Harper continues trend of raking in April

NEW YORK -- Since 2013, Nationals outfielder Bryce Harper always gets off to great starts, and this year is no different.

Harper ended April leading the team in home runs (five), RBIs (15), runs scored (18) and on-base percentage (.440). In fact, he has a streak of being on base in 16 consecutive games.

Harper ended April with a bases-clearing double against reliever Jack Leathersich during an 8-2 victory over the Mets on Thursday night at Citi Field.

While he has been productive during the first month of the season, Harper wants to be injury-free. The last two years, Harper has missed a combined 106 games because of injuries.

"Hopefully, I keep going. That's all I want to do," Harper said. "I just want to stay in the lineup, stay healthy all year and hopefully play 150, 160 games. That's all I care about. As long as we are winning ballgames, it's huge for us. I love playing in April. I don't know why. I'm very comfortable in April. Hopefully, I can feel comfortable the next five months, too."