Harper Slams Two Doubles In Nats Victory
The Nationals (5-3) defeated the Houston Astros (2-8) by a score of 14-9 in Viera, Florida today.Some Notes:
- Bryce Harper had as much of a "breakout game" as one can have in spring training, going 2-2 with two doubles, two runs, and two RBI as a late game replacement for starting right fielder Michael Morse. Of course, it's important to keep in mind he recorded these hits against the Astros Pat Urckfitz and Jorge De Leon, who combined to give up 9 earned runs in two innings.
- Jayson Werth is slowly having a very very bad spring. He went 0-4 today with three strikeouts and three left on base. Considering it's spring, it's not a huge deal...although it has to leave some Nats fans a bit unnerved.
- Danny Espinosa has struggled at his "new" position so far this spring. That's ok though, spring is the time to work the kinks out. Unlike Desmond, Espinosa has proven he has very good hands and great range. He should easily transition into his potential gold glove caliber defense as the season begins.
- Drew Storen continues to fall behind in the closer position battle. While many of the other Nationals bullpen arms have excelled this spring, Storen had trouble again today giving up three hits, one earned run, and two runs in one inning. To his credit, Storen did strikeout two batters, but he needs to limit the base runners in order to be a true closer.
- The Nats finished with 14 hits and 14 runs, but they also struck out 11 times while only walking four.
