The Case for Roger Bernadina

The Washington Nationals offense is struggling.  Let’s face it, Lastings Milledge is young, still has tremendous opportunities to grow and develop, but he is not the best thing out there in CF.
Meanwhile, Roger Bernadina is tearing up AA ball.  First, Bernadina was invited to spring training because of the progress the Washington Nationals have witnessed with Bernadina.  Last season, between Potomac and Harrisburg, Bernadina hit .259 with 64 runs scored, 18 doubles and 40 stolen bases.  His speed is a tremendous asset both in defense and on the bases.
Bernadina responded this year.  So far in 55 games played ion Harrisburg, Bernadina is hitting .343 with 32 runs knocked in, 7 triples, 10 doubles, and 20 stolen bases.  In his last 10 games, he has hit .432 with 8 runs scored.  Bernadina is not discriminatory toward arms either.  he is hitting .351 against lefties and .338 against righties.  He has steadily progressed this season hitting .320 in April, .351 in May, and so far in June, he is hitting .438.
Here is where Bernadina stands in the Eastern League:
Batting Average:  3rd overall at .343
Hits:  2nd overall with 72
Triples:  Leads the EL with 7
Runs:  Tied for second in the EL with 41
Total bases:  tied for 6th in the EL with 107
OBP:  11th int he EL with a average of .393
Slugging:  11th in the EL
Now, you could always promote Bernadina to Columbus.  That is fine.  BUT, Bernadina does not need Columbus, he is ready for a try at the major league level now.  He has a great eye at the plate, makes incredible connection at the plate, has tremendous speed, something the Nationals themselves lack.
Some out there will say — he need to stay in Harrisburg and get at bats, instead of sitting in DC.  I am not suggesting he sit in DC, I am suggesting he plays in DC.  Panicking?  No.  Reality setting in?  Yes.  The Nationals offense is not very good.  The outfield is not very good.  Perhaps it is time, like they are doing at pitching, to look at offensive and defensive youth as well.  With the production we are getting out of the outfield, let’s give Bernadina the shot he deserves.