What items should the Washington Nationals put on their offseason to-do list? Here are five priorities to address if they want to launch a more successful postseason run in 2017.
Earlier today, we examined the ups and downs of the Washington Nationals‘ 2016 season. As evidenced by their 95 wins, the regular season was filled mostly with the former, although a couple injuries to key players provided some obstacles. In any case, the Nats looked ready to make a date with the Chicago Cubs in the National League playoffs.
They were just edged out by the Los Angeles Dodgers in a five-game NLDS, however, continuing a trend of underachievement in the postseason. In the Nationals’ last three trips to the playoffs, they have failed to advance beyond the Division Series. As their fans can attest, it’s been thoroughly disappointing to see from a team with clear World Series aspirations.
The only way to go is forward, though, and general manager Mike Rizzo will try to use this offseason to get his club over the hurdle. While many of the Nats’ most important components for success will remain in the fold for 2017 (i.e. Bryce Harper, Max Scherzer, Daniel Murphy), they will have several positions and players to address in the coming months.
With a manager in Dusty Baker who’s been around the block and has an NL pennant under his belt, along with an owner in Ted Lerner who is desperate for a title, this is a team expected to win, and win now. That’s not going to change next season. In fact, after falling short yet again, the pressure will be felt all the more. And with Harper potentially eligible for free agency after the 2018 campaign, there is a creeping sense that time could be running out.
So without further ado, here are the five areas the Nationals should prioritize during the upcoming offseason.
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