Why Ryan Zimmerman Can Break The Streak

As I am writing this article, Ryan Zimmerman has a 29-game hitting streak going.

You're thinking: "Big deal," right?  "Just another hot streak."

Wrong.

Now, Joe Dimaggio's 56-game hitting streak sure seems unbreakable, and I'm not giving reasons why Zimmerman will break the record. I'm merely giving an analysis on why he could break the record.

There are many reasons why I love Ryan Zimmerman, ranging from his background to his short, compact swing to his skill set. Keep an open mind as I run through why I think Zimmerman has the best chance to break the record for a while.

So, what's the first reason why Zimmerman could break the record?  I love him for the same reason most fans don't—he plays in Washington.

He won't get as much attention playing in Washington. In today's game, that's huge. 

Face it. If he played in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, or Boston, he would be all over the cover of Sports Illustrated or ESPN.  Sure, most fans know about Zimmerman's streak, but it's not as big of a deal because he plays for the Nationals.

Another positive effect of playing in Washington is his protection.

Once again, you're thinking: "Protection?  What?"

Christian Guzman leads off for the Nats. As a veteran, he has learned to hit for a higher average, hitting .316 last year.  Next up is Nick Johnson, the most patient hitter in the league next to Bobby Abreu. His knowledge of the strike zone allows him to have a very high average and on base percentage.  

With those two guys hitting at the top of the order, Zimmerman usually has someone on base when he comes up.

After Zimmerman, Adam Dunn comes to the plate, a lock for 40 homers every single year. Hitting fifth is Elijah Dukes, one of the most talented young players in the game. 

Yes, he has yet to play up to his potential, but he has taken strides to start. 

Also, Lastings Milledge can't be horrible forever, right?

The fact that the Nats play in a hitters' park helps too.

The next reason I like Zimmerman to extend his streak is the Nationals' upcoming schedule.  San Francisco, Philly, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, New York (Mets), Philly, San Francisco, New York (Mets), Cincinnati, and Tampa Bay are the games on his road to 57. 

If he can get a hit off of Cole Hamels, Johan Santana, and Tim Lincecum, he shouldn't have too tough of a time with the rest of the pitchers on the Nats schedule. 

This isn't the first time he's hit for a high average, either. 

He hit .287 in his rookie season, .283 last year, and he hit .331 for his career in the minors. This isn't a fluke—he is learning to use his potential.  He's been around forever though he's only 24. 

Once again, I'm not saying that Zimmerman will break the record, but he's halfway there. I think he definitely can. 

I'm pulling for the guy, and hope he makes a long run before he ends up finally having that hitless game.  I hope I'm not being too bold in writing this article, and definitely hope he doesn't go hitless against Matt Cain tonight.

If Zimmerman doesn't do it this year, it will be a long time before somebody comes along with the streak, the schedule, the protection, and the small market to play in.

Here's to Ryan Zimmerman, because after all...records were meant to be broken.