Nationals Expectations

As with most things in life, I prefer the wait and see method. The Nats this year are no exception. The first two series are pretty easy competition and, other than opening day at Wriggly Field with the Cubs, should be able to sweep those games. So a 6-0, sounds pretty great right? But caution is paramount, as the rest of the month is pretty difficult. A home opening series with the Reds will tell everyone a little bit more on whether the Nats can stick with the contenders. With the exception of a very winnable 4 game set against the Astros in DC, the rest of month is dangerous. Games with Miami, San Francisco, and the recharged Dodgers will certainly show who the Nats are. With the Phillies beat up and older, they're missing their 3 and 4 hitters, this is the best time for the Nats to seize control of the division early and build a buffer for when other teams become healthy and make a run for the division crown. If the Nats win 2 of 3 and 3 of 4 in every series, they will be the team to beat in the NL East.