Abrams extends streak with three more steals

NEW YORK – The first time came on the back end of a perfectly executed double-steal, with Jeimer Candelario drawing the throw to second to allow CJ Abrams to race home from third.

The second time came moments after a pickoff attempt, Abrams immediately swiping second ahead of the throw.

And by the third time Abrams attempted to steal Sunday afternoon at Citi Field, the Mets didn’t even bother attempting to throw him out.

The first three-steal game of Abrams’ career wasn’t enough to propel the Nationals to victory. They only scored two runs as a team, and one of those came via the aforementioned double-steal in the top of the first. But it did underscore just how far the 22-year-old shortstop has come in a short period of time, not only at the plate and in the field but on the bases as well.

Abrams is now 24-for-26 on the season on stolen-base attempts, and 21 for his last 21. He hasn’t been thrown out since May 3, when he took off for second too soon and was picked off by the Cubs’ Adbert Alzolay.

“He’s understanding how to steal bases, which is awesome,” manager Davey Martinez said. “He’s got the leeway to run in those situations, and he’s paying attention to detail, which is great. (First base coach Eric Young Jr.) is working with him on knowing who to steal off of, what to look for, things of that nature. And he’s been very good.”

Abrams came to the Nationals with a reputation as one of the fastest runners in the sport, but he wasn’t nearly as refined in the art. He stole 21 combined bases last season between the majors and minors but was thrown out eight times.

Now, in only four months, he’s exceeded that total number of bases stolen while only being thrown out twice.

“You’ve got to get a big lead and a good jump,” he said. “The catchers are good, the pitchers are quick to the plate. It’s on the lead and the jump.”

And here’s a note of particular interest: Abrams’ 21 consecutive successful steal attempts is tied for the current active longest streak in the majors. The other player who has done it: Trea Turner, the Nationals’ former star shortstop.

“I’m excited with the all-around player he’s starting to become,” Candelario said. “He’s putting the barrel on the ball. He’s running the bases the right way. He’s playing good defense. Not only does he have 21 bags (in a row), he’s putting everything together. He’s helping us to win ballgames. And I’m really excited for him and for us.”

Abrams insists he’s not focused on any records or streaks. He just wants any base he steals to be meaningful during the course of a game.

“I’m just trying to get to the next base, get in scoring position for my teammates,” he said. “I don’t really pay attention to the number, but that’s good.”