Washington Nationals: A.J. Cole moves to the Bronx

Washington Nationals pitcher A.J. Cole moves to New York and we say good bye to Senators fan favorite Davey Nelson in today’s Daily Washingtonian.

Good morning, Washington Nationals fans!

Today is Tuesday, April 24, 2018. With the Nats loss in San Francisco early this morning, they fall to 10-13 and lose a half-game in the standings to the New York Mets. The margin is 5.5 games.

This is a good day to spare a few thoughts for others. Start with A.J. Cole.

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Cole is now with the New York Yankees following a trade for cash considerations last night. Hopefully the change of scenery will clear his head and put him on track for a successful career. Remember, the Yankees and Nats play four times this season including two in DC starting May 15.

Although his designation for assignment was deserved, Cole deserves a nice hand when he comes back to town.

Those of you old enough to remember the expansion Washington Senators are mourning the loss of Dave Nelson.

The speedy Nelson was a role player his two years in DC. When the team moved to Texas, he was a valuable player in the early days of the Rangers.

Fans flocked to social media to share memories and sing his praises. He was a treasured member of the Milwaukee Brewers community in recent years. Nelson was 73.

Lastly, Shawn Kelley could use a few positive thoughts. With fresh ulnar ligament problems, he faces a high chance of retirement.

On to the links:

District on Deck praises Howie Kendrick

Due to various injuries, Howie Kendrick has played in nearly every game thus far. The bulk of his playing time has come at second base, where he is filling in for Daniel Murphy, but he has played left field and first base as well. In order to ease Murphy and Adam Eaton back, Kendrick could platoon at second base and in left field. Drew Douglas ponders Kendrick’s role moving forward.

The DoDCast previews the Giants

Max Scherzer out-dueled Clayton Kershaw in the first game of a three-game set in Los Angeles, but the Dodgers took the next two, en route to a series win. Now, the Nats head north to square off against the San Francisco Giants. Could some bad blood from a year ago spill into this year’s matchup. That and more in the latest edition of the DoDCast.

Call to the Pen profiles Juan Soto

Victor Robles receives most of the attention in the Nats’ farm system, but Juan Soto is an outstanding prospect as well. The 19-year-old got off to a phenomenal start in Low-A Hagerstown and was recently promoted to High-A Potomac. Could he eventually replace Bryce Harper in the Nats’ outfield? Kyle Hartwick gives his two cents.

MASN chats with Brandon Kintzler

The Nats’ bullpen has received a ton of work early in 2018, which has been especially true of “the law firm”. However, that is not necessarily a bad thing. Brandon Kintzler, for example, would actually prefer to be called upon a lot. Byron Kerr sits down with the Nats’ setup man to discuss his recent workload.

Next: Kendrick deserves regular role

A better day lies ahead. Enjoy your Tuesday!