Immediately after receiving the call to make his MLB debut, Dylan Cruz talked about how the D.C. big league club’s approach to the running game really suits his style of play.
“I think this organization definitely fits my approach in terms of aggressiveness,” the 2023 first-round pick explained.
“We’re an offensive team. We want to steal bases, turn singles into doubles, whatever, we want to do it. It’s great to see how that changes my game. I think so.”
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Cruz had 12 stolen bases in 15 steals in 31 games in the majors, but stepped up in the minors with 29 steals in 40 attempts.
Washington’s rookie outfielder was one of 23 Nationals with at least one fullback that year, “…the most in MLB…and the most since 1917.” pittsburgh pirates There were 23 players,” the club said in its review of the 2024 season.
Andres Chaparro, acquired on a loan deal with the D-backs, became the 23rd Nationals player to steal a base. It was the 25-year-old infielder’s only successful attempt of the season after he was caught trying to steal a base a month ago. .
It was Chaparro’s 31st stolen base attempt and 20th success in eight seasons as a pro, and it appears his aggressive base stealing approach in D.C. has caught on. Chaparro was really keen to contribute to the team total.
“I think Chappie said it there.” [first-base coach Gerardo] Para: “Can I go?” Can I go? Can I go? ” Martinez told reporters after Chaparro stole his only base of the year, as quoted by MLB.com’s Jessica Camerato.
“Para says, ‘Stay here until you see the sign.’” I like that, but you have to be smart about it. ”
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Washington’s 223 stolen bases as a club led the majors.
They also ejected a total of 73 potential base stealers, leading the league in total.
“Now, the next step is…” Martinez said. We know they’re ready, but instead of just going out there and running to get away, we’re choosing opportunities that are beneficial to us. These are things they have to learn. They are young and enthusiastic and want to go. Everyone is trying to steal. ”
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Photo by G. Fiume/Getty Images
Focusing on the run game was the plan from the beginning last season, Martinez said, recognizing what kind of roster he had and looking for opportunities to score runs instead of waiting for a big hit or home run. recognized the need to create one.
“I’ve said it from the beginning, we have to build something different,” Martinez said.
“Stolen bases were very important to us this year. Running the bases well was very important to us. We had our flaws, but overall we made up for it and did a better job.” I think I did.”
