Washington Nationals: Four x-factor players for the Nats in 2019
By Tobi Altizer
Victor Robles
Since Bryce Harper hasn’t signed with anyone yet, the Washington Nationals projected outfield for 2019 will be Juan Soto, Victor Robles, and Adam Eaton. While all three of these players could be on this list, Robles might be the most important.
Assuming Soto can somewhat repeat what he did last year, he becomes an important bat in the middle of the Nationals lineup. Eaton will need to stay healthy to be effective, but he will be a solid piece in the lineup. The wild card is Robles.
In a limited sample size of 21 games last season, Robles flashed his amazing potential. He showed off his glove, speed, and ability to hit for average.
He’ll give the Nats another speedy player on the bases. With him and Trea Turner, the Nationals could finish the 2019 season with two 40+ steal players. This will hopefully open up the Nats offense and can lead to more runs.
Robles can give the team a dependable CF who can field and hit at a high standard. Last season, the two primary players in centerfield were only good at one and not the other.
Michael Taylor brought the Nationals Gold Glove level defense in center, but his bat was abysmal. Bryce Harper was the exact opposite. Having Robles will be great if Harper returns because it will allow Harper to go back to a corner outfield position where his defense won’t hurt the Nationals as much.
Robles is going to be an important piece for the Nationals. He can be someone who will make this offense incredible. The outfielder is set to play a major role for the Nationals in 2019, and he can help the team forget 2018 with a great 2019.