The Washington Nationals have hit a late-July skid, dropping three of four to the Los Angeles Dodgers, but skipper Dave Martinez’s club is still in the top ten in the power rankings of most baseball writers.
USA Today lifted the Nationals two rungs to No. 8 after Stephen Strasburg collected his 14th win in the series closer Sunday against the Dodgers, while ESPN pushed the Nationals down to No. 10 after last week’s 4-3 run.
10 Stephen Strasburg Curveballs in 19 seconds (from yesterday). pic.twitter.com/ISlQgfWYqg
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) July 29, 2019
CBS Sports and the Sporting News also have the Nationals ranked at No. 10.
Sluggers like Anthony Rendon and Brian Dozier are also helping to keep the Nationals afloat, but the team’s shaky bullpen continues to disappoint.
Joe Ross entering the game from the bullpen pic.twitter.com/3MLCZgZQJC
— The Rally Mullet Nats Fan (@TheRallyMullet) July 28, 2019
The Nationals are 5.5 games back of the Atlanta Braves and start a home series against the National League East rivals Monday night.
Patrick Corbin, who pitched a 2-0 victory over the Colorado Rockies last week, will start.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.