Washington Nationals face a tougher National League East in 2018
By Tim Boyle
The National League East got a lot better this offseason. For the Washington Nationals, this means fewer teams to feast on regularly in 2018.
Last year, the Washington Nationals were far and away the best team in the National League East. In any other division, they would have had some trouble making it to the postseason. In the weak National League East, their ticket to the postseason was delivered overnight and early on in the 2017 season.
Making it to the postseason this year might prove to be a more difficult task. The division is a lot tougher except for the Miami Marlins. In their case, they’ve gotten far worse.
How the Washington Nationals faired in 2017
Despite finishing with a far better record than their four division rivals, the Washington Nationals didn’t have amazing records against everyone. They handled the Miami Marlins and New York Mets incredibly well. Against each of them, the Nationals finished with a 13-6 record.
The Philadelphia Phillies gave them a harder time. When playing them, the Nationals went 11-8.
Finally, for the Atlanta Braves, the Nationals posted their worst interdivisional record. When playing Atlanta, Washington finished barely above .500 at 10-9.
What to expect from the Washington Nationals in 2018
It’s no shock to see the Washington Nationals finish with winning records against everyone from the NL East last year. Some new faces in the division may make it tougher for them to repeat this feat.
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If healthy, the New York Mets pose a significant threat. Jacob deGrom and Noah Syndergaard are formidable opponents. If Matt Harvey can get close to where he was not long ago, the Mets can hold the Nationals’ offense at bay. When it comes to their offense, the Mets are also slightly improved. They will need health on their side to keep up with the Nationals and their nearly perfect starting lineup.
The Philadelphia Phillies may finish the year as the most improved team in baseball. The younger players are one year more experienced. They will also have Carlos Santana at first base ready to swat home runs at Nationals Park. Most notably, Jake Arrieta will help them win those close low-scoring games.
Even the Atlanta Braves made some notable yet quieter moves. Brandon McCarthy is an excellent pitcher who makes them better. When Ronald Acuna finally receives his promotion, he should thwart the Nationals’ attempts at running away with the division.
The Miami Marlins, meanwhile, should roll over for just about everyone they face. Although, don’t be surprised if J.T. Realmuto and others hoping to leave South Florida play their hearts out. A few good games against the Nationals and maybe he can convince them to pay the high price to finally get him.
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Earning a playoff spot is never easy. As the Washington Nationals are about to learn, it only gets tougher from here.