The 2008 Nats

The Washington Nats went 59-102 in 2008 finishing with the worst record in the Major Leagues. But that was largely do to a complete lack of veterans and plenty of key injuries throughout the season. In that regard, the Nats did not take a step backwards. In 2007, they beat expectations thanks to a number of veterans, but this year saw a near-total youth movement. While there weren't many wins, there were some positive signs.

Ryan Zimmerman was hurt this season, but had his customary last season surge to raise his average to .283 (with 14 HRs and 51 RBIs). Both new young guns, Lastings Milledge (.268 14 HRs 61 RBIs 24 SBs) and Elijiah Dukes (.264 13 HRs 44 RBIs 13 SBs) missed part of the season due to injury, but both showed a lot of positives when they were on the field. They're both years before their prime. Dukes put up his numbers in far fewer at bats. Jesus Flores is another young player who showed a lot of promise. He calls a good game from behind the plate and mustered some decent offensive numbers (.256 8 HRs 59 RBIs).

Cristian Guzman was the club's best hitter this year. He hit .316 with 9 HRs and 55 RBIs, usually in the number 1 or 2 hole. The other veteran Nats either rarely saw the field or struggled when they did. Ronnie Belliard (.287 11 HRs 46 RBIs) was having another good year until he went down with a season-ending injury. An indication of all the injuries comes in the fact that Willie Harris (.251 13 HRs 43 RBIs 13 SBs), a career utility infielder and outfielder, was fourth on the team in at bats. Harris became a bit of a fan favorite because of his work ethic and no nonsense approach to the game. Austin Kearns, Aaron Boone, Wily Mo Pena, and Nick Johnson all hit under .250 this season.

Of the starting pitchers, John Lannan (9-15 3.91 ERA) was the lone bright spot. No one else who started a game had an ERA under 4. Chad Cordero went down early and John Rauch was traded at the deadline. Joel Hanrahan took over the closer role and put up 9 saves with a 3.95 ERA and a 6-3 record. Saul Rivera (5-6 3.96 ERA) was the only other relief pitcher with at least 40 appearances and an ERA under 4.

Young players often struggle numerically before they flourish. A few of these guys should blossom into valuable players. The organization needs to keep stock piling pitchers, try to avoid the injury bug for once, and allow the young players to gain confidence at the plate. Despite the poor record, Manny Acta has done a good job with a limited roster. The franchise should stick with him for the long haul. Continuity is how champions are made.