Ian Desmond awarded National League Silver Slugger

For the second time in two seasons, Washington Nationals shortstop Ian Desmond won the National League’s silver slugger award.  Desmond, who hit 20 home runs and batted .280, was the only Nationals player to claim the award in the summer of 2013.  Desmond was second in home runs and third in batting average with both sitting behind Rockies star Troy Tulowitski, however, Tulowitski played 31 fewer games due to injury.

Sep 17, 2013; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals shortstop Ian Desmond (20) hits an RBI double during the eighth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Nationals Park. The Nationals won 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Desmond has developed into one of the position’s premier hitter over the last two seasons and has blossomed under skipper Davey Johnson.  Desmond will be one of the team’s top priorities to resign coming next summer and expect Desmond to land a large contract similar to the likes of third baseman Ryan Zimmerman’s 8-year 100 million deal.  Desmond will look to improve on his numbers next season as the Nationals hope to make their second playoff appearance in three seasons.