Washington Nationals: Mets series overwhelmingly encouraging

The Washington Nationals rallied to win two of three against the Mets at Citi Field. That and more in today’s Daily Washingtonian.

Good morning, Washington Nationals fans!

Today is Thursday, April 19, 2018. The Capitals play tonight, but the Nats have a rare off-day as they travel to the West Coast.

Wednesday night’s loss to the Mets was frustrating and may be the lasting impression from the series, but it was a very encouraging series overall. Several struggling players, such as Trea Turner and Ryan Zimmerman, finally began to turn things around.

More from District on Deck

In the first two games, Turner went 5-for-9 with two doubles, two stolen bases, and three runs scored. With Adam Eaton on the disabled list, Turner is becoming the spark plug that everyone knows he can be.

Zimmerman also had an encouraging series. After an abysmal start to the year, he went 4-for-8 in the last two games, including two homers, a triple, and five RBI. He has always been a streaky hitter, but this could be the beginning of a hot streak.

Finally, the Nats won two of three against the Mets, meaning they won the series. Any series win is important, but a series win at Citi Field is momentum-shifting. The Mets entered the series at 12-2 and felt they could do no wrong, but the Nats brought them back down to earth a bit.

Now, here is some reading to keep you occupied on the off-day:

District on Deck profiles Andrew Stevenson

With Eaton and Brian Goodwin on the disabled list, a few different players have seen time in left field. Among these is Andrew Stevenson. Last year, he was seen as an exceptional defender and a lackluster hitter. However, after working with Kevin Long throughout the offseason, he is suddenly an offensive threat. We analyze his value to the Nats.

Cut 4 discusses Ryan Zimmerman’s unique accolade

Ryan Zimmerman has had a phenomenal career thus far and has accumulated several accolades. He has been an all-star, won a Gold Glove Award, and won a couple Silver Slugger Awards. However, he has recently earned a distinct honor. Eric Chesterton discusses Zimmerman’s most recent accolade.

The Washington Post explains the Nats’ hit celebration

A couple years ago, Daniel Murphy inspired the “FWAHH” celebration after home runs. Now, the Nats have a new celebration. After base hits, they sometimes make an odd motion with their hands to signify the ball being hit in the air. Chelsea Janes explains the Nats’ latest celebration and how it is tied to Murphy.

MASN updates injured Nats

The Nats have dealt with a plethora of injuries throughout the first month of the season, but a few players are nearing returns. Fortunately, Eaton and Anthony Rendon could return as soon as the end of this week. Byron Kerr updates a few injured Nats.

Next: Howie Kendrick off to a great start

With that, we hope you enjoy the Nats’ off-day and cheer the Capitals to a series-tying win tonight! Rest up, too, because we will be up late throughout the upcoming West Coast trip.

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