Washington Nationals 2010 Preview

Though largely ignored by MLB Network, and ESPN, the Washington Nationals improved greatly during the offseason. Being overshadowed by premiere free agents signing in Boston, Cincinnati and the Mets, along with many blockbuster trades involving Seattle, Philadelphia, Detroit, Toronto, and the Yankees, many will be a little surprised of the number of games the Nationals may win this season. Mike Rizzo had been officially named the Washington Nationals GM in August of 2009, after serving as an interim GM, after the resignation of Jim Bowden. His trademark stamp on the organization was the drafting and signing of college phenom, Stephen Strasburg.

Although the wait to sign the young pitcher seemed forever, Washington and Strasburg finally reached a record setting $15.1 million dollar deal. Having acquired both, a veteran catcher in Ivan Rodriquez, and a veteran staff leader in Jason Marquis (along with closer Matt Capps), will surly help Strasburg grow, and mature to reach his highest potential in the big leagues whether it comes sooner, or later. While Strasburg will most defiantly begin his journey in the minors, the Nationals rotation will not be set until well into Spring Training. Possible pitchers to fill in the rotation after Marquis, would be John Lannan (finished with a 3.88 ERA for the Nats in 2009), Scott OIsen, Garrett Mock, and Ross Detwiler. Budding star Jordan Zimmerman is out until 2011 with a right shoulder injury. Although it may not look like a very competitive starting rotation, this group will have much success come in later years, and should be solid for years to come.

Though a National League East crown is not in the picture this year for the rebuilding Nationals, the organization is in good hand with Mike Rizzo. With the additions of Roy Halladay, Jason Bay, and the young talent in Atlanta and Florida blossoming, the Nationals again will endure another basement finish in a tough N.L East. Hang in there Nationals fans. These aren't the Montreal Expos anymore. With the young talent in the organization, it's only a matter of time before competition between the Nats and the big boys of the East begin.