World Series or Bust

After a historical 2012 campaign the Washington Nationals (Nats) have set their sights higher for the upcoming season.  According to manager Davey Johnson getting knocked out of last year’s National League Division Series in five games by the St. Louis Cardinals made him want to make 2013 even more special.  Since he claims this will be his final year managing in the Major League’s Johnson has stated that anything less than a World Series title will be a disappointment.  During the offseason the Nats acquired Denard Span from the Minnesota Twins to shore up their centerfield position and provide the team with a leadoff hitter.  Also, they got a fifth starter in Dan Haren from the Oakland A’s who is expected to fill the fifth spot in the pitching rotation that was vacated by Edwin Jackson.  In the bullpen the Nats signed Rafael Soriano to become their new closer.  With Opening Day now behind them on April 1st (no fooling!!!) you can almost feel the excitement surrounding this year’s Nats squad.  The season started against the Miami Marlins at Nationals Park at 1:05.  Behind two home runs off the bat of Bryce Harper and seven strong innings on the mound from Stephen Strasburg the Nats would start the season with a 2 – 0 victory.              

by Kris L.