Nats third baseman Ryan Zimmerman won’t be a savior when he returns Tuesday, but he will be welcomed with huge open arms. Not just by manager Jim Riggleman, but by guys like Jayson Werth.
Zimmerman’s return from a torn abdominal muscle in late April is reason for the Nats to feel optimistic about a decent rest of the season. The Nationals are adding a Gold Glove third baseman, making a team strength (defense) even stronger.
There’s also, and most desperately needed, his bat. Now that the Nats can have a lineup with Werth batting leadoff or second and then Zimmerman third, instead of journeyman Laynce Nix, and Michael Morse fourth. Not a great lineup, but improved.
However, it also takes pressure off Werth, the new guy in town, to serve as a spokesman for all things Nats. Zimmerman is a respected voice in the clubhouse and understands his responsibility with the media. It’s a tough role, one Zimmerman handles well. That can’t be taken lightly.
