Phillies Lose Home Opener to Nationals, 7-6: Five Observations
By John Town
Washington Could Be Dangerous
This may be cheating by looking at the other team to start off these observations, but it’s worth pointing out that Washington’s game against Philadelphia was indicative of the team’s skill sets as a whole.
Max Scherzer was effective in his first start since winning the NL Cy Young last year. He went 6.2 innings, giving up just four hits, two runs, two walks, and struck out seven batters. Washington’s rotation as a whole with Scherzer, Steven Strasburg, and Tanner Roark is worth watching.
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Washington’s lineup is loaded, especially after adding Adam Eaton during the offseason. Everyone from top to bottom is dangerous in their own aspect. Even Matt Wieters in the eight-hole hit 17 home runs last year and has a 1.236 OPS so far this season.
Bryce Harper, Daniel Murphy, and Jayson Werth all launched home runs, with Werth and Harper already on their second for the season.
Harper looks to be back to pre-2016 form so far this season with a .357 average and 1.357 OPS. All three are some of the better hitters in the National League – even Werth – and can carry the burden in most lineups on their own.
However, Washington’s biggest hole, their bullpen, was also on display Friday. Combined, the Nationals bullpen gave up four runs on five hits and two walks in just 2.1 innings.
Washington’s designated closer, Blake Treinen recorded his third save of the season, but not before giving up two runs in the process. Had Washington’s lead been any smaller, he would have received his second blown save on the season.
Washington’s starting rotation and lineup is fearsome, but if they are going to contend they will need to shore up their bullpen at the trade deadline. If there are any high-end relievers available – enter Joaquin Benoit? – the Nationals will certainly be in the running.