ANALYSIS/OPINION:
Manager Dave Martinez laid the groundwork for the 2019 Washington Nationals last year. It’s what helped him – and his team – survive an abysmal start this season and eventually capture a playoff berth.
The Nationals were coming off back-to-back first-round flameouts when Martinez replaced Dusty Baker – who himself inherited a club that failed to advance in its two previous postseason appearances.
Washington’s reputation was such that being 0-4 all-time in National League Division Series shared equal billing with its four NL East titles in six years.