With the 2017 season coming up, the Washington Nationals are fully immersed in Spring Training down in Palm Beach, Florida. In full preparation for their April 5th home opener, the team has been practicing away, earning just three wins in their Spring Training season so far. After several adjustments within their bullpen and a rotation in their outfield positioning, the Nationals have the opportunity repeat as NL Eastern Division Champions.
The most major changes to the team come within the Nationals’ bullpen. The team said goodbye to top prospect Lucas Giolito (RHP), as well as fellow pitchers Reynaldo Lopez (RHP), Dane Dunning (RHP), and Mark Melancon (RHP), while welcoming some key additions, such as Austin Adams (RHP), Kyle McGowin (RHP), Jacob Turner (RHP), and Vance Worley (RHP). According to Sports Illustrated’s “Winter Report Card,” the Nationals’ “ongoing failure to land their free agent targets has taken a noticeable toll.” Over the winter, Washington was unable to re-sign Melancon, and could not find a suitable replacement on the free agent market, leaving them with a questionable and unstable bullpen. The Nationals’ current pen stands with closer Shawn Kelley (RHP), set-up man Blake Treinen (RHP) and middle reliever Oliver Perez (LHP).
Jayson Werth (28) and Bryce Harper celebrate after a win during the 2016 season
Though many trades, such as letting go of three right handed pitchers for outfielder Adam Eaton, are controversial, they may prove to be vital to the Nationals’ success sometime during the season. The addition of outfielder Adam Eaton will allow Trea Turner to move to his native shortstop. While this addition may cause some confusion in the outfield, as it is likely that manager Dusty Baker will swap Eaton to center field, leaving previous center fielder Bryce Harper to play Right field, it may prove to be an upgrade to Washington’s offense. Signing Adam Lind will give some insurance to either an aging Ryan Zimmerman (1B), or Jayson Werth (LF).
Despite controversy, the improvements made to the Nationals’ infield may prove to be very beneficial come the 2017 Spring Season. With their ever-strong batting lineup, and some possible contributions to their bullpen, the Nationals could have a division championship in their near future.