MLB 2017: One prediction for each team

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Oct 13, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals center fielder Trea Turner (7) dives into third base after a sacrifice fly hit by right fielder Bryce Harper (not pictured) during the third inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game five of the 2016 NLDS playoff baseball game at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

Washington Nationals: Trea Turner is the team’s most exciting player

Oh boy, Dusty Baker owes Trea Turner a big-time apology. The old school manager’s hesitance to insert a rookie shortstop at the top of his batting order probably cost Turner the NL Rookie of the Year last year. In only 73 games after a midseason call-up, Turner hit 13 home runs and stole 33 bases. Throw in a .937 OPS, and the rookie from NC State would have given Corey Seager a run for his money.

Turner’s game-changing speed was evident the moment he took the big leagues by storm. He was thrown out only six times, and made every ground ball to the left side of the infield interesting. His power was also a very nice surprise.

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The Nationals may be Bryce Harper’s team, but Turner will be the most exciting player on the roster. Over a full season, he could steal 60 bases and hit 20 home runs or more. He has a polished swing, and has a feel for situational hitting. Defense might be more of a question, with Turner being handed the keys to the shortstop position. He’s rangy, and should make more than his fair share of highlight reel plays. Turner’s arm is more of an unknown, but he has quick feet, and will get himself in position to make most throws.

Turner is going to be an absolute terror on the bases for a full 162-game schedule. His time has come, and the Nationals can no longer delay his ascension to the big leagues.

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