The Washington Nationals swung and missed at their attempt to woo Prince Fielder to the nation’s capital, signing with the Detroit Tigers instead. This means that unless something drastically changes over the next 2 1/2 months, Adam LaRoche will be the starting first baseman for the Nats on April 5th. Of all this talk that Fielder would make Washington a possible threat in the National League, let’s not forget that LaRoche is no pushover and is a solid option at the position.
The 31-year old had the worst season of his career in 2011 after signing a two-year contract with the club last offseason. LaRoche hit .172 with only 3 homers and 15 RBI before undergoing shoulder surgery and missing the remaining 100+ games. For a player that hit at least 20 home runs in six consecutive seasons prior to last year, it’s safe to say that his injury sapped his power and altered his swing. The veteran recently told the Washington Post, “I’ve been really excited swinging the bat....
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