Sanchez delivers as Nats organizational depth shines

By Byron Kerr

Nationals

August 10, 2017, 4:58am

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One reason why the Nationals have been able to sustain their big lead in the division with all their injuries is the play of all of their call-ups. The depth of the organization has been tested and these call-ups have been able to play close to the level of the starter they replaced.

Another case in point Wednesday was the play of second baseman AdriÃ¡n Sanchez.

Sanchez went 2-for-3 with two runs scored in the No. 2 spot in the order. The Nationals rolled past the Marlins 10-1.

Manager Dusty Baker spoke on the progress of Sanchez.

"He's getting a good pitch to hit," Baker said. "I put him in the order ahead of Harp which doesn't help -- I mean doesn't hurt. I know he can hit that fastball. He's a good fundamental player. It helps when someone hits a leadoff double, and I can bunt him over or he can knock him over. In situation, time of the game, he's performed well, big-time.

"He's still learning. We're teaching him every day. He's a pretty quick learner. Jacque Jones and (Nationals hitting coach) Rick Schu and I'll chip in a few things to try to help him along the way."

It was another bold move for Baker to put Sanchez in the No. 2 slot. He can also use Howie Kendrick at second base but against the left-hander decided to leave Adam Lind on the bench. Kendrick is also nursing a tender back so Baker likely was hoping Sanchez could handle the increased defensive plays at second base while Kendrick could "hide" a bit in left field.