Philadelphia Phillies opponent overview: Washington Nationals
By John Town
Despite all the additions made by the Phillies this season, the Washington Nationals remain the favorite in the National League East.
When the Phillies were at their best from 2007-2011, the Washington Nationals were at their worst. They finished last in the division nearly every year from when they moved to the capital until reaching third in 2011.
As Philadelphia started to fall, Washington climbed to the top. They have finished first or second in the division in each of the last six seasons. Of course, they have been unable to escape the National League Division Series despite four different attempts.
This season, Washington enters as the division favorite yet again. Philadelphia and the New York Mets both have the potential to make a run at a wildcard, but the Nationals are expected to win the division barring a total collapse.