Sure, this season is better than a 100-loss season, but it's pretty easy to say they'll be in better position next season, or they'll have more experience which will help them, etc.
That's what I thought about the Caps a few years ago when they lost the final game of the series to the Flyers in the playoffs. Since then they've had one of the most talented teams in the league continually and choked at every turn. Haven't even made it to the ECF.
I've only been following sports a few years in my short life, but it's ridiculous how jaded D.C. sports have made me. It seems like to me the ratio of heartbreak and choking to great moments is unusually high.
I'd love to be wrong for being so pessimistic, but until the Nats (or any D.C. team, really) prove it, I find it hard to take comfort in much of anything.
</rant>