While the problems this season for the Washington Nations have been numerous, from a lack of power to faulty bullpen work, the top concern remains the shoddy starting rotation.
The starting five of Odalis Perez, Matt Chico, Tim Redding, Shawn Hill, and John Lannan hardly inspires fear in opposing hitters. The group has combined for a 4-11 record through the first 24 games, but there could be some hope for the future.
Hill's health has been one reason why the rotation has been so troublesome. The 27-year-old right-hander was pegged as the club's No. 1 starter, but tightness in his right forearm caused him to start the season on the disabled list. Yet the fact Hill, a pitcher with a career record of just 6-10, is considered Washington's ace, demonstrates just how dire the situation is.
If he can stay healthy, Hill definitely has the stuff to be a star. In his first two starts since coming of the DL, Hill has allowed six runs over 10 innings in collecting two no-decisions. While those numbers are hardly eye-popping, he has managed to post 11 strikeouts to just three walks. The best is yet to come from Hill.
The Nationals also hope they have something special in Lannan. The unheralded 23-year-old left-hander has certainly impressed since assuming a spot in the rotation, going 1-2 with a very respectable 3.42 ERA. Lannan has posted 21 strikeouts to 10 walks, including a brilliant 11-K performance in six innings against the Mets.
If Hill and Lannan can find their strides, Washington's pitching may not be so bad after all.
