Dec 26 2008
Offseason Preview - Washington Nationals (Part Two)
Lineup Projection
C. Jesus Flores
1b. Nick Johnson - Another player whose health has been the biggest blockade in his career. Once looked upon as the future in New York now he is just battling to play a full season.
2b. Ronnie Belliard
3b. Ryan Zimmerman - His health will be the difference in another season with the #1 pick and perhaps the #5 pick.
ss. Cristian Guzman - Their lone all star last season is making a nice player out of himself and could be a valuable trading piece at the deadline.
lf. Josh Willingham
cf. Lastings Milledge- Rising star put up solid numbers in 08, certainly could become a Vernon Wells type player if he dedicates himself to his career.
rf. Elijah Dukes - Scouts rave about his potential and tools but his makeup has been too big of a problem. His production has hardly been that of a star and it won’t be long before he wears out his welcome again.
sp1 - John Lannan
sp2 - Matt Chico
sp3 - Scott Olsen- Great pickup, a guy with huge potential if he can keep his off the field issues from impacting his pitching.
sp4 - Shawn Hill
sp5 - Colin Balester
closer - Joel Hanrahan - Solid pitcher stepped in nicely for Chad Cordero last season. Should reprise his role this year.
Hey man, Willie Harris will probably be their starting second baseman and Belliard will be the utility guy off the bench. Harris just got resigned and had a solid year, especially in the second half.