Brandon

Harper

Harper, a 1997 fourth-round pick, will be making his major league debut at age 30. Expect him to see some starts against left-handed pitching while Robert Fick is out.

Harper is a 30 year-old finally breaking through to the majors, so it’s nice to see him have a big game. Even with the two homers in the game, manager Frank Robinson still replaced him with Brian Schneider, who added two RBI of his own, later in the game.

It looks like the Nationals won’t try to hide Rule 5 pick Jesus Flores by using him as a third catcher behind Harper or Ardoin. They probably will carry Robert Fick, giving them a third option behind the plate, but Flores should see most of the time when Brian Schneider isn’t playing.

Harper was a pleasant surprise last season, going 12-for-41 with two homers after being recalled on Aug. 1. Still, that wasn’t enough to get him claimed off waivers. He’ll probably remain with the Nationals and compete with Rule-5 pick Jesus Flores and Danny Ardoin for backup duties. We’re guessing Flores will earn a spot, but the Nats could keep three catchers.