If you don’t think the Nationals have high expectations heading into the 2012 season, think again. Washington is trying to build a contender. Over the past year or so, the Nationals have committed nearly $250 million to signing and/or extending Jayson Werth, Ryan Zimmerman, and Edwin Jackson. Combine that with the young talent they have in Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper and you can see why this is a team that is serious about becoming relevant. As you can see from his interview above with Kelli Johnson of CSN Washington, it’s playoffs or bust for manager Davey Johnson.
“No question in my mind,” Johnson said when asked if it would be a disappointment for the Nationals to miss the playoffs. “You know, and they can fire me. … I mean we should make the playoffs. There’s no doubt in my mind.”
With the MLB set to add a wild card team for the 2012 season, Washington’s chances look even better. If they can remain healthy and Strasburg can avoid more shoulder troubles on his limited innings count, the Nationals could make significant strides this season.
H/T Big League Stew
Video via SB Nation DC
