Washington Nationals: Anthony Rendon close to returning
By Drew Douglas
Washington Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon has been inactive for the last couple weeks, but he could return as soon as today.
Good morning, Washington Nationals fans!
Today is Sunday, April 29, 2018, which means Anthony Rendon is finally eligible to return from the disabled list. The Nats’ star third baseman has not played in over two weeks, and his presence in the lineup has been severely missed.
Wilmer Difo, Adrian Sanchez, and Matt Reynolds have all seen time at third during Rendon’s absence. While Difo and Sanchez have impressed, it is nearly impossible to replicate Rendon’s skillset.
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Now, Rendon is finally eligible to return.
Unfortunately, that does not mean that he will. He has not played in rehab games (although that may not be necessary) and he has not taken on-field batting practice.
If Rendon does return today, the Nats will receive a much-needed boost. They have lost six of their last seven games and will attempt to avoid a sweep at the hands of the surging Diamondbacks this afternoon.
The Nats have been a frustrating bunch of late, but getting Rendon back in the lineup will go a long way in righting the ship. Hopefully Adam Eaton, Daniel Murphy, and Brian Goodwin can return soon as well.
Now, here is what we are reading:
District on Deck analyzes Dave Martinez
Dave Martinez is a rookie manager in a high-pressure situation, so there is a natural learning curve, but he has made some head-scratching moves early in his managerial career. He made a few regrettable decisions on Saturday afternoon, contributing to the frustrating loss. He will improve as the season progresses, but he has struggled out of the gate.
District on Deck ponders the Nats’ offensive struggles
The Nats’ offense has been rather lackluster to begin 2018, which has cost them several games. They are now 1-8 in one-run games, which is largely due to struggles with runners in scoring position. If they do not improve in clutch situations, they will continue to lose close ballgames.
Ryan Zimmerman has hit cleanup for most of 2018, with Howie Kendrick in the two-hole, but Martinez switched things up on Saturday afternoon. Zimmerman and Kendrick traded places, and the early results were promising. Until Eaton returns, this is probably the optimal lineup configuration. Byron Kerr analyzes the Nats’ lineup.
MLB.com discusses Bryce Harper’s walks
It is no secret that Bryce Harper is among the most dangerous hitters in the league. He can change any game with a swing of the bat, but opposing pitchers have been walking him at record pace in 2018. His 35 walks are far and away the most in the league, with Aaron Judge‘s 24 taking second place. Michael Errigo discusses why Harper is walking so much.
Next: Howie Kendrick off to a great start
The Nats turn to Gio Gonzalez to attempt to avoid the sweep this afternoon. We’d also like to wish the Capitals the best of luck as they take on the Pittsburgh Penguins.