Summary[]
Ben and Sam preview the Nationals’ season with Chris Cwik, and Sahadev talks to Washington Post Nationals beat writer James Wagner (at 26:56).
Topics[]
- Washington Nationals preview with Chris Cwik
- Impact of the signing of Jayson Werth
- Mike Rizzo & Nationals' front office
- Playoff struggles
- Max Scherzer signing & starting rotation
- Possible extensions for Ian Desmond & Jordan Zimmermann
- High number of Scott Boras clients
- Bryce Harper's MVP chances
- Lack of infield depth
- Will the Nationals trade a pitcher?
- Tanner Roark's role
- Expectations for starting rotation
- Matt Williams managerial style
- Washington Nationals preview with James Wagner
- Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg, & Jordan Zimmermann
- Denard Span & Anthony Rendon injury recovery
- Expectations for Bryce Harper
- Bullpen strength
- Matt Williams job security
- Upcoming free agents
Interstitial[]
Pavement, "Winner of The"
Notes[]
- The signing of Jayson Werth has had a significant impact on the Nationals' ability to attract players and the overall perception of the franchise.
- Chris doesn't expect either Ian Desmond or Jordan Zimmermann to sign extensions with the Nationals.
- Sam mentions his Bryce Harper bet (originally discussed in Episode 172) where Sam has to buy a friend dinner each year (until 2028) until Bryce Harper has a 50 home run season. If he has a 50 home run season, Sam's friend owes Sam dinner once a year for the remaining years.
- Chris predicts the Nationals will win 92 games and win the NL East.
Links[]
- Effectively Wild Episode 645: 2015 Season Preview Series: Washington Nationals
- 1st Annual Effectively Wild Tournament Bracket Classic by Banished to the Pen