects to acquire Adam Eaton was because of his team-friendly contract. Most of his peers are paid much more than him, including Charlie Blackmon, who just signed an extension with the Rockies. Drew Douglas compares Eaton and Blackmon’s contracts.
Friday night’s 2-1 loss to the Rockies was difficult to swallow, but was exaggerated by Anthony Rendon‘s apparent injury. After fouling a ball off of his foot, the third baseman left the game. Byron Kerr provides an update on Rendon.
Talk Nats ponders the importance of spring training
Due to several injuries, the Nats have been forced to promote a few players from the minors earlier than expected. Among these have been spring training sluggers Matt Reynolds and Moises Sierra. Alex Yalen ponders the importance of spring training results.
MLB.com discusses the Nats’ fifth rotation spot
A.J. Cole has produced mixed results in his first two starts of the year, while Jeremy Hellickson stretches his arm out in West Palm Beach. With Hellickson almost ready, the Nats will have a decision to make in their rotation. Jamal Collier analyzes the decision at hand.
Today’s a new day. Hopefully, the bats wake up. Enjoy your Saturday!