Philadelphia Phillies: Why the Nats Are Bigger Long-Term Threat Than Braves
April 30, 2012 by Matt Boczar
Filed under Fan News
As the first month of the regular season winds down, first place in the National League East belongs to both the Washington Nationals and Atlanta Braves.
This means that the Philadelphia Phillies, winners of the past five National League East titles, have their share of competition as they attempt to continue their streak this season.
Prior to finishing third in the division last season, the Washington franchise had finished last in the NL East in six of the past eight seasons. During that time, Atlanta finished first or second in the division four times.
After 22 games this season, both teams find themselves atop the National League East, and ahead of the Phillies.
But between the two, one team has a chance to become a bigger long-term threat to the Phillies than the other.
The Nationals’ rise to the top of the NL East may not be limited to just this season.