A few hours before the game, when the stadium is nearly empty, Matt Adams will run out to left field.
There he will work on his fielding with Nationals coaches Tim Bogar and Bobby Henley. The extra work is necessary: Adams played just 20 games in left field prior to this season.
“It’s getting a little bit better and better,” Adams said of his acumen in the outfield.
But it’s when he steps into the batter’s box that the 245-pound slugger is really having an impact.
Signed to be a backup at first base and left field, Adams has elbowed his way into the Nationals everyday lineup with his power hitting.