Michael Morse strikes an ideal combination in the Washington Nationals’ line-up - MLB Update
Struggling offence of the Washington Nationals now witnesses Michael Morse back in the line-up. With this, an ideal combination which any side can envy has been achieved.
Behind Ryan Zimmerman and Adam LaRoche, his presence in the line-up can provide necessary hits needed during the middle part of the innings.
However, ever since Morse has returned to the season, he has been struggling on the plate. His composure is missing and swings are more often than not resulting in wastage of at-bats.
Nationals’ manager Davey Johnson maintains that he has stayed out for such a long time and therefore he will take some time before he can live up to his role.
Once Morse spends some time and adjusts to the proceedings, he will head to his best. That will be the time when he can support Zimmerman and LaRoche appropriately.
Only area the Nationals have been betrayed by in the season was offence, whereas their pitchers have been near perfect. They boast powerful arms like Stephen Strasburg and Gio Gonzalez. Even their relievers have been fairly reliable.
Maintaining top position on National League East Division table shows their dominance. As per experts, if the Nationals experience a decline down the line, inability to produce big hits by their offence will be the greatest reason. In this respect, addition
of Morse spells a healthy sign for the club.
Johnson acknowledges the significance of Morse in the line-up. As a slugger, he hides a lot of prospects in terms of striking home runs and hastening activity on bases.
“He’s still got a lot of respect in the league,” Johnson said. “His presence in the lineup is a big presence. This game’s a lot mental, too and having him in the middle of that lineup is a big boost to us.”
Knowing that Morse will gradually begin striking hits, Johnson expects a huge contribution from Morse in the season.
“He was hitting them off those glass facings out there,” Johnson said. “Those big, strong hitters, it usually takes them a little longer to get going. He should be up for this one.”
Inclusion of Morse has plugged one of the loopholes with the Nationals’ offence. One can expect that they will achieve consistency from now onward.
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