More & More

UPDATE: Our Washington Nationals Designated D'Angelo Jimenez Today and Offically Recalled Kory Casto. Not Surprising in the least.
All spring long, the focus of Our Washington Nationals has rested nearly exclusively on The Starting Pitching. Game after Game during the first two weeks of the 2007 season, The Nationals never had a legitimate shot to win. Undependable Starting Pitching killing the team, putting Washington in early deficits, holes dug so deep, virtually no team in baseball could have clawed themselves out. Now, just as slowly as the weather has finally changed from bitter cold to expected spring warmth, Our Starting Pitching is warming up as well. More and More, Our Washington Nationals are competitive. Are they great?--by no means. But, they are better.

Shawn Hill has been Our Ace from the get go. Jason Bergmann has been a pleasant surprise. Matt Chico, a work in progress. Number 47 hangs in there though, even without his best stuff. Matt is making strides during his Major League ON THE JOB Training Program. Even Jerome Williams somehow pulled it out last Friday night against The Mets. Its a good thing he did, Jerome was heading to the Waiver Wire, now he's resting on The Disabled List. Only our supposed BEST PITCHER, John Patterson, has yet to show his expected promise.


And when your starting pitching holds up, MORE & MORE, the games become competitive. The closer the games, MORE & MORE, Our Manager Manny Acta must rely on strategy. Which ultimately means, MORE & MORE--Manny must rely on his bench players.

And, that's the subject of today's post.

MORE & MORE, Our Manager must realize--Our Washington Nationals DO NOT HAVE A BENCH.

On any given gameday, The Nationals bench players consist of Jesus Flores, Robert Fick, D'Angelo Jimenez, Josh Wilson and either Michael Restovich or Chris Snelling. That's it. That's Terrible.

Flores is a TERRIFIC YOUNG PLAYER. The Rule V Draftee must stay on The Major League Roster all year. That's fine with me. The more Jesus Plays, the better I like him. Number 3 is struggling at the plate, but is going to break out, sooner, rather than later. He just doesn't have experience.

After Jesus, those left sitting on the pine have been virtually unhelpful, some would say: USELESS.

No One to reliably trust to get a key hit. No One to provide Pop in the Bat for some late inning heroics. And, NOT A SINGLE PERSON THAT CAN BUNT. In fact, Jimenez and Wilson are not even trusted to play the field defensively. What kind of a bench is that? Would not even Bernie Castro be a better choice over Jimenez?

Our Manager, Manny Acta has few choices to counteract an opposing Manager's Moves. The Chess Match, so crucial to National League Baseball, is barely possible with Our Washington Nationals. Manny can ONLY HOPE Fick, Jimenez, Wilson, Restovich/Snelling or Flores can get the job done. So far this season, Manny Acta can only cross his fingers, wishing for luck, then long for a fluke. Not a way to Manage a Major League Team.

What a far cry from the first two season's of Nationals Baseball. Jamey Carroll, Ryan Church, Marlon Anderson, Daryle Ward, Brendan Harris, Marlon Byrd, Alex Escobar, Bernie Castro and, of course, Carlos Baerga (only because We LOVE CARLOS BAERGA in Section 320, the man provided so much enjoyment in 2005). Not any great players there, but some serviceable talent. Skill Frank Robinson could depend on late in the game to give Our Washington Nationals an opportunity to get back into or over the top in a tight match.

A Lost Moment Now, when Jimenez and Wilson are sent to the plate by Manny. Neither decent sticks. Fick, not much better. Number 13 can play first base decently, is the emergency third catcher--but has struggled MIGHTILY at the plate. Time and Time again early this season, Our Manager has sent Robert up to provide that veteran spark off the bench. He has failed, repeatedly--in the clutch.

Help may well be on the way though. Although the move is not official, some reports have Kory Casto joining The Nationals in San Diego tonight. No corresponding roster move. Cristian Guzman and Nook Logan are days away from returning. Jimenez has to be gone. Wilson next. "The Guz" & Logan, nor Casto are going to provide much power. But this trio does give Manny Acta maneuvering space late in games. Stratagem Our Manager has no power over currently.

Yeah, I understand a $35 Million Payroll limits growth possibilities off the bench, but it doesn't mean Our Washington Nationals progess is limited, right now. Ronnie Belliard would be a terrific platoon/late inning replacement if Guzman returns to short, FLop to second. Clearly, Cristian has to help also, not return to his 2005 form. Snelling is a helpful player, a gamer. Logan a perfect 4th Outfielder, late inning replacement. And, what in world has happened to ALEX ESCOBAR? The King Of Injury has disappeared off the radar screen for Our Washington Nationals. How is it possible for a player to dislocate his shoulder last September, AND STILL NOT BE ABLE TO THROW THE BASEBALL?

Alex Escobar is a FIVE TOOL TALENT, arguably one of the most thrilling players on The 2006 Version of The Nationals. If healthy, how decent would a Church, Escobar, Kearns outfield look? Logan, Snelling, Belliard, Flores and most likely still Fick off the bench. That's LIGHT YEARS from where we stand right now. And, I haven't even mentioned Nick Johnson, he's still a few months away.

More & More, I would LOVE TO SEE THAT BENCH. Manny might work miracles with THAT BENCH. Better Competitors, ready at a moments notice. WITH THAT BENCH, Our Washington Nationals would be a far better team, than today.

Jason Bergmann Takes One For The Team

Our Washington Nationals were DRAINED. The New York Mets were playing out the string. The Fans, both Nationals & Mets appeared to be in recovery mode. After two physically demanding and emotionally riveting affairs, the rubber game of a three game set is USUALLY a GETAWAY DAY, most always A DAY GAME and, more times than not, an uneventful lackadaisical get together. No way, Our Washington Nationals and The New York Mets could possibly maintain the high level of competition seen this past Friday and Saturday at RFK Stadium. A rather somber crowd of 27,361 settled in, seemingly happy to take in the absolutely GREAT WEATHER. Not alot of noise, little jabbering, an almost serene day at the ballpark. With a New York team in town, THAT'S INCREDIBLE! Not alot of excitement today, but a decent, closely played baseball game, nonetheless.


A good old fashioned pitching duel broke out. The Mets Starter, John Maine, continued to prove--What In The World Were The Baltimore Orioles THINKING by trading him off before the beginning of the 2006 season. The tall lanky righthander CAN PITCH. And, apparently, SO CAN Our Washington Nationals Jason Bergmann. Number 57 proving with each successive outing, he may well be a decent end of the rotation starter in The Major Leagues. Not a single player, coach, manager, scout or fan could walk away from The Stadium on East Capitol Street not believing in the maturation process of Jason Bergmann.


If you had told Bergmann. on this Sunday Afternoon, to stand out on the pitchers mound, dominate a heavy hitting New York Mets Lineup, surrender just two hits, three walks and throw 50 of your 88 pitches for strikes through 7 strong innings, I would bet he would take those results each and every time Our Manager Manny Acta handed him the baseball. So would Our Washington Nationals. More times than not, you are going to win with a performance like that. Jason was fabulous today, but he wasn't perfect. And, it cost him, dearly.


One mistake pitch, a 0-1 fastball to Carlos Beltran decided this tight affair. Beltran, 5-8 lifetime against Jason, lofted the only toss Number 57 wanted to take back all afternoon. Rightfielder Austin Kearns drifting back to the warning track. Carlos depositing the ball off the Washington Hall Of Stars sign above the Nats Bullpen in rightfield for a 1-0 score in the top of the 6th. Still, you couldn't fault Jason, he gave his all. If he had received ANY OFFENSIVE HELP, at all, from his teammates, Bergmann would be flying to San Diego for The Nationals Two Week Road Trip tonight a much happier man. Any team, no matter who you are, needs to score ONE RUN, to win any game.

One Run, The New York Mets plated today. One Run, Our Washington Nationals could not. Even though, Our Washington Nationals had their chances. As I have stated before, EVERY TEAM, in EVERY GAME, has at least ONE CHANCE. Washington had two HUGE OPPORTUNITIES this sunny afternoon. And, they failed, miserably, with the game on the line. The failure continuing to hammer home the truth--Our Bench needs a serious realignment.

With Maine beginning to stumble, Kearns led off the bottom of the 7th ripping a clean double down the left field line. Austin's bat coming alive of late, eight of his last 11 hits have been for extra bases. Then, Ryan Church continues to show patience at the plate, receiving his 6th walk over the past two games. The Mets in trouble now, No Outs, runners on first and second. Jesus Flores was next. Flores, who may well turnout to be A TERRIFIC PLAYER (more on him in the game notes) has yet to breakout at the plate so far this season. Manny realizing this, and looking to tie the game up, signaled for Jesus to bunt the runners up. As has been the case throughout the brief HISTORY OF OUR WASHINGTON NATIONALS, WE CAN NOT BUNT!!! Number 3, with The Mets expecting, bunted the ball right to Julio Franco charging in from first base. The Oldest Man in the Majors, scooped up the ball, and with 25 years of Major League Experience, wheeled, tossed the ball to David Wright at third to retire the hard sliding Kearns. Although Flores was safe at First Base, Our Washington Nationals had, one again, failed to move runners up, to put pressure on an opponent. The Collective GROANS from Nats Fans, palpable. How much longer will fans have to put up with poor bunting skills (Complaining about it so much, Its become MY PASSION to have it fixed. Bunting is a basic skill. Really, THERE IS NO EXCUSE, NONE).

Chris Snelling was next. My Favorite Aussie playing inconsistently lately, now seems lost at the plate. No longer the patient, confident hitter from earlier in April. Chris struck out swinging for Out Number 2. Still, we had a chance. Yet, with Bergmann the next scheduled hitter, Our Manager decided to send Robert Fick to the plate to pinch hit. Maybe, since Manny Acta knew it was Sunday, Today would be Redemption Day for Robert Fick. I apologize for harping on the point, but, to be honest, Fick has been struggling this season. Time and Time again, he has been ineffective--no key hits, an unproductive batter. Yet, the man wearing unlucky Number 13 would not be blessed today either, striking out badly, yet again, to kill the rally. Sorry, but, as much as I like Robert Fick personally (He was incredibly kind to The African Queen and I during Spring Training), he is not getting the job done. Our Washington Nationals need a finer choice.

Then, in the bottom of the 8th, a prime opportunity to steal the game, and the first series win arose. Mets Manager Willie Randolph decided Maine was done. Aaron Heilman was sent out by New York. Our Washington Nationals went right after him. Felipe Lopez continued to show he may be a decent leadoff hitter after all, greeting Heilman with a single to left. The EVER HOT HITTING Ronnie Belliard rapped out his third hit of the game (and second three hit game in consecutive days) by lining a single to left. FLop to second. First and Second, No Outs. With Ryan Zimmerman stepping to the plate, who at RFK did not believe Number 11 would lash his patented opposite field liner to the gap in right scoring both, a victory possibly in hand? Yet, Ryan continued his early season struggles, striking out on a slider in the dirt by Heilman. Zimmerman, flat out pissed at himself as he walk back to the Nats Third Base Dugout. When will "Z" break out of it? Nearly One Month into the 2007 Season, Ryan Zimmerman is hitting .236 with One Homer and 8 RBI. How badly does he miss Nick Johnson?

Dimitri Young, simply not a factor today, striking out in his first three at bats, then lofted a routine fly to right, FLop scurrying to third. With two out now, the hot hitting Austin Kearns was next. The Mets really wanted nothing to do with him. Austin walking to load the bases and My MAIN MAN!! Ryan Church next.

Fearing Church's Power Potential, Willie Randolph made the right move, calling for lefty Scott Schoeneweis. With the crowd now STANDING for the very first time all day, Ryan would take ball one, then lash Schoeneweis' very next pitch toward first base--RIGHT AT JULIO FRANCO. Franco running to first to retire the HARD CHARGING CHURCH. "Church on Sunday" was also not be today. A great disappointment in Section 320.

And, when Fireballer Billy Wagner came on to close this one out in the bottom of the 9th for The New York Mets, Our Washington Nationals had lost their second 1-0 game at RFK Stadium since the Inaugural Season. Would I have loved to see them win today? Yeah, you bet. But, I couldn't feel bad, really. Jason Bergmann pitched as well as he ever has in the Major Leagues. He was, sadly, the designated scapegoat. He deserved better. Frankly, we simply got beat, in a close game, that teetered to the opposing side. Our Nationals need some help, assistance that will hopefully come our way early next week. Cristian Guzman and Nook Logan are expected back. Kory Casto is being recalled from AAA Columbus. With a better bench, Washington has a GREATER CHANCE to win. Our Pitching is really not that bad, right now--as long as we can straighten out "The Chief".

Game Notes & Highlights:

FLop made two terrific defensive plays at shortstop. Leading off the 5th, Damion Easley ground sharply into the hole between Short and Third Base. Lopez backhanded the ball on the grass, taking the short hop, set himself, AND FLAT OUT HUMMED THE BALL ACROSS THE DIAMOND to retire Easley. Dimtri Young did not even stretch. Big League Throw, Big League Play, and The Defensive Play of the Game. Too Bad FLop couldn't get off the same strong throw last night in the 9th with two outs, against the same Easley. An Out would have resolved all the late night Histrionics and Angst in that brutal 12th inning loss.

Then, in the 9th, Moises Alou would sharply ground to the hole, once again. FLop sort of lost his balance, stumbled, but still backhanded the ball on the short hop, FIRING to Young at first. Dimitri scooped the ball out of the dirt to retire Alou. Felipe has one of the strongest INFIELD ARMS in the game. If only he could be more consistent. When he applies himself, Lopez is a decent talent.


Jesus Flores continues to impress behind the plate. Now getting familiar with opposing hitters, he's setting up the pitches better. And, when Jose Reyes stole second base in the top of the second inning, it was not due to a BAD THROW. From his knees, Jesus ROPED A LINER to second, just missing the speedy roadster Reyes. With more experience, there is NO DOUBT, Jesus Flores is a keeper. You gotta give Jim Bowden credit for snatching him last December in the Rule V Draft.


In the top of the second inning, Julio Franco popped a foul ball down the right field line. Dimitri Young, Ronnie Belliard and Austin Kearns all converged. As has been the case all season long, Kearns gave way to another fielder. In this case Young, who dropped the ball. Austin had the angle, the speed and agility to make the play, more so than the other two. Continually, he concerns me that he is UNWILLING to dive in, take charge, and more likely to avoid than be in a collision with another player. Afraid to be involved in an incident similar to that which Nick Johnson broke his left femur last September against these same Mets. That's troubling.

The only other 1-0 game in Washington Nationals History was May 18, 2005, when Jeffrey Hammonds rapped a two out, bottom of the ninth single to score the winning run against The Milwaukee Brewers.

In 22 games at RFK Stadium, The New York Mets have won 17 of them. Not Good for Our Washington Nationals.


Finally, late in today's game, Loyal Nats320 Reader Chris stopped by to introduce himself to The African Queen and I. We both appreciated his kind words and comments. What really peaked my interest, during his visit, was his DC Flag Patch, attached to his "Washington" Away Jersey. Chris mentioned he thought it was appropriate for Our Washington Nationals to wear this Logo on their Game Uniforms. Honestly, I thought it was a great idea. So, I am passing on the info to The Nationals for review. We shall see what they think.

Heart Wrenching

The Mastery of This GREAT GAME to RIP MY HEART OUT at the very moment I COULD NOT HAVE BEEN MUCH HAPPIER, is what makes BASEBALL SO COMPELLING. Tonight, 29,292 witnessed one of the WILDEST GAMES ever played by Our Washington Nationals since baseball returned to The Nation's Capital in 2005. RFK Stadium Rocked. This One HAD IT ALL. Some of which, including a Two Out, Two Strike Game Changing Moment, was not good, and extremely costly.


A Sure Fire Hall of Fame pitcher tossed a one hitter entering the 6th inning. His Journeyman counterpart--A NO HITTER. One of finest young fielders in the game today, made three terrific defensive gems, Highlight Reel Plays, then inexplicably threw away the final out of the 7th inning, putting tonight's opponent, The New York Mets back into the game. He also got plunked in the spine on a breaking pitch. One Manager would be kicked out the game. A pitcher would nearly hit a home run, then while watching the ball's flight, forget to run. The Ball hitting off the left field wall, leaving the hitter with merely a single. And, with two outs, nobody on base and a one run lead in hand in the top of the 9th, all HELL WOULD BREAK LOOSE. Two BANG BANG PLAYS, one of which, had EVERY FAN BELIEVING their team had just won or tied the game. Both of which sent this affair, AMAZINGLY, INTO EXTRA INNINGS. 12 innings, in fact, where New York's FANS eventually took over RFK STADIUM as more and more Nationals Fans went home. Was that EVER SADDENING. Our Washington Nationals continuing to fail at plating runners from scoring position. Something The Mets will, more time than not, succeed. When the final out was recorded 3 Hours & 59 Minutes after it began, The Mets might as well have been playing at SHEA STADIUM. Their Fans Owned RFK STADIUM. Not even Section 320, all of us staying until the bitter end, could overturn this tidal force.

In Gut Wrenching Style, Our Washington Nationals lost to the New York Mets, 6-2, on a night most anyone attending will not soon forget. Personally, I have to be up at 7AM tomorrow. Seriously, I doubt if I will be able to sleep this off. This Loss Hurt, BADLY. All because, of that wicked top of the 9th. With "The Chief Cardiologist" needing just one more out, not a single Washington Nationals Fan DID NOT BELIEVE Chad Cordero was going to close this one out. Up 2-1 on a clutch two out double by Ronnie Belliard in the bottom of the 8th scoring Jesus Flores, every single remaining Nats Fan was relishing a series win and another night of shutting down New York's OUTRAGEOUS FANS. What could be sweeter?

Yet, Shawn Green stepped to the plate and ripped the very first pitch from Chad to right for a clean single. Endy Chavez entered to pinch run. Damion Easley was next. The Fate of Baseball came into play. Easley, was in this game only because Mets Starting Second Baseman, Jose Valentin, hurt himself earlier in the affair. Valentin having to leave, Easley his replacement. Batting righthanded, Damion worked deep into the count. Ball one, Swinging Strike, Ball Two--CALLED STRIKE TWO!! The Mets down to their final strike of their final out. Really, this game was over. The RFK STADIUM CROWD WAS ROARING!! Easley fouled off Cordero's next offering. Then, on the sixth pitch of this At-Bat, Easley grounded into the hole between 3rd and Shortstop. A sure game ending out. Ryan Zimmerman seemed to have the better angle, but stayed back from the ball at the last moment. Felipe Lopez backhanded the ball, but seeing Easley running hard, did not set to throw across the diamond. Instead, FLop threw off his wrong foot, still getting some umph on the ball, the toss though not overly strong. All Night Long, First Base Umpire Tony Randazzo was in the spotlight on some very close calls. On this GAME CHANGER, Randazzo, by a hair lash, called Easley SAFE!! Chavez moving to second. The Collective Roar of DISGUST from Nats Fans alongside the vocal cheers of Mets Fans realizing their life extended, heart wrenching.

Then, it only got worse. No way, Our Washington Nationals want to see Julio Franco Pinch Hit in this situation with the game on the line. The 48 Year Old is quite savvy. Nothing will distract him. Distraction what Chad Cordero can't seem to get out of his mind. Sure enough, Franco would take ball one in the dirt, then DRILL Number 32's next fastball to right on a line. Endy Chavez running all the way looking to tie the game on this stroke. Austin Kearns took a nice track to the bouncing ball, scooped it up and UNLEASHED a beautiful throw to the plate. EVERYONE STANDING ROARING AT THE POTENTIAL OUTCOME.
This was going to be close. The ball bounced off the grass right into catcher Jesus Flores' Glove, but instead of letting the ball come to him, Jesus reached for the ball, slightly pulling himself away from the plate, toward the first base side of home. Chavez slid to the right back half of home plate. With EVERY FAN NOW ON THEIR FEET, NATS FANS BELIEVING CHAVEZ WAS OUT!! NEW YORKERS SAFE!! HOME PLATE UMPIRE GREG GIPSON EMPHATICALLY RULED SAFE!!! Game Tied. RFK Stadium erupting in shock and disbelief for Washington Fans. Mets Fans RUBBING IT IN!! "The Chief" Chad Cordero looking, not only stunned, but shocked at this unbelievable turn of events.


Just like that- a sure win was now gone. A Sure Win lost by the slimmest of margins. Mere split seconds on both close calls. How MADDENING BASEBALL CAN BE. And, when Our Washington Nationals could not plate the winning run in the bottom half of the 9th with two runners on and Robert Fick striking out badly to end the inning-many Nats Fans began to realize this was not going to be our night. As well as Our Pitching had shut down the vaunted Mets Lineup both last night and tonight, you just knew, their mighty bats would wake soon. Which they finally did in the 12th against a tired Saul Rivera. Pitching his 4th relief inning in less than 24 hours, Number 52 began to falter. Tonight's New York Game Changer, Easley, would double down the left field line. Ramon Castro would walk, then Jose Reyes would cleanly bunt safely toward third. A gorgeous bunt, along with his speed, gave Zimmerman no chance--loading the bases with nobody out. NEW YORKER'S really bringing it now. "Let GO METS!!" heard all over the cavernous ballpark.


Our Manager, Manny Acta then slowly walked out to relieve Rivera for Ryan Wagner. Two pitches later, THIS GAME WAS OVER. Paul Lo Duca would swing at Ryan's first pitch, grounding to Lopez, drawn in. FLop fired home for out number 1. Still Bases Loaded. The very dangerous, Carlos Beltran followed and sharply grounded Ryan's very next pitch down the right field line. Castro and Reyes score. 4-2 now. And, the PA System might as well have been playing "NEW YORK, NEW YORK" Many Mets Fans living the good life. Their comeback was complete. After intentionally walking Carlos Delgado to reload the bases for a force play, Wagner hammered the final coffin nail when David Wright singled to left, scoring Lo Duca and Beltran, finishing out the scoring, 6-2 Mets.

With 100MPH Fastball Closer, Billy Wagner coming out for the bottom of the 12th. The GAME WAS OVER, SADLY. Except for Khalil Greene's & Mike Piazza's 9th inning Home Runs off Cordero last July 9th in a come from behind win for San Diego over Our Washington Nationals at RFK, I can't recall a more depressing state while leaving the stadium after a game. All the way home, I was silent. The African Queen realizing, I just did not wish to talk about the loss tonight. And, in fact, am having a very difficult time writing about it. We lost TO THE METS, in a game, WE SHOULD HAVE WON, on a night, New Yorker's PUT IT IN OUR FACE--in our Very Own BALLPARK!! And, MOST OF OUR FANS WENT HOME EARLY!! In a Thriller. That sucks!!

As I mentioned yesterday, the atmosphere provided by a New York Team's following is always exciting. Yet that enjoyment quickly dissapates when Our Very OWN HOME FANS DID NOT SEEM TO CARE.

This game was played on a SATURDAY NIGHT!! Where are all you supposed Nationals' Fans GOING!!?? 15,000 of you are not going to work on Sunday Morning. I can understand a weeknight. But, not many Nats Fans have an excuse for the weekends. This really bothers me. And, it left RFK to New Yorkers to claim.

Game Notes & Highlights:



Tom Glavine was the Potential Hall of Famer who pitched a solid 6 innings tonight, but was not involved in the final decision.

Despite 5 walks, Jerome Williams surprised, probably even himself, by throwing a NO HITTER for 5.1 innings. Later, it was Williams who clobbered a two strike fastball from Glavine to the wall in left and proceeded to admire his blast, then shockingly discover the ball was not launched as far as he thought. Jerome Embarrassing himself by getting a single on a sure double. Then, attempting to break up the double play while running from first base on a grounder, twisted his ankle, resulting in Williams being taken out of the game after walking David Wright leading off the 7th.


In the top of the 5th, Ryan Zimmerman would snare two sharp grounders to his right, throwing out Damion Easley and the speedy Jose Reyes. For Reyes, Ryan dove to the line, picked himself up, threw off balance, and bounced the ball to Dimitri Young at first. It was The Defensive Play of the Game. Both close calls. Calls which Mets Manager Willie Randolph did not agree with. Eventually, Randolph would be tossed by Randazzo, the First Base Umpire, for arguing another close call, this time on an infield single by Felipe Lopez. Also, Zimmerman would turn his third 4-5-3 Double Play of the past week during an overshift with Carlos Delgado at the plate for the Mets.

But, in the 7th, disaster struck, "Z" would field a routine grounder by Easley with Green on first. Ryan decided to go the short way to second to end the inning with Green. Not setting his feet, Zimmerman just flipped the ball, and it sailed past Ronnie Belliard into short right field. Green moving to third, where he scored on a Wild Pitch by Jesus Colome. Cheap Run, and it was costly.

Ronnie Belliard had a terrific night. Getting three hits, two doubles and knocking in both Nats Runs tonight on identical pulled doubles down the leftfield line. If not for the terrible top of the 9th, Ronnie Belliard would have been Our Hero TONIGHT!!

In the bottom of the 3rd inning, two outs, Felipe Lopez on first. Ronnie Belliard was at the plate with a 3-1 count. On the pitch from Tom Glavine, FLop took off, Belliard took called strike two. Lopez, for whatever reason thought Ronnie had struck out, which he had not. Felipe stopped running and was tagged out by Jose Reyes on a throw from Paul LoDuca. Just terrible baserunning and not having your head in the game.

When Jesus Colome entered the game. Jesus found himself pitching to Jesus Flores. His first batter faced was Moises Alou. MickNats turned to me stating: "Jesus is pitching to Jesus and Moises (Moses) is at the plate. I guess this game change is of BIBLICAL PROPORTIONS!" We all laughed. It was funny. And, in retrospect, turned out to be true.

Later, The African Queen noted: "Maybe, we just didn't have a prayer."

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Linda Spillers

Cell Phone Ticket Technology

Although I originally posted this story as part of my game recap last evening, I felt it very important to give Our Washington Nationals new Cell Phone Ticket Technology a bigger play, not buried at the bottom of another piece. So, here is a reprint of yesterday's tour I took with the folks from Tickets.com



Before tonight's game, I headed over to The NEW KIOSK SET UP by Tickets.com to teach Season Ticket Holders how to use their online accounts at Nationals.com, and transfer tickets to anyone, whether to their home computers, and onto a person's cellphone. The Demonstration, near The Red Hot & Blue Eatery was quite fascinating. Every Season Ticket Holder is allowed to have TWO BUDDIES that you can send tickets to all season long FOR FREE. Anyone else you transfer a game ticket to, a $2 service charge is applied to your account.




What's fascinating about this technology, which RFK STADIUM is one of the very first to utilize, is that, say you have the game tickets and are running late-your friend is already at RFK. If you both have Compatible Cell Phones that can handle this service, all you have to do is email a transfer code to your buddies phone. Your friend will receive an email with BAR CODE and Complete Ticket Information. Your friend just needs to show his phone at THE MAIN GATE to RFK Stadium (The only entrance accepting the service right now). The Ticket Attendant scans the bar code right off the phone, then proceeds to give the cell phone user a printed receipt with Game Date, Seat Location and Details.

Really, I thought this is a GREAT USE OF TECHNOLOGY. There are so many ways ticket holders can take advantage of this opportunity. Even selling your seats late, not even 15 minutes before a game begins, yet still getting the seats to the buyer. What a great deal, if you can not attend for whatever reason. And, if you are a COLLECTOR and a SPECIAL GAME is coming up and you VALUE A PERFECT TICKET, you no longer have to carry that game seat to the park with you. Just email the ticket to yourself, leave the ticket at home, scan your phone, get a receipt. What could be finer.

Finally, if you forgot your tickets at home, in the office or the car--NO PROBLEM NOW. Email the seats to yourself via Nationals.com. Life is easy, thanks to A CELL PHONE. And besides, the Ticket.com folks gave out some nice white MLB.com TEE Shirts with Nationals.com logo on the back for those that completed the demonstration.

New York!! New York!!

Bang! Zoom!!! Went The Fireworks, and Just Like That, Our Washington Nationals had scored in the first inning for the First Time during the 2007 Season. It only took them a Near Major League Record 23 Games to do so, but were those runs EVER BIG!! Austin Kearns unloaded on a Two Out, 1-1 Count Fastball by The New York Mets Oliver Perez, jacking the ball to dead centerfield, just over the wall, giving Washington an early 3-0 lead.

That was the beginning of a most enjoyable night of baseball at RFK Stadium. For the first time since Opening Day, the weather cooperated with a comfortable game time temperature of 76 Degrees. A rambunctious Friday Night Crowd was into this affair from the beginning. As every single fan, always is, when a New York Team comes to town. Nothing is better than rooting against ANY NEW YORK TEAM and their following. But, you can't deny the spice and near mayhem their fans bring to each and every baseball game. Whether New York Fans are Loud, Crude, or just downright Rude, its always a great joy to jabber with them at RFK. Especially when you BEAT THEM!! Section 320 in top form tonight with MickNats, Jill, Libby & Steve, Ann, Steve & Mikey, "The Noise Boys" and me. The African Queen, sick at home, sat this one out (Her first missed game of the season). But, what fun we had, shouting down every New Yorker in our presence.


Matt Chico got the nod tonight for Our Nationals against the very potent New York Mets Lineup, and he hung in there, giving up hits in every inning he pitched, getting into trouble severely in the 3rd, 4th and 6th, allowing two runs. Finally, when HIS MAGIC was done for the night--On came Saul Rivera to ABSOLUTELY SHUTDOWN THE NEW YORK METS. For 1 and 2/3rds innings tonight, Rivera pitched as well as he has EVER PERFORMED in the Major Leagues. Number 52 was TERRIFIC, and in many respects, the GAME SAVER. When Saul trotted to the mound in the top of the 6th inning tonight, The Mets had the bases loaded and ONE OUT. Their Faithful on their feet screaming "Lets Go Mets!!", in yet another attempt to HIGHJACK A VISITING BALLPARK. What a GREAT PLEASURE to see Saul Strike Out Oliver Perez and then get Jose Reyes (arguably the most pesky player in the game) to ground out to Ronnie Belliard to end the threat. The Wonderful Sight of New York Fans raising their arms in shear disgust at The Mets Failure, always a SIGHT TO BEHOLD!! Saul Rivera walking to the dugout a HUGE HERO!!!, to a well deserved Standing Ovation. Yet, not a sole attending, did not realize, THIS GAME WAS FAR FROM OVER!! The Score was only 3-2 Nationals. The Mets to bat three more times.

Fortunately, Dimtri Young would power an opposite field blast to right center past the very speedy Carlos Beltran of New York in the bottom of the 6th. A Good Runner would have tripled on this play, a speedy runner possibly a Inside The Park Home Run (Think Nook Logan or Bernie Castro), but this was DIMITRI YOUNG. The Big Guy stopped at second with a double. Where, with two outs, My Main Man!! Ryan Church performed the unusual, for him, lining an opposite field grounder over the third base bag, down the line. Young lumbering all the way towards home, Church reading RBI DOUBLE. Mets Leftfielder Moises Alou was on the ball quickly, with Young moving slowly, Ryan had two bagger on his mind. Alou realizing he may well have Church at second, threw behind Dimitri nailing Ryan Church at second, MERE SECONDS after Dimitri Young crossed home plate for Our Nationals 4th and final run of this evening. Home Plate Umpire Larry Vanover EMPHATICALLY calling Dimitri SAFE AT THE PLATE, before the final out was recorded at second. Vanover POINTING DECIDEDLY at HOME PLATE and then to The OFFICIAL SCORER. RallyTimeRichard and My Hearts DROPPING, believing Young, at first, DID NOT SCORE. We were both about to go after Ryan Church, if Our Washington Nationals did not score on this most crucial run.


A fourth run ever more important when Jon Rauch came on to set up "The Chief" during the 8th inning. "The Wookie" would immediately give up back to back doubles by David Wright and Moises Alou making the score 4-3 Nats. As Pitching Coach Randy St.Claire trotted to the mound for a visit with Rauch, New York's Fans were SHOUTING IT OUT--"LETS GO METS!!" reverberating throughout the stadium. Whatever St.Claire said to Jon, got his juices flowing. With the game DEFINITELY on the line, The TALLEST MAN to ever play this GREAT GAME, fired away--getting the powerful Shawn Green to fly to Church in center. Washington catcher, Brian Schneider walking halfway out to the mound, fist pumping to Number 51 his encouragement and to keep throwing to the dangerous Mets Lineup the same way. Which Rauch did, getting Jose Valentin to fly to Kearns in right, then the only player still playing Major League Baseball today older than me, Julio Franco, (My Hero, 48 years to my 47, as he makes me feel young) proceeded to fly out to Church to kill, yet another Mets Rally.

Once again, Our Washington Nationals had survived the best New York had to offer, still leading 4-3. But, Chad Cordero was coming into the game to close it out. How ANYONE could leave after eight innings is beyond MY BELIEF. Yet, Thousands Did. Definitely, NOT BASEBALL FANS. And, certainly, no understanding of the excitement "The Chief Cardiologist" brings to the mound each and every game.


Our Most Thrilling Closer was TERRIFIC TONIGHT. Despite falling behind to Jose Reyes, Chad fought back, like he always does, getting Jose to pop in foul territory to Ryan Zimmerman for out number one. Paul LoDuca would follow with a drive to left center. Late inning defensive replacement Chris Snelling would snare the ball, running to his left, backhanding the catch. Finally, Chad Cordero would SHUTDOWN THE NEW YORK METS for the final time tonight, jamming the always dangerous Carlos Beltran getting him to pop to Ronnie Belliard to FINISH THE THRILLER!!!! BANG!! ZOOM!! GO THE FIREWORKS!! Curly "W" Number 8 for Our Washington Nationals and Save Number 3 for "The Chief". Make no mistake about it, Cordero was fabulous tonight!! And, there is no greater pleasure than shutting up New Yorkers!! April 27th, 2007 was an enjoyable night at RFK Stadium.

Just a reminder. No doubt, Our Washington Nationals will struggle throughout this season. But, it doesn't take away ANY of the pleasure of attending each and every game at RFK STADIUM. In Section 320, we have fun, no matter WHAT THE FINAL SCORE. You never know what you might see during each and every game. That's a major part of the thrill. And, BEATING NEW YORK, whether its The Yankees or The Mets, is ALWAYS GRATIFYING.

Game Notes & Highlights:

In the top of the second, Ryan Zimmerman reflex snared a SCREAMER by Moises Alou ripped down the left field line. Only cat like instincts make that play. Number 11 made THE DEFENSIVE PLAY OF THE GAME.

Mets sidearm reliever, Joe Smith, whom I had never heard of was outstanding in one inning of relief. Throwing in the low 90's, his stuff was filthy. Not one of the three Nationals Batters that faced him, had any chance. His upshoot on his pitches were beautiful to watch. Not graceful as Chad Bradford (he of the knuckles dragging along the mound on each pitch) but very effective. Wow, he was good.


With two out in the Top of the 9th, Carlos Beltran attempted to call TIME OUT with an 0-1 count. Chad Cordero already had begun his windup. Home Plate Umpire Larry Vanover would not give it to him. Beltran, with his bat on his shoulder and one arm up in the air, had no choice but to take called STRIKE TWO. Beltran WAS HOT!!! He and Vanover got into it. Mets Manager Willie Randolph had to come out to calm Carlos down. Actually, Beltran was SO HOT its hard to believe Vanover DID NOT TOSS HIM OUT--As Carlos pushed past Willie Randolph to go after The Home Plate Umpire Again--To GREAT JOY FROM FANS FOR BOTH TEAMS!! Although Vanover did not toss Carlos Beltran, it didn't matter as Chad retired him two pitches later to end the game. But, it was fun to watch. The Moment was SO UNEXPECTED!!

Matt Chico, not only gained his second career Major League Victory tonight, but also rapped out his very first Major League Hit, a grounder up the middle off Oliver Perez in the bottom of the second inning.

For the first time in recent MEMORY, MY BEST FRIEND DID NOT POST UP at customary First Pitch. Could he have known HIS GIRL FRIEND, The African Queen was absent tonight? No Way. When Screech finally showed up in the 7th, "THE NOISE BOYS" took him to task. Many a time, Screech points at his illusionary watch, then to "THE BOYS", chiding them for ALWAYS BEING LATE. Tonight, turnabout was fair play. "THE NOISE BOYS" GAVE IT TO SCREECH!! My Best Friend took it well, but CRIED NONETHELESS--SORRY TO DISAPPOINT. That's OK SCREECH, WE LOVE YOU, ALWAYS. Just Don't MISS FIRST PITCH!!


The first two times The Mets Jose Valentin stepped to the plate, the Big Scoreboard in Right with the color pictures of the players spelled out Jose's last name "VALENTINE". Section 320 just HOWLING IN LAUGHTER. When you attend each and every game like most of us do, you notice even the smallest error. Yet, over the first two plus seasons of Nats Baseball at RFK Stadium we have CONSISTENTLY GRIMACED and CHUCKLED at Our Scoreboard Operator. Never it seems, a night goes by that something does not go wrong on the electronic boards. We look forward to these errors each and every night. Shameless we are, as we LOVE MAKING FUN OF THE TECHNICAL MISTAKES. We can never understand how they are NEVER CAUGHT, CONSISTENTLY!!



Finally, before tonight's game, I headed over to The NEW KIOSK SET UP by Tickets.com to teach Season Ticket Holders how to use their online accounts at Nationals.com, and transfer tickets to anyone, whether to their home computers, and onto a person's cellphone. The Demonstration, near The Red Hot & Blue Eatery was quite fascinating. Every Season Ticket Holder is allowed to have TWO BUDDIES that you can send tickets to all season long FOR FREE. Anyone else you transfer a game ticket to, a $2 service charge is applied to your account.




What's fascinating about this technology, which RFK STADIUM is one of the very first to utilize, is that, say you have the game tickets and are running late-your friend is already at RFK. If you both have Compatible Cell Phones that can handle this service, all you have to do is email a transfer code to your buddies phone. Your friend will receive an email with BAR CODE and Complete Ticket Information. Your friend just needs to show his phone at THE MAIN GATE to RFK Stadium (The only entrance accepting the service right now). The Ticket Attendant scans the bar code right off the phone, then proceeds to give the cell phone user a printed receipt with Game Date, Seat Location and Details.

Really, I thought this is a GREAT USE OF TECHNOLOGY. There are so many ways ticket holders can take advantage of this opportunity. Even selling your seats late, not even 15 minutes before a game begins, yet still getting the seats to the buyer. What a great deal, if you can not attend for whatever reason. And, if you are a COLLECTOR and a SPECIAL GAME is coming up and you VALUE A PERFECT TICKET, you no longer have to carry that game seat to the park with you. Just email the ticket to yourself, leave the ticket at home, scan your phone, get a receipt. What could be finer.

Finally, if you forgot your tickets at home, in the office or the car--NO PROBLEM NOW. Email the seats to yourself via Nationals.com. Life is easy, thanks to A CELL PHONE. And besides, the Ticket.com folks gave out some nice white MLB.com TEE Shirts with Nationals.com logo on the back for those that completed the demonstration.

And, many THANKS to Mick (Not MICKNATS) who was kind enough to stop by tonight, introduce himself and say how much he enjoys The Nats320 Blog. Your effort was well appreciated.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Nick Wass

The Last Canadian Still Standing

The first day I ever laid my eyes on him, Shawn Hill completed a shutout through seven solid innings against The Philadelphia Phillies. The Date was Sunday, June 11th, 2006. The African Queen and I remember that day well. Major League Baseball, then the Owners of Our Washington Nationals invited each and every season ticket holder on the turf at RFK Stadium for a Post Game Picnic. Most every Nats Player showed up, to sign autographs--Shawn Hill included.


Sitting on top of the first base dugout, signing autographs, most fans did not really know who was Number 41. In all honesty, for popularity, Shawn was low on totem pole. So, I approached him, thanked him for his outstanding effort that day, mentioning how much I enjoyed his poise on the pitching rubber. Looking up from signing my baseball, Shawn Hill appreciated the comments, extended his right hand, shook mine firmly--thanking me for noticing. Briefly, we chatted, nothing too substantial, but I enjoyed my moment with him. Not one single other Fan had spoken ONE WORD TO HIM. NOT ONE. Most everybody just wanting an autograph, while moving through to the next player. That very moment, Shawn Hill became special to me. Down to earth, head screwed on correctly. Someone new to cheer for.


Never did I run into him again, until this past February when Shawn Hill was kind enough to give me 15 minutes of his time during Spring Training to discuss his future in baseball with me. But, just like last June, Hill was kind, considerate, WANTING to speak baseball with me. It really was an enjoyable two way conversation. He liked my questions and I peaked his interest. Hill laughed mightily, surprised when I told him he is THE BEST BUNTING PITCHER on Our Nationals. "You better believe it," I reaffirmed. My followup comment NOT GOING UNNOTICED in The Nationals Clubhouse. Heads rising, players looking. All resulting in one of my favorite posts from Viera. Injuries have always curtailed this Ontario, Canada Native throughout his young professional career. Yet, Shawn told me that late February Day he was healthy, in shape, and ready to prove he belongs as a Starter In The Major Leagues. More than anyone else in Spring Camp, Shawn well knew this was HIS OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A NAME FOR HIMSELF.


More and more throughout the six weeks of Spring Training, it became apparent that Hill WAS OUR BEST STARTER--UNQUESTIONABLY. And, when I saw him once again, On Opening Day, at The Main Gate to RFK Stadium, handing out Curly "W" Caps, I was proud when he recognized me right away, remembering my name, telling me "I hope I don't disappoint your faith in me." Replying, I stated:"I am happy to see you make it here (THE MAJORS), healthy and ready to go. Just do your best, that's all I ask." We shook hands strongly, snapped a quick photo (yeah I know its not my usual best-but my point is more important than the picture quality) and parted ways. As I said to The African Queen as we walked on to our seats in Section 320--"Shawn Hill is a decent young man. I really hope he pulls it all together. He's SO DESERVING."


No doubt, Shawn Hill has yet to falter in 2007. And, today, he pitched his FINEST GAME as a Major Leaguer. Shutting down the Philadelphia Phillies, yet again, through eight plus innings. Staying ahead in the count, his sinker was fabulous and unlike most pitchers in the game today, Number 41 lets the batter hit the ball. Why try to strike everyone out, when more times than not, a hitter will get himself out. When the great majority of batters only get a hit less than three out of 10 plate appearances, pinpoint control will succeed most every time out. Shawn Hill knows how to pitch. He pitches with confidence and a game plan. A plan which he sticks to. The very last True Canadian to ever play for The Montreal Expos, is Our ACE. The man can play. And, I am very proud of him.


Shawn Hill also pitched today with the lead. Facing Up Against Phillies Young Phenom, Cole Hamels, Our Washington Nationals were able to put some runs on the board against one of the game's finest young lefthanders. This, after Cole struck out 15 batters in his last game appearance. A solo Home Run to right by Dimitri Young in the 4th. A two run bloop single to left scoring Ronnie Belliard and Ryan Zimmerman in the sixth by Ryan Church. And, finally a bases loaded walk to Brian Schneider scored Austin Kearns in the same frame putting Washington up 4-0.


Really, that was all Hill needed today. For the most part, Shawn was dominant. Our Nationals played solid defense behind him. He did falter a little late, giving up a Homer to The HOT HITTING Aaron Roward (Why in the world would Philadelphia be shopping this guy, he's a terrific all around performer), but Our Manager, Manny Acta knew this was Shawn's Game to go the distance and rightly sent him out for the 9th in an attempt for the Complete Game.

Unfortunately, it was not to be. When Shane Victorino walked to lead off the bottom of the ninth, Manny had to take him out. There's NO WAY Acta lets Shawn Hill tire late and destroy a wonderful outing. On trotted "The Chief Cardiologist" to make it interesting as always. First getting Chase Utley, but not before Utley sent a Chad pitch to the wall and fence in Dead Centerfield at Citizens Bank Park. Ryan Church retrieving the ball, but not before a few hearts fell right into a few Nats Fans stomachs. Then, giving up a double to Ryan Howard, moving Victorino to third and a Sacrifice Fly to score Shane by Pat Burrell, also at the wall, this time in right, hauled in by Austin Kearns, making the score 4-2 Nats.


But, Chad was not to be denied today. Wes Helms was next. And, Cordero fired away. Reaching 91 Miles per hour on his fastball, "The Chief" would strike out Helms swinging to end the game, preserving Shawn Hill's much deserved win and releasing some serious tension for Cordero. Chad Cordero made it interesting, as always, but like more times than not, Number 32 was successful. Save Number 2 for Our Closer. Curly "W" number 7 for Our Washington Nationals.


On the heels of last night's terrible 9-3 lost to these same Phillies, Our Washington Nationals played a crisp, clean game. Pride was on the line today. To their great credit, Our Team played their hearts out. The Ups and Downs of Baseball, that I love so much. Playing most everyday for six months makes the game so much more special than any other sport. Whether today's win is a Harbinger of things to come, or a detour in the road of more frustration to follow (I would imagine a little of both), we shall not know for some time.

As for Today--April 26th, 2007, Our Washington Nationals finally confirmed we really do have, AT LEAST ONE Very Good Major League Caliber Starting Pitcher. Shawn Hill is here to stay.

Hope is on the horizon. What a nice feeling, after the depression of last night.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) H. Rumph, Jr.

Our Washington Nationals

Obviously, I struck a cord. A Nerve that many Nats Naysayers were not expecting from me. Screech'sBestFriend is not blind, but I always attempt to be fair in my assessments. Not unexpected on many levels, Our Washington Nationals are off to a terrible start. Still, this poor April does not take away from my enjoyment of the game of baseball in my Hometown. Disappointing, yes, but the End Of The World has not arrived, at least not yet (I am actually chuckling while writing that phrase).

Previously, I stated how Our Washington Nationals of April, will not be Our Washington Nationals of May. And come September 1, Our Washington Nationals will be a COMPLETELY DIFFERENT TEAM. Right before our eyes, Our Washington Nationals are changing. Collectively, those growing pains are excruciatingly difficult to swallow right now--especially in light of a 6-15 start to 2007.

As Our Washington Nationals have dug a deeper hole, their play on the field has brought back memories of the New York Mets of the early 1960's. No ground ball, no fly ball, is considered an out until said ball is cleanly fielded, thrown, or clenched within a fielder's glove. Every swing of an opponents bat makes me flinch seeing the baseball roll on the ground or lofted into the air, not sure if a Washington Fielder will complete the play. My Anxiety Level rising, just to view a routine play, sort of-laughable. It is funny. Really. And, VERY SAD.

At the plate, Our Washington Nationals DO NOT SHOW PATIENCE. When the bases are loaded and no one is out, the opposing pitcher in trouble--WHY ARE WE SWINGING AT THAT PITCHERS VERY FIRST NERVOUS OFFERING, usually his out pitch, taking a hack, grounding into a double play. How many baseball games does someone need to play to understand this game?

Is Baseball a DIFFICULT GAME? YES--MAYBE THE MOST DIFFICULT SPORT TO MASTER. Yet, as a game played DAILY, Baseball allows the player to experience, time and time again, hundreds, if not thousands, of IN GAME possibilities. That collective knowledge should be stored away, ready for retrieval in a moments notice to deal with an upcoming situation. So, why a veteran player of 29 years old can not hold back at the very first pitch with a pitcher in trouble is a quandary to me. I don't understand it. I would bet Our Manager, Manny Acta does not understand it, either.

Like Manny was quoted saying: "We're learning as a team. Like I said yesterday, preach, teach and be patient."

Manny's right, but it also helps if your talent WANTS TO LEARN AND BE PATIENT. Unfortunately, personally, I am not seeing that effort from some but, certainly no where near, all of our players. Our Washington Nationals have some talent. Just not enough of it, right now.

Our General Manager Jim Bowden has a history of breaking up a team by sending large groups of players to the minors for replacements or a huge trade. We are not going to be seeing that play out here in DC, but changes are on the way.

It has not helped that both Cristian Guzman and Nook Logan injured themselves on Opening Day and have not returned since. As much as Guzman is maligned by fans in Washington, DC, "The GUZ" is a far better choice as our shortstop. Felipe Lopez is a far better choice as our second baseman. Ronnie Belliard is a far better player off the bench. I can quibble with Belliard's two pop up fielding errors this season. But, quite frankly, he has been a decent substitute player. Off the bench, Ronnie would be an God Send--As Manny HAS NO BENCH. D'Angelo Jimenez and Josh Wilson are just taking up space. They can not play the field. Both are smaller versions of Matt LeCroy. DH's and nothing more. Personally, I like Michael Restovich (He of The Frank Howard Body), he's got some pop and is a well needed right handed hitter off the bench. A bench that will improve once Logan also returns. Robert Fick is a emergency fielder only. Sorry, but that's the truth. The stars have not aligned for Our Team this April, but things might actually be changing right now.

Within a matter of days, Our Washington Nationals will begin their May Metamorphosis. Guzman, Logan and Jason Simontacchi are coming back. Jason to the mound, Jerome Williams to the waiver wire or Matt Chico to Columbus. Later in May, Luis Ayala will suit up in his customary Number 56 after missing all of 2006. Not sure how hot he will be out of the gate, but I do know, he wants to make up for his lost season. More than any Original Washington National, Ayala feels he let down the Franchise and The FANS. If Luis is anything close to his 2005 form, we are in for some fun.

Mark Zuckerman at The Washington Times reports that Nick Johnson is now running at full speed, taking batting practice from his knees, but still well behind in his baseball skills. Nick is going to be rusty for the remainder of the season, at whatever point he returns. But, with Number 24 either at first or on the bench playing--Our WASHINGTON NATIONALS ARE A MUCH BETTER TEAM.

And, most importantly, if there is ONE PLAYER on Our Washington Nationals that is a LEADER BY EXAMPLE, its Nick Johnson. How badly this teams misses his everyday presence on the baseball diamond is extraordinary. Teammates play better when Nick Johnson, not the most graceful of athletes, gives his all, NO MATTER WHAT THE SCORE. Every SINGLE WASHINGTON NATIONAL should be showed that awful video reply of how Number 24 broke his femur last September, in a meaningless game, well out of hand, during the last week of a forgotten season. That's LEADERSHIP!! Our Washington Nationals need NICK JOHNSON, more than Nick Johnson needs Our Washington Nationals. Our Fans Need Him, TOO.

Then, once Jimenez and Wilson are gone, Our Bullpen will be next for the makeover. Ray King is only here until July. "The Chief" will get straightened out. If Simontacchi can be an innings eater and relieve some pressure off the relief corp, Our Nationals have a shot at decency. Jon Rauch, Ryan Wagner, Saul Rivera, Micah Bowie, and even Levale Speigner are decent. Not sure about Jesus Colome.

Many, MANY, more changes are in store. No doubt, Jim Bowden is wheeling and dealing behind the scenes as I write this. He is looking for now, next week, next month and this winter. Come August and the trading deadline, Our Washington Nationals may have 6-7 players on the roster not currently with the team. And, Jesus Flores is going to get the call, more and more, behind the plate. We have nothing to lose. For me, that a fascinating prospect. Flores has a CANNON ARM, good skills behind the plate with some pop. He just does not have experience or knowledge of the facing batters.

That being said, come May--Brian Schneider is the catcher, Dimtri Young at first, FLop at Second, "The GUZ" at Short, Ryan Zimmerman at 3rd, Ryan Church, Logan, Austin Kearns across the outfield, with Chris Snelling getting alot of playing time. Even with Young's poor defense at first, its a far better defensive lineup. Once Johnson comes back, say August, the "D" is even better. Our Pitching will constantly evolve throughout the summer, no one should be surprised. When it comes to pitching, everyone was well warned.

But, that still doesn't speak to CARING. No matter how bad Our Washington Nationals are, four things are all am asking for 2007--hustle, desire, thoughtfulness and spark. Even if the talent is not there, players need to make an honest effort. Nothing less is ever expected.

As I always do, I cheer for OUR WASHINGTON NATIONALS. For the remainder of my lifetime, I will continue to do so, through all the BAD and EVENTUALLY, ALL THE GOOD. You can criticize all you want, but that's HOW I FEEL about Our Washington Nationals.

Dear Manny

Dear Manny:

You know I love you alot. Your Charismatic Smile is one of the finest I have ever seen. Dynamic, Interesting, Personable, and First Year Major League Manager, all descriptions of your character. All of which draws my interest to you. And, yet I can only feel sorry for you right now. Our Washington Nationals are playing poorly. Their inability to make the routine play is mind numbing at times. And, tonight's disaster of a game against The Phillies in Philadelphia nearly unwatchable.



Granted, it was well known, Your 2007 Washington Nationals were going to struggle. A FACT you have also known since the very day you graciously and willingly took this job. Never one to give up (and rightfully so), you have remained positive, despite the truth that your starting pitching for this season would in all likelihood bury The Nationals. Also, the truth that your hitters do not provide alot of power at the plate. But, never did you realize how over matched your Bullpen would be from all their early deficits. Not One Month into the season, Our Relief Corp is WIPED OUT.


AND, NEVER DID YOU REALIZE that your fielders would continually not be able to make the routine defensive play. Three errors tonight could have been called, you know that, but The Official Scorer was generous, as usual. Robert Fick could not track a fly ball to the wall in left with two outs, turning twice, then watching the ball land not even half way up the wall right behind him for a Chase Utley Double. Immediately followed by a John Patterson fastball down the middle of the plate HAMMERED OUT BY RYAN HOWARD for a two run homer.


Dimitri Young dropped a sure double play ball that led to a Phillie Run in the 5th. And, Ronnie Belliard dropped a popup to short right field in the 6th, leading to two additional runs for Philadelphia. One announcer blamed the wind. But, I am not buying that. Really, how bad can this get?

Manny, I am all for "THE PLAN", but please explain to me why Robert Fick started in leftfield tonight? Fick may well be a clubhouse favorite, and I know from personal experience, he is a TERRIFIC GUY. But, WHY IS HE STARTING? Robert Fick has yet to deliver in the clutch in 2007. And, only twice in 2006. If Our Washington Nationals are rebuilding, then why is Chris Snelling not out there playing leftfield each and every day, especially with Nook Logan still on the Disabled List. We are team building, not giving aged veterans with diminishing skills the opportunity to resurrect their career, for the sake of a youngster. If that was the case, why not keep Jose Guillen? Why not keep Jose Vidro, and definitely, Why not keep Livan Hernandez (Still MY FAVORITE & MOST ENTERTAINING NATIONAL TO EVER WEAR THE WASHINGTON UNIFORM)? Really, Why?


I can put up with loses, but I can't put up with the little pride shown by our players. Each and every time Our Washington Nationals step out on the field, I WANT TO SEE EFFORT!! I don't want to see a Nationals hitter bunt and watch himself get thrown out in a double play. I don't want to see fielders making a less than honest effort on defense. I don't want to see hitters swinging at the very first pitch when an opposing pitcher is in trouble. I don't want to hear your starters complain about their lack of confidence or not being 100% healthy. And, most importantly, I don't want to see a team that ACCEPTS LOSING and proceeds to make excuses for themselves.


Manny, my friend--There could be very few on The Nationals Bandwagon more than me. Never, will I turn my back on you or this team. Never in my lifetime. Yet, even I am bothered by the less than stellar effort put forth by Our Washington Nationals. Right now, we are in trouble. The ship is sinking fast.

You have been dealt a very uneven hand. With all your flair, decency and knowledge, please do your best, TO GIVE ME, THE AFRICAN QUEEN, SECTION 320 and OUR FANS, something to cheer for the remainder of 2007. I know its inside you. And, I know its inside many of our players. Hang in there. Be tough. Be Competitive. Help resurrect Our Franchise.

Manny, I am so sorry. You deserve better.

Sincerely,

Screech'sBestFriend

PS--During today's online chat with Barry Svrluga at WashingtonPost.com, Barry did respond to my question whether Manny stills flashes his customary charismatic smile despite the teams troubles this season:

Acta: He's still got that smile. We see it more in the afternoon than late at night, though, after some of these games.

Personally, I was happy to read that fact.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) Tom Mihalek

The Line Of The Day

Today, During Mark Zuckerman's online chat I asked him the following question:

From Screech'sBestFriend in Alexandria:

How has Nats management handled the rough start by the Nationals? Pretty much what they expected? Worse? Or not concerned with winning right now?

His Final Line in the answer was TERRIFIC!!:

Mark Zuckerman:

Management (and by that I'm referring to Jim Bowden, Stan Kasten and others in the front-office) seems to be handling this fine. They knew what they were getting into. I did hear something interesting from a front-office exec, though. This person didn't exactly think it was a great idea to go into this season with such a low payroll and so few established players (particularly in the starting rotation) but was overruled by others high up in the organization who felt there was no good reason to spend millions of dollars to sign second-tier free agents who wouldn't help this team win this year. There is a difference, this person noted, between a 110-loss club and a 95-loss club, certainly in the public's eye. Fans are less likely to throw a fit over a bad-yet-competitive team as opposed to one that frequently has no chance to win on a given night. Here's how this person summed it all up: "This is a learning year for these players, but maybe it'll also be a learning year for ownership." Interesting.

"...but maybe it'll also be a learning year for ownership."

What a Great Line and Telling at the same time!

Losing A Near Perfect Game

When Jamie Moyer completely discombobulated Our Washington Nationals last Thursday afternoon, the aging Philadelphia Phillies lefthander did his magic with the help of his opponents. Each and Every Nationals Hitter that day came to the plate believing Moyer was Nolan Ryan in his prime, fireballing away. Expecting fastballs, Washington Hitters proceeded to swing at every piece of junk Jamie threw at RFK Stadium. Not ONE NAT'S HITTER made an adjustment. Most looked silly, and all were ineffective. Many getting themselves out.

With that thorough whooping still fresh in their minds, Our Washington Nationals came out tonight against Moyer with a far different game plan. Forget about what works for you as a hitter, most Washington batters this evening waited, sitting back, looking for what Moyer throws, not what they wanted. And, it worked, for a time.


Then, to add ZEST to this affair, Tonight's Nats Starter, Jason Bergmann decided to just let The PHILLIES HIT HIM!! What does it matter if hitters are getting themselves out, they were overswinging at everything. For Jason, Be Jamie Moyer, for one night. Bergmann taking advantage of Philadelphia's impatience. Turnabout is not only fair play, but sweet.

Bergmann was cruising along into the 6th, ahead 3-1, then ONE AT-BAT changed this game. With two out in the bottom of the sixth, Chase Utley doubled to the wall in left center that Michael Restovich slid for, the ball hitting his glove, but the smash landing safely on the warning track. Up stepped the very dangerous Ryan Howard. The Reigning MVP has struggled through the early portion of 2007. Knowing this, Jason fired away, getting well ahead in the count, 1-2. All Number 57 had to do was finish Howard off. He couldn't do it. If there is one flaw in Ryan Howard's swing, is his inability to consistently make contact with a HIGH FASTBALL. Bergmann, who to this point had pitched smart baseball--became cautious, throwing outside breaking pitch after another, not willling to challenge Ryan. His one fastball was well outside. Bergmann was nervous and it cost him. Eventually, Howard walked. And, when Pat Burrell followed with a double to left, scoring Utley to make the score 3-2, Our Washington Nationals had positioned themselves to lose a game they may well have been able to win.



Saul Rivera relieved Bergmann for the 7th and promptly gave up a game tying homer to Aaron Rowand. Then, Jon Rauch continued to struggle with a bad 8th inning, in relief of Micah Bowie. A walk and two singles allowed a Bowie Inherited runner to score and two additional more. Our Washington Nationals now down 6-3, eventually the final score. One cautious At-Bat had changed the entire dimension of this game. If Bergmann goes after Howard, he survives into the 7th with a two run lead. Tonight's ballgame was his to win. A win he had no decision in at the conclusion, because Jason Bergmann WOULD NOT challenge a GREAT HITTER when it counted THE MOST.

Through 5 2/3rds inning Our Washington Nationals played a near perfect game. But, being an imperfect team, they once again showed why they are struggling. With the game on the line, The Nationals could not close it out. A very disappointing lost.

Game Notes and Highlights:

My Main Man!! Ryan Church, who looked as silly as most last week against Jamie, sat back for the slow stuff on a 2-2 count, his hips set, not swinging out open, and drove a Moyer pitch off the wall in right in the 2nd to score Austin Kearns for a quick 1-0 lead. Kearns had received a gift triple with Phillies Centerfielder Aaron Rowand thought too much, and dove for a drive to center he had NO CHANCE of catching. The Ball scooting pass Rowand to the wall for a stand up three bagger for Austin. The African Queen noticing, for the first time this season, how thinner Kearns looks than last season. And, he does. Kearns looks in shape and healthy.


Later in the 3rd, Felipe Lopez would sit back and drive a single to left off Moyer, the Belliard would follow with a liner down the left field line for a nice double, FLop scoring easily for a the second run of the night. Good Baseball, letting the game develop in front of you. And, when Brian Schneider hit a two single to center scoring Austin Kearns for a 3-1 Nats lead in the 6th, not one fan rooting for Washington did not believe this game was in hand. Unfortunately, it wasn't.

By the way, Schnieder, despite his below the Mendoza Line (under .200) batting average, knocked in his team leading 10th RBI on that third run of the game.

The Phillies scored their first run of the evening in frustrating fashion after Ryan Zimmerman made a nice play on a hard hit grounder by Wes Helms over the bag but moving him into foul territory. On the throw, Dimitri Young could not keep his foot on the bag for an error. Then Aaron Rowand would account for his mental mistake in the top of the 2nd by powering a drive to right center. As much as I love Ryan Church, it always bothers me that he refuses to dive, HEAD FIRST, for a drive. He didn't again tonight, missing the ball by a mere foot in a backhanded attempt. A run scoring double for Rowand. The only time this season I have wished for Nook Logan to have been playing centerfield. But, honestly, I would take Church over Logan any day. Ryan's offense is far more valuable than Nook's limited batting potential.

"Z" committed his 5th error of this young season when he missed a short hop on a Ryan Church toss to third during the crucial three run 8th inning for Philadelphia. Zimmerman only committed 15 errors all last season. He's on pace right now to make nearly 30. That's amazing!! for such a talented player.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) Rusty Kennedy

PS--Virginia Tech, I just returned. Sad is the only way to explain it. JUST SAD. What is wrong with this world sometimes.

Duty Calls

I am on my way to Blacksburg, Virginia where I have been assigned for the next few days. I will not be back for a few days. In all liklihood, posting will not be possible, unfortunately. I hope you understand.

On The Job Training

When Our Manager Manny Acta finally walked out to the mound tonight to relieve Matt Chico at Dolphin Stadium, I found found myself chuckling. How in the world were Our Washington Nationals STILL IN THIS GAME!! The score was only 5-3 Marlins with two outs in the fifth inning. Florida should have been well ahead, because Chico simply was not good. Although this 23 year old is a gamer and hangs tough, his inexperience showed.

On most other teams in Major League Baseball--Matt Chico would have been out of this ballgame much earlier. But, for 2007 Version of Our Washington Nationals this was a night for a young pitcher to learn, no matter how frustrating his performance was. And, Number 47 was all over the place. Anyone that walks the opposing teams pitcher twice, throws a wild pitch to that same pitcher to score a run and proceeds to walk SEVEN HITTERS, GIVING UP Six Hits in the process has ALOT TO LEARN. When Manny took Chico out of tonight's game he had given up 5 Earned Runs resulting in a season ERA of 6.38. That's a long learning curve. Randy St.Claire needs to inform him to THROW SOME MORE STRIKES, especially first pitch strikes.

When your team is building from within, attempting to re-load for the long term, the effort tonight has got to be expected. I have no doubt, NO DOUBT-Some do not, or will not, put up with the tonight's play by Our Washington Nationals. But, if Our Washington Nationals CAN NOT find out what their current corps of players can do, then WE ARE ALL WASTING OUR TIME!!. Matt Chico is a Major Part of Our Washington Nationals Re-Building Project. So, his up and down starting effort tonight is part of that process. Disappointing, Yes, but not the end of the world. Chico is definitely not going to be A 1986 Dwight Gooden Era, Super Fantastic Rookie coming out of nowhere. What Matt is doing, is learning on the job. And, Thanks to The Scrappy Nature of Our Pesky 2007 Washington Nationals, Chico was able to stay in tonight's game, when for all intents and purposes he had no right to. Since the 1-8 start, The Nationals have played decent baseball, getting 5 wins to 4 loses.

Reliever Ryan Wagner, who I like alot, also simply was not good tonight. While Chico left the game with the game still having a glimmer of hope for a comeback, Wagner just gave the game away. 5 Hits, 1 Walk, 1 Home Run, 4 Runs Scored, 3 Earned, his own Throwing Error--A close game was no longer. At 9-3, this game was OVER. At 24 years of age, Wagner has a ton of talent. Unfortunately, consistency, thus far, has been a problem for Ryan.

Overall, Pitching, has been The Nationals crutch all April--not unexpected by just about everyone that follows the game. And, that pitching, mostly the starters, continues to hamper this team's efforts. You can only play from behind every so often and expect to win.

9-3 Marlins the Final Score Tonight.

Still, you can take some good moments out of this one.

My Main Man!! Ryan Church continues to impress. A nice opposite field drive off the wall in left to score Ryan Zimmerman in the fifth shows his comfort level at the plate. Number 19 is just playing baseball. Ryan is not worried about each and every At-Bat, and whether his very next strike out or mistake in the field, will bench him for the next two weeks. Manny Acta seems to understand Church's potential.

Ryan Zimmerman shows shades of breaking out of his season long slump. Ryan collected 2 hits tonight, including a double to the gap in left and an RBI Single to raise his average to .234--Well above what Section 320 has been calling the "ZimDoza" Line (.200). "Z" needs a Homer, a game winning hit. More and More no protection before or after Ryan is killing his at bats. Few are getting on base. And, when runners do, other teams DO NOT FEAR Dimitri Young batting behind Zimmerman. Believe me, that is in no way a comment to disrespect Young. Dimitri Young has been a decent stick in the lineup. But, Nick Johnson is a force at the plate. Johnson is patient, willing to take a walk, looking for the good pitch to hit. While waiting, every single team understood Nick's ability to hit the ball out of the park. That's respect. Respect that Dimitri Young has not earned, yet.


FLop continues to wield a hot bat. Two hits tonight, raising his average to .308. Felipe Lopez showing shades of a real leadoff hitter.

Game Notes and Highlights:

Of course, I have yet to mention Matt Chico's amazing pitch to Josh Willingham in the top of the first when Matt lost grip of the ball in his delivery. The site of a baseball leaving a pitcher's hand and landing OVER TOP THE FIRST BASE DUGOUT, HILARIOUS TO WITNESS. As funny as the moment was, Matt showed no emotion, returning to strike out Willingham during this At-Bat. Matt Chico certainly needs some more seasoning, but he definitely has guile. No doubt, he will be remined of that moment for the rest of his life. ESPN's SportCenter will play the video FOREVER!!

Later, in the top of the second, Ryan Church would bloop a sure out just behind 3rd base and shortstop. Marlins 3rd Baseman Aaron Boone had the ball tracked all the way. Amazingly, at the very last moment, Boone peeled off believing Shortstop Hanley Ramirez had called for the ball. The baseball dropping safely to the turf. Church safe at first, resulting in Our Washington Nationals first run of the night. Its funny how baseball can play out sometimes.


In the top of the 3rd inning, personally I had a flashback to an occurrence to me in a Minor League Game nearly 27 years ago. While batting against the Lynchburg Mets in a Carolina League Game, I was hit on my left hand by a inside fastball courtesy of Sid Fernandez. The Big Burly Lefthander, who later played for The New York Mets, Phillies and Orioles, could fire the ball. Fernandez broke by fifth metacarpal bone in my little pinky finger that night. I was out 2 months. When Anibel Sanchez hit Ronnie Belliard tonight, I felt like I was on the field with him, reliving the pain. Fortunately, Belliard was OK. Years ago, I was not.

Finally, as I have stated previously, Don Sutton is wonderful to listen to on MASN. His understanding of the game, the situations and what players should do in said circumstances marvelous to hear. Really, I can't say enough good things about him. Sutton is honest and straightforward. His partner, Bob Carpenter, I haven't quite figured out yet.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) Alan Diaz

Tonight

Tonight, Our Washington Nationals Found Their ACE.
Tonight, Shawn Hill was Outstanding. Even his Two Run Homer served up to Aaron Boone does not detract from his effort.
Tonight his effort was special, when Shawn Hill got in trouble during the 5th inning, 2 runners on, 1 out-- He Painted The Corner to Strike Out Both Hanley Ramirez and Dan Uggla. That was pitching in The Big Leagues Tonight or on any other night.
Tonight, Shawn Hill started a Two Out Rally with his second career base hit.
And tonight, Shawn Hill continued to prove he is Our Best Bunter (I can always be proud of any batter that can bunt).
There is No Doubt Shawn Hill IS OUR BEST STARTER.

But Tonight, (believe it or not) was not all Shawn Hill.



Tonight, Ronnie Belliard did his Best Manny Ramirez Imitation with a two out, 3 Run Homer to left. If you put Belliard and Ramirez together swinging in the same photo, only size would tell the difference. You can pick, but you really can't complain about Belliard's effort so far this young season. Ronnie Belliard has been a pretty solid ballplayer.


Tonight, Our Washington Nationals slapped The Marlins Scott Olsen all over Dolphin Stadium.

And Tonight, Felipe Lopez played like a real leadoff hitter--3 walks, 2 singles. If only Our Washington Nationals could knock him around to score more often. And, a couple more stolen bases would not hurt.
Tonight, Austin Kearns finally realized you don't have to pull everything, going to right twice tonight, getting 2 Doubles and a Single.

Tonight, MY MAIN MAN!!Ryan Church ALMOST SAVED THE NIGHT by THROWING OUT AARON BOONE on a Beautiful multiple bounce throw to Ryan Zimmerman at Third Base in the 8th, with the game on the line. It was THE DEFENSIVE PLAY OF THE NIGHT. Just TERRIFIC!

And then Tonight, everything went DOWNHILL-- Jon Rauch came on to give up a Two Run, opposite field Homer to Joe Borchard in the 8th making the score 5-4.

In an attempt to SAVE THE NIGHT, "The Chief Cardiologist" Chad Cordero, was called on. Sadly, Number 32 would give up a lead off game tying homer to Pinch Hitter Cody Ross in the bottom of the 9th. I was so sad and upset, I seriously considered not posting Tonight.

As this game lulled on into the 12th, Robert Fick PISSED ME OFF TONIGHT, when attempting to bunt Ryan Zimmerman to second base, HE DID NOT RUN OUT THE BUNT TONIGHT, and was doubled off by a smart thinking Hanley Ramirez at shortstop for The Marlins. Losing the lead is one thing, QUITING is a WHOLE OTHER NUMBER. No Excuses for Fick TONIGHT!!! NONE, for Tonight, OR ON ANY OTHER NIGHT!!

Then, in the bottom of the 13th, with the Bases Loaded, two outs, a 3-1 count on Pinch Hitter Matt Treanor--Home Plate Umpire Mike Reilly gave Jesus Colome a GIFT CALL TONIGHT, ringing up a called strike two, when a ball four call would have ended this game with a walk off bases on balls. Colome would strike out Treanor to end the threat on the very next pitch tonight.


Finally, IN THE 14th, Our Washington Nationals got LUCKY AGAIN TONIGHT, when Ryan Church singled, stole second due to a bad throw by The Marlins Miguel Olivo, then with Ryan running all the way off a sharp liner off The Marlins Mike Jacobs at first base by Chris Snelling, saw Florida's Jason Wood throw a terrible bouncing toss to home in an attempt to throw out My Main Man!! Olivo could not handle it--Church scoring to give Washington a 6-5 lead 4 hours and 15 minutes into this marathon tonight.


Yet, as you can probably expect, that lead was not SAFE TONIGHT.

Saul Rivera would trot out to the mound tonight, looking for the save. Jason Wood would double to left with one out and advance to third on a Brian Schneider crossed up passed ball. With the game tying run on 3rd with one out, you had to expect this game would tied up, yet again, very soon tonight.

Fortunately, Rivera Struck Out Joe Borchard and got Aaron Boone to ground out to FLop to FINALLY END THIS GAME TONIGHT!! 4 Hours and 30 Minutes after it started tonight.

For Our Washington Nationals, Curly "W" Number 6 Tonight, a 6-5 Victory of The Florida Marlins.

The Post Script From Tonight:

By the way, Our Washington Nationals had 18 hits tonight, received 7 walks and Our Hitters left 28 Runners ON BASE TONIGHT!! That's REMARKABLE!!

And No Doubt, Shawn Hill Deserved the Win Tonight.

But, the Big Question is: What will Our Manager Manny Acta do with "The Chief", after Tonight.

I guess we shall find out, starting tomorrow night.

The African Queen and I feel sad for Chad Cordero Tonight.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) Lynne Sladky

"Rocky" K.O.'s Our Washington Nationals

What was left of the thinned out crowd was on its feet, Roaring. For the first time today, in their final at-bats, Our Washington Nationals were alive, in the midst of a FURIOUS RALLY against The Philadelphia Phillies. Already, two runs were in, but down 4, they needed two more. Ryan Church was on second base, Austin Kearns on third, Two Outs, Chris Snelling at the plate, against Phillie Closer Tom Gordon. You could not ask for a more exciting moment. Then, Out of NOWHERE, over The P.A. SYSTEM comes THE "ROCKY" Theme Song. THE ROCKY THEME SONG!!! There is no tune in modern times more related to Philadelphia than "ROCKY". Its played at every single SPORTS VENUE in The City of Brotherly Love.

Nationals Fans all over RFK began to SCREAM IN FUROR!! Phillie Fans, for once today, sitting quietly in their seats, fearing a Horrible Collapse by their team, immediately JUMPED UP IN JUBILATION!! You talk about killing the atmosphere, there could not have been a more ill-timed music interlude in this, or any other game. Just a terrible choice. And, as fate would have it, the harbinger of the final outcome. Chris Snelling would take CALLED STRIKE THREE to end this fine comeback effort. Not a single Nats Fans left RFK STADIUM this afternoon, not believing, The "Rocky" Tune was the Ultimate Rally Killer. The African Queen and I just stunned by the turn of events.

Maybe, One of the Dumbest In-Game Entertainment Decisions I have ever seen in Sport. And, its not THE FIRST TIME ITS EVER HAPPENED AT RFK STADIUM. Twice previously, with Our Washington Nationals rallying at RFK, also against the Phillies in 2006, the same tune was played. Really, JUST INCREDIBLE!! Today, a Phillie Fan sitting behind us in Section 320 even admitted he was SHOCKED at hearing the "Rocky" Theme Song at RFK STADIUM, during a Nats Rally. "Why are they playing that song," he stated. "That's a Philadelphia Song!!"

Possibly the Music Coordinator for The Nationals was the ONLY PERSON at RFK that did not realize this mistake. AMAZING!!


Of course, until this thrilling bottom of the 9th inning, today's Phillies/Nats game was the most lackluster affair to date. Possibly drained from two exciting encounters over the past two evenings against The Atlanta Braves and The Phillies, Our Washington Nationals had little life. Philadelphia's Jamie Moyer was setting the Nats hitters down 1-2-3 most every inning. Not one hitting anything hard off one of baseball's premier soft toss, junk pitchers. Jamie Moyer may well never qualify for the Hall of Fame. But, he will go down in The History of The Game as one of the finest left handed pitchers after reaching 35 years of age. Now 44, Moyer became a bonified All Star during his 10 seasons as a Seattle Mariner. Today showing, he's still on top of his game. He was FABULOUS until the 9th inning against Washington.

John Patterson, on the other hand, had nothing. Number 22 labored through his entire appearance. Always in trouble, rarely getting ahead in the count. Few of his pitches reaching the low 90's. Patterson had no zip and less command of his pitches. It was hard to watch. A lead off double by Jimmy Rollins and bloop single to right by Shane Victorino scored Philadelphia's first run, eight pitches into this game. Aaron Rowand would add a solidly hit homer to left in the top of the second off Patterson. And, proceed to knock John out of the game with no outs in the top of the 5th when Victorino doubled, followed by a JP wild pitch, Chase Utley walk, and Pat Burrell walk to load the bases.


Our Manager, Manny Acta had seen enough and slowly walked to the mound to replace Patterson with Levale Speigner. John slowly walked to the Nats 3rd Base Dugout, grimacing, no doubt, disgusted with his performance. And when Speigner got out of the jam by only allowing a Sacrifice Fly by Wes Helms, scoring The Phillies third run of this game, Patterson's official stats for 2007, became even more apparent, Not Good. No Wins, 3 Loses and a 7.00 ERA. Our Staff Ace, has been anything but. Patterson's pitching line today: 4 Innings, 7 Hits, 4 Walks, 1 Wild Pitch, 86 pitches thrown--only 47 for strikes. Whether he is injured or still recovering from his forearm problems from last season, I do not know. But, Our Washington Nationals need to find out--QUICKLY!! John Patterson is not helping. Its hard for me to say this, as The African Queen and I like him, a lot.

When Moyer cruised into the 9th inning, there was nary a sole at RFK Stadium that did not believe Jamie would finish this one out with a Complete Game. As Baseball always does, when you least expect, games change, drastically. And, when Ryan Zimmerman led off the bottom half of the 9th with a screaming double into the gap in left, those Nationals fans remaining rose. This game may well not be over, just yet. Dimitri Young would follow with lacing liner down the third base line into the corner, scoring Ryan, Dimitri motoring into second with an RBI Stand Up Double. 4-1 now. The Crowd alive. The Phillies Bullpen, also. Their closer, Tom Gordon was warming up. Out of the blue, this game was coming down to the wire.

Phillies Manager, Charlie Manuel slowly walked to the mound to relieve Moyer. Jamie, then slowing walking to the first base dugout. To everyone's credit at RFK Stadium, he received a very nice ovation from the fans, both Philadelphia and Washington, alike. He deserved it. Jamie Moyer is a working man's player. You can never say enough about that man's efforts both on and off the field of play. The African Queen and I joining in the appreciation.

But, once Gordon reached the mound, this was all about RALLY TIME!! Austin Kearns was next and was plunked on the second pitch by Gordon, runners now on first and second, still No Outs. Out of all miracles, the game tying run was stepping to the plate in Ryan Church. My Main Man!! has struggled all week at home since his fine game last Sunday at Shea Stadium in New York. No doubt, I was looking for Church to hit the Long Ball. Church battled, reached a 2-2 count, then on the fifth pitch of this At-Bat, lofted a blooper down the left field line. NO ONE could get to the ball, but Dimitri Young could not run on the hit, as he didn't know whether the ball would be caught. With Church safe at first, the bases were know loaded, No Outs-And RFK STADIUM WAS BOISTEROUS with noise. There wasn't a Nats Fans in attendance that DID NOT BELIEVE this game was for the taking.

Pitcher Saul Rivera was the next scheduled hitter. No way he's coming up to hit. Up stepped Robert Fick. And, like two nights ago, Robert worked deep into the count. Tom Gordon still not finding his range on the mound. Eventually, Fick would get fooled, but still pop a medium range fly to left field--Deep enough to score the hard charging Dimitri Young from third for the second run of the inning for Our Washington Nationals. As I said to The African Queen, "Yeah, we scored, but that out looms big." And, it did. Out Number One was costly.

Was that ever true with Brian Schneider pinch hitting for Jesus Flores. Rule V Pick Flores got the start today behind the plate to give Brian a breather after last night's gruelingly long affair. Flores has yet to get his first Major League hit in just six At-Bats. I understand the move, to pinch hit. But, this moment shows how thin the bench is for Our Washington Nationals. Josh Wilson, D'Angelo Jimenez and Schneider were the only choices remaining to hit. Michael Restovich started today and was replaced by Snelling. None of Manny's choices are hitters with bat control. That's a problem, when you are pinch hitting with the game on the line.

Schneider, being patient, would get ahead in the count, 3-0, bases loaded again a possibility. Unfortunately, it was not to be. Brian would take a called strike, then ground the very next pitch to Philadelphia's Greg Dobbs at first for out number two. The runners moved up to 2nd and 3rd, just a single could still tie this game up. But, Number 23 was openly upset with himself, kicking the dirt as he crossed first base after being called out by Umpire Randy Marsh. Our Washington Nationals were down to their last out. The Crowd still behind the effort, standing and roaring waiting for the next hitter, Chris Snelling.

Then, The "ROCKY" Theme Song was played. You can talk about killing momentum all you want. Nothing quite stated that fact than THAT SONG!! The Uproar Began. And, Chris Snelling, probably oblivious to the meaning of the song, took a called strike one, swung and missed strike two, fouled off a third Gordon pitch, all fastballs, before The Phillies Closer completely fooled "YODA" with an off speed pitch over the outside corner. Snelling never lifting his bat of his shoulder. Home Plate Umpire Hunter Wendlestedt emphatically calling out Number 8 to end the game. Snelling would argue for the briefest of moments, to no avail. Gallantly, Our Washington Nationals had come alive and nearly won a game they had NO RIGHT TO WIN. As Sohna stated as we were leaving RFK STADIUM: "If they had, if would have been SWEEEEET!"

"Yes it would have been," I replied, "If only that hadn't played that stupid "ROCKY" song!!

You better believe I have already contacted Our Washington Nationals to make sure That Song Is NEVER PLAYED AGAIN, with The Philadelphia Phillies in town.

Game Notes & Highlights:


In the 4th inning with Philadelphia Catcher Carlos Ruiz on third base, Jamie Moyer on first with one out--John Patterson was in trouble again. The swift Jimmy Rollins was at the plate for The Phillies. On the very first pitch from John, Rollins would swing and ground a hard liner down the first base line. Dimitri Young, overplaying toward the line, would scoop up the ball in his glove hand, touch first base and then fire the ball off his wrong foot to Jesus Flores at the plate in an attempt to throw out the hard charging Ruiz. The throw was slightly up the third base line, but Flores still held his ground, the plate and caught the ball, tagging out Ruiz for an inning ending double play. It was The Defensive Play of This Game. Young received a Standing Ovation and Huge Admiration from his Nationals Teammates.


Although Speigner allowed one inherited runner to score when he entered with the bases loaded and no outs in the 5th, he pitched three decent innings of relief, allowing one earned run on two hits and one walk. Twice, Levale was like a cat in the night, snaring liners back to the box, off to the side, then throwing out the runners at first. For a career Minor Leaguer with only a few Major League Appearances under his belt, there is nothing that would give me pause and attempt to move Speigner off the 25 man roster. He has promise.



Finally, The African Queen and I picked up Our Washington Nationals MP 3 Player today at RFK Stadium. Nicely packaged with 128 MB of memory, the White with Red Curly "W" Player claims to have New Stadium images inside to download. I would imagine the images are the same as those on Nationals.com The MP 3 Player was the gift to Full Season Ticket Holders that paid their Ticket Accounts in full, by a set date last winter. Others may have a varying opinion, but we liked it. This MP3 Player is nice.

Today's In Game Photos--(AP) Nick Wass

Enduring, Bonding & JUST A FABULOUS BASEBALL GAME!!

Except for Opening Day, you had to be a DIE HARD Washington Nationals fan to put up with all bad weather during the first 9 homes games of 2007. Tonight, you just had to endure. Endure 13 innings of exciting, thrilling, frustrating and, at times, downright scary baseball. All words to describe tonight's affair between Our Washington Nationals and The Philadelphia Phillies. This one had it all, including a very unusual 4-5-3 Double Play and A Second Presidents Race. Section 320, faithful as ever, was in FULL FORCE, chanting, cheering and hanging on each and every twist and turn. We all stayed to the Climatic Ending. If RallyTimeRichard gets his voice back by next weekend, I will be amazed. Folks, games like this one are the sole reasons why The African Queen and I attend each and every Nats Home Game.


Nothing was held back,not OUR VOICES, not even nearly every player. Both teams emptied their bullpens, their benches (except for The Nats Jesus Flores), and were forced to use every last available resource to pull out a win. The Phillies used a pitcher to pinch hit. Philadelphia Slugger Ryan Howard went 0-5. Manny Acta was forced to use a Rule V Draftee in a crucial situation--only because he had NO OTHER CHOICE. And, Our Washington Nationals experienced the arrival of Michael Restovich in GRAND STYLE. Restovich should not have even been playing late into this game, if not for a managerial mistake by the Phillies Charlie Manuel. What a ROLLICKING GAME!! JUST TERRIFIC!!



From the 7th inning on, Our Washington Nationals put 13 runners on base, none of whom scored until the very last play of the game. Fans were tested tonight. And, those Nats Fans that lasted throughout this late ending "Friends & Family" Affair were justly rewarded, witnessing a beautiful walkoff 5-4 win. When Chris Snelling belly sled across Home Plate with the Winning Run, it did not matter that only a few hundred remained to witness the event. The sight of the entire Nationals Team running onto the field to first jump all over Snelling, then attempt to chase down Felipe Lopez and tackle him, a beautiful sight to see. That, and The MARVELOUS PLEASURE of seeing Phillie Fans, heads down, walking dejectedly out of RFK STADIUM. Our Washington Nationals bonded tonight. This was a team effort and no one was left out. Even Our Manager Manny Acta, personally ran over to Restovich to congratulate him on his terrific late inning performance, hugging Big Number 29. Michael returning the hug and patting Manny on his back, thrilled at his first day back in The Major Leagues.


All this drama set in motion by an unusual move by Philadelphia Manager Charlie Manuel. With Washington up 4-3 in the bottom of the 7th, Brian Schneider had singled, followed by a walk to Snelling, no outs. Manuel had seen enough of his left hander Matt Smith. On consecutive tosses, Smith had thrown away a pickoff throw to first and then proceeded to throw a pitch off the screen behind Home Plate (Shades of Nook LaLoosh from the movie "Bull Durham"--everyone in the stadium cracking up laughing). With Micah Bowie scheduled to hit next, Manny Acta sent Restovich out to the On Deck Circle to pinch hit for the pitcher. Manuel, for whatever reason, did not wait for Home Plate Umpire Sam Holbrook to officially announce Michael as the Pinch Hitter. The Philadelphia Manager just walked out to the mound and called for Righthander Geoff Geary. Acta called Restovich back and Robert Fick stepped to the plate. Eventually, The Nats would not lengthen their lead in this frame, but since Restovich was never officially in the game, Manny could insert him later in a crucial double switch in the 11 inning. Acta did. It was The Key substitution of the game.

Of course no one would have had to sit through this barn burner 13 innings if "The Chief Cardiologist" as The African Queen now calls Chad Cordero, had held on in the 9th. He didn't. Once again, Chad Cordero had no command, and less control, giving up two singles, a sacrifice and a run scoring ground out to The Phillies to send this one to extra innings. Personally, I don't know whats wrong with Cordero, but he looks lost at times. Someone pitching without ANY confidence. And, "The Chief" must have been ashamed when he walked off the mound, because tonight's Nats Starter Jason Bergmann deserved this victory, blown by Chad, and assisted by Saul Rivera.


Bergmann worked into the 7th inning, and was masterful at times. Shutting down the heart of the Phillies Lineup. Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley and Howard a combined 0-16 tonight. Jason was touched early by, of all folks, Phillies Pitcher Adam Eaton, who slammed a two strike, two out pitch to the wall in left field, scoring Rod Barajas in the second inning. NO ONE IN THE STADIUM COULD BELIEVE THAT DRIVE, yet it put the Phils up 1-0. And, although Bergmann left the mound in trouble in the top of 7th inning with runners on 2nd and 3rd and one out--he received a MUCH DESERVED STANDING OVATION. Number 57 had completed 6.1 innings, thrown 108 pitches, given up just one run to that point. Bergmann had to be happy with is performance. Only to see Rivera come on and immediately give up a run scoring 2 RBI single by Pinch Hitter Greg Dobbs, putting the Phils back in the game, the runs charged to Jason.

From that point forward, Our Washington Nationals did all the following at the plate:

7th Inning--bases loaded, no outs--DID NOT SCORE
9th Inning--runners on first and second, no outs--DID NOT SCORE
10th Inning-runners on first and second, no outs--DID NOT SCORE
11th Inning-With two outs, back to back singles by Restovich and Lopez--DID NOT SCORE
12th Inning-Austin Kearns & Josh Wilson singles--DID NOT SCORE

Baseball is the singuarly most frustrating sport to play and watch. That fact proved tonight, many times over.


In Section 320 we were losing it. Whether it was" Rally TIME!!", a "TWO OUT RALLY", or just plain "WE WANT A HIT!" Nothing was working for luck. Fortunately for Washington, except for Cordero and Rivera, The Nats Bullpen would be LIGHTS OUT, once again. Ryan Wagner came on to relieve Jesus Colome in the 11th, shutting down a Phillie rally with runners on 1nd and 2nd. Then, in the 12th produced one of the oddest double plays you will EVER SEE. After Shane Victorino singled to right for Philadelphia, Chase Utley flied out to Austin Kearns, now playing centerfield. Then, Howard stepped to the plate. Our Washington Nationals were in an EXTREME SHIFT for this slugger. Zimmerman at the normal shortstop set position. Lopez nearly at the customary 2nd Base Position. Ronnie Belliard in right field toward the first base line. Ryan Howard would drive a hard hit grounder at Belliard, who scooped up the ball in the grass, fired to Zimmerman at 2nd who pivoted BEAUTIFULLY, tossing to Dimitri Young at first for the inning ending Double Play. Ryan Wagner FIST PUMPING IN JOY at Zimmerman as he trotted off the field. What was left of this crowd going bonkers over the excitement. How could this game get ANY MORE EXCITING?!!

Yet it did.

Rule V Draftee Levale Speigner was Manny's LAST CHOICE to pitch in this game. Except for a Starter, NO ONE ELSE was available. On trotted Levale for the 13th inning. After retiring Michael Bourn on the grounder to Belliard at second, two of the most heart thumping defensive plays of the night ocured. Wes Helms would drive a Speigner pitch to the wall in deep centerfield. Kearns TURNED TWICE chasing the fly, but finally, THANKFULLY, retrieved the ball for out number two. Then, Aaron Rowand popped to short rightfield. Restovich, now playing right, and Belliard did not communicate, both figuring the other was going to catch the lazy pop. Neither went after it, until Michael, at the very last moment, slid onto the grass, making a shoestring catch. MICKNATS, BANGTHEDRUMNATLY, RALLYTIMERICHARD, THE AFRICAN QUEEN and I thought we were going to have heart attacks!! The anxiety level continuing to rise throughout this long night. Really, how could this game get much better? Somehow, someway, baseball always finds a way--to grip you.

Finally THIS THRILLER came to a head. Fireballer, Francisco Rosario stepped to the mound for Philadelphia. As I mentioned to RallyTimeRichard, Rosario gives us a better chance. Our Washington Nationals can hit fastballs, they struggle mightily with off speed junk pitchers. Snelling leading off, was overpowered by Francisco, but was still able to pop the ball up between shortstop and leftfield. Jimmy Rollins overran the ball looking up over his head, And, when he turned his body in an attempted basket catch, the short fly fell cleanly to the ground. A single For "YODA" sending Restovich to the plate for the pivitol At-Bat of the night. Restovich, looking for something to drive, was sitting on a fastball, which he promptly got on Rosario's very first pitch. Michael Swung AND DROVE IT DOWN THE LEFT FIELD LINE. The Few Hundred FANS NOW ROARING as Snelling quickly moved to third, Restovich stopping at second with a STAND UP DOUBLE. Restovich shaking his fists IN JOY over the moment. 2nd and 3rd, NO OUTS--Could we FINALLY END THIS! The Few left in the stands at RFK STADIUM making a ton of noise.



Section 320 starts up the "SEND THEM HOME" CHANT, as FLop stepped to the plate. Phillies Fans NOW QUIET--THANKFULLY. Lopez would take ball one, foul off Francisco's second offering, take ball two, then ON THE FINAL PITCH OF THIS GAME!!--Felipe Lopez would loft a drive to medium left field. Snelling was tagging all the way. Philadelphia leftfielder Michael Bourn does not have a strong arm. Bourn made the catch. THE RACE WAS ON. Chris barreling down the line as the ball came into the infield. Number 8 DIVING HEAD FIRST ACROSS THE PLATE--SAFE!!!!!! with the game winning run!! Snelling so happy, he leaped into the air, both arms extended in TRIUMPH. BANG!! ZOOM!! went the fireworks!! The Party WAS ON!! Four Hours and 16 Minutes after this game began, A TRIUMPHANT 5-4 Victory, was in hand, to be remembered for some time, on so many levels. Curly "W" Number 5!

If you were a Nats Fans and waited this one out, the sheer sense of Joy was palpable. None wanted to go home with a loss to The Phillies. Our Washington Nationals deserved to win this game. A loss would have been devasting. One of those terrible losses you remember for quite some time. That's why the ON FIELD CELEBRATION was so special. Players jumping all over themselves. What was left of the Crowd ROARING ITS APPROVAL. A Huge Sense of Relief and Satisfaction over a hard fought, intense and downright FABULOUS GAME!!

What more can I say. Same two teams, 13 hours from now. Wow!!

Game Notes & Highlights


In the bottom of the second inning, with Dimitri Young on second via a hit by pitch and Kearns on first with an infield single, SenatorNat, The KING OF WIT, yells out--"BRIAN SCHNEIDER--Home Run KING!!!" as Schneider stepped to the plate. Everyone in Section 320 laughing and chuckling at the comment. Only to see Brian, in his FINEST AT-BAT of this season, go 10 pitches into the count, fouling off four two strike pitches, then HAMMER a Adam Eaton fastball over the wall in right for a Three Run Homer. As happy as we all were, everyone in Section 320 just shaking their heads over SenatorNat's prophecy.

Ronnie Belliard continues to play a decent second base. Once again involved in turning two double plays and leaping to catch a Chase Utley Drive in the 3rd. Ronnie may well have been on the downward side of the leap, but it was a nice catch, nonetheless. RallyTimeRichard noting that when Belliard moves to retrieve a grounder, he gets his entire body behind the fielding effort. He is low to the ground, almost a pouncing position. Some can criticize him for some mistakes so far in the young season, but quite frankly, Ronnnie Belliard has played, unexpectantly, well. When Cristian Guzman comes off the Disabled List, Manny Acta has an interesting dilemma.

Levale Speigner would gain his VERY FIRST MAJOR LEAGUE VICTORY TONIGHT.

Personally, I could not be happier for Michael Restovich. He has endured, stayed positive and was rewarded tonight for his efforts.

For all of us in Section 320 this game was so similar to "The Wonderful Morning; Last Night Game" this past September 29th. The Fabulous Midnight Start Game against these same Phillies. The Intensity Level. The Excitement. The Excrutiating Twists and Turns. Few left in the stands when the game counted the most. And, most of those left, Obnoxious Phillies Fans. Section 320, shouting them down. What a pleasure to sit through and enjoy. TRULY, A Remarkable Evening For Baseball.

George Washington Won tonight's 1st Presidents Race in the customary 4th inning. Thomas Jefferson took the honors in the middle of the 13th inning.

Finally, as The African Queen and I got out of our car in Lot 8, parked in our customary spot--Lo & Behold, sitting right next to us--tailgating were THE CURLY W BOYS!!--Brandon and Ben enjoying pregame festivities, living it up. The Shocking Surprise for all us, quite enjoyable. We all talked for some time, pleased with the unexpected company. Brandon and Ben are two of the most fun Nationals Fans Sohna and I have ever met. We like them alot. Thrilled, we were, to see them, again.

As The African Queen and I returned to our car, after this thriler, The Curly W Boys had left the following notes:

Brandon: Rest-O-Vich!! Rest-O-Vich!! Nats Win!! Woot!!
Ben: (knowing Sohna was a little under the weather) Good thing the African Queen's worst night was the Nats LONGEST GAME!!

You got that right Ben. What a trooper, for hanging there! You guys really have no idea how lucky I am.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) Kevin Wolfe
(Washington Times) Joseph Silverman--Snellings head first slide into home (Top Photo)

Great Game

My voice is dead ... 'nough said.

Except ... IT WAS WORTH IT!!!

I'll let SBF comment further.

Heart

I was proud of Our Washington Nationals Tonight. Without thinking twice, Team President Stan Kasten agreed to a fans request for the team to Honor Virginia Tech by wearing Hokie Hats in remembrance of those lives lost in Monday's tragic shootings on the Blacksburg, Virginia Campus. Our Nats showed heart tonight. The spontaneity of the thought, making the moment all the more genuine. And, I love them even more for their kind efforts.

Heart, Washington almost used to pull out a thrilling come from behind victory. This on another CHILLING COLD NIGHT for baseball at RFK STADIUM against The Atlanta Braves. Will the weather ever turn decent again for baseball, you have to wonder. Not a creature was stirring inside the old ballpark, and definitely not THE NATS, at least until the 6th innning. When the first of three THRILLING At-Bats by Washington, all with the game on the line, would ultimately decide the outcome.


Sure Fire Hall Of Famer John Smoltz was cruising along with a comfortable 4-1 lead, thanks to another bad first inning by a Washington Nationals Starter, this time Jerome Williams. With 2 outs in the 6th inning of until that point, rather lackluster affair, Ryan Zimmerman would get the fans blood finally pumping again when he laced a single up the middle off Atlanta's John Smoltz. Dimitri Young followed with a liner to left bringing Ryan Church to the plate. Church, struggling tonight against Smoltz would top a grounder to Edgar Renteria at short, a sure inning ending out. Only to see Renteria charge in and the ball bounce off his glove into short left centerfield. Zimmerman running all the way, scored easily making it a 4-2 game. This was Renteria's second error of the night. Nats Fans really stirring now.


Up stepped Robert Fick. Fick was Washington's Starting Right Fielder Tonight. Our Manager, Manny Acta deciding to rest the struggling Austin Kearns. Ironically, Kearns has the best career stats hitting against Smoltz. But, what happened next set off a series of fabulous At-Bats over the next two innings that made this game, more than interesting. Rarely in the course of any baseball game does any batter reach 10 pitches or more during any one At-Bat. Tonight at RFK Stadium, Our Washington Nationals had three separate players perform such a feat. Each Time, the Game Tying and Go Ahead Runs were on the line. Each time the crowd of 17,391 were on their feet watching breathlessly.

With runners on 1st and 2nd and Fick representing the go ahead run, Smoltz attempted to battle back. Robert equally up to the task. Number 13 would foul off the first pitch, take ball one, swing and miss at a slider in the dirt. Then, proceed to foul off 6 straight Smoltz offerings. The Crowd watching restlessly. Usually, when a hitter goes so deep into the count, the batter wins. Fick took ball two on the 10th pitch of this At-Bat. Finally, on the 11th toss and his 98th pitch of the night-Smoltz would win this battle, getting Robert Fick to fly out to Ryan Langerhans in left to retire the side, ending the two out rally.

And, when Kelly Johnson would score Atlanta's 5th run of the evening in the top of the 7th on a Johnson single off Micah Bowie, wild pitch by Ryan Wagner, walk to Chipper Jones and single by Brian McCann--you had to figure this was not to be Our Washington Nationals night. Yet, amazingly, Atlanta Braves Manager Bobby Cox sent John Smoltz out to start the 7th inning. Number 29 barely made it out of the 6th. On a cold night, nearing 100 pitches, the third week of the season and a comfortable lead, what was Cox thinking? Thankfully, Our Washington Nationals took advantage of the situation.

Brian Schneider sharply singled to left and Chris Snelling immediately followed with lacing liner down the right field line into the corner. Atlanta Braves right fielder Jeff Francouer had trouble getting to the ball and when he did pickup the baseball and turned to throw the ball, he dropped it. Schneider running all the way scored easily, "Yoda" running as hard as his left knee brace would allow, stumbled a little rounding second base but made it safely in to third for an RBI TRIPLE!! The Crowd Roaring Now. Not in my lifetime did I ever expect Chris Snelling to hit a triple, EVER!! Just does not seem possibly.

Now, Bobby Cox finally decided to remove John Smoltz from the game, replacing him with Oscar Villarreal. Austin Kearns, in the game due to a Double Switch in the top of the 7th, would hit a hard topper to Chipper Jones at third. The ball would spin right into Jones' glove and pop out. Error on Jones. Kearns safe at first, Snelling holding at third. Still no outs. Felipez Lopez was next and grounded sharply to the left of Renteria at short. The ball glances off Renteria's glove, again. Really, Edgar should have made the play. Instead the ball rolled into centerfield, scoring Snelling, advancing Kearns to second. Now 5-4 and EVERYONE WAS ON THEIR FEET CHEERING. Once again, The Nationals Official Scorer ruled a questionable call. Renteria was not charged with his 3rd error of the evening. All season long, The Official Scorer has made some very odd decisions at RFK Stadium.

Still no outs, Ronnie Belliard at the plate. Once again--Our Washington Nationals CAN NOT BUNT!!! Belliard nearly gets hit by his first attempt, yet fouls off the ball more by accident in protecting himself-then fouls off his second bunt attempt. Now, in the hole 0-2, he strikes out badly swinging at an off speed pitch, well off the plate. You could hear the groans from many in the stands. How difficult is it to BUNT! Players today just don't seem to care about bunting, yet the skill is very important to the game. I just don't understand it.

With Ryan Zimmerman and Dimitri Young due up next, Bobby Cox went to his bullpen to bring on FIREBALLER Rafael Soriano. Soriano can reach the high 90's. Tonight, Rafael was bringing the hard stuff. Three Times reaching 98 MPH on the radar gun--consistently hitting 97. As Zimmerman walked to the plate, the entire crowd waited, many standing--this and the At-Bat to follow would MAKE THIS NIGHT. Even My Best Friend, Screech, was into the action at this point. During the entire two dramatic plate appearances to come, Screech was in Section 320 attempting to put the WHAMMY HEX on The Braves. Not a sole at RFK Stadium was going to miss out. THIS WAS THRILLING STUFF!!

"Z" took called strike one and then ball one. Swinging away, Ryan missed the third pitch, now down 1-2 in the count. Rafael tried to throw one away to see if Zimmerman would bite, he didn't, taking ball two. Then, Number 11 would hang tough--fouling off 5 straight pitches to stay alive. The Nervous Crowd now watching anxiously. Soriano looking to close this At-Bat out, Zimmerman looking to be the game changer. Rafael would rare back and fire in a 98 MPH letter high HEATER--Ryan Swung Mightily--MISSING!! The sounds of OOOOHH!!! throughout RFK. Zimmerman mad at himself, slapping his bat into his right hand dejectedly walking back to the dugout. The Crowd shaking their heads in sadness.


Two outs now, and believe it or not--Dimitri Youngs At-Bat was EVEN BETTER and EVEN MORE DRAMATIC!! Batting Leftanded, Young would take called strike one, swing and foul off the next two offerings by Soriano. Take ball, one, foul off a third pitch, take ball two. Fans just living on each and every pitch. No matter what the outcome, this was exciting baseball. With the count now 2-2, Dimitri Young would foul off 5 STRAIGHT PITCHES. This Terrific At-Bat now reaching an even dozen tosses. With fans all around RFK standing, riveted with this GREAT BATTLE, Soriano would, once again, fire in a blazing fastball--Dimitri would connect and DRIVE THE BALL the opposite way down the left field line near the corner. A sure bases emptying double to tie this ballgame. Everyone ROARING. Only to see Ryan Langerhans positioned in left field right on the line, waiting to catch the ball for the final out of this FABULOUS INNING!!. You could hear the air rushing out of the stadium from every single Nats Fan. What is Langerhans doing playing on the left field line?

As Jeff & Colleen stated to me later, Langerhans could have been sitting on the grass, having a picnic, he was positioned so well. The Atlanta Braves, through good Major League Scouting, were positive Dimitri Young could not get his bat around on the hard throwing Soriano. Atlanta played the odds, and won. That positioning decision by The Braves was the deciding factor tonight. Our Washington Nationals might have lost the battle in this terrific 7th inning, but they showed tremendous heart, against all the odds.

It was A GREAT HALF INNING of baseball, nonetheless.


Chipper Jones would later hit a 9th inning homer off Jon Rauch, but it really didn't matter at that point. This game had been decided in the 7th, when Our Washington Nationals gave their all, but couldn't push across the go ahead runs. Every team has at least one chance to pull back into every game. We had two tonight, but could not make it happen, despite three fabulous, yet failed, At-Bats by Fick, Zimmerman and Young. Final Score, 6-4 Atlanta.

Despite the loss, The African Queen and I went home content and proud. Our Washington Nationals had shown HEART, both ON & OFF THE FIELD.

Game Notes & Highlights:

Atlanta's John Smoltz started this game tonight looking like the rightful Hall Of Famer he is destined. Washington's Starter, Jerome Williams, looked like a journeyman. A rough start by Our Washington Nationals Starter on the mound led to another early deficit. Williams just could not find the plate in the first. 35 pitches thrown, 4 singles, 1 walk and a sacrifice fly resulted in 3 Braves runs before The Nationals took their first At-Bats against Smoltz. Williams struggled so badly, you had to wonder whether Manny Acta would warm up Jason Bergmann to be the long man tonight. Due to last Sunday's rainout, the rotation had been pushed back one day. Bergmann could have been ready. As it turned out, Jerome would settle down, laboring through 5 innings. But, the damage had been done in the first. Our Washington Nationals had to play from behind yet again.

In that Top Of The First, only a Ryan Church beautiful sliding backhanded grab of a short blooper to center by Ryan Langerhans saved Jerome Williams from not lasting the first frame. With two runners on base and 3 runs already in for Atlanta, Church's fine catch easily saved another run or two.

Felipe Lopez is beginning to show a hot bat. 5 hits over the past two games, raising his average to .288. FLop needs to be the table setter at the top of the lineup. So far this early season, he's been struggling at the plate. From shortstop tonight, Felipe could not get his feet into position to make a throw across the diamond to first for an out. Instead, he rushed the throw bouncing the ball into the camera well down the right field line. His error could have been avoided, if he would only take his time.

After tonight's game, Kory Casto was sent down to AAA Columbus and Michael Restovich's Contract was selected by Washington. This is a move I actually like. As you may recall, I had a fine conversation with Michael at Spring Training. Before we met, I really did not know much about him. Since that date, I have been rooting for him.


Today was My Best Friends Birthday. Screech was hatched on April 17, 2005. Section 320 sang Happy Birthday to Screech. The now 2 Year Old stopping by a few times throughout the evening. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SCREECH!!!

Today was also Mary and MickNats 25th Wedding Anniversary. Gotta give them credit for attending a Nats Game on such an important date. Screech, in the festive mood--also wished them well!!

Jay Hilbert from The NationalsPride.com Blog and This Base For Rent stopped by to introduce himself and talk with The African Queen and I. We were very pleased with his visit. Thank you, Jay. Then, Sohna and I were honored by THE PRESENCE of Chris Needham himself. The Author of Capitol Punishment was kind enough to stop by and chat for a half inning of tonight's game. We had never met. I was very happy he made the effort. As I told Chris as he was leaving, obviously, everyone can recognize us, because of all the pictures on The Nats320 Blog. Sohna and I don't have a clue who most of the other bloggers are. Which makes it, at times, all the more interesting.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) Kevin Wolfe
Manny Acta (VT Cap) Peter Lockley--Washington Times

The Potential Dilemmas

Decent Starting Pitching, Solid Bullpen Help, Timely Hitting and Making The Routine Defensive Play, all traits Our Washington Nationals are finally showing as we begin the third week of the 2007 Season. No doubt, this Franchise has a long way to go before becoming a consistent winner, yet Our Nationals are slowly becoming a team--bonding while four of its most expected work horses are all sitting on the sidelines, recovering from injury.

In a matter of weeks, Cristian Guzman, Nook Logan and Ray King will all return to the 25 man active roster. Since all three went down, their replacements have all fared well. Even Nats Management would have to admit Ronnie Belliard, Ryan Church, Chris Snelling and Saul Rivera have helped turnaround the young season. And, I am not even considering Dimitri Young. Who's sole reason for being A Washington Nationals is due to Nick Johnson's slow recovery from his broken femur.




Belliard has played well in Guzman's absence. Except for two boots in the field (one coming last night), Ronnie has played second base on an All Star Level. Not only that, he has raised his game at the plate, consistently getting on base. Belliard's been a table setter in the two hole, keeping rallies alive. Only with Felipe Lopez, batting second behind Alfonso Soriano last year, has Washington had such success with their two spot in the batting order. And, you gotta love Number 10's Batting Style at the plate. If any player could rightfully call themselves Manny Ramirez, Jr-its Ronnie Belliard. At times, he swings like a Manny Clone. Since both grew up in New York City together, maybe they also learned the game together. Ramirez though has far more power.


Ryan Church is molding himself into the solid player everyone believed, except for Frank Robinson. MY MAIN MAN!! set free by Our Manager, Manny Acta is simply playing baseball, performing up to his potential. Number 19 is a POWER BAT and a decent, although not spectacular outfielder. How much better would Ryan Church be right now, if no one had messed with his head over the first two seasons of Nationals Baseball in Washington. We will NEVER KNOW!!


Chris Snelling is an exciting, heady, gamer. "YODA" would rather run into a wall in a vain attempt to make a catch, than just honestly give up on it. No one is sure whether his bulky left knee will not give way, but what does anyone have to lose. This 25 year old Aussie from Down Under can play baseball. Whether as a starter or role player, Chris Snelling, rightfully has earned important playing time.

And, as I wrote about last night, Saul Rivera is the perfect bullpen complement. Number 52 is versatile. Rivera can go long or short, set up man or closer, no roles seems to affect his performances. After a rough start during his Rookie Season last summer at RFK Stadium, mostly due to Major League inexperience, Saul has been one of Washington's most consistent relievers. This 29 Year Old Native Puerto Rican is coming into his own and developing into a fine Major League Pitcher.

When Guzman, Logan and King recover and are ready to return, what moves does General Manager Jim Bowden make? More importantly, who gets the starting roles, barring any further injuries?



Without a doubt, Kory Casto is sent down to AAA Columbus. Casto is a fine prospect, good hitting skills and a plan at the plate. Yet, so far this early season, Kory has been outmatched hitting against more polished Major League Pitching. Casto needs to refine his game with The Clippers and learn to hit the Cut Off Man in the field. Something Number 5 has yet to do in April playing left field. No one within Our Washington Nationals are down on him. Jumping from AA Ball to The Majors is not something every player can pull off. Kory Casto will be back in A Nationals Uniform-sooner, rather than later.

D'Angelo Jimenez is gone. His days are numbered. A true journeyman now, Jimenez may well have a decent bat, but he simply can't field the ball consistently well anymore. Which reminds me of Josh Wilson. Wilson performed rather well in Spring Training, hitting solidly and making most of the routine plays in the field. Jim Bowden at one time in March claimed four other teams were calling him about Josh's availability. Yet since the regular season began, Wilson played poorly at shortstop in the second game of the season and has been banished to the bench, receiving virtually no quality playing time. I would love to know if anyone is calling Bowden now about Josh Wilson. If so, lets move him.


Then, there is Ray King. "Everyday" Ray is known for having a rubber arm. Bowden picked King off the baseball scrap heap in an attempt to bolster Washington's Bullpen with a situational lefty. King if successful, would certainly return a mid-level prospect in July to The Nationals near the Trade Deadline from a contender. Left Handed Pitchers are such a hot commodity in the game. Those players that can perform this chore seem to last forever. Although King has not fared well so far this early season, I can't see Bowden giving up on him, and letting Ray go for nothing. Ray King is a Washington National only to see a young prospect returned for his services to another club. If Bowden can get something for nothing, during a total rebuilding season, its a great move. This is how you "steal" prospects.

But, that also leaves Saul Rivera, once again, as the man on the outside, looking in, unless Our General Manager can move a low level prospect to Minnesota to keep Levale Speigner and send him to The Minors. Bowden is not going to give up on Rule V Draftee Levale and try to pass him through waivers, so soon. Number 36 has struggled in his few Major League outings over the past two weeks. But, outside of Shawn Hill, there might not have been any more impressive pitcher in The Major League Camp in Viera, Florida than Levale. Speigner is here to stay, until he proves himself worthy, or not.

Makes me feel bad for Saul Rivera. He is just so deserving.

Finally, 2nd base, shortstop and centerfield--who gets the nods?



As much as so many wish for "THE GUZ" to just go away, it simply is not going to happen. Our Washington Nationals are not going to dump his contract. For better, or worse, everyone needs to see whether Guzman can still play the game, provide a solid batting average (.260 or so) and still field his position well. If healthy, Number 15 is a better choice at shortstop over Lopez. Cristian would also make himself tradable. Felipe has a terrific arm, but is too erratic of a fielder. FLop at 2nd, Guzman at Short, with Belliard playing the key backup role, is a decent set up. Belliard can also play third base, if Ryan Zimmerman needs a breather.


Personally, I am all for Ryan Church remaining in centerfield and Snelling in left for the time being. Nook Logan is a terrific outfielder that covers some serious ground. But, I have always felt the number of runs he saves defensively never overcomes his offensive shortcomings. As a fourth outfielder, late inning defensive replacement, situational hitter, Logan has VALUE. Everyday playing, Nook is more a liability. Sorry.


Now--can we TRUST that NICK JOHNSON will be FULLY RECOVERED to play 100% come August 1st? Does it really matter? Dimitri Young is providing some serious power filling in at first base. Where would Our Nationals be without Bowden signing Young out of nowhere land. Young may not be much of fielder, but his bat has been potent--and key to two of their four wins so far. At the rate Dimitri Young is playing, he, more than any other current player on Washington's Roster will be highly sought after by American League Teams looking for a Designated Hitter down the stretch run. Lets hope Dimitri continues to rejuvenate his career. Young could prove extremely valuable later this summer (Belliard as well) in trade.

As I said a few months back, The Team Our Washington Nationals field in April, may well not be the team we see come May. And, unquestionably will be a far different ballclub come late summer and early fall. Our Washington Nationals are in perpetual motion. A very interesting dilemma, watching Our Washington Nationals transform before our very eyes.

PS--I sure would love to see a Healthy Alex Escobar. That man can play!! Escobar in Center, Church in left. Power, Defense and Arms in the outfield, alongside Austin Kearns. I can live with those three starting everyday.

All Game Photos--(AP)--Photographers--Julie Jacobson, Nick Wass, Gregory Smith, John Bazemore

A Perfect Night For Baseball

44 Degrees, 25 Miles Per Hour Winds, Gusting up to 50 MPH, and a constant swirling drizzle. What more could you ask for. This Was A PERFECT NIGHT FOR NATIONALS BASEBALL. Really, you had to be a complete DIE HARD to attend tonight's game between Our Washington Nationals and The Atlanta Braves. Maybe 1000 Folks showed tonight, and by the end of this most excellent affair, only a few hundred remained. On The Night Washington Honored Jackie Robinson, those that stayed witnessed The Most Complete Game by Our Washington Nationals in 2007--A 5-1 Victory over Atlanta.

This was a night, not ONE TIME, was the Braves' Tomahawk Cheer heard throughout the park. Not hearing that obnoxious chant, A VICTORY ALL ITS OWN. This was a night, Andruw Jones DID NOT make This Game Official. Andruw, 0-3 with a walk. This was a night Washington's Dimtri Young, not only Honored Jackie Robinson by wearing his famous Number 42, but acted like Jackie on the field. An instigator throughout the evening, Dimitri had three hits, including two doubles and The Two Decisive Runs Batted In of the game. Also, this was a night Matt Chico struggled so badly in the first inning, not a sole attending figured Matt would step to the mound for the 2nd inning. Yet, he survived, pitching into the 6th and taking home his Very First Major League Victory. Finally, this a night for The Nationals Bullpen. Saul Rivera, just called up from AAA Columbus, inherited 2 runners from Chico and no outs in the 6th--and put out the fire. Rivera to Jon Rauch to Chad Cordero, shutting down the potent Braves Bats.


Shortly after 2pm this afternoon, The African Queen asked me whether The Nationals would play tonight. Responding positively, "Why not." I stated. "If they can play with an impending Snowstorm and 32 Degree Weather (like during the first week of the season), whats a little rain and wind." We laughed. To the degree Our Washington Nationals have battled weather through the early portion of the Spring Schedule, you have to figure by the end of this year, fans will get the opportunity to also watch a game with an impending Hurricane in sight. That's about all that's left to run the full gamut. No doubt, Scorching Hot 100 Degree Baseball Games this summer are a given. The African Queen honored Jackie Robinson by wearing the "Robinson 42" Commemorative Button handed out to ALL MLB STADIUM EMPLOYEES throughout baseball for these special games--Many Thanks to Gloria, our favorite CSC Security Supervisor, for being kind enough to find The Button for Sohna.

And, as you would expect, a given that Sohna and I would attend this game, along with a near complete contingent of regulars in Section 320. No one can ever fault our group for dedication. MickNats, "The Noise Boys", Richard, FlyGirl Karen and her Mom, Sherrie--9 Hardcores, all posting up tonight. The Chants, Cheers and Noise radiating along the third base side of RFK. This on a night EVERYONE could be heard in the ballpark. Screech stopping by at Game Start STUNNED to see all of us sitting in our regular seats. No one else was. Festival Style Seating was in effect throughout RFK Stadium for this one.


Tonight's ridiculous weather affected Matt Chico from the very start. Throughout his 37 pitch first inning, Matt was constantly walking around the mound, moving his pitching fingers around, in an attempt to loosen up his grip. Number 47 had virtually no command, and less control. Obviously, he could not feel the ball in his hand. Only a well turned Felipe Lopez to Ronnie Belliard to Young Double Play hit by Edgar Renteria averted Chico's first problem--a lead off single by Chris Woodward. But with two outs, Matt proceeded to walk, Chipper Jones, Andruw Jones and Jeff Francouer--Not coming close to getting anything over the plate. Fortunately, Atlanta's Brian McCann was over anxious, looking for The Grand Slam--and hit Chico's high 37th pitch of the inning to Ryan Church in centerfield to thankfully retire the side.

Unexpectedly, Chico would come back strong, and until he tired in the 6th--he only gave up three more hits, throwing 97 total pitches, 51 for strikes and WALKING FIVE. Much like "The Chief", Chad Cordero, Matt gets himself in trouble, but seems to have the guile to work his way out of any situation. For a 23 year old, never having pitched above AA Ball, he is impressive. Matt Chico does not back down to any hitter. I like that.

And certainly tonight's ridiculous weather affected every ball hit throughout this evening. At one point, in the 3rd inning, the flag pennants circling the top of RFK Stadium were whipping in the High Winds so hard they looked STIFF AS A BOARD!! Any pitch hit high into the air carried tonight, none more so than a Brian McCann routine fly to right, that Austin Kearns slowly drifted back to his right, drifted some more, and then proceeded to run harder, finally catching the ball on the warning track for the out. Kearns, laughing as he threw the ball back into the infield, had travelled a good 20 yards to track down that errant hit.


Dimitri Young would use that wind to his advantage in the bottom of the 3rd. With 2 outs, FLop would single to left, followed by a bloop single to center by Ronnie Belliard off Atlanta Starter, Chuck James. Ryan Zimmerman followed with a lacing grounder to right field scoring Lopez, putting Washington up 1-0. Section 320 starting up the "WE GOT A LEAD! WE GOT A LEAD!!" Chant. Except for the final play of Game Three against The Florida Marlins, Our Washington Nationals had never led during any of their 8 Homes Games thus far in 2007.


Then Number 42 for tonight, Dimitri Young would step to the plate, fouled off the first James Pitch and JUST HAMMERED the second offering. Getting carry from the wind and speed from his swing, even The GREAT OUTFIELDER, Andruw Jones could not get to this shot. The Ball landing near the base of the wall in left centerfield. Belliard and Zimmerman Scored Easily. Young stopping at second with a stand up double. Dimitri Fist Pumping in great joy, saluting himself, and then to his Nats Teammates in the Dugout. Washington up 3-0, the few fans in the stands jumping for joy. This Crowd may well have been small, but was extremely vocal.

With Chico settling down, this game was cruising along. When the top of the sixth rolled around, it was barely 8:20PM. This game was moving fast. Yet, when Matt walked both Francouer and McCann with no outs--he was done. Our Manager, Manny Acta slowing walked out to the mound to call for Rivera. What was interesting to witness, was the entire infield walking in to the mound to congratulate Chico on his performance tonight. Matt savored the well wishes, but then, unlike most other pitchers that leave the mound immediately, he waited for Saul Rivera to trot to the mound. Both said something to each other. Manny then commented. Finally, Chico and Acta turned and slowly walked back to the Nats 3rd Base Dugout, to a well deserved standing ovation from the hardcore faithful. Then, THE ENTIRE NATS DUGOUT MET Chico at the steps to offer their thanks, as well. As happy as I was for Matt, I was pleased by his desire to remain on the mound for Rivera. It was a classy act. A sign of respect from a young pitcher acting well beyond his years of experience. A Nice Touch to the evening.

And Rivera didn't let Chico down. Saul Rivera was Fabulous Tonight. With the score still 3-0, and those two runners on base with no outs, Number 52 would get Matt Diaz to fly to Kearns in right, Francouer moving to third. Get Pinch Hitter Scott Thorman to ground to Belliard at second, although Francouer would score Atlanta's only run of the night. But, Rivera would effectively shutdown the mini-rally by getting Kelly Johnson to fly to deep left on a wind aided ball caught by Chris Snelling drifting all the way back to the warning track. Saul Rivera would walk off the mound to another Standing Ovation. Then, return for the 7th and mow down The Braves. Woodward Strike out swinging; Renteria on a grounder and Chipper Jones called third strike. Like late last season, Saul Rivera was lights out tonight. The more this man pitches, the more impressive he becomes. His versatility is nice. Rivera can go long or short out of the pen, be a set up man or back up closer. You just can't ask for much more from a reliever. Hopefully, Saul stays on the 25 man roster.

Later in the 8th, Zimmerman would get his 2nd hit of the night (hopefully he's coming out of his slump) with a liner to center. Young would hammer another double (batting lefthanded this time) to right center off Tyler Yates. 2nd and 3rd, no outs. Austin Kearns would "K" on a check swing and Atlanta Manager Bobby Cox wanted no more of Yates. With an all lefty batting order due up for Washington, on came fireballing lefthander, Mike Gonzales. This man can throw smoke. But, tonight the former Pittsburgh Closer HAD LITTLE AMMUNITION and less control. Ryan Church would walk to load the bases. Brian Schneider would also walk, to force in Zimmerman for the 4th run of the game. Then, an absolute GIFT RUN, courtesy of 2nd Base Umpire Sam Holbrook.


Chris Snelling stepped to the plate with still one out, bases still loaded. "Yoda" would knock a grounder right up the middle to the 2nd base side of the bag. Atlanta Second Baseman Woodward would field the ball as he was crossing over the base. Clearly, Woodward had one foot on the bag with ball in his glove as he ran across 2nd, pivoted and threw to first for an apparent inning ending Double Play. To just about EVERYONE's Amazement, Holbrook called Schneider SAFE AT SECOND!! claiming Woodward DID NOT HAVE CONTROL OF THE BALL as he crossed over 2nd base. Even Schneider thought he was out, as Number 23 was about to run off the field. Bob Cox argued to no avail. Not a single Washington Fan was going to be unhappy over that bad call.

The now 5-1 lead would hold up. Our Washington Nationals now having won 3 out of 4 and looking more and more like a competitive team. The Braves were shut down tonight. I don't care how bad the weather was, this COMPLETE VICTORY made for an enjoyable night at RFK STADIUM. More Wind and Rain expected for tomorrow. Same Two Teams. Same Start Time. Same Stadium.

Game Notes & Highlights:

The Official Attendance: 16, 316 (Yeah, Right).

Over their last seven games, Nats Starters have pitched to a 2.27 ERA. That doesn't suck.

No matter how bad the weather was, for Matt Chico, his First Major League Win will be warmly remembered.

In the top of the 4th, Matt Diaz would hit a hard grounder into the hole between 2nd and 3rd, to the left of Zimmerman, right of FLop. Lopez would backhard the ball on the lip of the outfield and FLAT OUT FIRE THE BALL across the infield to retire Diaz at first. FLop may make some mind numbing errors at times, but he's got a CANNON for an arm. If he ever played the outfield, few would run on him.

Chad Cordero finished off tonight's win. He only faced 4 batters and threw just 16 pitches. But, one pitch was flat out WHALLOPED by Scott Thorman. The Lefty Swinging Thorman, who struck out with the bases loaded last thusday night against "The Chief" to end the game, got ahold of a Cordero outside fastball--CLEARLY YOU COULD HEAR THE "CRACK" OF THE BAT HITTING BALL--and this ball just soared to left center. A liner off the bat that continued to rise until it hit the yellow line on top of the wall in left center, missing a home run by mere inches. Chad got lucky, but WOW!! what a SMASH! RallyTimeRichard and I just could not stop talking about it.

Section 320 started up a new cheer tonight for our favorite Australian. Whenever Chris Snelling stepped to the plate, we all cheered "AUSSIE, AUSSIE, AUSSIE"-"OY!!, OY!!,OY!!"--to a nice appreciation from the faithful.

Thomas Jefferson Won The Presidents Race tonight in an ACTUAL FOOTRACE to the bitter end. Teddy as usual stopped to talk to fans, but Abe, GW and TJ WENT FOR IT!! Jefferson JUST NUDGING OUT GW AND ABE--REALLY BY HIS NOSE!! It was good.

"Bustin'Loose" was played in its entirety in the 5th. Quite a few got up to dance, or just attempt to stay warm. Unfortunately, "Sweet Caroline" reappeared in the 7th for the first time this season. Of course Section 320 happily sang "I HATE THIS SONG" as the lyrics to "Sweet Caroline". "Always HAVE AND ALWAY WILL!!' One of our favorites.



MickNats honored Jackie Robinson Tonight by wearing a Replica Jackie Robinson Montreal Royals Minor League Jersey and Cap.

And, of course, Neal came by to join in on the pleasantries.


Tonight's Game Photo's--(AP)-Nick Wass

The Walter Johnson Memorial

Walter Johnson is the finest Professional Baseball Player to ever call Washington, DC his home. As THE STAR PLAYER for The Original Washington Senators from 1907 through 1927, "THE BIG TRAIN" was the game's PREMIER PITCHER of his time. When he retired after 21 Major League Seasons, Walter Johnson had racked up 2 American League Most Valuable Player Awards, 5 American League Earned Run Average Titles, 417 Wins, 279 Loses, 3509 Strikeout and an AMAZING 531 Complete Games. Walter was the WINNING PITCHER in Game 7 of the 1924 World Series against The New York Giants. The Only World Series Title in Washington Baseball History. The Washington Senators "World Champions" (Sounds Strange, "Champions", Doesn't it).



This Washington Senators Franchise finished above .500 for each of the last four seasons with Walter Johnson on their team. Yet, only 5 other seasons out of the first 17 years with Walter Johnson PLAYING IN HIS PRIME, did The Senators do as well. Washington was MEDIOCRE, at best-- and that's being kind. Those facts make Walter Johnson's accomplishments in baseball, all the more impressive.

After retiring as a player, Walter briefly managed both The Washington Senators and Cleveland Indians, to mixed results. But, most importantly, in 1936, Johnson became AN ORIGINAL CLASS MEMBER to The Baseball Hall of Fame. No one ever doubted this man's greatness. Walter Johnson is THE GREATEST RIGHTHANDED PITCHER IN THE HISTORY OF BASEBALL!!




After Walter's untimely death in 1946 due to a brain tumor at the age of 59, The Washington Senators and their Owner, Clark Griffith, honored "The Big Train" with the unveiling of a Special Commemorative Bronze Plaque at Old Griffith Stadium (Now The Howard University Hospital). This Special Plaque of such importance to Washingtonians, that President Harry Truman, The 33rd President of The United States, honored The Johnson Family by personally attending the ceremony and revealing the Artwork on June 21, 1947.

President Truman stating: "I am honored and privileged to be called upon to unveil this plaque to a man, who in my opinion is the greatest ballplayer who ever lived (Walter Johnson). He was a great ballplayer, a great American, and a great citizen of The United States." (The Washington Star Newspaper, June 22, 1947).


From that date in 1947 through the very last game played at Griffith Stadium by The Original Senators (who moved to Minnesota after the 1960 season) and through 1962 for The Expansion Senators, The Walter Johnson Memorial was on display for all baseball fans to remember this Great Man and Ballplayer. When 1963 rolled around, The Expansion Senators moved, along with The Washington Redskins into the brand spanking new, Architectural Marvel of its Time---DC Stadium. Now, fondly known to us, as RFK STADIUM.


With Old Griffith Stadium scheduled for demolition, The Johnson Family asked for the plaque to be moved to Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda, Maryland. It seemed appropriate at the time. There was no place for it at New DC Stadium and Walter Johnson High School is built on donated Farm Land given to Montgomery County by Walter Johnson himself, upon his death. When The Expansion Senators left for Dallas-Ft.Worth after the 1971 season, no one could question the decision of placing The Bronze Plaque at Walter Johnson High School. As we all came to realize, Major League Baseball would not return to DC for over three decades.

Now, times have changed, dramatically. Since the very first official word The Montreal Expos were moving to The District becoming Our Washington Nationals in late 2004, thoughts of a brand New Stadium to house the team immediately followed. We all know Nationals Park is being built on South Capitol Street right now, and is scheduled to open in April, 2008. Not one day seems to pass that someone, somewhere, talks about honoring Washington's Rich Baseball History on this new site.

Personally, Officials from both Our Washington Nationals and The DC Sports & Entertainment Commission have told me they are looking into various ideas for honoring Washington's Baseball Past--although nothing more specific has come forward. Many fans have asked about Statues Honoring, not only Walter Johnson, but also Frank Howard (The Finest Player to ever call RFK his home) and Negro League Great, and Hall Of Famer, Josh Gibson surrounding the new ballpark. All three GREAT CHOICES, among many others.

Yet, on many occasions, since that very first day of Baseball's Return to The Nation's Capital, talk of preserving and placing The Original Walter Johnson Memorial at Nationals Park has been talked about and debated. Many fans are hoping something can be worked out to possibly move This Historical Baseball Artifact back to where it was originally intended--outside a Washington, DC Baseball Stadium, to be enjoyed by thousands of baseball fans each and every year. At Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda, the Bronze Artwork is placed inside a Brick Wall, under the Schools Flag Pole, facing the front of the school, not toward the street. Many times over the years, the plaque has been vandalized and STOLEN TWICE.

Lets make one thing perfectly clear. In this case, no one is trying to take ANYTHING AWAY from Walter Johnson High School and Montgomery County, Maryland. Walter Johnson's Grandson, Hank Thomas, has shown an interest by the family to allow this move to happen. Walter Johnson's direct surviving descendants desire to see the Bronze Plaque returned to its original intended purpose. A chance for All Baseball Fans to enjoy a Significant Person in Washington Baseball History. And, if this credited "Donation" occurs, Walter Johnson High School would receive, IN RETURN, an EXACT REPLICA to be placed in the Brick Wall, under The Flag Pole, outside the entrance to the high school. And no doubt, the goodwill of Washington Baseball Fans everywhere.

The Walter Johnson Bronze Memorial was built and originally placed openly in a Baseball Venue to HONOR one of Washington's Greatest. Now, more than ever, is the perfect time to RE-DEDICATE "The Big Train", Walter Johnson with the transfer of this Historical Marker back where it belongs, on South Capitol Street, with Our Washington Nationals--alongside Major League Baseball- to be Adorned and Cherished by Baseball Fans Now And In The Future.


With no disrespect toward anyone who attends, graduated or works at Walter Johnson High School, personally, I hope this transfer comes to fruition. For me, there is no better way to to relish Washington's Baseball Past. This Plaque is HISTORICALLY IMPORTANT TO WASHINGTON'S BASEBALL HISTORY. Being able to view and touch The Walter Johnson Memorial upon entering Nationals Park is a great way for Our Washington Nationals to honor DC's Finest Baseball Playing Son. For over 33 years, Major League Baseball went missing in Washington, DC. Now, baseball's back. There is an opportunity to BRIDGE THE GAP for those lost years and make Baseball in Washington Whole Again.

The right set of circumstances are directly in our path. June 21, 2007 is the 60th Anniversary of The Original Unveiling Ceremony. Why not Honor The Past by making this very near Future Date, historically important again. Please, lets not miss out.

Living Up To Your Potential

When Shawn Hill slowly walked off the mound at the conclusion of the 7th inning today at Shea Stadium, one of baseball's great moments occured. Our Washington Nationals had SHUT UP over 53,000 New York Fans. NOTHING IN SPORT IS FINER. On the heals of AN OUTSTANDING HILL Performance, backed by Three Home Runs, Our Nationals played their finest game of this young season. A 6-2 Win over The New York Mets. Washington played like a team today. And, Starting Pitching and Offense were not the only tools on display. Austin Kearns and Ryan Church would provide some serious game changing defensive work. In doing so show, Our Nationals REAL POTENTIAL. Its a GOOD DAY TO BE A WASHINGTON NATIONALS FAN!!

Of course, Our Bullpen made it more than interesting at the end. On the radio, Charlie Slowes calling Chad Cordero's work today "raising the palpitation level" of every fan and player. Certainly, Number 32 did just that. But, "The Chief" finished the game off, in his USUAL HAIR RAISING STYLE, by getting Endy Chavez to line out to Ryan Church in centerfield, with two runners on base, and The Nats Killer, Carlos Beltran, On Deck.

This Win has so much upside for Our Washington Nationals, and Fans alike. There is much to take and enjoy from today's affair in Flushing Meadows.


Shawn Hill continues to prove he is OUR BEST STARTER. Has been since the first days of Spring Training, and only injuries over the early portions of this 25 year old's Major League Career has held him back. Number 46 arrived today. Like a crafty veteran of 10 years experience, Hill bore down when in a jam, never giving in, fighting back, holding The Mets in check. He was impressive. None more so than his effort in the bottom of the 3rd, when Endy Chavez tripled to lead off. Facing the very dangerous heart of the New York Lineup, Shawn struckout Beltran, then proceeded to retire both Carlos Delgado and David Wright on weak grounders back to the box. That's Pitching Folks--Professionally, in the Big Leagues.

And, in the bottom of sixth, Shawn got in trouble after a Wright infield single, Felipe Lopez error and Shawn Green ground rule double put New York's second run of the day on the board. Shea Stadium was coming alive with only one out. Hill, though, was up to the task, retiring Ramon Castro on a grounder to second and Jose Valentin striking out swinging to kill the rally. Hill fist pumped leaving the mound, knowing his game was on. Today was Shawn Hill's Day.


But, it was also Ryan Church's Day. My MAIN MAN!! has been ON FIRE, swinging a solid stick at the plate, not only showing power, but hitting away. The signs of a player finally understanding the game. Number 19 would double to center past Beltran and score The Nationals first run in the second. Then, in the sixth, provided his much needed power by Slamming an Orlando Hernadez pitch to center. Mets Centerfielder Beltran had it tracked all the way, but this ball was not coming down inside the ballpark. Carlos could not get to this one. Church's 3rd Home Run of the young season, put Washington up 4-1. For Ryan Church, I could not be happier. He's been through alot of angst, well documented, during his first two seasons of baseball playing for The Nationals. Church has been left alone this spring. Our Manager, Manny Acta, ordered it, telling Ryan to " just do your thing." He's responding. And, when Ryan climbed that wall in centerfield to snare David Wright's potential three run homer off Jon Rauch in the bottom of the eighth, I could just hear him tell me, once again, my favorite line of Spring Training, when I said to MY MAIN MAN!! how many say Church can't hit a curve, or play a decent outfield. "That's Crap!!", he exclaimed. I laughed with him then. And, I was enjoying today's moments with him, now. Hopefully Ryan Church HAS ARRIVED!! We need him, badly.


Not surprisingly during the course of today's victory, this was also Chris Snelling's Day. "Yoda" would knock in Church for that first run on a grounder to the right side, giving himself up, scoring Ryan from third in the 2nd inning. Then, in the top of 4th used his brain, to confuse David Wright, giving Washington a gift run. With one out, Schneider had singled to left. Snelling walked. And, although it was not perfect, Shawn Hill (by far our best bunting pitcher) did execute a sacrifice bunt, advancing the runners to 2nd and 3rd. FLop stepped up with 2 outs, and proceeded to hit a grounder to third near the bag. With the runners moving, for some reason, Wright decided to not toss the ball to first, to end the inning. Instead, David hesitated, making the odd decision to attempt to tag out Chris charging from 2nd base. Snelling, knowing a force play was not in effect, just stopped and retreated. David Wright was in nowheres land. Too late now to throw out the speedy Lopez. Schneider scored easily from third, before Wright tagged out the elusive Aussie. Its called "stealing" a run. A Great Baseball Decision by Chris Snelling. Don Sutton, broadcasting the game on MASN, knew full well, Snelling's smart base running decision is the sign of growth in a young player. The Hall Of Fame Broadcaster could not say enough good things about that scored run.


And, Sutton had alot more good things to say about Number 8, when Snelling capped off a three RBI Day in the sixth after Church's Home Run. "El Duque" flustered on the mound, immediately, gave up a bloop single to left by Brian Schneider, and Our Favorite Aussie, "Yoda" himself, ripped a liner down the right field line into the Mets Bullpen for a two run homer, closing out the scoring for Our Washington Nationals today. After seven surgeries on his left knee, its always impressive to see a player like Chris Snelling continue to NEVER GIVE UP, giving his all each day. I have no idea what the future holds for "YODA", but I love watching him play. He brings effort to the park, without fail--DAILY, with a great quirky attitude. I just love the guy!


Through the first 11 games of 2007, Brian Schneider has struggled mightily at the plate, only getting 4 hits. As you may have figured out by now, this was also Brian Schneider's Day. Brian broke out his early season slump, banging out three singles, going the opposite way. No longer just looking to pull the ball. If Number 23 becomes even more comfortable at the plate, Our Nationals could use his offense. Brian Schneider is a decent offensive hitting catcher, when on his game.

Austin Kearns continues to show he's a PLUS OUTFIELDER. In the bottom of first, Shawn Hill in his first mini-jam of the afternoon. With two outs, Carlos Beltran had singled, moving to second on a Wild Pitch. Up stepped the hard hitting Carlos Delgado. Delgado would lace a liner into right field. Austin charging all the way, scooped up the ball and fired a beautiful strike to home, Schneider applying the tag. Home Plate Umpire Mike Winters EMPHATICALLY giving the OUT CALL!! This terrific defensive play was the harbinger of things to come today, all good, for Our Washington Nationals.

And, by the way, Dimitri Young's Second Inning Home Run was TATOOED!!

Jon Rauch is settling in nicely as Cordero's Set Up Man, although Ryan Church did save him on that drive to center by David Wright, reeling in a sure Home Run. The "WOOKIE" stomped out the fire set by Micah Bowie in that 8th, when Number 59 could not retire either of the two hitters he faced, after replacing Shawn Hill. Rauch is comfortable, and when on his game, very intimidating. His 6'11" Frame, a HUGE HELP!!

And, as always, "The Chief" was flat out scary. It took Chad 26 pitches today, and after giving up a one out Ground Rule Double to Jose Valentin, walking Pinch Hitter Damion Easley and going 3-0 on the very dangerous Jose Reyes, there was not a NEW YORK OR WASHINGTON FAN that did not believe this game was going to take a drastic turn. The TOP OF THE METS LINEUP WAS DUE UP. No way, Our Nationals shut them down all day long. Yet, like he always does, Chad Cordero fights back. When Number 32 worked two strikes on Reyes, then GOT HIM LOOKING AT A CALLED STRIKE THREE!!, The African Queen thought I was going to have a heart attack. I was cheering LOUDLY, fist pumping in great joy!! And, I am sure Dave Jageler was reaching under his broadcast table looking for Charlies Slowes Oxygen Tank. Charlie was reaching into the Stratosphere!! Slowes is quite the excitable baseball announcer. A joy to listen to on the radio.


Today was A SOLID WIN. A Confidence Building Game. Since Jason Bergmann went to the mound to give his career best performance in Washington's win over Atlanta this past Thursday, Our Washington Nationals have received three consecutive fine starts from their much maligned Starting Rotation. Bergmann to Patterson to Hill. Honestly, you could even give Matt Chico & Jerome Williams nods for their losing performances in Atlanta last week. Is this a rotation that is going to Win A Division some day. Very Unlikely. But, Our Washington Nationals are showing they are a far better team than displayed during the first 11 games of 2007. With 150 Games remaining in the season, Today, Our Washington Nationals finally looked like a Major League Team.

Now, if only we can break Ryan Zimmerman out of his batting slump.

Today's Game Photos: AP--Julie Jacobson

Frustrating

Bases Loaded, no outs--Top of The Second. Double Play Rally Killing Grounder by Brian Schneider (Yeah, The Nats scored a run on the play, but the damage was done).

Top Of The 5th--Schneider Single, Chris Snelling Walk, Still No Outs. John Patterson comes up and CAN NOT LAY DOWN A BUNT!
Patterson Strikes Out, Felipe Lopez Walk, Bases Loaded, again--Ronnie Belliard Double Play Rally Killer.

Top of The 6th--Two Outs-- Austin Kearns Single, Ryan Church Single, Schneider Walk, Bases Loaded once Again--Chris Snelling grounds back to the pitcher to kill the rally.

What's with not being able to get runners home from third? The Mets get ONE RUNNER in scoring position, and he scores EASILY!! Sometimes Our Washington Nationals make the game more difficult than it should be, or is.




Despite all this, Our Washington Nationals take a 2-1 lead into the bottom of the sixth. John Patterson has hung in there. By far, his best outing of the season. Leading off the 6th, The Mets Jose Reyes walks and with his speed, he can basically just trot to second, as Washington can not throw out his steal attempt. Sure enough, Reyes steals second on a Pitch Out. After retiring Paul LoDuca on a pop up, an interesting decision by Washington. John Patterson has only thrown 76 pitches. JP has been decent, but not great. Yet, Manny Acta decides to take John out of the game.

I got the distinct impression the goal tonight was to make sure John Patterson SHOULD NOT GET SADDLED WITH A LOSS. A decision made for the long term good of the club. To let Patterson leave on a positive note. Not necessarily to win tonight. John's leaving this game was a deciding factor. Number 22 was a better choice to attempt to finish out the inning. And, as it turned out, Micah Bowie would allow a game tying single by Carlos Delgado to tie this one up 2-2.


And, when Ryan Wagner gave up a two out single up the middle to My Favorite, Julio Franco (Julio is the only player still playing Major League Baseball older than I, that's always a good feeling) in the 7th, this one was over. Billy Wagner was coming on to close this one out for New York. Which he did, throwing one flame throwing pitch after another. Billy Wagner would be interesting to bat against. Just to see if I could get the bat around in time. That man throws HARD.

Tonight's 3-2 loss was frustrating. Our Washington Nationals were given every opportunity to put this one out of reach. Once again, not getting the key hit with the game on the line. Not scoring any runs with the Bases Loaded, a sure sign of a team that can not consistently pull out the close ones. Patterson pitched well enough to win. But, was not even given the opportunity to see if he could get out of a minor jam in the 6th. Unless JP is injured, why not keep him in the game?

I understand that we are trying to build a team for the future. But, please let me see Our Starting Pitcher work his way out of a mini-jam. If you don't, pitchers like Patterson will never develop properly. If we were a contending team, this would be one of those games you look back on, pondering just how you lost it, later in the season.

Game Notes & Highlights:


Ronnie Belliard again made a couple of nice plays in the field tonight. Yet, his range is not too good. Better than Jose Vidro, but not by much.

Ryan Church has learned to cut down on his swing and protect the plate. For the first time in memory, he's slapping singles to the opposite field, by thinking at the plate. Not just looking for The Long Ball. That's a good sign.

Ryan Zimmerman, on the other hand is struggling mightily. A rough start and no one around him consistently protecting him in the batting order is just killing him. Zimmerman looks totally uncomfortable at the plate. That's saddening.

Felipe Lopez, trying to do too much at the top of the batting order, is not taking good swings or making good decisions at the plate. Relax FLop.

The African Queen and I were discussing tonight, how much better Our Washington Nationals would be if Nick Johnson and Cristian Guzman were in the everyday lineup. With FLop at second, we would be a better fielding team. Boy, do I miss Nick Johnson. And, amazingly would rather see "The Guz" at short.

Chris Snelling just cracks me up. He had two hits and an RBI tonight. Due to his knee brace on his left leg, he can not run too fast, yet he gives his all in the field. Dives for balls he can't rightfully get to, and makes good throws to the bases on hits to the outfield. "Yoda" hustles and I appreciate his efforts, tremendously.

PS--Sorry for the short post, I have been up since early AM and its been a long day in Television News.

Game Photos: AP-Julie Jacobson

Oh!! What A Feeling!!

HALLELUJAH!! At 9:32PM on April 12, 2007, Ronnie Belliard's opposite field single drove in Chris Snelling from third to give Our Washington Nationals their first lead before a game pitch was thrown for the VERY FIRST TIME THIS SEASON!! The African Queen and I cheered like we had just won The Championship!! Our Washington Nationals were leading 1-0. And, when Ryan Zimmerman followed with a blooper off John Smoltz to score Felipe Lopez making the score 2-Zip, it felt like a 10 ton weight had been lifted off our shoulders. Its Amazing What A Lead Can Do For Morale!! We were stoked! 10 Games into the 2007 baseball season, Our Washington Nationals had the lead!!! Oh, What A FEELING!!

And, when Big Jon Rauch trotted onto the field to pitch the bottom of the eight, I found myself counting the remaining outs in the game. Something I love to do, when the game is close and nearing its ending. Nats Baseball was fun again. A good game, against a good Atlanta Braves Team, facing a Sure Fire Hall of Famer in John Smoltz. When you least expect it, baseball always comes back to surprise. Baseball delivered tonight. Once again, one of the many reasons to love this great game!!

Rauch would throw a solid one-two-three eighth inning, setting up the Big Moment--"The Chief" Chad Cordero was going to trot out to attempt his first save. With a two run lead, the most Heart Thumping Closer in the game, was given a comfort zone. Cordero didn't disappoint. If you have any heart condition and are a Washington Fan, it had to be difficult to watch the final three outs of THIS THRILLER!! With his flat brimmed cap DEEP DOWN, just above his eye brows, Chad was ready for the opportunity. Facing Edgar Renteria, Chipper Jones and "Mr. Official" Andruw Jones, this bottom of the 9th was going to interesting.

Renteria led off and Hammered a liner to left, just to the left of Chris Snelling. "Yoda" drifted over to catch the ball for out number one. Two Outs To Go. Chipper Jones was next, and Number 32 went right after him, got two strikes on Chipper, only to see Jones take an outside pitch to left for a single. Up stepped, Andruw Jones, and not a sole at Turner Field didn't think HOME RUN. "The Chief" would go deep into the count on Andruw. But, not willing to give up the game tying homer, Cordero walked Jones on 6 pitches. Really, it was a smart move. First & Second, One Out, and Brian McCann now at the plate.

McCann may well be the finest young hitting catcher in the game today. Batting Lefthanded, you had to wonder whether Chad was going to work out of this jam. McCann would go seven pitches into the count, fouling off pitches 5 & 6 to stay alive. Both of those pitches were off speed. Yelling now at the TV, I said, "COME ON Chief!!, paint the outside corner!!" Chad must have heard me, as he fired his BEST PITCH OF THE NIGHT, a fastball right over the outside corner of the plate. McCann took it, surprised, looking at CALLED STRIKE THREE. I Nearly Jumped out of my seat and hit my head on the ceiling fan. "That's A TREMENDOUS PITCH!!" said Don Sutton on MASN 2. And, it was. The Braves now down to their last out, The Queen and I were really nervous now.

So was Our Manager, Manny Acta. Every cutaway shot in the bottom of the 9th showed Manny with a stiff upper lip, looking clam, but you know, he was DYING INSIDE!! If Our Nationals lost this one, their trip to New York tonight would be more like a funeral. And, when Cordero walked the Free Swinging Jeff Francouer on 5 pitches, not giving Francouer ANYTHING GOOD to hit, the Morticians must have been circling. The Bases were now loaded, 2 outs, 2 run lead, bottom of the 9th. Anything could happen. ANYTHING!!

Then came, The CLIMAX MOMENT. Rookie Braves First Baseman Scott Thorman slowly walked to the plate. Thorman's BIG CHANCE to make a name for himself in The Major Leagues. Cordero's Chance to get his first save. This game was coming down to the final at-bat. This game would be decided RIGHT NOW!!

Thorman would foul off strike one, then take two pitches in the dirt. Swing away at Chad's fourth offering, and MISS. 2 Balls, 2 Strikes. Manny, in the Dugout, must have been about to lose it. He stopped chewing his sunflower seeds. Acta wanted it badly. So, did The Nationals. So, did The African Queen and I. We were holding our breaths. But, Scott Thorman hung tuff, fouling off two straight pitches, before Cordero fired in a fastball--JUST INSIDE for what could have been a called strike three, yet called ball three by Chuck Meriweather behind Home Plate. With the bases loaded, two outs, and a full count, everyone was moving. Whatever happened on the next pitch may well decide the outcome. Finally, on "The Chief's" 33rd pitch of the inning and FINAL PITCH OF THIS GLORIOUS GAME, Thorman swung at a Cordero pitch in the dirt, Brian Schneider picked up the ball and stepped on the plate to retire Chipper Jones on a Strike Three in the Dirt Force Out, to WIN THE GAME FOR OUR WASHINGTON NATIONALS!!

At 10:17PM, Our Washington Nationals had accomplished the unlikely, beating John Smoltz and The Atlanta Braves 2-0 to end a six game losing streak. Chad Cordero recorded his first save of 2007, in heart thumping style. At least for one night, Nationals Baseball was fun and exciting, to this very thrilling end. The African Queen and I enjoying the moment, immensely.

Just a FABULOUS WIN!!

Game Notes & Highlights:

How difficult is it to Bunt? Bunting is a basic skill of baseball. Tonight, John Smoltz temporarily lost control in the top of the 3rd inning. The Soon To Be Hall Of Famer walked Brian Schneider on four pitches and hit Chris Snelling. Runners on First and Second with NO OUTS. I was actually dreaming The Nationals would take a lead for the first time in 2007. Jason Bergmann steps to the plate, squaring to bunt, attempting to move up the runners with Felipe Lopez stepping to the plate next. Being the top flight pitcher that he is, Smoltz throws Jason a high fastball inside that Bergmann amazingly attempts to bunt. Having his bat no longer squared to the pitch, Jason pops the bunt up to Chipper Jones charging in from third base. There is NO DOUBT, Our Washington Nationals are the worst bunting team in The Majors. They have been since their arrival in 2005. Its shameful, really. Bunting is not a hard skill. All you need is competence.

What made this already terrible bunt worse, was Schneider, seeing the ball popped up, stops about ten feet off the second base bag, then flinches towards third. I am not sure why, everyone could see the play developing in front of him. Chipper Jones just wheeled and tosses the ball to Edgar Renteria at second to double Brian off base. Double play, Double Mistake, Two Players at fault. Poor Baseball.

Jason Bergmann pitched his finest game as a Major Leaguer. Bergmann went 6 strong innings, giving up just 1 hit, but four walks and striking out eight Braves' hitters. He was decent. Unfortunately, Our Nationals couldn't put anything on the board against Smoltz until after Jason left the game. After his 50 pitch opening inning last Thursday against Arizona, Jason threw 105 pitches through six innings tonight. 59 for strikes. On Our Washington Nationals, that qualifies for a third starting assignment next Tuesday Night, also against The Braves, also against John Smoltz.

Ronnie Belliard had the HUGE Hit, his liner to right scored Snelling in the 8th, giving Washington their first IN GAME lead all season. Belliard, also in the 8th, made an OUTSTANDING DEFENSIVE PLAY ranging deep to his right, into short centerfield, to backhand a hard hit grounder off the bat of Kelly Johnson, then leap and one hop the toss to Dimitri Young at First. It was a highlight reel play. In the 6th, Belliard started a beautiful 4-6-3 Double Play off the bat of Chipper Jones to help kill an Atlanta Rally. Like I stated last week, journeyman players can raise the level of their games for a couple of games per week. Ronnie had one of his tonight. He was KEY TO THE GAME.

The 8th inning rally started on a Chris Snelling Hit By Pitch (The second time tonight Smoltz hit "Yoda") followed by a D'Angelo Jimenez sacrifice and FLop walk.

I love "The Chief"--He makes every game interesting and exciting. No matter what the score. Baseball is always fun when Chad Cordero enters the game.

When Jesus Colome (who got the win tonight) came in to pitch tonight for The Bottom of The 7th, The African Queen asked me who Number 43 was pitching for Our Washington Nationals. Answering her, I said: "Jesus Colome" Sohna responded: "You mean we have two Jesus' on this team?" Immediately, I commented: "Yes, he and Jesus Flores." The African Queen immediately states: "You telling me we have two Jesus' (as in Jesus Christ) and we still can't win a game. Maybe we need a Mohammad!!"

It was funny. We laughed. But, the thought was good though. Remember, The African Queen is a Muslim.

The African Queen also was looking for an answer to something I tend to ignore, but makes alot of sense. While watching The Nats/Braves Game tonight on MASN 2, she asked: "Why are there so many Orioles Advertisements on The Nationals Games?" Its a good question, its bad enough Mr. Angelos rams everything Baltimore down our throat, but even during an Nats TV Game just makes you dislike the MASN deal even more. It really is an awful setup that TV DEAL.

Just A Reminder

Before anyone goes jumping off The Duke Ellington Bridge overlooking Rock Creek Park concerning the poor start by Our Washington Nationals, here's some food for thought. Since the Very First World Series in 1903, only 21 current Major League Franchises have won the Championship of Baseball. 101 World Series have been played to date.


If you remove The New York Yankees 26 Championships, The St. Louis Cardinals winning 10, and the combined Philadelphia/Oakland Athletics 9 Titles, only 56 other times in THE HISTORY OF THE GAME has another Major League Franchise Won The World Series.

Of course, there are a handful more Franchises that had success winning more than a few of Baseball's Championships. The Boston Red Sox & The Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers 6 times, The Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds and New York Giants (yes, I am writing New York Giants) have won 5 titles apiece. That's 27 more Titles, leaving just 29 World Series Champions shared among the remaining 23 Cities that field a Major League Club today.

Then, when you subtract 4 Titles by The Detroit Tigers, 3 each by The Baltimore Orioles, Chicago White Sox, Washington Senators/Minnesota Twins & Boston/Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves Franchises--only 13 World Series Titles are shared among all other Major League Teams--19 Franchises in all.

NINE FRANCHISES HAVE NEVER WON THE WORLD SERIES!! Never!!

Those Nine Teams include MY LONG LOST WASHINGTON SENATORS, NOW TEXAS RANGERS.


Folks--ITS HARD TO WIN THE WORLD SERIES, it takes commitment, and a little luck (Ask The Florida Marlins). There might not be crying in baseball, but a whole lot of Baseball Fans across America, have sorrowed over their teams misfortunes and ineptitude's for decades, even for 100 years, more so than we have in just a little over 2 years since Major League Baseball returned to Washington, DC.

The San Francisco Giants, Cleveland Indians and Chicago Cubs HAVE NEVER WON THE WORLD SERIES IN MY LIFETIME!! All 47 years of it. That's remarkable. Now those are some fans that can rightfully show some serious angst.


No One Major League Team is going to WIN THE WORLD SERIES every year. And, NO ONE MAJOR LEAGUE TEAM is going to be The Door Mat forever (although The Kansas City Royals have tried for that illustrious title--and I have never considered Tampa Bay a Major League Franchise, yet).


But, Our Day for Our Washington Nationals will come. Its certainly not happening in 2007. Rest assured, fans in Kansas City, Texas, Houston, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Chicago, Cleveland and DEFINITELY--San Francisco have felt far more pain than we have, or might experience this 2007 Championship Season. Many in those cities have lost all hope, fearing a World Series Title my NEVER COME.

I have not lost hope for Our Washington Nationals. And, I hope you haven't either.

This is Year Three of Baseball's return to The Nation's Capital. It may be a rough year, but at least Major League Baseball is here-TO STAY. And, not in Charlotte, Norfolk, Portland or Las Vegas or some other less deserving town.

This team is Our Washington Nationals. Guaranteed, The Nats will give us far more sorrow and pain than blissful joy of success over the upcoming history of this franchise. That's the nature of Baseball, IN EVERY CITY IN AMERICA, not just in DC. Venting over your team is one of the treasured aspects of being a fan. In fact, I would say that passion vented is what makes BEING A FAN so special.

Eventually, Our Washington Nationals will win The World Series (Hopefully before I am no longer walking this earth).

Through it all, both good and bad, I will still enjoy their presence in my hometown.

If Only

If only Our Washington Nationals did not come out the gate in typical fashion for their early season doldrums this evening.

If only Jerome Williams, tonight's Nats Starter had control of his pitches.

If only Williams early struggles had not cost him dearly tonight. Right off the bat in the first inning after issuing a leadoff walk to Kelly Johnson, Chipper Jones unloaded on a high change up, depositing the ball deep into the right field bleachers for a early 2-0 Atlanta lead.

If only Our Washington Nationals had put together some Offense against Atlanta Braves Starter Chuck James. They couldn't.

If only Andruw Jones had not made it OFFICIAL (Once Again), absolutely CRUSHING a Ryan Wagner pitch DEEP into the left field bleachers in the bottom of the 7th inning--a three run shot, his 14th Home Run against Our Washington Nationals in two plus years of play against Atlanta. The Nationals were only down 2-0 at the time of his homer. And, Atlanta's starter Chuck James was out of the game and Washington was facing The Braves less than stellar bullpen.

If only Andruw's Home Run did not hurt more. The fact that Wagner had recorded the first two outs of the inning, before Edgar Renteria and Chipper Jones kept the inning alive for Andruw's BLAST!!-- that one hurt big time, and proved costly.

If only after The Nationals Bats came alive against reliever Rafael Soriano- scoring three runs on a Dimitri Young Double, Austin Kearns Single, Ryan Church double scoring Young and a Ronnie Belliard single scoring Kearns and Church pulled Washington back into the game with three runs, all with one out--had Brian Schneider showed some patience and not swing at the very first pitch he saw from the struggling Soriano for a force out. Come on Brian, Rafael Soriano was on the ropes. You have to show better discipline at the plate.

If only Robert Fick, pinch hitting for Wagner, did not meekly fly out to finally kill that late rally.

If only a very overtaxed bullpen did not have to take it on the chin tonight.

If only, after Ryan Wagner struggled badly, Jon Rauch did not come on and have a bad inning himself, giving up three earned runs to close out the scoing for an 8-3 Atlanta Braves win over Our Washington Nationals. Your Bullpen just can not continue to pitch half of every game. By the end of April, This Bullpen is going to need reinforcements.

If only we could put together a complete all around game.

If only we could have some better luck.

If only we could hold the lead for one pitch in ANY GAME.

If only we were not 1-8.

If only we COULD START THE SEASON OVER!!

If only for Manny Acta. He deserves better.

PRIDE

Catching a Baseball, One of The Games Simplest Pleasures, yet through the first 8 games of the 2007 Season, Our Washington Nationals have made it a chore. What a shame, and embarrassing at the same time.


I feel for Our Manager, Manny Acta. The ability to catch a ball, has nothing to do with the just completed Spring Training. Not a single player in the game today, just learned the technique over the six weeks from mid-February to late-March. And, it makes me wonder what exactly is taught these days to young players as they advance from adolescence to manhood. The skills of the game have eroded, league wide. Make no mistake about, as much as many would like to point and blame, this is just not a Nationals Problem. Major League Baseball is filled with mediocre, less than capable talent.


Why do you think THE DESIGNATED HITTER has lasted so long in The American League. Its perceived better to have a one-dimensional player hit while another pitches, to add flavor to the game. Never would many Major League Teams think its important to teach a pitcher how to hit. Yet, those pitchers with pride--Dontrelle Willis and Jason Marquis, among others, help their teams and themselves, giving them a better chance to win (I could go off on a tangent right now on the dumbing down of the game, but I will hold off for another post).


And that's my point, ITS ALL ABOUT PRIDE (something I believe Ryan Zimmerman practices each and every day), and the willingness to make yourself the very best you can be. Something's missing in sport today. "Why make myself a great all around player, if I am already being paid millions to play the game anyway." A comment many athletes believe today, sadly.

Growing up in Alexandria, Virginia, I played baseball every conceivable day as a child. Hundreds of practices, pick up games, along with a full slate of Little League Games. We were taught to field the ball, with two hands (a total lost art today). Today, its far more important to be flashy, stabbing the ball with your glove hand only. Once you begin to not use a skill, you become a lesser player. That erosion of skill a cumulative effect.

As I advanced to my teen years, a few more hundred practices, many more games, both High School and Summer League were participated in. No doubt, when I graduated from TC Williams High School in Alexandria, Virgina, my days spent on the baseball diamond were approaching a THOUSAND!! A thousand days, playing, practicing, improving my skills, to the the best of MY ABILITIES.

Yet, I was fortunate after High School, unlike many, and continued to play the College Game. A 60 Game Spring Season Schedule, A 20 Game Fall Schedule, untold numbers of practices, participating in year round workouts. At every turn, there was opportunity to, at least, attempt to improve. Which, fortunately, I did--advancing to The Professional Level, eventually ending my career two steps from The Majors.

Through it all, easily I played baseball for nearly 3000 days through my early 20's. If I couldn't catch a baseball by then, really, I didn't belong on the baseball diamond. Fortunately, fielding was my forte, its what made me a professional player, until the day I could play no longer, retiring injured. I was proud of my fielding. I cared and strove to field the ball correctly through proper techniques.


Looking at THIS GREAT GAME TODAY, my nearly 3000 days of baseball activity pales in comparison to Major League Players. A veteran Major League Player in his 30's may well be approaching double that amount, 6000 days of baseball. Cal Ripken Jr, I would safely say participated in over 10,000 days of baseball over the course of his fabulous baseball lifetime. Cal Ripken Jr. CARED ABOUT THE GAME and the proper way to play, maybe more so than any professional player during my lifetime. That's why I will always cherish, NOT ONLY HIM, BUT ALSO HIS CAREER. Number 8 is a GREAT MAN!!


Errors are an everyday part of the game of baseball. No one is perfect, ever. Scorching Liners, Rushing To The Outfield Wall For A Deep Fly, Hard Hit Ground Balls, A Runner Trying to Take You Out While Throwing The Ball, errors on plays like those are understandable, and expected. Being able to make that play consistently, without making an error, is the sign of A REAL PROFESSIONAL. But, if a Major League Player really cares, there is NO EXCUSE for dropping a routine pop up while drifting back toward the foul line. Or, dropping a routine toss to first, a ball that hits right into your glove.


Pride, that's what it all about. After Thousands and Thousands of days on the Baseball Diamond, A Major League Player should make the routine play.

Nothing more is expected. Nothing less is acceptable.




Game Photo Credits:
Manny Acta, Dontrelle Willis, Ryan Zimmerman(Throwing-(AP)Pablo Martinez Monsivais
Ronnie Belliard Fielding--(AP)Evan Vucci
Zimmerman Taking Out Fielder--(AP)Lawrence Jackson

Andruw Makes It Offical (Again) & Hudson WAS MASTERFUL!!

UPDATE: I checked, Andruw Jones has hit 13 Home Runs in two seasons against Our Washington Nationals. 7 at RFK Stadium--Remarkable!
Truthfully, I don't have the foggiest idea how many Home Runs Atlanta Braves Centerfielder Andruw Jones has hit against Our Washington Nationals, but it sure seems like every single time we play the Braves, Andruw lets loose. Its become tradition at RFK Stadium in Section 320 for me to state that no Nats/Braves Game is ever Official Unless Jones Clouts a Homer.

Well, it didn't take Andruw long tonight to get a good piece of Matt Chico. Matt making his second Major League Start ever. Leading off the bottom of the 4th inning, Jones powered a Chico fastball DEEP and Well Over the left field wall at Turner Field. Watching the game on MASN 2, I just started laughing. The African Queen knew right away the reason for my amusement. I am sure, MickNats, if also watching this game at home, knew exactly what I was thinking. This Nats/Braves Game Was Official, once again, courtesy of an Andruw Jones Home Run, making the score 1-0 Bravos.

What made that Home Run worse was watching Atlanta Braves starter Tim Hudson AT THE TOP OF HIS GAME. His splitter was nasty, and his tailing fastball was consistently hammered in on a Washington Batter's wrists. In the top of the 4th, Chris Snelling got his welcome to some Serious National League Ball when Hudson just flat out threw one jam pitch after another inside, finally breaking "Yoda's" bat on an easy ground out to short. Nationals hitters never got things going against Hudson, seven strike outs through 5 innings. Although The Nationals did improve on Livan Hernandez's effort against them on Sunday. Ronnie Belliard singled to center in the top of the fifth, this time, to break up the no-hitter.


Having attended each and every Nationals Game in person until tonight, I had never watched MASN with Rob Carpenter and Don Sutton, as partners, on Television. Sutton is extremely impressive. His insight on pitching is an art form all it own. He understands the game, the situations and what a pitcher should or should not throw under every situation. In the bottom of the 5th, with Edgar Renteria on second (via a Belliard error) and Chipper Jones on first with two outs, the free swinging Jeff Francouer was at the plate with a 2-2 count. Sutton, right before Chico's pitch stated, "You just don't throw Francouer a strike in this situation. Just throw the ball anywhere outside the strike zone." Chico proceeded to throw a curveball over the plate that Francouer hammered to right center, off the wall, scoring both runners and putting Our Nationals behind 3-0.

Then, when Brian McCann followed with another double off the right field wall to score Francouer making the score 4-0, Sutton commented. "I don't understand why Chico and Schneider have decided to put his curve ball more over the plate this inning. Chico was having success throwing that pitch outside the plate. The Braves were biting. I am going to have to ask them." I love Don Sutton. Hopefully, he will remain in Washington for years to come as a broadcaster. Any Nats Fan can learn baseball from that Hall Of Famer. On top of all that, Sutton is a terrific and genuinely nice man. And, a Big Fan of The African Queen.

With The Braves now up four heading to the 6th, this game was over with Tim Hudson mastering Our Nationals on the mound. Tim would go seven strong innings, only allowing 3 meek hits, 1 walk over 98 pitches, 63 for strikes. Hudson pounded in the first pitch strike, staying ahead, never losing control. He was Fabulous! Any real baseball fan had to appreciate that performance. I don't care about the level of the competition, either. The Yankees would have had problems with Hudson tonight. And, when Our Manager, Manny Acta sent Ray King out to mop up the 8th inning, Ray was unloaded on by The Braves, giving up a three run bomb to Francouer. This game was not only over, but sealed away, 8-0 Atlanta over Our Washington Nationals.

Game Notes & Highlights:

Chico actually pitched quite well off the top of this game, making it into the 5th, where, once again, a fundamental error led to Matt not making it out of the 5th inning. Chico is on the Major League Learning curve right now. Number 47's got the stuff, but NO EXPERIENCE. Unfortunately, Matt Chico is learning the hard way--On The Job Training.

As for Ronnie Belliard, he faded back on a pop up down the right field line by Renteria, but seemed to worry about Austin Kearns charging in to potentially make the play. Earlier in the game, both Belliard and Kearns had collided, but not violently, on a shallow fly ball. Kearns had called the ball, but Ronnie didn't back off. Kearns was visibly upset. Immediately, I thought of the Nick Johnson incident at Shea Stadium last September that broke Johnson's Femur.

When Belliard dropped the Renteria pop, Kearns held back, and Belliard seemed unsure whether he should take the fly or not. And, he missed it. Rob Carpenter then also mentioned the Nick Johnson Situation. At Spring Training in Viera, Kearns personally told me he's not worried about colliding with any other defenders on the field while chasing flies. But, I have always felt he will be disturbed mentally until Nick returns 100%. Tonight, may well have proven me correct. Nevertheless, Ronnie Belliard should have caught the pop. No excuses.

72 innings played, 1 inning with a lead. Only 19 runs scored over those 8 games. Only One Starter has made it out of the 6th inning--Shawn Hill, this past Sunday. Simply, Not Competitive.

Is the most Charismatics Manager in the game, Manny Acta, still SMILING? I hope so.

Oh, and by the way. Atlanta has got to be the Worst Sports Town in America. Only an announced crowd of 18,396 on a nice cool spring night at Turner Field for a Team that has won their Division 13 out of 14 years. The Braves couldn't even sell out Playoff Games. The actual crowd tonight was far less than the official count. The Stands were EMPTY. Honestly, we have a far greater and stronger fan base in Washington than anything Atlanta has ever had. Our Washington Nationals fans have passion, whether they agree with the current direction of the team, or not. That speaks volumes for Our Nation's Capital.

Tonight's Game Photos--AP, John Bazemore

Let Teddy Lose

As is always the case in the America we live in today, When popularity rises someone has to begin complaining/trashing in an attempt spoil the enjoyment. Once again, its happened, this time in today's Examiner Newspaper. Columnist Rick Snider writes an article/editorial declaring Our Washington Nationals are destroying Teddy Roosevelt's, well earned, "Tough Guy" image by making Teddy "The Lovable Loser" in the very popular Presidents Race at RFK Stadium.

Included in the story are the typical quotes from The T.R. Historical Society and an Area Teddy Club claiming The Nationals are Humiliating Roosevelt. And, how Teddy's losing has got to stop.

Come on!! Its a gimmick. A Gimmick that has RAISED THE PROFILE OF ALL FOUR FAMOUS PRESIDENTS. The Presidents Race is known throughout this country as something SPECIFIC TO WASHINGTON, DC and Our Washington Nationals. Nightly, video of the race is shown on Sports News Programs-nationwide.

Last time I checked, American's, both Adults and Children, have retained limited knowledge of historical facts and figures from their schooling. History does not matter to us. We live in a technology run society where instant gratification appears to be the only goal. "What can we get next?", always the next question. I am sure the great majority of Americans can not even name the 43 Presidents Of The United States. That's sad, but its true.

What The Racing Presidents have done is put History Back on The Map, at least in the Washington, DC area. Before The Nationals started the live "Rushmores" Race last summer, I would guarantee you virtually NO ONE thought about Teddy Roosevelt. Although the so called experts in The Examiner Article would never admit it, I would bet more Baseball Fans, both young and old, ARE Curious about Teddy Roosevelt, in fact, George Washington, Abe Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson, as well.

They are no longer just expressionless portraits on a wall!

These Presidents have LIFE. And, in giving life they are drawing interest from many. Many folks that otherwise would never have cared in the first place about history. We are fortunate to live in one of THE MOST HISTORICALLY IMPORTANT CITIES IN THE WORLD!! Any opportunity to raise that profile and give even the slightest immersion of knowledge should not be blasted.

To those Historical Society Folks, NO ONE WAS TALKING ABOUT YOUR BOY, TEDDY, BEFORE LAST SUMMER!! EVERYONE TALKS ABOUT HIM NOW!! You should be happy that thousands more are interested in Teddy Roosevelt. Before Our Washington Nationals arrived, and The Presidents Race began, T.R. was just another distant figure in history to most baseball fans. Someone that only your Historical Society and Club really cared about.

Fess Up. Times have changed and you should be enjoying the ride. Not bitching about it!

LONG LOSE TEDDY!!

Why?

Why? Its a question directed at me a lot lately. "SBF, Why do you attend each and every game?" "SBF-Why do write such a detailed account of every Nationals game at RFK Stadium?" and, " SBF-Why do you care so much?"

My answers could be long enough to rival the book "WAR & PEACE". But, surely, no one wants to read my dissertation of such length. So to answer those questions, here's the Crib Notes Version.


There is no doubt, I love the game of baseball, have enjoyed playing and watching this great game since my earliest fondest memories as a child. At every opportunity, throughout childhood, my teenage years and, fortunately, through my early 20's, I played baseball at every conceivable level, including the pros. Even before my playing days were up, I immersed myself in Baseball History, Trivia and the Proper Way to play the game. For me, Baseball has, and always will be, a year round sport. No other Sport, no other pastimes, come close to gaining the amount of attention I give to Baseball.


This Geometrically Beautiful Game called Baseball is special, because your team can't win any game until you get that final out. There really are no Timeouts. You can't stop the clock. You can't send in the 'Prevent Defense' or spread out your team on the court in a vain attempt, to hide your deficiencies--and, win the game on the run. In baseball, you simply have to win. There is nothing better in sport, anywhere. To my grave, I will take that belief.

As I have well documented throughout the history of The Nats320 blog, I loved My Washington Senators, and especially, Frank Howard. When MLB approved their move to Dallas-Ft.Worth in 1971, I was crushed. My parents always telling me, I was never quite the same fun loving kid after My Senators left town.

Yet, I continued to play and enjoy the game--loving every minute of it. And, I forever vowed, to support any team that eventually returned to MY HOMETOWN, Washington, DC. The Day, The Montreal Expos were officially announced as moving to DC, was one of the happiest days of my ADULT LIFE!! And, I cried, openly--writing about it emotionally. A Day I will NEVER FORGET.


The African Queen and I became Season Ticket Holders. And, early on, in 2005, it became apparent how much I had missed watching my Hometown Team. Each and every game that Inaugural Season, I found myself more and more compelled to attend, in person, every single home game at RFK STADIUM. The more Sohna and I went to the ballpark, the happier and content I became. The African Queen saying she had never seen me so relaxed, in our 20 some odd years together. And, let me tell, we've been through a tremendous amount, participating in the real world--just look at us.





Fortunately, its not only the return of Baseball to Washington, DC that keeps us coming for every scheduled ballgame. The African Queen and I met and now cherish a significant amount of baseball friends, all first greeted at RFK Stadium. First, we realized the luck of the draw, and being placed in Section 320, with so many like minded, fun loving, devoted, baseball and Washington Nationals Fans. Mr.& Mrs. MickNats, "The Noise Boys"--SayHeyKlib, BangTheDrumNatly, RallyTimeRichard, CanadaJim and Kentucky Rob. There is no better in-game entertainment at ANY BALLPARK in America, when "THE NOISE BOYS" all post up at a Nationals Game Together. They are a tremendous amount of fun. Along with Andy, SenatorNat, Jim, Troy, Julie, Ms.Zimmy, Shawn, Abby, Becky & Mike, along with The Flyboys (& FlyGirl Karen) from Andrews. And, of course Our Honorary Members--Iris, Biff, Colleen & Jeff--plus MY BEST FRIEND--SCREECH!! How this mishmash of fans have joined together in friendship-a great story all its own. Hopefully to last for years to come.

As our friendships grew, I continually undated our Section 320 friends with comments and opinion about Our Washington Nationals. Enough so, that SayHeyKlib decided to start The Nats320 Blog, to give me someplace to expand my thoughts, vent at times, and appreciate my fandom a little bit more. Never did I realize to what level I would take it.

Andy was off to Holland on a Business/Vacation Week in early June, 2006. The Nats320 blog had just started in late May--2006, and really not much was happening on the site. Andy didn't wish to miss out on the details of all The Nats Games that week at home, so I agreed to email him complete details. DID I EVER GO TO TOWN!! Andy would tell me later, my write-ups, holding out the outcome to the final lines, tossing in all the fan and crowd experiences, made him feel like he was actually at the games. So, I decided to transfer those emails to TheNats320 Blog and add pictures. Was I ever surprised, when people started to comment.

Even after we started The Nats320 Blog, I had never read any of the other blogs. In fact, did not really know they existed. Surprised I was, to find out there was an entire Universe of Nationals Bloggers, all covering their own niche. I loved it and started to comment on others sites. When Brandon from The Curly "W" blog first linked The Nats320 Blog from his site, even more came to read my musings. Really, I couldn't believe it. Vividly, I remember saying to The African Queen: "Wow, people really do care, that's good."


What I found, was that readers enjoyed my personal stories, my game details and the fun we always enjoy at RFK Stadium in Section 320, whether The Nationals Win or Lose. As it turned out, The Team was watching. And, when officials from Our Washington Nationals, seeing Sohna & I at every single home game, approached me about some things I wrote in late 2006, I knew I had hit a responsive cord.



Through it all, we have been able to slowly cultivate some wonderful relationships. And, in the process not only raise my fandom to a new level, but, hopefully pass along fun, enjoyment, information and some serious detail, FROM A FANS VIEW, about the team we really all care about. I don't care whether you are saluting them or bitching about them. They are still our team, Our Washington Nationals. A Major League Baseball Hometown Team, we did not enjoy on any level, for over three decades.

As I stated at the beginning, I love Baseball, Our Washington Nationals, Our Friends, and make no mistake about it, producing The Nats320 Blog. This Project Now Dear To My Heart. Thank all of you for reading, and the many that were kind enough to stop by and visit Sohna and I at RFK Stadium this past week. Those many kind words from countless visitors, we will cherish forever. Please stop by and visit--YOU ARE WELCOME ANYTIME! Your appreciations meant so very much us!!

Sohna and I felt it important to publicly say, Our Thanks.

Talent, Fundamentals, and Discipline

Honestly, I don't know what to think about our Nats, but, as a longtime baseball fan, I certainly can go on a little rant, so let me share my thoughts on Talent, Fundamentals, and Discipline.


Talent isn't everything. Much of what a player lacks in talent you can make it up with fundamentals. This is a good fix for an individual player, but at the MLB level, individual fundamentals are not always enough. I love fundamentals, and members of section 320 could say that I talk too much about the virtues of sound fundamentals. Well this past week has made me realize that fundamentals aren’t enough. My new theme will be discipline.

Talent is hitting a 94 mph fastball out of the ballpark. Fundamentals can help you make contact and slap that ball to the opposite field. Discipline is not getting yourself into a 1-2 count by chasing the low sliders that will never be a base hit or the first-pitch-high-heat, thus setting yourself up for that two strike fastball. Honestly the high-heat, curve, low-away is not a new innovation in the game. “Work the count!” To do so you need talent, fundamentals, but most importantly, discipline.


I used to consider discipline part of any game’s fundamentals, but maybe discipline was more of an instinct to Yaz, Orr, Havlicek, Bird, pre-evil Roger, Grogan, Teddy and Tom. All of these guys lead their teams to the Championships, some won, some lost (in my lifetime 13 wins and 12 losses). Discipline seemed to be a natural part of their success, and when we lost, we mostly just got out played by the better team (Gibson and St Louis in 67, Morgan and the Reds in 75, Lafluer and Dryden for the Habs in 74, 77, an 78, Ditka’s 85 Bears, Farves Packer’s in 96, and Karim and Magic’s Lakers). I won’t mention other losses, because I have digressed, this isn’t about Boston sports, this is about our Nats.

So, discipline…I previously commented:
Discipline is not just a verb, it is also a noun. Discipline used as a verb is how you let someone know they did wrong. Discipline the noun is what the Nats need. Discipline in baseball means fundamentals, both athletic and mental fundamentals.


So, discipline as a mental fundamental, sounds like a new chant. “Men-TAL fun-DA-men-TALS.” All joking aside, what this team really needs is a combo of the verb and the noun. It is clear that the noun form of discipline is not instinctive to everyone on this team and must be taught. I do not have a good take on the new coaching staff and solicit opinions from others. What I can say, however, is that discipline the noun is in short supply. Do we blame Manny? I don’t know, but I do firmly believe that the verb reinforces the noun. We can argue over the virtues of “strict father” versus “nurturing family” models, but one thing seems evident for our Nats, discipline has been lacking.

DISCIPLINE, THE MENTAL FUNDAMENTAL.

In-Game Fan Experience (Not The Product On The Field)

Obviously, The African Queen and I attended each and every home game at RFK Stadium during the first week of 2007 Season. And, some less than stellar play by Our Washington Nationals, combined with some brutally cold early spring weather, took some of the enjoyment out of The Baseball Experience. Sitting through a blowout in 32 Degree weather takes alot of heart, let me tell you.


But, what really bothered us was some of the new choices by Management for IN-GAME Fan Experience. I am talking about The NatPack, The Trivia Games, The Music and Events played throughout course of A Nationals Game, between innings, like The Presidents Race.


No doubt, "Teddy Roosevelt" zip lining down from the Roof of RFK on Opening Day was TREMENDOUS TO SEE!! Just a terrific stunt. Unless "Teddy" Parachutes In during the 4th inning of a Nats Game, its going to be hard to top his Opening Day Performance. Fans and The Media are still talking about it. Yet, for 2007, Our Washington Nationals are trying out some new things. That's OK, but some of those new offerings do not seem to be grabbing fans attention.

First, there is this nice young man with a Red Curly "W" Polo Shirt, Wireless Mic with Curly "W" Mic Flag that is now THE HOST of Nats TV. The problem is, its hard to understand him, so much so--We have yet to catch his name (That's hard to do if you have attended every game, like Sohna and I). He talks fast, and while talking with fans between innings, he turns his head away from the mic, muffling his sound. My man--just keep the microphone in front of your face at all times.

When the DC "IQ" and Time Machine portions of the program begins, the host only reads the question. If few can understand him, why not just put the question on the Video Board in Right Center, just like has been done the previous two seasons. Few can play along, if no one understands the question. This is all about fan participation, right?

In the first two seasons, The NatPack were more involved in those questions, standing behind the fan answering, along with Screech. Now, its just the host and the fan. On The Video Board, the new setup looks "nothing special", more like a Used Car Salesman hawking his wares. And, no clearer does that stand out when the Host goes to The Home Plate Suite to introduce The Corporation using it for the game. Talking about the Home Plate Suite, promoting the Corporation is fine. But, when the host starts chanting "LET GO NATS"--NO ONE IS PAYING ATTENTION. It sounds so fake.

The Capitol Shuffle, the video game where a baseball is placed under one of three Domes and quickly shuffled back, forth and over each other while fans attempt to follow the hidden ball has been replaced by Abe Lincoln. Abe shuffling three Playing Cards, with one having a Red Curly "W" on it. Its a good idea, but all week long, Card Number 1 was where the hidden Curly "W" was placed. Did anyone make more than one video? Just asking? On Sunday, I didn't even look up, just saying Number 1. Sure enough, Abe revealed Card Number 1 with The Curly "W".


Bustin'Loose was one song that fans enjoyed each and every time it was played last season. This song is a DC Institution. After being announced with FanFare, Screech would dance to the song on the dugout roof. Many fans would get up to dance with Screech. In fact, Screech would usually grab a fan to dance with him on the dugout. Yet now, Bustin'Loose is just sort of thrown in after the DC IQ for the few seconds before the first pitch of the next inning. Total waste of a good fan involvement song.

And, during the 7th inning stretch, after everyone gets up to sing "TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME", no longer is the "JUMP" tune played that got everyone bouncing up and down to form the sea wave of heads along the third base line at RFK Stadium. Now the music is "Twist and Shout". This is the very last season of baseball at RFK Stadium. By a quirk of construction, the bouncing heads are treasured images at every Nats Home Game. Why not take advantage of that added excitement? The "JUMP" Tune is great, and everyone enjoys it. Perfect fan involvement tune while The NatPack are throwing Tee-Shirts to the crowd. "Twist & Shout" doesn't fit here.

Finally, as I stated in yesterday's game post--The XM Satellite DJ JAM needs to be more compelling. Why put Screech on top of The Nats 3rd Base Dugout, if Management is going to play a song he and everyone else can not dance too. Makes no sense to The African Queen and I.

Oh, and "You Gotta Have Heart"--Has Gotta Go. Few are going to sing it traditionally. Too hard for folks to bellow out. Just a thought.



There are some very good things, too.

The President Race is FABULOUS, still! We loved the game where Abe, Teddy, GW & Tom wore Nationals Jerseys with corresponding uniform numbers to their place as Presidents. GW-1, Tom-3 Abe-16 & Teddy-26. Good use of history with baseball. Although I wonder how long Teddy can continue to lose and not run out of ways to do so in an interesting manner. We like seeing The Presidents outside RFK, near the Gates taking pictures. Fans are enjoying that, and seeing The "RUSHMORES" in the tunnels before the 7th Inning Stretch. All Good ideas, as well as The "Geico" Photo Stop near The Diamond Club during the 5th Inning to take a picture with all four Racing Presidents.

Basball 101, the video with Nats Players giving pitching, fielding and hitting techniques are extremely well done. Very professional and interesting, and sometimes funny. None better then the very animated Ryan Zimmerman's Baseball 101 with Ryan instructing how to chew sunflower seeds, a ton of them, at once in your mouth and still spitting out the husk. Just hilarious. The site of him stuffing that bag of seeds into his mouth just great. I would love to have that one on DVD for posterity sake.



The weather this past week certainly toned down the volume and attendance during the first week of the baseball season. And, the African Queen and I, are all for Fresh New Ideas. But, please DO NOT TAKE AWAY the few working IN-GAME Experiences that fans enjoy.

Can you imagine if Charlie Slowes no longer said "BANG,ZOOM!! Go The Fireworks!" Or "Another Curly W Is In The Books!" For fans, that would be awful.

PS--Of course, as difficult as Our Washington Nationals came out of the gate this week, winning just one of their first 7 games, We may not hear "Another Curly W in the Books!!" for some time. Just Joking, now.

Houdini, The Two Out Rally & We Might Have Found A Starter

Old Friend, Livan Hernandez returned to RFK Stadium this afternoon to pitch against his former Washington Nationals teammates. Our Nats knocked him all over the park. Line Drive and Scorching Liner after another. They had his number. Yet, somehow, Livo made it into the 6th inning pitching a NO HITTER. With SLOP pitches so slow the RADAR GUN could not determine its speed, Hernandez was at his HOUDINI BEST, escaping inning after inning. Really, his effort was quite remarkable.

There is no pitcher in Major League Baseball, I can ever recall who is so unfazed by virtually any game situation he faces. Whether, he's just given up a Huge Bomb Home Run; the bases being loaded and no outs; or, in today's case, Number 61 is cruising through The Nationals Lineup, "Livan bends, but never breaks" (Chad Cordero's father, Ed, gave me that comment today, Its only fair to recognize his insight). The very hefty Livan Hernandez is "The Rubber Band Man". And, I love him so much.

Certainly, I understand the reasoning behind Our Washington Nationals trading Livan to The Arizona Diamondbacks last August. This Franchise is rebuilding itself for the future and the two pitching prospects Washington received in return, Matt Chico & Garrett Mock have a good upside (personally, I like both of them, tremendously). But, as I stated previously, Livan Hernandez was a GREAT AMBASSADOR for our City, Washington, DC. HE LOVED PLAYING & LIVING HERE. Livo was fan favorite. I know, for a fact, Hernandez would love to return.

There is no doubt, that Our Washington Nationals are not going to win ANYTHING in 2007. And, hopefully come 2008, fans will begin to see a reviving Franchise. Livan Hernandez is a Free Agent after this season. He will not be playing for Arizona next year. If we ever needed a caretaker pitcher that understands and loves The Washington Nationals, its Livan Hernandez. Cheaply, I hope he returns to DC and throws The VERY FIRST PITCH ON SOUTH CAPITOL STREET. That Bookend Moment would be cherished by, not only me, but many Washington Nationals Fans. If you don't know, Livan Hernandez threw the very first pitch in THE HISTORY OF THE WASHINGTON NATIONALS. Not only in their first game ever at Citizens Bank Park, in Philadelphia, but ON APRIL 14th, 2005-The Night Baseball RETURNED TO WASHINGTON, DC. A great night in my life.

As for today, Livan was helped tremendously by his three outfielders. Scott Hairston in left, Chris Young in center, and the always entertaining Eric Byrnes (who makes every fly ball an adventure all its own) tracked down smash after smash off the bats of Our Washington Nationals. Even Team President Stan Kasten, visiting Section 320 in the 6th inning, noticed the same scenario. Mr. Kasten stunned by Livan's shear luck today. Mr. Kasten sitting in MickNats seat in an attempt to jinx Livan and break up the No Hitter. "I might as well try this," he said, " I've sat everywhere else today." Sure enough, it worked. Ryan Zimmerman laced a looping drive over the head of, who else, the adventurous Eric Byrnes in right. Brynes stubbling, bumbling, badly, falling--not recovering in time to catch the ball. Hit Number One on the Board for our Washington Nationals. Thank You, Eric Byrnes.

When Zimmerman smacked that first Washington Hit, The Nationals were only down 2-0. If the world was fair, the game would have been scoreless. As lucky as Livan Hernandez was today-- the unlucky Shawn Hill found himself pitching his butt off. A TERRIFIC PERFORMANCE. Number 46 raised the level of his game and, hopefully, matured into a Major League Starter. Only a rough first inning, made worse by a terrible throwing decision on the behalf of Ronnie Belliard, set up an error and a two run first inning. Our Washington Nationals having now played 49 innings, and only held the lead on the final play of Game 3, against The Florida Marlins. 49 Innings completed without being ahead on the scoreboard before a pitch is thrown. That fact is no longer remarkable. Its UNBELIEVABLE!! (Make That 63 Innings--I Guess its all getting to my head--Thanks Brian)

During that Diamondback first inning with one out, Hill hit Connor Jackson on a 1-2 pitch. Then, Orlando Hudson drove a Shawn offering to deep right center. Jackson was going to score easily. Ryan Church tracked down the ball, and threw to Ronnie Belliard in short centerfield, playing the cutoff man. I don't know whether Felipe Lopez (SS) or Robert Fick (Today's First Baseman) were communicating, but Belliard took the toss from Church, wheeled to throw home, and in mid-motion, hips fully spread out, half cocked his throw, not to home, but now to third. All Ronnie really had to do was to eat the ball, and run it back into the infield. Belliard's toss surprised Ryan Zimmerman at third. Z leaped forward to stop the errant throw, but the ball skipped under his glove and to the railing in front of the Nats 3rd base dugout. Hudson advancing to third on the error. Although, I must say, Zimmerman getting charged with the fault on the play was a bad call by the Official Scorer. Whomever the Nats Official Scorer is, he doesn't seem to understand the nuances of the game. That error was on Ronnie Belliard, all the way.


Of course, as most errors end up, they are costly. Now on third, Hudson would score easily on a single to right by Scott Hairston before Shawn Hill could stop the bloodletting by getting Miguel Montero to fly to left and end this unfortunate first inning. Hill deserved better, and to his credit, he returned strong for the remainder of this outstanding outing. Shawn Hill would pitch deep into the 7th inning. And, when he left the mound with 2 outs, replaced by Micah Bowie, Shawn received a well deserved STANDING OVATION. Going farther than any Nationals starter through the first 7 games of 2007, Hill pitched 6.2 innings, giving up 2 earned runs on 6 hits and 2 walks. I was very happy for him. Shawn Hill has been a favorite of mine for some time. And, once again, he proved today, this Canadian Native can not only pitch, but help himself by laying down a solid sacrifice bunt. Something many Nationals Pitchers have been unable to Master. Shawn Hill may well be Our ACE!!

For the first time today, I actually found myself questioning Manny's in game decisions. In the bottom of 7th, Livan Hernandez was tiring. He was ready for the taking. Ryan Church led off the inning with a sharp single to center, followed by a Belliard single to center. For the first time today, the game was on the line. Nats First Baseman Robert Fick flied out to center, bringing Rookie Rule V Draft Pick, Jesus Flores to the plate. Giving Brian Schneider a well deserved breather, the talented Flores was starting his VERY FIRST MAJOR LEAGUE GAME TODAY behind the plate. Hitless for the season, Manny decided to pinch hit for Jesus. I have no problem with that. What I have an issue with is The Choice to hit. Livan has been ducking disaster all day long. With all of Livan's looping off speed junk, you need someone with bat control. That choice was Chris Snelling. Acta chose Dimitri Young instead-looking for the three run homer. To me, Young needs to be held until the late innings, when you need him the most (and that scenario would happen today). Young can power fast pitching, he's going to get fooled, more times than not, on junk. Snelling was perfect for this scenario. Dimitri would fly out to center. And, Schneider, now pinch hitting for Micah Bowie, would weakly ground out to first, killing the rally.

When you blow a chance to get back into the game, many times your team falters during the very next half inning. Its the letdown factor. And, that also played out in the top of the 8th. With Jon Rauch now on the mound for Washington, Scott Hairston hammered an offering to deep left centerfield. Ryan Church ran all the way, hard, drifting to his left, expecting to hit the wall on the fly. Instead, he appeared to either lose the ball in the late afternoon sun or just flat out misjudge the ball's drift. Church got a glove on the ball, but it glanced off, deflected to the ground. Hairston now standing on third base with a triple. And, would score Arizona's third and final run on a cheap grounder to third by Chris Young. Zimmerman attempted to backhand the roller, running in on the ball and crossing over into foul territory, but the ball hit the heal of his glove and bounced away. It was very unlikely, Ryan had any chance to throw out the swift moving Young. 3-1 Arizona heading to the bottom of the 8th.

Never have I attended a Nationals game with such little fan participation as today. Throughout most of today's game, the fans were simply not into the game at all. In fact, with two outs in the bottom of the 8th, you could actually hear Charlies Slowes Radio Broadcast being aired from the speakers on the Main Concourse. It was THAT QUIET!! And, when some fan's cell phone rang sitting near the Nats Dugout, you could clearly hear another fan yell from behind Home Plate, "Would you please Answer That!! GEEEZ!!" It was very hilarious. And, saddening at the same time.

But, it was right after that funny moment, Section 320 finally got the crowd of 17,224 to make some noise. With two outs, Section 320 started up the "Two Out Rally" Chant, and it worked. With Brandon Lyon now in the game replacing Livan Hernandez, Zimmerman would lace a deep drive to right center off the wall for a stand up double. Kearns followed with a liner to center scoring Zimmerman for today's first Nats Run. The Crowd now on its feet, cheering. Section 320 continuing the "TWO OUT RALLY!!" Chant. Ryan Church would walk. And shades of Jorge Julio, were dancing in Nationals Fans heads. Ronnie Belliard was up next and smacked a hopper right up the middle. Diamondbacks second baseman, Orlando Hudson, would field the ball cleanly, then, somehow miss the underhand easy toss to second to retire Church. Everyone SAFE!! And, amazingly, The Official Scorer granted Belliard A HIT!! What could that Offical Scorer be thinking?

What was left of today's crowd now on its feet, screaming. Fick was next, and this is where Manny's decision in the 7th to use Dimitri Young came back to haunt him. Young was perfectly set for this role today, but Fick had to bat. Acta had no other first baseman to replace Fick at first. There are not enough multi-position players on this team. So, Robert hit and meekly flied out to left, killing the rally. This was Our Washington Nationals chance to win. They failed. What was left of the thinning crowd got up to head home for Easter Dinner.

Although Brian Schneider would draw a one out walk in the bottom of the ninth. Jose Valverde would close this 4th straight loss for Washington and sweep by The Arizona Diamondbacks 3-1. The Nationals 1-6 after the first week of this young season. Livan Hernandez successfully returned to Washington, defeating his former team. Hopefully, The Nationals found a healthy solid young starting pitcher.

Now, we can only hope for some cold bats to heat up and drive in some runs on this upcoming road trip.

Today's Game Photos: AP-Lawrence Jackson

Game Notes & Highlights:

For Ryan Zimmerman, I feel badly. He has NO ONE to protect him in the batting lineup. Zimmerman is pressing, trying to make a difference. Last season, Felipe Lopez batted second, with Nick Johnson sandwiched behind "Z". Now, the number 2 spot in the batting order is totally in flux. Cristian Guzman started there, now Kory Casto--none of whom have been very successful. Austin Kearns took the cleanup spot for all but one game, when Dimitri Young was penciled in there. Neither has the ON BASE PERCENTAGE OR RESPECT at the plate that Nick Johnson enjoys. That's a HUGE DIFFERENCE. THAT HURTS RYAN ZIMMERMAN.

Fundamentally, Our Washington Nationals have been unsound. Physical and Mental Mistake after another throughout this fist week of The 2007 Season. Our Manager, Manny Acta, stressed during Spring Training that Washington would not be giving away outs, as has been their history during their first two seasons in DC. Defensively, Washington has been mediocre at best. Kearns and Zimmerman I can give a pass (and Ryan Church is TOTALLY OUT OF POSITION), as they are trying to do too much. But, we are finding out very quickly, that Ronnie Belliard, Josh Wilson are now journeyman ballplayers. DImitri Young can still hit. For a few games per week, they can raise the level of their game, and be very productive. For the remainder, their deficiencies are exposed and they can hurt you.

Chad Cordero was called upon for Mop Up Duty in the 9th. An opportunity for "The Chief" to get some much needed work in. Number 32 was able to get out of the inning, unscored upon, but he struggled, having little command of his pitches. Cordero walked two and only threw 11 strikes over 26 pitches. I know he had a slight cold, hopefully our closer will come back strong. One of these days, we are going to need him to save some games.

I will post up more on this topic later, but the In-Game Entertainment Music by The Nationals at certain points of the game, is less than enjoyable. Nothing stood out more so than during the 8th inning of the XM Satellite DJ Dance segment where Screech is on top of the 3rd base Nats Dugout while the Stadium Announcer states the three songs that Screech will Dance For to get the crowd going. The Crowd SUPPOSEDLY CHEERS FOR THEIR WINNING CHOICE. For most of this game today, not many fans showed much interest in the game at all. Some in the modest crowd sat on the hands, doing little. When the Dance Segment started, The Stadium Announcer first mentioned "Shout" for the first Dance Choice. IMMEDIATELY! The Crowd Woke UP and hollered to this song. The same for "The Twist". NO ONE and I Mean NO ONE cheered or danced for the third choice--Tom Jones' "Its Not Unusual" Yet, IMMEDIATELY, The Stadium Announcer names this Tom Jones Tune as The Winner. "Its Not Unusual" begins to play all over the stadium. EVERYONE, and I mean EVERYONE SAT DOWN!! No one was interested in this song to dance to music. All week long at RFK Stadium, a similar outcome during each XM Satelitte DJ Dance. Who is deciding this, and ARE THEY LOOKING AT THE RESULTS!! Is not the sole reason for this segment to get fans up and involved. Sometimes you have to trust your fans instincts.

Its Not Just The Weather That's Cold

This one was bitter, and I am not just talking about the Frigid Weather. Our Washington Nationals continued to struggle at the plate, not delivering in the clutch. Once again, a Nats Starting Pitcher did not have his best stuff early. Both combining with a decent effort by Arizona's Brandon Webb on the mound tonight to shutdown The Nats and give The Arizona Diamondbacks a, never in doubt, 7-1 win at RFK Stadium.

Nothing seemed to find its groove for Washington or its fans. Even the appearance of all 4 "Noise Boys" for the first time this season in Section 320, PROVIDED NO MAGIC. The low 30 Degree Weather affecting, not only Our Washington Nationals, but also the noise level behind the 3rd Base Dugout. When your knees are shaking and your teeth chattering in the frigid air, its hard to get excited when nothing was happening on the field of play.

Since Dimitri Young hit his game winning fly single on Wednesday afternoon to score Kory Casto against Florida, not a single Nationals hitter has knocked in a runner from scoring position. Collectively, Washington going 0-24 over the past three games. Worse, throughout the course of the first six games of 2007, Our Washington Nationals have NEVER LED in a single game before a pitch was put into play. That's remarkable. Our bats are cold, and as the struggles go deeper into this very early part of the season, it appears, some players are trying to do to much, in an attempt to pick up the slack of others. These guys just need to relax and have a good game. Too many are forgetting their game plans, swinging at far too many first pitches, and out thinking themselves at the plate.

Maybe Livan Hernandez can provide some medicine tomorrow. Livo, The King Of The Hill for difficult first innings, (a scene Washington fans came to know well in 2005 & 2006) faces his former teammates tomorrow. As much as I love Number 61, The Nationals need to bat around on him a few times. Just one good solid win, can turn the attitude around.


John Patterson was given his second start of the season. And, like The Home Opener, he struggled mightily in the very first inning. JP labored through 31 pitches, consistently rotating his right throwing shoulder, and looked completely uncomfortable. By the time Number 22 found a groove, he had given up 2 walks, a single, a two RBI scoring double by Chad Tracey to left and a sacrifice fly by Tony Clark. When the first inning ended, once again, The Nationals down three runs before taking their first at bats. Although, Patterson would make it through 5 innings, shutting down The Diamondbacks for the remainder of his outing. Unfortunately, the damage was done.

After 88 pitches, exactly half (44) for strikes, 4 hits and 4 walks, John was replaced by Jesus Colome. Colome would proceed to put the game away for good. In one inning of work, Jesus allowed three hits, one walk and three runs. 6-0 now, and many in the ANNOUNCED crowd of 16,617 headed for the warmth of their cars. By the time this one was over, only a few hundred were actually still watching baseball at RFK STADIUM.


Our Nationals only real chance tonight came early, when, with one out, in the third inning--Felipe Lopez and Kory Casto both lined solid singles and were followed by a Ryan Zimmerman walk to load the bases. Only to see Dimitri Young ground into a rally killing 4-6-3 double play. The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, Webb, was not at his best on this cold night. But, despite going to the mound in short sleeves (to everyone's surprise) he battled through 7 innings of 7 hit and three walk ball. Each time Brandon got into trouble, he stepped up to strike out The Washington Hitter (8 times) or induce them into a double play grounder (twice). That's the sign of a quality pitcher, delivering when you don't have your best stuff.

Washington would get its only score in the bottom of the sixth with 2 outs, when Austin Kearns would hammer Webb's first pitch to him down the left field line at the foul pole. Third Base Umpire Jerry Meals ruled the ball a home run--giving the home crowd something to cheer for. Although replays showed the ball to clearly land in foul territory. The call stood, despite a 5 minute protest by Arizona's Manager Bob Melvin.


With the game well out of hand now, Our Manager--Manny Acta, sent out Chad Cordero to get some work in the 9th. Showing some rust from getting virtually no work during the first week of the 2007 season, "The Chief" was not sharp. Number 32 gave up 3 hits, including a homer to left by Eric Byrnes in 21 total pitches. You could tell, when he walked off the field after his 9th inning mop up job, he was very unhappy with himself. Cordero needs some more consistent work.

Through the first six games of 2007, Our Washington Nationals have managed only 1 win. They have not looked good, in just about any capacity. Starting pitching has been less than stellar. On defense, fundamental mistakes are hurting them. And, at the plate, their bats, just like the weather, extremely cold right now. This team needs a blowout, hopefully, our Old Friend, Livan Hernandez can provide that relief on Easter Sunday.

Game Notes & Highlights

Twice Tonight, Nats leftfielder Kory Casto over threw the cutoff man on hits to left. Both times allowing the trail runner to move up. Kory, hit the cutoff man.

In the bottom of the 7th inning, D'Angelo Jimenez was in the game replacing Ronnie Belliard at second. Jimenez drew a walk. Felipe Lopez would then ground a routine hopper up the middle to the second base side of the bag. Diamondbacks second basemen Orlando Hudson moved in and snared the grounder. With D'Angelo running hard toward second, attempting to break up the double play, Hudson paused, attempting to tag out Jimenez and throw to first for the double play. The very instant Hudson moved forward to tag D'Angelo, Jimenez stopped dead in his tracks and backed up. Orlando, confused, decided to throw the ball to first, slinging it off his wrong foot. The ball bounced well in front of the bag. Both Jimenez and FLop safe. Very strange play. All Hudson had to do was wait and tag out Jimenez or toss the ball to Stephen Drew standing on second to get the lead runner. Instead, he rushed and got no one out. Really, it was odd. One of those moments that comes along in a game, that you have never seen before.

In the top of the 8th inning, The Diamondbacks Robby Hammock would hit a high chopper down the third baseline in the infield. Ryan Zimmerman, performing a defensive move as fine as you will ever see the play made, charged in, gloved the ball, while crossing over into foul territory, and unleashed a GORGEOUS underarm sideways toss to Dimitri Young at first. There is NO PLAYER in Major League Baseball that consistently makes that play as well as Ryan Zimmerman.

MickNats would surprise MY BEST FRIEND & The African Queen tonight. Apparently TOPPS Trading Cards, The Baseball Card Company, has produced a special series of Mascot Trading Cards in 2007. MickNats showed up with both the regular edition card of Screech and the limited edition Gold Foil Numbered One. MickNats nicely presented a set to The African Queen, and another to SCREECH. The Queen was very pleased. Screech broke down and cried, hugging MickNats, thanking him for his kindness.

Finally, Section 320 was honored again tonight by Mr. Ed Cordero. Chad's Father joined us, sitting in Section 320 for the entire game. He and The African Queen sharing blankets to stay warm. Mr. Cordero was great. He is a very kind and considerate man. Although, he can't wait to get back to the warmth of Southern California.

Game Photos-AP, Susan Walsh

The Night Of The Fathers

Our Washington Nationals sent Jerome Williams out to the mound tonight in an effort to get a quality start for the first time in 2007. Our Manager, Manny Acta was hoping for the best. As his Bullpen is well taxed and overburdened through the first 4 games of this season. Jerome nearly made it happen, and Manny nearly got his wish. But, some bad luck, two fielding mistakes, a mind boggling no play and the desire to push Williams one inning to long to save the Washington Relief Corp, proved disasterous tonight. The Arizona Diamondbacks defeated Our Washington Nationals 7-1 on a cold night at RFK Stadium. Thankfully, the winds were not swirling around the old ballyard like last night. Tonight's brisk weather far more manageable, and comfortable.

Despite the loss, this was a VERY SPECIAL NIGHT for The African Queen and I. A totally chance meeting by Sohna lead to a wonderful conversation and eventual visit by The Father of one Our Nationals Most Favorite Sons. Then, when we thought the pleasure of meeting this Wonderful Man could not get better, we were approached by another Nationals Player's Family Member as we left Section 320 to head home after the game. More on those two later. First, tonight's game.

Jerome Williams came out strong in the first inning tonight. Throwing just 12 pitches, he retired Arizona in order in the first. And, left the mound, to a rousing ovation from the faithful at RFK Stadium. Nats Fans pleased to see the home squad heading to their first at bats of the evening, not behind on the scoreboard. Jerome's opponent on the mound tonight was tall righthander Micah Owings. Only three players in the history of Major League Baseball have carried the first name of Micah. Two were available to play tonight. Micah Bowie was sitting in The Nationals Bullpen.


For the first three innings of this affair, an old fashioned pitchers duel broke out. The game moving swiftly. Both starters holding their own. Williams perfect--9 Diamondbacks up, 9 Sent Down. Owings had hit tonight's starting Left Fielder, Chris Snelling in the first and Felipe Lopez singled in the 3rd, but neither advanced, both left stranded. Then, just as it appeared Jerome would cruise through a fourth solid inning of shutout ball, Our Washington Nationals feel apart on the field, in three most surprising ways. Just like I mentioned the other day, when The Nationals came back from deep down to defeat The Florida Marlins, you never know what you might see in any baseball game. Every game is different. Unfortunately tonight, those surprising moments in the 4th were not what Home Fans wanted to see, nor The Nationals.


With one down in the top of the 4th, Arizona Shortstop, Alberto Callapso would lace a liner down the left field line. Chris Snelling was on the ball quickly for Washington as the speedy Callapso had his sights set on a double. "Yoda" (Snelling) picked up the ball on the run with his glove hand, whirled and threw a beautiful left handed strike to Ronnie Belliard on the bag at second, beating Alberto by a good two feet. For whatever reason, Belliard never turned to make the tag. Even Callapso had to be surprised. He would have been out by a mile, but was credited with a double. The RFK Stadium Crowd Booed to no end. Ronnie didn't say a word. The play was the harbinger of mistakes to come in this awful half inning.

The very next hitter, Orlando Hudson would hit a sharply hit grounder to Belliard's right, near second base. Callapso was well off the bag. Easily, Ronnie could have attempted to get the lead runner. Instead he took the easy out, throwing out Hudson at first, for out number two. Callapso moving to third. It was at this point, tonight's game took a dramatic turn for the worse for Our Washington Nationals. Power hitting lefthander Chad Tracey stepped to the plate for The Diamondbacks and on a 2-2 count, hammered a deep drive to right, curling toward the corner near the fence and The Nationals Bullpen. Austin Kearns ran hard, drifting to his left and appeared to have the ball in sight. But, at the very last second, Number 25 jumped up, believing the ball was going to hit the wall. Austin not only miss-timed his leap, but also his distance from the wall, losing his balance freefalling to the ground, the ball neither hitting the fence nor his fielding hand. The ball landing cleanly on the warning track, Kearns lying right beside it. Callapso scoring the first run of the evening, Tracey stopping at third with an RBI Triple. Austin flat out pissed at himself, slamming his right hand into his glove hand. The crowd shaking their heads in amazement. Jerome Williams head dropping on the mound in disappointment.

And, then it only got worse.

On the very next pitch of the game, Connor Jackson would slap a routine grounder to Ryan Zimmerman at first. You may recall my interview with Zimmerman and Barry Larkin this spring about Ryan needing to work on his footwork in an attempt to end what they both called "The Silly Errors". Zimmerman cleanly fielded the ball, and instead of continuing to move forward toward first base, he opened up his hips, slinging the ball across the diamond. Immediately, you could see, this ball was in the dirt. Dimitri Young had no chance for the scoop, the ball landing in Arizona's Dugout. Ryan's "Silly Error" was costly. Tracey scored easily from third, for the second run of the night. Jerome Williams felt bad, Ryan Zimmerman a whole lot worse. On just two pitches, Our Washington Nationals were down 2-0, in depressing fashion, heading to the bottom of the 4th, where Washington went quietly.


Then came the top of the 5th, and the DEFENSIVE PLAY OF THE GAME. With one out, Arizona's Catcher, Miguel Montero, would single to center and advance to second on a sacrifice bunt by Micah Ownings. Eric Byrnes would walk bringing Callaspo to the plate with runners on 1st and 2nd, two outs. And, Jerome Williams, now 60 pitches into the game, running out of gas. Callaspo would take ball one, then smoke Jerome's next offering, lacing an opposite field liner to right, Kearns came in on the ball, moving also to his right. Montero was running all the way. Austin picked up the ball on the run, and FIRED A PERFECT ONE HOPPER to Brian Schneider at the plate. Montero attempted to slide around the perfectly blocked plate by Schneider, Home Plate Umpire, Jerry Meals, would have none of that, dramatically calling Miguel OUT AT THE PLATE!! to end the inning. Washington Nationals Team President Stan Kasten was watching the game from the tunnel just to the left of Section 320 & MickNats seat during this half innning. When Meals called Montero out at the plate, Mr. Kasten, into the moment, lunged forward fist pumping with a perfect out call, and "Yeah!!" As Section 320 savored the fine play, I pointed at Mr. Kasten, he replied "HOW ABOUT THAT!" smiling happily.

This Inspiring Defensive Gem, got The Nationals going, and in the bottom of the 5th, their opportunity to get back in the game arose. All without a single hit. Ryan Church would lead off the inning with a walk. And, after Belliard popped to right, Jerome Williams was surprisingly sent to the plate to hit. Attempting to bunt, he was hit by the pitch. Church to second, Williams to first. FLop would the fly to right, allowing Ryan Church to move to third. Williams remained at first base. Then Chris Snelling walked to load the bases. The crowd now on its feet. Up stepped Ryan Zimmerman. Who else in Washington's Lineup would you possibly want up in this situation? No one else. But, tonight would not be "Z's" night. After taking strike one and fouling off strike two--Micah Owings retired him swinging at a high fastball. You could see the frustration on Zimmerman's face. Ryan was very unhappy with himself. The crowd dejectingly plopping themselves back into their seats.


When Jerome Williams took the mound for the top of the 6th inning tonight, he represented the longest pitching stint by a Nationals starter this first week of the season. And, when he retired the first two hitters of the inning, you half expected him to trot out for the 7th inning as well. As it turned out, Jerome barely got out of the 6th, getting that final out was costly.
Connor Jackson would single to center. Scott Hairston would walk on a full count. Chris Young was next. The African Queen asked me whether Young was any good. I mentioned he had a 5-5 day last September 3rd here at RFK against The Nationals, and hit a home run. Was that ever bad luck. As I finished my sentence, Young flat out SMASHED a Jerome Williams Fastball off the Mezzanine in left for a, NO DOUBT, three run homer. 5-0 Diamondbacks now, and this game was officially over, just like that.


Jerome Williams would finish the inning, but left dejectedly. One bad pitch had ruined a rather nice outing. After 88 pitches, 51 for strikes, he went to showers having given up 4 earned runs on 6 hits and 2 walks. Jerome Williams pitched well, but in an effort to save a tired bullpen, Manny left him in, one inning too long. Too bad.

Later, Rule V Draftee Levale Speigner would be called on for mop up duty, to pitch the final two innings of this game and rest the remainder of the relief corp. Levale didn't have it, and Manny wasn't going to take him out. In two innings of work, Speigner gave up 2 runs on 3 hits, and three walks. He couldn't find the plate, tossing just 23 strikes on 44 total pitches. When Our Washington Nationals stepped up for their last at bats in the bottom of the 9th, they were now down 7-0 and only a smattering of folks remained in the stands from the original count of 19,234. Washington really didn't have much of a chance in the 9th, and with two outs everyone remaining, was packing for the trip home. But, MY MAIN MAN!! Ryan Church decided to give the home folks something positive for the journey. He teed off on a Juan Cruz fastball, depositing it over the right centerfield wall for only the second Nationals hit of the night, and only run. Belliard and Kory Casto would single after Church's (Church on Good Friday) homer, in an attempted mini-rally, but Josh Wilson struck out looking to end the game.

Game Notes & Highlights

In the bottom of the 6th, Austin Kearns was on first base with one out, when Brian Schneider hit a grounder near 3rd base. For some reason, Kearns ranged too far off the bag. Chad Tracey caught him in a rundown. Trying to do do much, Kearns made a bad mental mistake, and was tagged out. He nearly flung his helmet, upset with himself, then thought better of it, knowing Manny Acta would not put up with that stuff.

During the 5th inning when Stan Kasten was standing in the tunnel to the left of Section 320, Mr. Kasten noticed me sitting in my customary seat wearing my hooded sweatshirt, wool coat and gloves. Smiling, he yelled over: "Hey, I thought you were one of those tough fans. Why are you all covered up. I thought you would be out here barechested with your Red Curly W painted across your chest!!" Laughing, I replied, "No, that MickNats job!!" We laughed.


Our Washington Nationals may well have lost their 4th of their first 5 games, but no matter what the outcome would be tonight, this date would be special for some time to come. On days The Nationals play and I am at work, The African Queen and I meet at The Stadium Armory Metro Station Stop to head to RFK Stadium together. Tonight, I was running late, and did not get to the designated meet up spot until nearly 6:25pm. As I headed up the escalator to exit the station, I noticed Sohna talking to a gentleman wearing a Red Nationals Team Jacket. He looked familar, but I just couldn't figure him out. As it turned out, when The African Queen, wearing her Nationals Red Jacket, was tranferring from The Yellow Line to an Orange Line Train bound for RFK at L'Enfant Plaza, she happened to sit down in a seat next to this man. He asked her, "Do you go to many of the games?" She replied, "Yes, we are Season Ticket Holders. We come to all of them." The man so pleased, he stuck out his hand to shake Sohna's, saying: "Hi, I'm Chad Cordero's Father." The African Queen was excited to meet him. They struck up a far ranging conversation. And, upon arrival at The Stadium Armory Station, and me nowhere in site, Edward Cordero kindly waited with Sohna, as they discussed various things of interest between them for 15 minutes. Mr. Cordero enjoying the chat and not wanting to leave her waiting alone.


He was kind and considerate. After I arrived, Sohna said: "Look who I have with me." Mr. Cordero introduced himself to me and we all talked and chatted walking toward RFK Stadium. He surprised me by stating he enjoys reading The Nats320 Blog. He knew of my work. I am sure, I was beaming. Since the Nationals Players families sit just to our right, we continued conversing for sometime in Section 320. Mr. Cordero kind enough to take pictures with Sohna and myself. Later, during the bottom of the 8th, with the game well out of hand, Mr. Cordero, on his own doing, returned to Section 320 to visit with Sohna and I. He is alot fun, and extremely knowledgeable about pitching. We could not thank him enough for his kindness to us. Just a terrific man!!

After we said GoodBye to Mr. Cordero, a Big Gentleman came walking up to us saying: "Are you the guy that writes that Nats320 blog?" "Yes, sir." I replied. "You do a great job, your work down at Spring Training was terrific. I'm Jon Rauch's Father, I just wanted to say hello." Sohna replying, "Hi, great, this is the day of the fathers." We all shooked hands, chatted briefly. Mr. Rauch telling me "We love reading your work." Sohna and I thanked him. Mr. Rauch waved, saying goodnight.

The African Queen and I just looked at each other, stunned at the pleasure to meet these two nice men tonight. Spending some time with Edward Cordero and then Jon Rauch's father stopping by just to say hello, was very special.

Credits: All Game Photos From Tonight--Evan Vucci, AP

Chilling

When SenatorNat posted up in Section 320 at RFK Stadium tonight wearing his Washington Redskins Knit Skull Cap and yelling, "BEAT DALLAS!! BEAT DALLAS!!, it certainly seemed appropriate. Tonight's weather was more conducive for Football than Baseball. Kick Off was at 7:05PM.

So, maybe,it was the Game Time Temperature--50 Degrees, a temperature that continued to plummet throughout the night. Maybe it was our starting pitcher trying to do his best Livan Hernandez imitation. Livan sitting in the Visiting Dugout Tonight watching his former team, The Nationals. Or, maybe it was just a starting pitcher not having his best stuff. But, whatever the reason, make no mistake about it, Jason Bergmann's 50 Pitch First Inning for Our Washington Nationals against the Arizona Diamondback's was stunningly painful to watch.

Arizona's first seven hitters in this game all went deep into the count. Expect for Clean Up Hitter Chad Tracey, who Bergmann walked on four straight pitches, none saw less than six pitches in any of their at bats. Jason was all over the place. And, the deeper he went into the count on hitters, you could see his frustration build on the mound. Even a visit by Pitching Coach Randy St.Claire after the Tracey Walk didn't help. When this 28 Minute top of the first inning THANKFULLY ENDED, three issued walks (one with the bases loaded scoring the nights first run) combining with two singles, put the Our Nationals, once again, in an early hole. The Diamondbacks Chris Young two out single to left with the bases loaded, scoring Orlando Hudson and Tracey, the key hit of the inning. 3-0 Arizona before Washington ever batted.


Then, when the Diamondbacks Orlando Hudson, batting lefthanded, slammed an opposite field homer to left center off Bergmann in the top of the third inning, some in this very modest announced crowd of 16,017 (the smallest paid crowd to ever attend a Nats game since the team moved to Washington) actually got up to leave on this bitter cold and windy night at RFK STADIUM. Although Our Washington Nationals would slowly climb back into this game, they failed in the clutch repeatedly, going 0-13 with runners in scoring position. Hudson's Homer would hold up and give The Diamondbacks a lead they would never relinquish tonight in a 4-3 win. The very first win for Arizona in 9 tries, over three seasons, in Washington, DC.




But, this game was all about staying warm, both on the field and in the stands. And, despite the cold artic winds, Section 320 was in FULL FORCE!! 12 dedicated fans total, all of whom, stayed throughout this 3 hour and 9 minute slow moving affair. NO ONE WENT HOME EARLY!! SenatorNat, Andy, Barbara, Richard, MickNats, Kathy, Dave, "The Noise Boys", The African Queen and myself. The chanting, cheering and song continued throughout the evening. So much so, that when the crowd had dwindled to "FAMILY & FRIENDS" size by the 7th inning, Team President Stan Kasten walked by, smilingly waved, nodding his head in appreciation, proud of Section 320's continued commitment, no matter what the situation. Everyone waved back at "The Boss Man".

Jason Bergmann struggled throughout the night, and could not make it out of the fourth inning. After Arizona Pitcher Eddie Gonzalez singled up the middle, Eric Brynes walked and Hudson lined a single to left loading up the bases, Our Manager--Manny Acta finally decided he had seen enough from his starter. After 91 laborious pitches (only 49 strikes), Bergman was sent to an early shower after just 3.2 innings. Another poor start for a Nationals Starting Pitcher, and another long night for the Washington Bullpen. Fortunately, the Bullpen was again up to the task once again, shutting down the Diamondbacks, allowing The Nationals to crawl back into the game.

Tonight, Micah Bowie was the long man out of the pen, called in to calm the storm and hopefully eat up some innings. And, he was terrific--striking out Tracey with the bases loaded to end the fourth. Then, Bowie would help his own cause, mostly by accident, in the bottom of the 4th when Washington responded and got on the scoring board. My Main Man!! Ryan Church would rip a double to right center, and move to third on a grounder by Ronnie Belliard to first. Bowie would step to the plate, and on an 0-2 pitch just fling his bat at the ball. IT WORKED, a chopper to Conner Jackson at first was slow enough to allow Church to score from third for Washington's first run of the evening. The now shivering crowd up on its feet applauding, but probably more pleased to have something to get body the moving and the blood flowing again, in an attempt to stay warm. The Winds were whipping throughout the cavernous stadium. Groups of fans, huddled together in packs trying to block the blistering cold air.


But, even with the temperature dipping into the 30's, Dimitri Young would stay hot and continue to impress at the plate. On the very first pitch he saw in the bottom of the fifth, Number 21, hammered a fastball from Gonzales over the Washington Dream Foundation Sign in right center for his first Home Run as a Washington Nationals. With the score now 4-2, the chilled crowd came to life, many stopped sitting on their hands and under blankets to finally begin making some serious noise. Many dreaming of a comeback similar to yesterday's thriller against The Florida Marlins. Sadly, RallyTime, was not to be tonight.

No doubt, Washington had multiple chances throughout this game to score runs. They outhit Arizona 11 to 6. And despite being down early, The Nationals had runners reach at least second base in each of the first four innings. In fact, during the third inning, The Home Team loaded up the bases with two outs on a Ryan Zimmerman walk, a Austin Kearns ripped grounder down the left field line that went for a double and a Dimitri Young walk. But, with two out, Brian Schneider just got under a Gonzales breaking pitch, lofting the ball to deep right field, only to see Eric Byrnes settle under it to retire the side, to great moans from the fans.

Even after Dimitri's Homer in the fifth, Schneider would double to right center, but be left stranded. Ronnie Belliard, as well, in the 6th after he singled and moved to second on a wild pitch with no body out. Chris Snelling pinch hit for Bowie and hammered a liner to center, but right at Chris Young. Felipe Lopez meekly grounded to first and Kory Casto (0-5 tonight), struck out for his third time tonight.


Finally, The Nationals would pull within one in the 7th when Austin Kearns singled to left and Dimitri Young again walloped a Doug Slaton pitch into deep right center--Kearns running all the way, was held at third by Third Base Coach Tim Tolman. With one out and a chance to tie the game with their next two batters, it was the right decision. Unfortunately, Brian Schneider would meekly ground to short, Kearns would score as Arizona Shortstop Alberto Callaspo would toss the fielded grounder to third to retire the advancing Young. And, when Ryan Church grounded to second, this short lived rally was over. 4-3 Diamondbacks, heading to the eighth. Not many fans left watching this one now, probably less than 1000 DIE HARDS.

Again, in the bottom of the 8th, FLop would double down the right field line, just over the first base bag off reliever Brandon Lyon. Only to see himself stranded also. And, when Diamondbacks Manager Doug Melvin sent out Jose Valverde to close the game out in the ninth, there was no miracle comeback waiting for Our Washington Nationals. Valverde struck out Zimmerman looking, Kearns on a first pitch pop up to second and, finally, Dimtri Young could not provide any more magic, nor do it all tonight. The Big Man grounded out to second base to put this loss officially in the books. The final out of this 4-3 loss sending the few remaining fans scurrying for the warmer climate of their cars or Metro.


As The African Queen commented when we were leaving, "Weather Forcasters are predicting possible snow flurries tomorrow night, temperatures below freezing, will they actually play the game on Friday?" "Yes," I replied, "But the question will be if anyone will show up?"

Game Notes & Highlights of The Evening:

Once again, The Nationals Bullpen was impressive--Bowie, Jesus Colome and Jon Rauch pitched 5.1 innings of shutout one hit ball. There is no way Manny Acta can continue to tax his relievers. Washington needs some quality starts from its pitchers. If not, we may well be seeing Tim Redding, Joel Hanrahan or someone else from that group of 38 pitchers that participated in The Spring Training Rotation Derby, but were demoted to Minor League Camp, soon. After 4 games, Our Starting Pitching has lasted a total of 16. 1 innings out of a possible 36. Once again, not good.

In the top of the 8th inning, Arizona's Tony Clark pinch hit for Doug Slaton. Clark bounced a grounder in the hole between first and second. Dimitri Young ranged to his right and, at the last second, flung himself down to the ground, while raising his glove on the ball's bad hop. The ball landed directly in Young's glove, and he easily tossed out Clark at first. "You can open your eyes now Dimitri!!", I yelled out. Laughs and giggles all around. The site of "The Big Dog", as we've come to call him, lunging to the ground, a terrific site.

Although Kory Casto went hitless tonight, he continues to flat out HAMMER THE BALL each time he connects at the plate. Whether its a stinging grounder or lacing liner, Casto's got a game plan at the plate. He just needs more experience. Very impressive, Number 5 is a better player than I ever thought or realized.

Recently, Barry Svrluga of The Washington Post wrote, describing Team President Stan Kasten as a "Sarcastic New York Lawyer". Mr. Kasten, while walking around RFK Stadium tonight, was handing out his new Washington Nationals Business Card, based on Barry's writing. He stopped by Section 320 to hand me a few. We all started laughing. The card, with The Nationals Logo and Address printed on the card stock read: "STAN KASTEN--Sarcastic New York Lawyer"

The Man's got a sense of humor. You gotta love that!!

Between Innings, The NatPack have a new announcer with a Wireless Microphone and Curly "W" Mic Flag that walks around the park handling the contests and giveaways. Tonight, for the "Around The Horn Trivia", he came to Section 320. New to the layout, he first chose a Washington Nationals Player's wife. She politely declined. We laughed. Then, he proceed to come over to our side and ask Barbara to participate. Which she did. But, what got everyone going, was when he said to everyone of us: "You guys come to the games often?" Total silence in Section 320. You could hear a pin drop. SayHeyKlib gave the guy the Crib Notes Version of Section 320.

Finally, as the crowd thinned out, more and more beer vendors were seen working their way through the stands attempting to sell their "anti-freeze". Nothing, on this cold night, was as important as the sight of this beer man (seen below) passing through Section 320. As I immediately stated upon seeing him: "Look 'The Guz' is selling beer to pass time during his rehab!!"



EVERYONE CRACKED UP!! Although the picture is not totally in focus, this Vendor's Look-A-Like Image with Cristian Guzman MADE THE NIGHT, AND WARMED THE HEARTS OF MANY IN SECTION 320!! JUST FABULOUS!!

Aramark Update

Continuing to look for some answers concerning Aramark and their TERRIBLE service at RFK Stadium, I approached The DC Sports and Entertainment Commission to see what they might be doing to solve this ongoing problem. Their spokesperson got back to me yesterday afternoon, but in light of the terrific Nationals Comeback yesterday, I held the information until today. As it turns out The Washington Times also had an update today.

The DCSEC assured me that they are working diligently to correct Aramarks shortcomings, telling me: The ARAMARK problems are issue one here this week. I think The Nationals and DCSEC have read them the riot act. The situation is that although DCSEC holds the contract with ARAMARK, operationally they deal directly with the Nationals. In that case it is everyone's problem and we are working to correct the deficiencies ASAP.

At the same time, a third party contact has told me--Team President Stan Kasten is thoroughly working on fixing Aramark's deficiencies, or else, THEY ARE GONE.

For me, Gone Today would be fine.

Come ON!! Its JORGE JULIO!!!

When Florida Marlins Manager Fredi Gonzalez trotted out Jorge Julio today to close out the 9th inning against Our Washington Nationals, I could not have been happier. Jorge Julio and I, have history. If you've read the Nats320 blog for some time, you might be familiar with "THE PERFECT STORM" from last September 3rd. On that date, Julio, a freewheeling fastball pitcher like no other (then pitching for Arizona), faced the most dangerous fastball hitter in The National League, Alfonso Soriano. It was no contest then. Soriano cranked out a come from behind blast leading to Washington's extra inning victory over The Diamondbacks that day. Like BangTheDrumNatly told me after, I had called it all the way.

And today was no different. Julio, with the pressure on the line, once again crumbled badly. Our Washington Nationals cranked him all over the park. And, when Dimitri Young powered an opposite field high fly deep to left with the bases loaded and one out, all the Marlins Josh Willingham could do, was PRAY the ball dropped foul. It landed three feet in fair territory. Kory Casto trotted home and RFK STADIUM ERUPTED IN PURE JOY!! Our Washington Nationals had fought back from five runs down and a 6-1 score with three tallies of their own in the bottom of the ninth to defeat The Florida Marlins 7-6. Manny Acta's First Win AS A MAJOR LEAGUE MANAGER!! A win that could not have come at a better time.


You would think we had just won The World Series!! Those fans remaining from the thinned out crowd of 18,835 hollered and cheered for The Nationals as the home team scurried onto the playing field. Robert Fick jumping all over Dimitri Young. Ronnie Belliard jumping up and down thrilled with the comeback. But, nothing beat the site of Our Manager, Manny Acta, literally leaping into the outstretched hands of the large Dimitri Young. For a briefest of moments, Acta hugged Dimitri dearly, while Young held him tight. Both, CHERISHING THE MOMENT!! As Young bounced off the field, he JUBILANTLY FISTED PUMPED THE CROWD WITH BOTH HANDS!! The Cheering Throng behind the Nats Third Base Dugout ROARING ITS APPROVAL!

WHAT AN ENDING to a game that seemed all but over heading to the bottom of the 6th inning. Down 6-1 with today's Washington starter, Matt Chico, already out the game after surrendering three homers--two Titanic Shots, to Cody Ross and Miguel Cabrera, and another blast to right by Florida's Mike Jacobs, all the Marlins where looking for was their starter, Anibel Sanchez, to continue to cruise through The Nats Batting Order. No one in the crowd was really expecting a comeback, not after Washington's performance in their first two games against The Marlins and, especially, with two outs and no one on base in the bottom of the sixth.

THIS IS WHY BASEBALL IS SUCH A GREAT GAME!!

With two outs in that 6th inning, Dimitri Young would single to left, followed by a slicing liner to left center by Brian Schneider, getting the home crowd up on its feet cheering for really the first time today. Then, just like that, this game's momentum quickly shifted. At exactly 2:45PM this afternoon, Our Washington Nationals Officially began the 2007 season, two days after their Home Opener. My Main Man!! Ryan Church unloaded on a Anibel Sanchez Fastball (his 89th pitch of the game) depositing it over the right centerfield wall, just to the right of the Nationals Clock at RFK Stadium, pulling Washington back into this game, 6 to 4. RFK STADIUM WENT NUTS!! Bang Zoom Went the Fireworks!!--The Nationals in a close one, for the first time this early in the season. The entire mood both on and off the field, changed DRAMATICALLY. Seriously, you could feel the great weight of sorrow being dropped off the shoulders of many at the park. THIS GAME WAS ON, and it was only going to get better!

For Manny Acta, the chess match began. Through the remaining course of the today's game, he would use every available bench player, expect for Josh Wilson and unload the bullpen, using everyone save "The Chief", Chad Cordero. Ryan Wagner cruised through two terrific innings of relief work and survived a huge scare in the 7th when Ryan Zimmerman was charged with his first error of the season on a Hanley Ramirez grounder to his left that glanced off his glove. Ramirez would stop at second on the play and advance to third on a line out to center by Dan Uggla. Miguel Cabrera, he of 2 homers, 6 RBI's and a
.700 batting average during this series was then intentionally walked, thankfully. With runners on 1st and 3rd with one out, the powerful Willingham stepped to the plate, in an attempt to put this game out of reach for the final time. Wagner threw his very best slider, his out pitch, inducing a gorgeous 6-4-3 inning ending double play. Felipe Lopez to Belliard to Young. The Crowd on its feet showing its approval. Wagner fist pumping his teammates and the crowd as he trotted to the home dugout.

Both teams would go quietly heading to the pivotal ninth, when the fun reached its ZENITH. Ray King was called on to keep the game close for Washington and almost threw it away, literally. The speedy Alejandro De Aza would drag bunt between first and the pitchers mound. King got to the ball quickly and proceeded to throw the ball--right down the right field line. De Aza motoring into second on the error. After Jason Wood sacrificed De Aza to third, Acta quickly trotted to the mound, calling on Big Jon Rauch to put out the fire. Facing two of Florida's most dangerous hitters, "The Wookie" struck out Ramirez looking and overpowered Uggla swinging to shut down any further damage. Rauch walked off the mound, a hero.

On came Julio for the bottom of the ninth and I ROARED MY APPROVAL!! "Come ON!! Its JORGE JULIO!! Section 320 joined in the fun. For each and every Nationals batter during this glorious half inning, I continued The Jorge Julio Cheer. Everyone getting a kick out it. And, my good luck charmed worked.

Nats Second Sacker, Ronnie Belliard (who had a terrific day both at the plate--three hits and in the field), looped a double down the left field line to open the inning. The Crowd now on its feet. Robert Fick (a double switch defensive replacement for Church in the 9th--Kearns to Center, Fick to Right) worked a full count on Julio, and laced a liner into left center. Belliard running all the way scored easily. Fick stopped at first. The excitement building at RFK STADIUM. With the score now 6-5 Marlins, Manny Acta was going for the tie run. FLop laid down a gorgeous bunt, allowing the slow footed Fick to move to second. Up stepped, Kory Casto, playing in his second game as a Major Leaguer with the game on the line. With the guile of a veteran, Casto was patient, got ahead in the count (2-1) and flat out hammered Jorge's 4th pitch of this at-bat up the middle off Hanley Ramirez the ball rolling into short centerfield. Fick not stopping no matter what, scored standing. Casto with the GAME TYING RBI!! (his first Major League Run Batted In) 6-6 now, and RFK Reaching Pandemonium Level.

The African Queen stating, "How do you think those folks that left early feel now?" As I have always stated: "You never leave a baseball game early-no matter what the score. You never know what you might miss." Was that ever true today.

Amazingly, Marlins Manager Fredi Gonzalez left Jorge Julio in the game. And my "Come ON!! Its Jorge Julio!!" call now reaching fever pitch. Ryan Zimmerman would make Gonzalez pay by dumping a blooper down the right field line. Casto moving to third. Julio, now feeling the pressure, walked Austin Kearns to load the bases on four straight pitches with one out. Not a sole sitting at RFK STADIUM now. No one warming up in Florida's Bullpen, either. This game was for Jorge Julio to lose--which he did, promptly.

Dimitri Young, batting lefthanded, took ball one in the dirt. The Crowd Roaring!! Then, on Jorge's 23 pitch of the inning and last pitch for this game--Young lofted his deep fly down the left field line. The only thing that mattered now was the ball staying fair. It did. At 3:47PM, 62 minutes after Ryan Church jump started the season, THIS GAME WAS OVER IN MIRACULOUS STYLE!! Curly "W" Number One, now in the 2007 Record Book.

The Party was on. As Our Washington Nationals jumped all over each other on the diamond. Fans were high fiving and jumping all over themselves in the stands. The Players pointing, saluting and fist pumping to the fans along the third base side. The Crowd returning the gestures. The Feeling of GREAT UNEXPECTED JOY--not to be forgotten for some time.

Yeah, I know, its just one game. In fact, just the third game of the 2007 season. But, if any team in Major League Baseball deserved such an uplifting performance, it was OUR WASHINGTON NATIONALS TODAY. WHAT A WIN!!

Game Notes:

As The African Queen and I entered RFK Stadium this afternoon, we were greeted by a Washington Nationals Official we have known for some time. Our Washington Nationals needed my help. They were one person short for The President's Race. Since I have experience participating last September, would I do them a favor and run the race today as an emergency fill-in. Without hesitation, I agreed. Today, George Washington, with me providing the footwork, finished third in the running. But as far as I was concerned, I won the race. My Best Friend--Screech!! happily greeted me at the finish line. I was honored to be the first fan yet to run the race in 2007. The "Rushmores" are now handled by Day Hired Nationals Employees.

Matt Chico struggled in his first Major League Appearance. With his entire family sitting in Section 320, Chico gave up 6 runs, 8 hits and 3 Homers over 4 shaky innings. Sohna and I were saddened. We like Matt Chico, alot. Hopefully he can turn it around in the near future.

Cody Ross' Titanic Blast reached the Upper Deck, Section 443 near the left field foul pole, row 5.
Miguel Cabrera hammered his into the Mezzanine, just under Section 447.

FLop looked much more comfortable at shortstop today, his regular position. Ronnie Belliard played like an All-Star. A pest at the plate all day long, Ronnie snared a beautiful backhand liner off the bat of Mike Jacobs with the infield drawn in during the 5th, saving two sure runs. And, played the keystone, turning over that beautiful double play, killing a Marlins rally in the 7th inning.

The Nationals Bullpen pitched 5 innings of 2 hit, 1 walk shutout ball. Levale Speigner allowed an inherited runner to score. But, Micah Bowie, Jesus Colome, Ray King, Ryan Wagner & Jon Rauch combined to shut down the Marlins the rest of the way. As nice of an effort as it was, Chico not going deep into the game, taxed an overused bullpen. Through just three games this season and 27 total possible innings, Our Starters have only pitched in 12.2 of those. Not good.

Finally, Section 320 was visited all day long by Joe Riley, from The Nationals Power blog. Joe experiencing the fun of Section 320. Joe telling us upon leaving: "I wish I had known you guys since last season." Joe had a great time!!

That Hurt!

Throughout the just completed off season, many questioned the potential starting pitching for Our Washington Nationals. Some wondered whether, offensively, the team could score some runs on a consistent basis. But, virtually NO ONE pondered the defensive capabilities of Washington's Home Team entering its third season of play. In fact, many considered The Nationals fairly solid in the field. Then, First Baseman Nick Johnson unexpectedly recovered slowly from his broken femur. "THE GUZ", Cristian Guzman pulled a hamstring on Opening Day playing in his first regular season game since 2005. And Nook Logan, General Manager Jim Bowden's personal pick to patrol the vast outfield wasteland of RFK Stadium, hyper extended his left foot chasing down a deep drive to right center on Monday. All three now on the Disabled List. How quickly times can change. Tonight The Nationals not only looked flat for a second consecutive game, but in the field they played a little like "THE BAD NEWS BEARS".

When Shawn Hill recorded the first out of tonight's game at RFK Stadium on his 28th pitch of the first inning, Our Washington Nationals were already down 2-0 to The Florida Marlins. Some very bad fielding by Josh Wilson and Dimitri Young had put Hill in the hole earlier. And, when Shawn gave up a 2 run single four pitches later making it 4-0, this game was once again--OVER EARLY. The Marlins took Game 2 of the 2007 Season by a 9-3 Score.


This on a night "THE NOISE BOYS" were not in attendance, Section 320 was surprisingly quiet--Virtually No Life, a rarity for a Nationals Home Game. Only Mr & Mrs. MickNats, Abby, Becky and Mike along with The African Queen and I posted up. Considering the way Washington came out to play tonight, maybe were should have all stayed home too. Colleen dropped by with Jeff shortly after the first inning debacle and stated: "We've read all spring long how terrible The Nationals are going to be. But, watching it all play out in living color in front of our very eyes, really sucks!!" And, it did.

Even Screech came by and was STUNNED by the light turnout in Section 320. Knowing the "Noise Boys" can sometimes be late, Screech pretended to look at his watch to ask where they may be. When he realized they would not be there, his head dropped and shook from side to side in sadness. Even Screech understands the audible levels the "NOISE BOYS" can reach and bring to RFK each and every game. But, he did blow kisses to The African Queen.


Those fans that did not watch this game, missed out on miscue after miscue in the field. Shortstop Josh Wilson, replacing the injured Cristian Guzman looked flat out AFRAID to field a grounder. In the first, Josh dove to his left to stop a grounder by Dan Uggla. With Hanley Ramirez running from first on the play, Wilson decided to rush a toss to Felipe Lopez at second in an attempt to get a double play. Instead his glove hand toss sailed right past FLop, and everyone was safe. Josh, buddy, get the sure out next time. Amazingly, the Offical Scorer ruled the play a Fielders Choice (I got to meet the Nats Official Scorer, he's very player friendly--very generous for their stats). Then a routine grounder to Young's right at first, bounced right off his glove and caromed into right field scoring the first two runs of the evening. In the second, Josh went to backhand a Miguel Cabrera grounder only to see it go right through his glove. Number 12 whiffing on the catch. Then, Wilson would throw away a easy grounder in the third for his first official error, and stumble through nearly every fielding chance his way tonight. Only a 6-4-3 Double Play in the 9th started by Josh went cleanly. He was bad in the field.

Felipe Lopez showed some inexperience at Second Base tonight. In the 6th, Florida loaded up the bases with 1 out against Nats reliever Ray King. Marlins Starter Scott Olsen grounded weakly toward Dimitri Young just to the left of King. FLop moved in also. Young cut off the ball and fired to second, rightly so. FLop gave up on the play, and so did King--no one covering first. Wilson had no one to throw the ball back to, at first base, for an inning ending Double Play. The Marlins scored their 6th run of the evening on that mistake. Having seen enough, the fans began to BOO!!

Later, in the 7th, Miguel Cabrera would lace a liner to the wall in deep center. As Wilson went out to cut off the throw back to the infield from Ryan Church, Lopez followed. No one covering second base as Cabrera trotted in freely. Then, in the 9th, Mike Jacobs hit a liner right at Church in center. As has been his problem in the past, liners right at Ryan, he does not judge well. Number 19 came in on the ball, only to see it sail over his head. "The Chief" Chad Cordero gave up two earned runs on that last fielding mistake of the evening to finish out the scoring.

As the errors, both physical and mental, piled up and the chances for a Washington Nationals comeback plummeted, so did the weather and the crowd. Many in the attendance of 20,894 showed up in summer wear--shorts sleeves, tees and shorts for the 75 Degree start. Only to see the weather plunge into the low 50's by games end. By the 8th inning, tonight's affair became a friends and family special. Only a thousand or so die hards sat through this one to its somber end.

With an offense that has shown little muscle in two games, there is no way Our Washington Nationals could have overcome their problems tonight. Bad Defense and less than stellar pitching has put the team in a hole they can not recover thus far. Although, Shawn Hill would actually settle down after the first and surprisingly make it through the fifth inning, throwing 80 pitches, 52 for strikes. He had no chance tonight and was deserving of a better outcome.

As in most every single baseball game, no matter how far you are down, one chance will arise to give you hope of a comeback. Sure enough, it occurred for Washington tonight in the 6th inning. With The Marlins Olsen tiring, Our Nationals would load up the bases on a FLop walk, Kory Casto (playing his first MLB Game) walk, a Ryan Zimmerman fielders choice out, and an Austin Kearns Walk. With one out, Young would then walk in the Nats first run of the evening. The modest crowd began to stir for the first time tonight. Then Brian Schneider would sacrifice fly home "Z". Now, with two runners on and two runs in, Church stepped up to the plate and SHOWED NO PATIENCE--popping out to the catcher to kill the rally. What little air was in Washington's Balloon was extinguished on that final out of the 6th. NO WAY Our Washington Nationals make the big comeback tonight.

Through the first two games of the season, Washington has used 9 separate pitchers. Combined, they have given up 25 hits, 11 Walks and 17 earned runs. Only Jesus Colome and Jon Rauch are unscored upon. If the Nationals starting pitching continues to be unable to go late into a game, this bullpen will be wasted by the end of April. That's not a good sign, folks.

As much as Felipe Lopez struggled at shortstop last season (26 errors) with some head shaking errors, FLop is our best choice right now to fill the void at shortstop while "THE GUZ" recovers from his pulled hamstring. The Nationals signed Ronnie Belliard, for just this reason, an unexpected turn in player personnel due to injury. Time to place Ronnie at second, Felipe at short. There are no other choices in center. My Main Man!!-Ryan Church needs to pull it all together.

From a fans standpoint, Game Two of The 2007 Season was just as lifeless as Monday's Opener. That's sad. Our Washington Nationals need to play with some more energy and pride. The African Queen mentioned that If Manager Manny Acta can keep that smile going while Our Nationals work out these early season kinks, he's one GREAT MAN!!

While leaving RFK Tonight, MickNats jokingly said: "When do you think we should start wearing bags over our heads?" More than a few fans turned around, laughed, commenting--"How about tomorrow afternoon."

Oh--That HURT!!

For the OFFICIAL RECORD--Thomas Jefferson won his second consecutive Presidents Race Tonight. Teddy Roosevelt once again attempted to cheat, popping up from the groundskeepers well down the right field line during the race in a attempt to beat his fellow "Rushmores". Even while trying to beat the odds, Teddy still came up a loser, finishing dead last, once again.

And, my Metro Nationals Game Riding Friend, Janet, stopped by for a hello before the game, along with a host of others. Please stop anytime to say hello and chat. The African Queen and I appreciate the nice comments from everyone.


PS- Metro Failed MISERABLY TONIGHT after the game. Even with only a few thousand to commute from RFK to the suburbs due to the early exiting crowd, Metro could not move fans to Virginia in a timely manner. Reaching the Stadium Armory Station at 10:15PM, we jumped on a Blue Line Train to transfer at L'Enfant Plaza to The Yellow Line. At the transfer point, not a single Yellow Line Train showed up for 30 minutes--without explanation. Two Metro Employees standing on the platform, gabbing away while riders fumed on the platform, being of no help. Eventually, the sign boards read 15 Minutes until the next Huntington Bound Train. So, The Queen and I headed back down to the blue line to Franconia Springfield. Jumped on board the arriving train. Only to see that train sit in the Dark at Arlington Cemetery for 10 minutes and then another 20 minutes at Crystal City. No explanation, as usual from Metro. Arrival Time at King Street 11:55PM. Sohna asked the King Street Station Manager what was the delay. His response: "What Delay?" Seriously--that's what he said!! If Metro and Our Washington Nationals are going to encourage everyone to take the train to the ballpark, stuff like this just can't happen.

Three Strikes & You Are OUT!!

Make no bones about it, Aramarks Concession efforts at RFK yesterday for Opening Day were HORRIBLE!! Knowing a huge crowd was expected, Aramark dropped the ball, BIG TIME!! There is no excuse for running out of Hot Dog Buns, Beer or the basic needs. No one came yesterday expecting a 5 Course Meal at The Nationals Game, just the opportunity to eat a hot dog, drink a cold beer and not miss HALF THE GAME STANDING IN LINE. No longer can Aramark stand behind the excuse of the antiquated facilities of RFK STADIUM.

Aramark is A JOKE!!

Yet, Aramark is the largest stadium concessionaire in America, no one comes close. At RFK, their managers are inexperienced, their hired employees for the site--untrained. After reading Aramarks Spokesperson Dave Freireich's say "You're going to have lines at any stadium on Opening Day. By and large, I think they we did a good job (at RFK)." I had to wonder--Dave WHAT PLANET ARE YOU LIVING ON!!

Dave: As usual, I signed up for the Designated Driver Program at RFK yesterday. For signing up, I received a coupon for one free soda. Yet, when I took that coupon to your Aramark Concession Stand. NOT A SINGLE EMPLOYEE KNEW WHAT IT WAS!! In fact, one employee accused me of trying to cheat them out of free soda!! After 15 minutes, nearly one full inning missed, a 5th Aramark, supposed, supervisor finally told all your employees they were WRONG ONCE AGAIN!!

You better believe I went digging for some answers. Fans should NEVER BE TREATED LIKE THIS!! I know that Aramark IS NOT GUARANTEED ANYTHING for the new Nationals Park on South Capitol Street. As far as I am concerned, they can TAKE A HIKE!! Three Years at RFK, Three Strikes & YOU ARE OUT!!

There was a huge meeting after the game between Aramark and The Nationals. Not sure what was exchanged, but warnings are no longer enough. Aramark either delivers or gets kicked out the door. Aramark is an embarrassment.

Oh, and about Hard Times Cafe & Burrito Brothers. They were Aramark Sub-Contractors. The decison for not returning was HTC & Burrito Brothers not coming to an agreement with Aramark, NOT OUR WASHINGTON NATIONALS. If they did not return for Aramark charging them too much rent--that alone should kill Aramarks continuing to work with the Washington Baseball Franchise. Hard Times Cafe & Burrito Brothers were two of the most favorite vendors at RFK STADIUM.

Perception is now reality--Aramarks Nine Lives Are Up!!

Opening Day--April 2nd, 2007

When those two FA-18A Super Hornets missed timed their Ceremonial Flyover, arriving nearly one minute past the end of The National Anthem and Fireworks at RFK Stadium this afternoon, The African Queen looked at me saying:"That's not a good omen." On as a GORGEOUS AN OPENING DAY as you could ever plan, Our Washington Nationals came out flat. Nats Starter John Patterson just didn't have his best stuff, from the very FIRST PITCH. Florida's Hanley Ramirez made everyone in DC pay for bitching about Ryan Zimmerman being robbed on his win of last season's NL Rookie Of The Year Award. Ramirez banged out 4 hits while scoring 4 runs. And, The Marlins Miguel Cabrera and Dan Uggla HAMMERED OUT TWO TITANIC BLASTS into the upper deck. Sadly, this one was over early, Our Nationals losing Game 1 of The Manny Acta Era, 9-2 before an impressive crowd of 40,389.



Despite the loss, The African Queen and I enjoyed the day. As RallyTimeRichard stated after the game--"Its Baseball, Its Opening Day--How can anybody be unhappy."


Heading off from Alexandria around 10:30 AM, The African Queen and I cruised up I-395 crossed over to the SE/SW Freeway and came to a COMPLETE STOP, just before the South Capitol Street Exit. Nothing was moving in the left hand lane to reach the RFK Stadium Lot 8 Access Road. No way we were sitting through that. So, we decided to take the Pennsylvania Avenue Exit, crossed the bridge moving east onto the Anacostia Freeway North then exited Benning Road, cutting over to Oklahoma and drove directly into Lot 7 at RFK Stadium. Not a SINGLE CAR WAS IN LINE THERE. Total time from South Capitol Street--5 Minutes. From Lot 7, its just an easy drive through the parking lot to cut over to Lot 8 and our customary parking spot. Andy would tell us later it took him nearly ONE HOUR to reach Lot 8 from the SE/SW Freeway. Andy was an unhappy camper. He missed most of the first two innings.





Walking toward the Stadium, Sohna and I ran into Section 320 faithful Troy. Took some pictures and headed for the gates. Players from our Washington Nationals were handing out Red Curly "W" Caps. At the Main Entrance, Ryan Zimmerman and Chad Cordero were smiling away. Both Ryan and "THE CHIEF" recognized us right away. Cordero beaming that wonderful smile that I just love. Chad hammed it up with The African Queen and we wished "Z" good luck for 2007. As we walked toward the walkway to the lower concourse, we ran into Dimitri Young and Shawn Hill. Dimitri was kind enough to pose with The Queen. As we finished the photo I said to him "I only hope you the best for a nice comeback season." Young grabbed my arm, sincerely stating: "That's very kind of you." Shaking his hand now, I replied; "I mean it." Shawn Hill recognized me from our chat in Viera. Extending his hand, I shook it and expressed how much we have rooted for him to pull it all together this spring. Hill appreciated the comments, telling me he's ready for his first start, tomorrow night against these same Marlins.

Later, we ran into Ryan Church, Matt Chico, Chris Snelling and Ray King. Church gave me a nice high five while I told MY MAIN MAN!!: "You made it!! And, you're starting!!" Number 19 responding, " Yeah Man, I'm comfortable. I'm ready." Chico remembered The African Queen (I guess we sort of stand out as a couple). Matt grabbed her arm and gave a nice hug, while posing for a picture. During Spring Training, Chico had told us being a Starter in The Major Leagues in 2007 was his only goal. He felt he was ready. "I guess you proved yourself correct?" I asked. Matt responded, "I did well. (in Florida). Hopefully I can continue it on Wednesday (His first start also against The Marlins). And, any opportunity to meet up with Ray King was not to be forsaken. The African Queen and I chatted with him briefly, pleasantries were exchanged, and he graciously posed for a photo with Sohna.





From there, it was off to Section 320. The "Comfort Zone" was in FULL FORCE for Opening Day. Abby & Mike, "The Noise Boys"--SayHeyKlib, BangTheDrumNatly & RallyTimeRichard. MsZimmy & Shawn, SenatorNat, Troy and eventually Andy with his Dad, Jim. When MickNats had not taken his customary seat by 12:30PM, Neal (Our Famous Beer Vendor) stopped by, looked longingly at MickNats seat, proclaiming: "All these cans are getting heavy, where's he at?" Everyone laughed. MickNats made this game official in the bottom of the first inning. And, of course, what would any Nats Game be without MY BEST FRIEND--SCREECH!!! The "Down In Front" Chant began before Screech made is way in front of us. As usual, he took in all the love, Smooched the Queen and hammed it up with his "BEST FRIEND". Nothing like Screech!!


Many Nats320 readers stopped by to say hello. Thank you all so very much, especially to long time readers, Brian (with an "I"--see I was paying attention), Eddie Cunningham and Lewis. NationalsPower Blogger Joe Riley visited 320. The Curly "W"'s infamous Brandon stopped by for a chat (BangTheDrumNatly took the pix, the camera was Brandon's). And, for the very first time I met" jammingecono" ,The Banks of The Anacostia Nats Blogger and his friend Ross. I loved meeting you guys, so did The African Queen. RallyTimeRicard wondering whether we should have a special guest seat in Section 320 for visitors. We are going to consider our options.


Washington's John Patterson labored through 80 pitches and when Miguel Cabrera just flat out CRUSHED that last JP pitch into Section 446, row 4--Number 22 was done the day, charged with six earned runs in less than 4 innings. Rule V Pick Levale Speigner was called on by Manny Acta to make his Major League Debut and calm the storm. Now wearing number 36 (instead of 69 from Spring Training), Levale pitched well before tiring during his third inning of work, walking in a bases loaded run. But, when Micah Bowie came on to relieve Speigner the game was over. With the stocky Dan Uggla at the plate, Bowie tossed in a pitch, no harder than 85 MPH and Uggla just BLASTED THE BALL, nearly 7 rows deep into Section 552. Not one defensive player on the field moved. Everyone turning to watch the MAJESTIC FLIGHT OF THAT BALL!! Uggla's Home Run one of the longest at RFK since the return of baseball to Washington. How Dan Uggla could power that pitch out on a soft toss, just mind boggling! With the score now 9-2 in the seventh inning, many fans got up to leave.


For Our Washington Nationals, Ryan Zimmerman continued to show what a terrific young player he is. Zimmerman tripled in the first off Florida's Dontrelle Willis, roping a liner over Marlins rightfielder Joe Borchard, and singled in the sixth. Later, in the 8th with the game well out of hand, Number 11 ran hard, all the way down the left field line, near the camera well, for a foul pop by Miguel Olivio. While balancing himself on the protective railing, Zimmerman stretched out to retrieve the ball for an out. It was the finest defensive play of the game.


But, it was Dimitri Young that showed the most promise today. Young doubled to deep left in the 4th, setting up Washington's First Run of the Season on a sacrifice fly by Brian Schneider, scoring Austin Kearns. And, in the 6th, Dimitri briefly gave Nats Fans some hope when he followed Zimmerman's second hit of the game, and a Kearns single to rope a deep liner to right center, scoring Ryan (making the score 6-2) and putting runners on 2nd and 3rd with No outs. Unfortunately, Schneider, Church and Chris Snelling all were retired easily by the overpowering Dontrelle Willis. Power lefthander Willis, pitched a solid six innings. And, showing what a fine all around talent he really is, snared two liners right back to the box, to kill rallies. He didn't get a hit today, but Dontrelle is one of the finest hitting pitchers in the game today.


As bad as any loss can be, the injury bug made today's loss feel a whole lot worse. Centerfielder Nook Logan hyper extended his left foot on a deep drive to right center by Uggla in the fourth. And was replaced by Chris Snelling, Church moving to Center while "Yoda" (Snelling) took his place in left. Later, "The GUZ" pulled up with a slightly pulled hamstring running out a grounder to Cabrera at third in the bottom of the 5th. Josh Wilson replaced Cristian Guzman at short. Both are day to day.


Unfortunately, Snelling's insertion into the game proved costly, defensively. Weak hitting Florida Centerfielder, Alejandro De Aza would loop a liner to left in the top of the seventh inning. Number 8 for Our Nationals (Snelling) took the wrong track to the ball, believing the ball was heading in front of his position, only to realize the ball was lining back over his left shoulder. The hit ball glancing off his left handed glove and rolling all the way to the left field wall. De Aza now standing on third with a generously called triple by the official scorer. The ruling should have been an error. "Shades of Alfonso Soriano last April," I stated to everyone in Section 320. "Maybe even worse," came the response from MickNats. That play was butchered. And, led to two runs, a Sacrifice Fly by Pinch Hitter Aaron Boone, for Willis (I wonder what Nats Assistant GM & VP Player Development Bob Boone was thinking at that point about his son, Aaron) and then the FABULOUS HOMER by Uggla that closed out the scoring.



Despite the loss, for Washington Nationals Fans, one of the real great joys today on the field, was the appearance of that Loveable Loser, Teddy Roosevelt. The "Rushmores" would christen the first President's Race of the Season before the bottom of the 4th inning with Teddy--Zip Lining down from the roof of RFK's Right Field. From Section 320, we could see Teddy standing there during the top of the 4th, harnessed in and waving to the crowd. But, the sight of that humongous head jumping over the Upper Roof and catapulting down the zip line was great. Thomas Jefferson won the race, but Teddy the hearts of fans, today. What a SIGHT!! When Abe and GW made appearances in Section 320 during the 7th inning, our entire contingent chanted--"Let Teddy Win!!", "Let Teddy Win!" Lincoln and Washington joined in the fun, fist pumping to the beat.



Any day with baseball is a joy for me. Opening Day is always a moment to be treasured, especially the last one ever at RFK Stadium with 80 degree sunny weather. Badly, I wanted Manny Acta to win his very first game today as Manager of Our Washington Nationals. His enthusiasm alone, made Manny deserving of the honor. Unfortunately, it was not to be. Though I am not deterred, The Nationals need to play a sharper brand of baseball. They did not look good today. Time to forget about this one. Shawn Hill steps to the plate on Tuesday Night. The Season begins anew once again.


HAPPY OPENING DAY!!

Chatting With The Principal Owner

April 2nd, 2007, marks a significant day for Our Washington Nationals. For the first time in their short history, the team will, not only begin the season at home in The Nation's Capital (hopefully, a tradition that will rightfully continue for years to come), but with Real Ownership in place and a 30 year lease signed and sealed to play on South Capitol Street, come 2008. No longer will Washington Baseball Fans have to worry whether Major League Baseball wil continue to play games, dangling the carrot of Baseball in front of The City and its Fans, in an effort to take even more money and run. The Lerner Group, headed by Ted Lerner, has been in control of the Washington Nationals since last summer, with his son--Mark Lerner, managing many of the day to day Ownership Duties. Just this week, the Washington Post wrote about how Mark Lerner, along with Team President, Stan Kasten and General Manager, Jim Bowden are the trio that has combined together in an effort to transform this franchise.

With Opening Day, tomorrow against The Florida Marlins--I wanted to gauge Ownerships views of what's happening with Our Washington Nationals. Through a series of contacts, I asked whether Mark Lerner would sit down and chat with me for The Nats 320 Blog. Sure enough, as has been the case in the past, the response was positive. Unfortunately, scheduling conflicts and timing on both parts would not allow for a face to face conversation. But, not to disappoint, Mr. Lerner willingly agreed to answer my written questions, if I forwarded them along, which I did. My Questions, became more thoughts, in a effort to get more complete responses. And, I encouraged him to be as expansive as possible. His answers were back to me in just a few days. Although this format did not allow for any followups, to his great credit, Mark Lerner did answer all my questions fully. Following is the complete write-up, my questions followed by his answers, in bold.


1. Your family has a long a successful business career in Lerner Enterprises, why did you want to get involved in Major League Baseball? Your father, Ted Lerner, seems energized by the team. What drew your family’s attention to baseball?

Baseball was always a large part of my life, as long as I can remember. My father, Ted, grew up watching the Senators play. He even had a job working at old Griffith Stadium when he was a teenager. He started taking me to games before I could even walk. When the Senator’s left in 1971 we were devastated. We’d always hoped that we could be part of bringing a team back to the district. Baseball belongs here – it’s got such a long history here and I’ve always firmly believed the National Pastime should be played in our Nation’s Capital. You’d be surprised by how often people stop me to tell me how glad they are that big league baseball is back in Washington. We’re really excited to be a part of that.


2. Were you ever disappointed over the many delays in the Naming of Ownership process by MLB? How did the Lerners and Stan Kasten meet during the ownership process? How much influence did MLB have over the original meeting. How long before you realized the match was a good one, and why? How much of an asset is Mr. Kasten to you and your family in guiding The Lerner Group to the many potholes that develop along the way of owning a team?

My Dad met Stan in 2003. Everyone familiar with baseball knew Stan’s amazing record in Atlanta – on the field and on the business side. Under his watch, the Braves won division titles, pennants, and the World Series. They developed a strong farm system and consistently fielded great talent. He had even helped them build Turner Field.

Early on, we had talked with Stan about getting a team into the D.C. area, but when he made his own bid those conversations, naturally, stopped. Later on, we made the decision that we’d both be putting forward a stronger bid if we joined forces. I’d say it’s lucky that we did.

Stan’s been invaluable to us. His knowledge of the game and the people involved has helped us navigate these new waters. His philosophy for developing the team, his emphasis on fan experience, are both key areas that we all think will be important in taking this team into the future and made our partnership seem like a natural fit.

Of course waiting through the bidding process was difficult and, I must admit, patience is not one of my strongest virtues, but the deal that MLB and the City negotiated was intended to better ensure that the team would have a better ability to compete in the short and long term. It would have been impossible for a new ownership group to purchase the team, build a new world class ballpark AND field a competitive team.


3. The Stadium wrangling between MLB and The District of Columbia has left some city officials and citizens bitter (and many fans dismayed), what have you done as owners to meet with them (City Leaders), appease them, to prove to those naysayer’s that The Stadium Deal, in the long run, is a good deal for the City. Although a Staunch Critic, Mayor Adrian Fenty at least publicly seems willing to work with the team. Have you had any productive meetings with him? Can The District and The Team Grow Together now?

Mayor Fenty has proven himself to be a great partner to the team. We’ve met with him many times now and we’re all invested in getting the ballpark up on time and on budget. I think it’s universally recognized that the new ballpark will spur and contribute to a revitalization of the neighborhood and economy in the SE section of the district, which is beneficial for all of us.

4. Whether you are running a Real Estate Business, a Construction Company, or a Baseball Team, there is a business model to operate it. When your family took over control of the team, how bad a shape was The Nationals Operation business-wise. I am not asking about the product on the field. How badly did this team need an overhaul on the business side?

Obviously, a team without directly invested ownership was not going to get the same kind of attention one would get with ownership that was/is working with its own financial resources. Some of the business operations inherited from MLB were still located in Montreal, other areas were more scaled down than one would see in a fully invested franchise. With Stan Kasten, we have been working diligently to determine what staff and business resources are absolutely necessary to allow our on and off-the-field operations to adequately meet the challenges of building and marketing a new franchise, of building a new ballpark, and of developing a team that can one day compete for a World Series title. I won’t tell you there weren’t huge challenges and we didn’t find unanticipated obstacles, but, like any new business, there are certain sound and logical business judgments we are using to make the Nationals a model for success in Major League Baseball.

5. Its been reported that The Lerners are adding, at least, an additional $30 Million to upgrades to the new ballpark. Was the original design of the ballpark, handed to you and your group, without any say in the original negotiations on that subject, a disappointment in design and utility? Can we (fans) expect more upgrades? Will the exterior have the limestone (DC Monuments) feel that so many originally talked about?

The new ballpark is going to be tremendous – we expect it to be one of the most beautiful ballparks in Major League Baseball and we’re extremely proud of the design. In keeping with the monument aesthetic in Washington, DC, limestone pre-cast has been integrated into the design.

Obviously, as good as the design and plan were, upon assuming control we found there were many additional things that we felt were important to the fan experience and we were willing to make that investment up front, knowing that it would probably make sense in the long term. In the continuous effort to keep our games affordable to all fans, we are constantly looking for ways to maximize revenues from our corporate sponsors and suite-holders. First- class amenities and regular upgrades are essential to that.

We exist in a competitive entertainment market. If we want to be successful in DC and within MLB, we need to continuously find new ways to engage our fans and expand our revenue streams so that we can field a winning team. Fans from all over the country will be visiting the new Nationals Park, and we thought it was important that the game be showcased in a ballpark that’s first class in every single way.

6. Your ownership is in its infancy, much has occurred for The Washington Nationals Franchise since the team was officially handed over to The Lerner Group last July. What have been THE MOST JOYFUL MOMENTS? Those times that have filled you with Bliss over owning a Major League Team. And, what have been the shake your head, why do I have to deal with this, headache moments, that must be dealt with, but are frustrating to you, because you feel they waste time, and in the long term, are not important?

The months since we were officially notified that we would be the new owners of the Washington Nationals have been filled with so many joyful moments. Undertaking this as a family has meant so much to all of us -- it feels terrific. May 3 will always be memorable; the Grand Re-Opening Weekend that celebrated the closing of the deal with MLB (July 21) was truly exciting – our first real chance to interact with the fans and show them how much we appreciated their support for bringing a team to DC; Manny Acta’s signing was a pretty big deal for us – we really liked him and felt that he would be an energetic manager that would be perfect for the team we’re putting together.

It’s hard to shake your head about anything when we all feel that we’ve been so blessed. Buying a baseball team has been one of the most exciting things to ever happen to us as a family. With any new business you have moments that give you pause, but luckily they quickly fade from memory in the light of all the great things going on.

Impatience is a small price to pay, we believe, for successfully bringing the National Pastime back to the families living near or visiting our Nation’s Capital.


7. There are still fans out there that continually blister The Lerner Group for what THEY perceive as ownership NOT SPENDING money on players to be competitive this past off season. And, the expected drop in Annual Team Payroll from above $60 Million to possibly near $40 Million in 2007 is a sign winning is not the ultimate goal of the franchise. Can you please comment on that speculation, once and for all?


Anyone who says we’re not spending money isn’t looking in the right place. We’re spending plenty of money, but we’re spending it smart. In studying the economics of the game we decided to follow the plan of the Atlanta Braves and other clubs that have been successful over the long-term. Player development is crucial to consistently fielding a winning team and we didn’t want to hamstring the organization by bringing in expensive talent that might be a quick fix, but didn’t fit with our long-term goals.

The Nationals farm system was in terrible shape before Stan Kasten and General Manager Jim Bowden got their hands on it. In the last eight months we’ve made changes that have already catapulted us into one of the most promising farm and scouting systems. We’re extraordinarily proud of that.

We’re determined to find and bring up players who will consistently perform for us into the future. As the club begins generating more revenues, and, at the appropriate time, we will certainly be bringing in some free agents that will complement the team we’ve put together and hopefully put us over the top for wins sooner rather than later. Believe me, that’s what we all want.

8. Opening Day, 2007 is the very first day of The Washington Nationals under its original ownership. It’s a significant day to me. Stability has arrived. No longer do fans have to worry about whether MLB, or The City or someone else will step in and the team will move away, again. I am so happy this team is here to stay. What are your feelings about April 2nd, 2007.—everything you have gone through to reach this important day. What can fans expect for 2007? And, when that day is over: What are your short and long term goals for this franchise?

This has been a really satisfying time for us. When we took over the team last year, the season was already underway and there were frenzied efforts to make the improvements that we thought were vital to the fan experience, all while getting a grasp on our new business.

April 2nd, 2007 is a whole new ballgame. We’ve had time to implement the upgrades to RFK that we felt were important, we’ve had a chance to develop a relationship with our fans and the community, and we’ve begun to have an impact on the play on the field.

In 2007 you’ll see how far we’ve come. New manager Manny Acta promises to field a team that’s full of hustle and love for the game. Every play on the field should reflect the direction, philosophy, and competitiveness that Stan Kasten and Jim Bowden have designed.

It’s an extraordinary honor to have been named the caretakers of the national pastime in the Nation’s Capital. We take that responsibility quite seriously. We believe the Washington Nationals will come to be America’s home team. We pledge to bring the passion, performance and quality that will be demanded of the pastime in this city.


9. I have read that your Father, Ted Lerner, has been personally involved in the potential car parking problem at The New Stadium come 2008. Can you tell me what’s being done to work out a situation where the club is losing 10,000 parking spaces at RFK, but does not control even 1/5th that amount on South Capitol Street? For fans, this has to be THE NUMBER ONE CONCERN. I don’t think any other topic comes close in importance.

The agreement between the City and MLB left a number of issues somewhat unresolved, none more important than that of parking. Certainly, my father and my brothers-in-law Ed Cohen and Bob Tanenbaum, and everyone in the ownership group, as well as officials with DCSEC and the Council, have been trying to identify every possible parking option, while also trying to secure adequate Metro access to the new ballpark. I assure you we are leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit of easier access and adequate parking, including the possibility of continued parking arrangements with the DCSEC (DC Sports & Entertainment Commission) for RFK and shuttle services.

10. Many new baseball stadiums around the country honor significant players from their towns past. Despite being out of The Major Leagues for 34 consecutive years, DC has a valuable and rich history in the game. Walter Johnson, Josh Gibson and Frank Howard are three of our greatest sons. I know that some are looking into returning to the new stadium, the original Walter Johnson Plaque that was at Old Griffith Stadium, but moved to Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda. Any Chance The Nationals will build three statues to commemorate three of Washington’s Finest at the new park—Johnson, Gibson and Hondo? Will The Nationals honor Washington Baseball History somewhere on South Capitol Street?

All of us at the Nationals are very proud of the accomplishments of some of DC’s greats. Throughout the new ballpark fans will see tributes to some of those legends. We are continuing to find ways to honor and commemorate the players, the moments, the events that made the National Pastime in the Nation’s Capital so special for all of us. I invite you to pay close attention over the next months as we begin to share some exciting ideas we have about honoring our past, and our future.

11. This is the final season at RFK Stadium. Many Nationals fans probably do not covet RFK as much as I do. I attended 60 games there, as a youngster, watching My Washington Senators (unless a child’s father played for The Senators, I can’t image many other kids attending as many games as I was fortunate to attend). As much as I look forward to the new stadium, I will miss Old DC Stadium. What has the team planned special for its final days? And, will The Washington Nationals honor THE FINEST PLAYER TO EVER CALL RFK HIS HOME—Frank Howard? I know Mr. Kasten told me that he has personally reached out to Frank. Many long time Washingtonians would cherish the moment. Its important to us.

All of us treasure RFK – most of my family grew up watching games there. It will be bittersweet to say goodbye to it and move to the new ballpark. We already have many ideas for honoring RFK Stadium as we move through our final season there, and we’ll be rolling them out through the season. We already started by honoring Robert F. Kennedy at our Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Gala on March 31st.

12. If you have not touched on this in a previous question. Are you enjoying being an owner? What makes it special?

That’s easy: What makes it special is baseball – pure and simple. Every day I wake up thrilled to be one of the owners of the Washington Nationals. Knowing what this game means to kids, to families, to fans of all ages, and what the Nationals can mean to each of them and to Washington, DC, reminds me how important our job is, and how fortunate we are to be a part of this dream. I will never forget that I am a fan first in every decision I am involved in. We will be a GREAT franchise.


That officially concludes My Chat With The Principal Owner. Would I have loved to get in some followups, you better believe it. But timing would not allow that to happen. Maybe, at a later date. When I sent off my questions to Mark Lerner, I asked if he might be available to take a photo with me to set up the interview. What would a Chat on The Nats320 Blog be without my standard photo with the subject?
Thankfully, Mr. Lerner agreed. We met this past Friday Afternoon on the field at RFK Stadium at 2PM. After taking a few shots, we actually had a terrific private conversation for a good 20 minutes. None of which, I will discuss. I found Mr. Lerner very engaging, straightforward and extremely interested in what was on my mind.

So, the point I want to make is that over the past three months, I have been very fortunate, through some very dedicated, passionate and hard work, to get a real inside look at the makings of Our Washington Nationals. Nothing was given to me. I am not blind to the fact that some National's fans are disappointed and upset with some of the movement in the team's direction. What I have found out though, is that the team is WILLING TO LISTEN. Whether its Mark Lerner, Stan Kasten or Jim Bowden, there is an openness to reach out and discuss ideas. They may not necessarily agree with everything I or you say, but the the door is not shut. Can you imagine Washington Redskins Owner Daniel Snyder meeting fans at the Gates of FedEx Field to welcome his customers into the game, like Mark Lerner has done. Or, Daniel Snyder dealing with individual fans issues, like Mr. Kasten. I doubt it.

I am very interested in seeing what road we head down under their leadership. Its going to be fascinating. And, if there is one thing I am certain about, as Our Washington Nationals grow, The Fan Base will not be left hanging on the side of the road. Despite some folks concerns expressed over the past few months at The Washington Franchise, Management seems open enough to care and work out every concern to its best outcome. That's a good sign.

Its just not going to happen tomorrow.

Let's PLAY BALL!!