Washington Nationals: Pitching must carry the load while offense scuffles

The Washington Nationals’ offense has struggled mightily throughout the first couple weeks of 2018. Until it returns to form, the pitching staff must carry the load.

Despite winning the first four games of the year, the Washington Nationals now sit at 6-8. They have dropped eight of their last 10 games and look like a team searching for a spark.

Pitching has always been the backbone of the team, which is the case once again this year. Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg, Gio Gonzalez, and Tanner Roark have combined for a 2.17 ERA in 12 total starts.

Although the bullpen got off to a rocky start, they have begun to settle in as well. Brandon Kintzler and Sammy Solis, two relievers that have been…