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Washington Nationals: Who should hit leadoff next season?

By Blake Finney

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JUNE 29: Trea Turner #7 of the Washington Nationals is congratulated by Adam Eaton #2 after hitting a two-run home run during the first inning of a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 29, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - JUNE 29: Trea Turner #7 of the Washington Nationals is congratulated by Adam Eaton #2 after hitting a two-run home run during the first inning of a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on June 29, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /
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Washington Nationals Victor Robles
(Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

The case for Victor Robles

Even though it was likely just experimenting given the Washington Nationals season basically over, we got a taste of Victor Robles in the top spot. He has the game-breaking speed just like Trea Turner, and that would make him a great fit to lead off for the Nats.

Robles has stolen at least 22 bases in each of his five pro seasons within the Nats organization. But that’s while only playing more than 75 games in two seasons, due to injury and only playing short-season during the early years of his career. He could have the chance to top 40 stolen bases in the major leagues in a full-time role.

But don’t sleep on the rest of Robles’ game, as he actually led the Nationals in all slash line components as a leadoff hitter. He slashed .356/.400/.667 atop the order, with Adam Eaton slashing .297/.392/.403, Trea Turner slashing .274/.336/.430 and Bryce Harper slashing .217/.288/.543 leading off.

The concern with Robles is his lack of experience in the big leagues, which may cause some regression in what will be his rookie season. That may be too much of a risk than the Nationals would consider worth taking, especially with such a crucial position in the lineup that sets the tone for a team.

Maybe in the long-term, Robles could be a potential leadoff hitter, but right now, Turner would be a better choice if the team deems speed important in the leadoff spot. Though were the shortstop to go down injured, then the rookie outfielder may have a more legitimate case for leading off.

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