Series Preview: Colorado Rockies vs Washington Nationals

Jul 1, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder B. Harper (34) hits a single during the fourth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Let’s Meet The Nationals

We don’t see the Nationals very often, being in the NL West, so let’s get to know some of the recent story lines around the club here:

Drew Storen’s 8th inning dominance and the Jonathan Papelbon deal (District on Deck).
The Nationals, of course, acquired Jonathan Papelbon at the trade deadline — which seemed goofy to some considering they had a decent closer in Drew Storen. It works, though, according to District on Deck — if only for the fact that Storen is so dominant in the eighth inning and Papelbon can take the ninth so seamlessly.

Rotation questions loom for the Nats (District on Deck).
With Strasburg returning, the Nats have some rotation questions that they need to face. It may affect the Rockies for when Washington comes to Coors Field later this season, too.

Casey Janssen’s Success Gives Nats Good Bullpen Trio (District on Deck).
Ok, ok, damn we get it… the Nationals have a good pitching staff.

On the Nationals’ shortstop dilemma (Federal Baseball).
The Nationals aren’t getting great production offensively from shortstop Ian Desmond.  There are a few options they can turn to for shortstop help as the playoffs approach, including top prospect Trea Turner.

Ok… Rockies, Nationals, starts tonight. Early game since it’s on the east coast. Giddyup!

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