The Washington Nationals have one big-time prospect ready to make a splash, and he could be coming as soon as Opening Day. Get ready for Victor Robles.
With all of the talent that the Washington Nationals have in the big leagues, they still have three prospects in MLB.com’s top 100, and one left in the top five. That could change in 2019, with Victor Robles set to play a big role this coming season.
The success of the Nats’ farm system has been no secret over the past decade, and they may have struck gold one more time. Past successes to come from the Nationals system includes names like Bryce Harper, Stephen Strasburg, and Juan Soto, to name a few. Now, it could be Robles’ time to shine.
The past two years have been a long waiting game for Nationals fans. They have been waiting for Robles to stick permanently on the 25-man roster, and the 2019 season could finally be that moment.
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Over his years in the minors, he has ranked as the team’s top prospect since the end of 2016 and still remains in the top five hitting prospects this offseason. That should be reassuring to Nats fans that he hasn’t lost his step despite stalling a little in recent seasons.
With the return of Harper being so uncertain, and manager Dave Martinez seemingly giving his endorsement for Robles being ready, Nationals fans could see their top prospect roaming centerfield and stealing bases as early as Opening Day.
Injuries have been the main reason that it has taken so long for Robles to reach the majors permanently. Last season he suffered an elbow injury that sidelined him for most of the year and paved the way for rookie phenom Juan Soto to get called up.
The logistics of how the everyday outfield would shape up with the uncertainty of Bryce Harper makes it a little crowded. But at this point in time, it’s looking like the Nationals could have one of the youngest and most exciting outfield trios in the entire league.
Last season Robles spent his longest period of time in the majors, and he did not disappoint. He slashed .288/.348/.525 while also flexing his power by smacking three home runs. He is only 21 years old, but if the rest of the outfield is any indicator, the Nats are very good at training and supporting young talent.
Bottom line, with or without Harper, the Washington Nationals will have a very scary outfield. With all of the question marks, seeing Victor Robles full-time should be a relief for Nats fans.