However even given these high hopes, there is no way I could have predicted the Nationals pitching staff would be averaging a sub-2.00 ERA through 20 games. Overall the team has been sensational to watch and heading into tonight they were tied for the NL lead with a 14-6 record. Despite this record and the fact they play in a great market, the fan base still isn't as energized as it should be because the Nats are still only 19th in attendance (The Washington Capitals being in the playoffs has not helped).
In a move that was partially driven by the fan base, the Nats called up uber-prospect Bryce Harper for his Major League Debut tonight. This move was also driven a lot by the lack of success seen by the Nats hitters this season. They currently sit at a less than stellar 11th in the NL in runs scored and that was before star hitter Ryan Zimmerman went down injured. With the call up, Nats management hope that Harper could be the spark plug that could jump start the offense until Zimmerman and fellow masher Michael Morse return to the lineup.
