Neither fits the prototypical mold of a middle-of-the-order batter, but as we saw last season, Turner is far more than a simple speed guy. And Eaton has emerging power despite his 5-foot-8 frame.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - Adam Eaton indeed will lead off for the Nationals to begin the season, with Trea Turner right behind him.And Victor Robles will bring up the rear as the No. 9 hitter ...

Hopefully, he can get on. Hopefully, he can drive in some runs for us." Eaton's season totals (a .240/.296/.390 offensive slash line) remain poor, but he has homered in two of his last three games.

On Friday night, Rendon and Soto came up after Turner and Eaton and added fuel to the offensive fire. The No. 3 and No. 4 hitters combined for five hits, three runs and five RBIs.

Eaton finished 3-for-4 with three RBIs and two runs scored. The club did a much better job as a whole with runners in scoring position than they had to begin the season, going 9-for-19 (.474).