Washington Nationals: Predicting the home team all-stars
By Blake Finney
In exactly two months time, the Washington Nationals will be hosting the 2018 All-Star Game. But which Nats will represent the hosts in the big event?
The All-Star Game exactly two months away, taking place at the home of the Washington Nationals on July 17th. It will be the first time the summer classic has been hosted in the nation’s capital for almost 50 years.
Since the team became a fixture in the playoff picture in 2012, the National League All-Star team has always been littered with Nats. And now with the chance to represent the team in their home ballpark, it’ll be an even more momentous occasion.
Last season, the Nats sent five players to the All-Star Game, the joint most of any National League team. Ryan Zimmerman, Daniel Murphy, Bryce Harper, Max Scherzer and Stephen Strasburg all went to Miami representing the team.
All of the above except Strasburg started the game, showing just how good the Nationals top-end talent is. Even then, they could have had yet another all-star but Anthony Rendon missed out during the final vote to Justin Turner.
So how does the 2018 crop from D.C. stack up to last year? Well injuries may somewhat reduce the amount, with some key players on the shelf.
Adam Eaton started the season strong, and although it was a small sample, he certainly had a shot. While Murphy, who went to the last two All-Star games, has still yet to feature for the big league club so far leaving him next to no chance.
Let’s dive in and take a look at who we think is heading to the summer classic. At the end, we’ll also see who has a chance, but right now is on the outside looking in.