Davey Johnson says ‘World Series or bust’ for Nationals

Washington Nationals Manager Davey Johnson had two big announcements Wednesday: Next season will be his last season, and he plans to go out with a World Series title.

“We’re primed to take that next step. We made giant steps last year,” Johnson said at baseball’s winter meetings in Nashville. “But I think we’re in a perfect position to show the world that we’re a pretty good ballclub, and we can go farther into the postseason, and I want to be a part of that. World Series or bust. That’s probably the slogan this year.”

Johnson will be 70 next season, and says that it’s time to step down.

“Shoot, I thought it was my last year 10 years ago,” he said.

Johnson took over for Jim Riggleman in midseason in 2011.

What makes Johnson so sure his team will win?

“We don’t have a whole lot of questions. We’ve had a year of great experience in the pennant race and a tough playoff series against the Cardinals. We’re going to be fine next year. This is one of the best ballclubs I’ve ever had to manage.”

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