The Last Time I Checked

Nats320
I have been away for the holidays, so I apologize for not posting during the past week. When I returned last night, I noticed over at Oleanders & Morning Glories that the author decided to take me to task as his example over someone who supports The Lerners and Stan Kasten's plan to build this weak franchise from the ground up. The author, Harper, does not like the way the new owners are working The Nationals.

That's fine and I appreciated being mentioned, and read. Unfortunately, he also read into my post from last week
that I was giving a "false impression" when it comes to the so called "Pro Plan" and "Anti-Plan" supporters. And, I was stating everyone against my opinion, according to Oleander's, "was anti building the Washington Nationals from the ground up, first with young developing talent. Of course that's insane, but I've read similar things elsewhere." His words, used with mine.

His post went on to comment that, even though The Lerners are pumping, at least, $30 Million, back into the stadium for a better HDTV Scoreboard, Club Suite Amenities and Centerfield Restaurant Upgrades, including outfield seating during games for patrons--this effort is not worthy of any praise, because all this goes directly towards the owners pocket in the long run.

Well--doesn't everything involved with The Nationals go directly toward the owners coffers?

I responded in this manner on the Oleanders Site:

"Glad to see that I just got back in town from The Holiday and got someone fired up!! Thanks for mentioning me."

"Obviously, I am behind "The Plan", but I have also clearly stated that this team needs starting pitching badly, to field a competitive team today--and still build from the ground up. As Brian over a Nationals Farm Authority wrote very nicely a few weeks back, its actually helpful, in building this franchise, to pick up some Type B Free Agent Pitchers, for a short term use, and then reap the benefit of a Draft Choice once those pitchers move on to GREENER Pastures."

"That being said, many, many others I have read on the blogs have blasted this ownership group for months, without giving them a real chance to prove themselves. These same people want instant gratification, now--nothing else will do. I find that unfair, being that The Lerners have only been in charge for 6 months. So many of these folks complained about The Lerners pocketing the extra savings from a reduced 2007 estimated team player payroll. Now, since they are putting $30 Million back into the stadium (and yes, they are for upgrades to areas that will bring them extra dollars down the line--and I almost wrote that in the original post, but left it out figuring someone would mention it) you really do have to give them credit. They did not have to do it."

"Your points are very well stated. But, what do you really want The Lerners and Mr. Kasten to do, right now, if they are willing to spend that $30 Million in payroll savings for Major League Caliber players to help in 2007? I would bet, you, like me, want pitching, mostly. What is it that is going to get you into a seat at RFK in 2007 and feel happy to have The Nationals playing here? What do you want to see on the field this season---that will help the Nationals in being competitive, and build for the future. Specifics?"

"I am 47 years old, OLD SCHOOL in many ways. You obviously have read my Longings for my Long Gone Washington Senators and Frank Howard. I learned alot from those experiences. Patience is a virtue. Many today don't have that same patience, and they are always unsatisfied."

"Mr.Kasten and The Lerners should be judged on the entire picture--that will not be fully realized for a year or two. I am willing to give them a chance."

"Thanks again for mentioning me and getting a good debate moving forward."

End Of My Commments On Oleanders.

The last time I checked, The Lerner Family was a very successful business operation, very respected, by most all accounts everywhere they have done business in the DC area over the past 40 years. Hard nosed, yes, but honest, with everything done by the books. The last time I checked, Mr. Kasten was a very successful Sports Team President from 3 different Atlanta Franchises, for years. Knowledeable, Talented and Respected by everyone in the games. And, in the short time in Washington, has proven to be a single minded caretaker for all things Nationals--including, most importantly, listening to fans. At the same time, Mr. Kasten has reigned in a very, over the top, General Manager, in Jim Bowden, that if left to his own premonitions, Bowden would trade/give away just about every serviceable talent on the roster, for "his boys".

Its great that there is such a avid interest for Washington Nationals Baseball and it shows each and every day in the various blogs out there. But, many want to flex their muscles, deflate all those other various opinions, and assume they know more than The Lerners and Mr. Kasten. I don't claim to be all knowing. I am a baseball fan first and love talking about the game, to no end. I love all the varying opinions that everyone brings to the table, especially the debates over what is healthy or not for Our Washington Nationals. Those differing views I enjoy the most. But, it bothers me when some be-little my comments to make me feel small. I would never do that to anyone, especially you.

The last time I checked--The Lerners were paying the bills, and as fans, you can decide whether you wish to participate as a fan, or not. I don't agree with everything they are doing,and I have let them know, not only through this forum, but, in face, in person. They have shown, they will listen to me, as a season ticket holder, in a professional manner, and work with me on my points. Management has shown me respect, and I will respect them as they move forward building Our Washington Nationals.