MLB’s Most to Prove: Victor Robles
Victor Robles, a former five-tool prospect and the Nationals’ #1 prospect in 2016, has not lived up to the hype. He slashed .220/.293/.315 in 52 games last year, knocking just nine extra-base hits. Back-to-back seasons, his OPS landed below league average. His walk rates have decreased each season since 2018, while his strikeouts rates have increased. He also followed up 25 defensive runs saved in 2019 with -4 in 2020.
The Nationals are scratching their heads, wondering how they can activate Robles’ potential. He’s the team’s ideal breakout candidate heading into the regular season.
Washington needs Robles to play an outstanding center field, as their corner outfielders lack range. More than anything, they need him to provide balance to their lineup. They’re in good shape at the top, with Trea Turner, Juan Soto, Josh Bell, and Kyle Schwarber in place. Though, concerns materialize from there.
A stellar offensive season from Robles out of the sixth or seventh spot in the batting order would work wonders for the Nats. His speed would play wonderfully out of the ninth place in the lineup or at leadoff as well, with Soto and Turner looming. He’ll have to earn leadoff privileges, however.
Victor Robles may be the Washington Nationals’ most important player this season. He possesses game-changing abilities, and even a good version of Robles could significantly help his team’s chances in a loaded NL East.
He’s under club control through 2024, so don’t expect him to change uniforms if he has another bad season. However, his grasp on center field is feeble, and a turnaround to the minors is not far off.