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The Nationals played really solid baseball yesterday. It felt like it was 2017 again. It felt good. It almost made it feel like the end of the season may be a bad thing, instead of releasing us from our pain.
Here’s the news from Nats Park:
Could Adrian Sanchez be playing his way into a second base competition? (WaPo)
Sanchez is hitting .333 in 21 at-bats against lefties, earning him September playing time, and potentially a spot on the bench next season or even a platoon role — unless the Nats sign a second baseman.
Too little, too late: Nats look great in winning finale over Braves (WaPo)
In a game recap that also doubles as somewhat of an analytical piece, Chelsea Janes lays it out: these were the Nationals we were looking for all season — an offensively potent team with a competent rotation and bullpen — but they just showed up too late.
Checking In…(Nationals Prospects)
"That leave the Nationals with Nashville as the least-worst option between the remaining affiliates of Las Vegas, Fresno, Round Rock, and San Antonio. They’re competing with Milwaukee, Texas, Houston, and Oakland."
Bryce Harper, Anthony Rendon homer in win (MLB)
Harper made his way to 97 RBI, while Anthony Rendon quietly continued his (quiet) on base streak of 25 games, in which he's hit .330.
Heyman: Execs think Phillies could land Machado AND Harper (Fancred)
The Phillies have the money, a low payroll, and the willingness to sign big names. They know they won't be as good as the Braves without some help — so why not both Manny Machado and Bryce Harper?
Eaton won't slow down as season winds down (MASN)
Adam Eaton has had two leg surgeries in the last 24 months, and has finally healed. Though he's only hitting .234 in September, he was one of the Nats' most consistent offensive players when he was healthy — which could bode well if he can continue that trend next year.
The Philadelphia Phillies Played Themselves Back to Reality (Baseball Essential)
The Phillies looked like a playoff team. They had a chance to run away with the NL East. Then, they stalled — the Nats have been able to beat them consistently, and their rotation past Aaron Nola has been a question mark. They're just out of gas.
Useless Info Dept., September History Watch Edition — The Nats got rained out a lot. (The Athletic)
"They’ve taken on more water than the Titanic. They’ve spent more hours at the ballpark than the grounds crew. They’re the 2018 Washington Nationals. And it’s hard to say whether they’re going to finish out this season or just wash away to sea."