That Balls Outta Here
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Philadelphia Phillies opponent overview: Washington Nationals

By John Town

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 13: Bryce Harper #34 of the Washington Nationals looks on before playing the Chicago Cubs in game five of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park on October 13, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 13: Bryce Harper #34 of the Washington Nationals looks on before playing the Chicago Cubs in game five of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park on October 13, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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WASHINGTON, DC – OCTOBER 07: Ryan Zimmerman #11 of the Washington Nationals celebrates with Anthony Rendon #6 of the Washington Nationals after hitting a three run home run against the Chicago Cubs in the eighth inning during game two of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park on October 7, 2017 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Opening Day starters

More from That Balls Outta Here

  • C Matt Wieters
  • 1B Ryan Zimmerman
  • 2B Daniel Murphy/Howie Kendrick
  • SS Trea Turner
  • 3B Anthony Rendon
  • LF Adam Eaton
  • CF Michael A. Taylor
  • RF Bryce Harper

The Nationals have been dealing with injuries this spring to many of their starters. Murphy has not done much this spring and probably won’t be ready for Opening Day, leaving Kendrick to start Opening Day at second base. Eaton had offseason surgery and Taylor has been dealing with tightness in his side. However, both are expected to be ready on Opening Day.

Top prospect Victor Robles could find his way onto the Opening Day roster if Eaton or Taylor can’t play.

This lineup still features some heavy hitters even with the injuries. Rendon was in the MVP conversation after racking up six wins above replacement with a .937 OPS. Harper played in 111 games after sustaining a knee injury stepping on first base awkwardly, but he posted numbers almost as good as his 2015 MVP season. Zimmerman had a career season at age 32 after declining for several years.

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