Team Preview: Washington Nationals

Key additions: SP Doug Fister, Nate Mclouth

Key subtractions: SP Dan Haren, INF Steve Lombardozzi, C Kurt Suzuki

After a disappointing 2013, the young upstart Nationals will look to take the NL East crown back from the Atlanta Braves. Rookie manager Matt Williams takes over for Davey Johnson this year.The offseason for the Nationals was relatively quiet for the most part. They did make one splash by trading for Doug Fister from the Detroit Tigers. Fister will slide perfectly into that already loaded pitching staff in Washington. His numbers should also see an increase now pitching in the National League after coming over from the American League.

The lineup for the Nationals is deep from top to bottom. In my opinion I do not see any holes in their lineup if they can stay healthy. Especially with 21 year old Bryce Harper who is ready to breakout. Harper has been touted as one of the future stars in this league and so far it looks like he has the skills needed. They also picked up Nate Mclouth who can hit leadoff and provide some speed at the top of the order.

Lets not forget about the bullpen they have. They have arguably the best bullpen in the league led by closer Rafael Soriano. They also have top tier setup men in Tyler Clippard, and Drew Storen. This is a bullpen who is almost automatic with a lead late in the game.

The Nationals have one of the most complete teams in the entire league. This is a team that not only has the potential to make the playoffs, but to make a deep run into late October.

Prediction: 94-68 National League Champs