By Page Zakas
On Thursday, September 20, 2012, the Washington Nationals secured a berth to the playoffs for the first time in 79 years. They won 4-1 over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
They have not clinched the National League East title yet, but they have ensured at least a wild card spot. Being a wild card means they would compete in a play-in game before the first official round of the playoffs.
The Washington Nationals have been in first place of the National League East division for much of the season. Currently, the Washington Nationals have a record of 91-58, and they are 5 and ½ games ahead of the 2nd place team, the Atlanta Braves. Other teams have attempted to dethrone the Nationals, but to no avail. The Braves are currently in second place of the National League East, and the team even made a solid attempt during a series in July when the Braves came back from an 11-1 lead by the Nationals to win the game. The Braves were then only 2 and ½ games behind the Nationals.
Certainly, the team celebrated after the win over the L.A. Dodgers, but they understand that their job is not finished yet. With 13 games left in the season, the Nationals want to win the National League East so they secure a spot in the playoffs without a play-in game. First basemen, Adam LaRoche says, “This is no doubt a big day for this organization and this city. Not to downplay the day at all, but guys aren’t satisfied at all. We don’t look at this like mission accomplished.”
While they are proud of what they have accomplished thus far, the Nationals want to win first place in the National League East. They are also currently competing for the best record in Major League Baseball. The win last night put them half of a game ahead of the Cincinnati Reds. The season is far from over, and the Washington Nationals have some tough games ahead of them. This weekend, the Nationals will continue fighting for the division title and the overall winning record in MLB. They will be playing a series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday through Monday. Be sure to get your tickets to watch this dominating team!
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