den Dekker looking like key piece off the bench
Outfielder has provided left-handed power, may factor into '16 roster
ATLANTA -- Nationals outfielder Matt den Dekker has been a big help off the bench recently. Since he returned from Triple-A Syracuse on Aug. 28, den Dekker has been more consistent at the plate, hitting .357 entering Wednesday's action.
While at Syracuse, he changed his swing. He now has a leg kick that allows him to recognize a lot of pitches.
"The biggest thing is to be comfortable at the plate, putting good at-bats together," den Dekker said.
Manager Matt Williams sees den Dekker as a valuable player off the bench next season. He could provide power from the left side.
"He has good power. He plays all three outfield positions. He has a bright future," Williams said. "We are so right-handed dominate that he fits. He hits from the other side of the plate. We'll get through the rest of the season, evaluate and see where he is at. He has been impressive for sure."