The Washington Nationals‘ bench played a huge role in their success in 2017. Between filling in for injured players, pinch-hitting, or just spelling a regular, they were thrust into large roles on a daily basis. Without the great performances from so-called bench players, the Nats would not have won anywhere close to 97 games.
One key member of the bench was utility player Howie Kendrick. After being acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies at the trade deadline, Kendrick batted .293 with seven homers in 52 games for the Nats.
In addition to producing offensively, Kendrick’s defensive versatility proved to be an enormous asset.