After a disappointing 2013 season that began with World Series expectations and ended with missing the postseason, the Nationals once again enter the year as a favorite to reach the World Series. They'll start 2014 off with Stephen Strasburg (0-0, 0.00 ERA) on the hill at CitiField vs. the New York Mets, who will counter with Dillon Gee (0-0, 0.00 ERA). Live stream the game by clicking this link. Nationals fans can hear Opening Day on 106.7 The Fan, while Mets fans begin their relationship with 710 WOR.
Washington begins this season with a brand new manager, Matt Williams, who cited the Braves last year as the way they want their season to go. "Last year was a fantastic season for the Braves. They started off well," Williams said. "We certainly want to start well this year, too."
They'll be in a good position with Strasburg on the hill vs. Gee, who readily admits he's not an ideal candidate to kick off a season. "It's kind of by default," Gee admitted.
"I'm very thankful for that opportunity, but really I've just got to take it like any other game. It's just one of 30-something starts I hope to get this year, but it's definitely a big honor."
The Nationals are saying all the right things, talking about how hungry and confident they are heading into this campaign. Their excitement is justified-a few changes, including adding Doug Fister to the rotation and turning over second base full time to Anthony Rendon, have turned this club into a potential monster.
"I think everybody's confident going into the season. I think it should be a good year for us," said Strasburg.
They're also hoping for a healthy season from star outfielder Bryce Harper, who has shown flashes of brilliance despite missing a bunch of time. Last year, he hit 20 home runs for the second straight season but he's failed to play in 140 games in either of his first two seasons.
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