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So, here we are. Nine days from Opening Day. Seven from the first exhibition at Nationals Park.
That’s it. There’s no real point. Here’s the beat from Palm Beach.
(9 days.)
Max Scherzer named Washington Nationals' Opening Day starter
SHOCKING NEWS
Max Scherzer always wants one more inning. The Nationals need to watch that.
Max Scherzer was fine with being hit around on Monday, because he wanted to pitch from the stretch, and needed to hit 90 pitches anyways. The next start, he'll have to go 100. After that, the Nats should cap him around there to keep him fresh for October, when he's been historically worse.
Nationals' Daniel Murphy unlikely for opener
The Nationals haven't been rushing Murphy, who could increase baseball activity soon, but hasn't seen any big-league game action thus far and seems unlikely to this week. Also, A.J. Cole will make the roster, but his role will be unclear.
All might be well
Except for Ryan Zimmerman. Where is Ryan Zimmerman?
Nationals Pipeline Spring Training report
Victor Robles is still young, developing, and figuring himself out. The rest of the system is much younger, in a more considerable state of development, and has yet to figure itself out as well (read: it's all in Hagerstown).
Max Scherzer starts Opening Day for Nationals
WHO WOULD HAVE GUESSed???
Q&A with Daniel Johnson
Daniel Johnson has his first year under him, and has quickly ascended to the position of one of the best prospects in the Nationals' system. Here's some of what he had to say when asked about the Fall League, his unlikely ascension, and the lack of attention paid to him.
Jeremy Hellickson adds an arm to Nats' competition for 5th starter
As it turns out, we actually *won't* know who the fifth starter is until after Opening Day.
The Nationals’ overhauled coaching staff: Inexperienced, having fun, and very loud
Chip Hale pays a lot of attention to detail. As do Derek Lilliquist, Bob Henley, Kevin Long, Dave Martinez, and Henry Blanco. But they're loud and energetic about that detail. The same goes for most other things.
Finally healthy, Nationals reliever Tim Collins makes pitch for a big league return
Tim Collins has gone through more than a few surgeries, rehabs, and seasons in the minors. The highest level he reached last year was Harrisburg. This year, finally healthy and strong, he thinks that he can crack the Major League team.
With one week to go, what's left for Nats to decide?
There are seven days left of Spring Training. They've essentially said that they'll name a fifth starter when they need one. But catcher, middle reliever, and second base are all still question spots.
Today’s Game: Marlins vs Nationals — 1:05 PM
Probable Pitchers: Odrisamer Despaigne vs Stephen Strasburg