Washington Nationals Ultimate Simulation: The Semifinals

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 13: Daniel Murphy #20 of the Washington Nationals reacts after scoring on an RBI single by Michael Taylor of the Washington Nationals against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning in game five of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park on October 13, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 13: Daniel Murphy #20 of the Washington Nationals reacts after scoring on an RBI single by Michael Taylor of the Washington Nationals against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning in game five of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park on October 13, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
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2017 Washington Nationals vs 2016 Washington Nationals

There’s no getting around the fact that these two teams are incredibly similar.

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All of the core pieces of recent Nationals teams occupy roster spots on our finalists: Scherzer, Strasburg, Gonzalez, Roark, Harper, Murphy, Zimmerman, Rendon, Turner, and Werth.

However, some small differences may make an impact on the outcome of the series.

Murphy’s 2016 season was his best by far. In 2017, he came back down to Earth. Similarly, Roark had an ERA under 3.00 in 2016. In 2017, it soared to 4.67.

In 2017’s corner, Harper was a completely different player that year. With a 155 wRC+ in 2017 compared to a 111 mark in 2016, he can take over a game. Also, the direct opposite of Roark is Gonzalez. He had a 2.96 ERA in 2017, but a 4.57 ERA in 2016.

Little edges will be the difference in the series. Which team will capitalize on them? That is to be seen.

Come back to District on Deck tomorrow to read about the finals matchup and see which team is crowned the best team in Washington Nationals history.

Schedule