When I first heard the Nats had traded for Yunel Escobar I did a little research and was not very impressed with what I found. But after the first two weeks of the season, I can see what a tough out he is in the batter’s box:). He is what we call a “contact hitter, ” or someone who rarely swings and misses. Manager Matt had Yunel batting leadoff for about the first 10 games for exactly that reason. It is possible that watching Escober hit is rubbing off on his team-mates, like Bryce Harper. Thus far Harper is working pitchers for more walks than usual (for him). Last night Escobar pounced on a fastball in the 10th inning and stroked a home-run to win the game!
Over the most recent 8 games the Nats are hitting over .300 with runners in scoring position.
The Nats are close to having Anthony Rendon play in some minor-league games. That means he might be back in the Nats lineup within a coule of weeks.
Pete's Curveball 
the Nats are coming around! Spann’s return seems to have sparked them, too. Can’t wait to get Rendon back. Normally I’d be wary of upsetting chemistry if they really get rolling but I want him back out there. Cards doing everything they can to give this one away as i write this. We’ll take it!