The Washington Nationals clinched the National League East Sept. 24 when the Nationals defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates, 6-1, and the second-place New York Mets lost to the Philadelphia Phillies, 10-8. It was the third time in five years the Nationals (90-64) have won the NL East, and this year did it with a new manager in Dusty Baker and a deft mix of young, talented players and experienced veterans.
The Nationals’ youth was on display Sept. 24. Right-handers Joe Ross and Reynaldo Lopez – 23 and 22 years old, respectively – combined for eight innings of one-run ball. Ross, who missed more than two months with a shoulder injury, came over from San Diego along with Trea Turner in a trade two winters ago. Ross has a 3.48 ERA in 101 innings this year.
Turner, who’s led off and played center field during most of his 65 games, was a huge spark for the Nationals this year. The Nationals were struggling to find production from the leadoff spot and in center field. Turner, a natural shortstop, was able to fill both. He’s hitting .336/.356/.561 and has stolen 27 bases.
