Washington Nationals: Six players who could break out in 2019
By Blake Finney
Victor Robles
Let’s get the obvious one out of the way first. Victor Robles is the team’s top prospect and is likely to be roaming centerfield on Opening Day. Make no mistake, the Washington Nationals have a potential future star on their hands here.
For all the talk of Juan Soto last season, it’s easy to forget that Robles was ranked higher than him across the board in prospect rankings. That didn’t happen by accident, as the outfielder possesses all five tools, with the potential to be a superstar if he develops as expected.
In his 34 big league games so far, Robles has slashed .277/.337/.506 with three home runs, three triples, and three stolen bases. That’s just a taster though, as he’s not really had regular playing time as yet in his major league career.
He’s also had a positive Defensive WAR in his cup of coffee with the Nats, and this is probably the area of his game that doesn’t get enough attention. Robles may still have some rough edges, but he genuinely has the potential be a gold glover in centerfield, and is likely already on a par with Michael A. Taylor on that front.
With a regular path to playing time in 2019, Robles is likely the early favorite for NL Rookie of the Year. If Robles can live up to the sky-high expectations then the Nats could have one of the best young outfields in the entire sport. That’s mouthwatering for Nationals fans.