By Malone Graham
The Washington Nationals are World Series Champions. After starting the year 19-31, the Nationals certainly did not expect to be hoisting the trophy at the end of October. Without former MVP and star player, Bryce Harper, who signed with the Phillies in the offseason, many disregarded the seemingly untalented ball club. However, the team turned things around after the All-Star break, posting a stellar 93-69 final record.
Entering the playoffs in the National League Wild Card spot, the toughest teams in the NL stood between the Nationals and the World Series. After taking care of the Milwaukee Brewers 4-3 in the Wild Card game, the real test would come against their next opponent, the Los Angeles Dodgers. Washington outlasted the Dodgers in an extra-inning game 7 duel that featured a tiebreaking grand slam by Howie Kendrick to send the Nationals to the NLCS. Riding a hot streak into the match-up with St. Louis, Washington made quick work of the Cardinals, sweeping the series in four games. This marked the longest postseason run for the Nationals and their first-ever World Series appearance.
The stage was set for the Fall Classic showdown against the heavily favored Houston Astros. Winning the first two games on the road, the Nationals traveled back to D.C. with a comfortable series lead. To the surprise of the organization and fan base, Washington was unable to secure a victory in the three games played on their home field.
The Nationals knew they needed their bats to come alive if they wanted to bring the trophy back to their city. It was a tremendous task, but as this team proved throughout their entire playoff run, no task was too big for them. The Nationals came back to win the final two games in Houston, in large part due to the pitching of World Series MVP, Stephen Strasburg. Several players contributed to the offensive outburst in the decisive game 7, including Adam Eaton and Howie Kendrick, who each drove in 2 runs. The Nationals pride themselves on being a well-rounded ball club and showcased their balanced attack in every series this postseason.
It was a picture-perfect ending to an improbable season for the Washington Nationals, who kept fighting all year long. After holding up the prestigious World Series trophy, it’s safe to say that the kids from D.C. finished the fight.
Loading ...