WASHINGTON -- The Nationals entered the All-Star break with a commanding 9 1/2-game lead in the National League East, the largest division lead in the NL. Their offense has been among the highest scoring in baseball, the top of their rotation is as formidable as any in the league. They have perhaps the favorite for the NL Cy Young Award and the Most Valuable Player Award.
While the rest of its division has struggled, Washington has taken charge, and the team is well on its way to a fourth division title in the past six seasons. And yet, the Nationals are also flawed.