IN THE NATS’ MIX: DAVIES
Zach Davies, who celebrated his 31st birthday in early February, completed 18 starts for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2023. During this time, he recorded a 7.00 ERA and a 4.58 FIP, with 39 walks (4.26 BB/9) and 72 strikeouts (7.87 K/9) over 82 1⁄3 innings pitched. However, his performance against opposing hitters wasn’t impressive, as he allowed a .295/.370/.461 batting line.
On February 17th, Davies joined the D.C. Nationals, with manager Davey Martinez expressing the team’s need for pitching depth. Martinez highlighted Davies’ competitive experience and ability to effectively strategize despite not possessing a high-speed fastball. Davies, who had dealt with oblique and back injuries in the previous season, aimed to leave those setbacks behind and return to his former successful form.
Reflecting on his struggles, Davies acknowledged a tendency to overcomplicate his pitching approach and stray from his natural strengths. The focus for this season was on rediscovering his authentic pitching style and enjoying the game more. Martinez echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Davies embracing his strengths and playing with confidence.
During spring training, Davies impressed Martinez with his bullpen performance, showcasing good control and a solid variety of pitches. In his first Grapefruit League start, he threw two scoreless innings but experienced some fatigue and control issues in the second inning. Despite the postponement of his second start due to rain, Davies remained optimistic and ready to continue his progress.
TERRIFIC TIMES, BEST-CASE SCENARIOS:
Daylen Lile, a 21-year-old outfielder and a second-round pick from Louisville, Kentucky in 2021, missed the 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery. However, he made a comeback this past year, playing in a total of 106 games and 465 plate appearances across Class-A Fredericksburg and High-A Wilmington, where he posted a combined batting line of .269/.355/.452.
During a game against the Red Sox in Ft. Myers, Florida, Lile was part of the Nationals’ lineup. As a defensive replacement, he chased a home run ball, leaping over the outfield wall and flipping over it, landing hard on his back in the right/center field bullpen. This incident alarmed Boston’s relievers and everyone involved.
Lile was promptly stretchered off the field as a precaution and taken to a nearby hospital. Nationals’ manager Davey Martinez expressed relief, stating that when they left him, Lile was showing movement in his feet and legs. Martinez expressed gratitude for the negative initial reports from doctors, stating that Lile suffered a lower back contusion but was expected to recover.
Reflecting on the incident, Martinez emphasized the potential severity of the situation, noting the relief that Lile did not sustain more serious injuries considering the alarming nature of his fall over the wall. He expressed gratitude for Lile’s fortunate outcome despite the painful ordeal.
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