Being There (Part Two)

As was written yesterday, Our Washington Nationals Chad Cordero is a generous young man. Learning from his Father, Our Number 32 is giving back is his own way now--and Being There for others in need. You well know--not every day any person become a Major League Baseball Player. To be a professional athlete takes a gift and some talent. Skills which many of us never developed or probably never possessed. But that also doesn't mean Big League Players are not human.

"The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" chatted with me recently about his personal efforts to help others in need--in and around his Hometown of Chino, California. For 20 Minutes, Chad and I spoke by phone. Willingly, he gave me some of his private time to talk about his work--outside the game--that is very important to him. No--this conversation was not about baseball. This chat was about making a difference--in lives.

With that--here we go with My Conversation With Chad Cordero.

I was talking with your Dad about all the things you have done for people in and around the community in which you grew up. What really impressed me is that you started to give back—well before you were established in The Major Leagues? (SBF)

“I have always been that way—pretty much right after I first signed (his first professional contract) I donated to my college (Cal-State Fullerton) so they could get a new batting cage for the school. And just recently, I just bought my High School a new Tractor (for the infield grooming) and Scoreboard for their baseball field. And some computers for my aunt’s classrooms.”

“This is a cool thing to be able to do. Many of these folks I am now helping—assisted me in growing up. Now, I have the chance to give back and help them. It’s neat.”

You touched on an important point—your helping of others is not just about sports, but also about education. (SBF)

“Without my education I would not be where I am right now. To be able to go back, talk to some kids in the classrooms, and be able to buy some laptops for the teachers and computers for the classrooms—it’s a BIG DEAL. Because--it helps those that may not have had the opportunity, otherwise, to get a better education. They can now focus a lot more on their studies. When I was in school—computers helped me a lot. To be able to give back like that and know I can make a small difference—is a very nice feeling. Makes me feel good.”

I would image that as much as the kids at these schools are happy to see you—the teachers are very excited to see you too—thanks to your donations? (Chuckling—SBF)

(Laughing back) “Yeah, they are very happy to see me!!”

The first grade teachers that received the laptops from you. I am looking at the picture of them from the newspaper article—what was their reaction? (SBF)

“Excited to say the least and very thankful. These schools are on such a tight budget that sometimes they can’t really afford to pick up those types of things. Whenever anyone comes in and offers to buy stuff like that---they get really excited. No question—they appreciated the offer.”

At your High School in which you graduated—Don Lugo—you donated $62,000 to your alma mater to build a new weight room for sports training. I am very curious—what was that weight room like BEFORE you stepped up to offer this gift? (SBF)

“I don’t even know if you could call it a weight room, basically. It was just an extra room near a shop class with two or three machines and that was about it. It was a really beat up kind of place—something the school had just sort of thrown together—just to say they had a weight room.”

Is Don Lugo a large high school in that district? How many kids attend?

“There might be 3000, I think. It’s a decent size school. Not a giant school, but it’s big enough where they have enough kids there that play sports.”

To make these donations, let’s say to Don Lugo, is this something you walk in on, knew somebody and said: ‘Hey, I want to do this.’ How do these efforts work out for you? (SBF)

“The icebreaker at my high school was my former coach—Joe Marcos. I grew up with him playing baseball together. His brother (Frank) was my pony league coach when I was 13. (Frank Marcos is now Director of The Major League Scouting Bureau and helped Chad in his efforts to reach professional baseball.) So, we have a long relationship with him (Joe). And my parents still talk to him all the time. They (Chad’s parents) still go out to see the high school games—whenever they get a chance. They live right across the street.”

“At other times, things just sort of came up. Some asked if I could do anything and I said ‘Yes—just let me know how much you need (for the project) and I will do it’.”

Have you ever had the chance to speak to the kids about that weight room at Don Lugo? (SBF)

“Unfortunately, not directly with the kids. But, I have had the opportunity to speak with some of the parents from The Booster Club. They were really excited about it because without that (weight room), the kids would not have been able to train properly for athletics. This donation made everything a lot easier for them (The Booster Club). They did not have to do as much fundraising. And they could concentrate now on other projects. They actually could not believe I actually did it.” (Chuckling)

And the baseball coach was mighty thrilled about what you purchased for him? (SBF)

(Laughing) “Yeah, without a doubt. I bought him a brand new pitching machine, scoreboard, and of course the weight room too.”

You seem happy to be able to do these favors for others. I sense that when you were younger—you wished others could do the same for you? (SBF)

“Absolutely. When you are a kid and someone else can help you—or your team out—or in school—it makes you (as a kid) feel good, important. Someone wants you to have the same opportunity that you might not otherwise have. Look at the baseball facility (at Don Lugo)—the kids there can now play in a decent baseball facility. They don’t have to worry about something breaking and going unrepaired. They can just play and learn the game. That makes me feel really good.”

It’s also interesting that you donated funds to purchase items for Ayala High School—another school in your district that you did not attend. And I love that name “AYALA” for obvious reasons. (Both of us busting out laughing). I know that this particular school is named after your mom’s uncle. How much did that have to do with your donation and how much was for need? (SBF)

“The relationship had one thing to do with it. But the head coach at Ayala (Kevin Bowler) was the assistant coach when I was at Don Lugo. He knows my family very well. And my little brother also helped coach the varsity team there. They don’t have a whole lot of money at that school. He was a brand new coach going in there and they needed to fix up the field. So, I offered and bought them uniforms and other things. It made everything on him a lot easier.”

Over the previous winters you have done more than just give donations, you have also given your personal time—Principal For The Day, speaking to kids in classrooms—is this something you seek on your own? (SBF)

“I am always up for anything to do. The Principal of The Day was something my Aunt (Eva Rodriguez) asked if I was interested in doing for her school system. Sure, you know I would do it. She’s a first grade teacher. Then luckily, I was assigned to a particular school where the classrooms were just not numbered but they were named Nationals Park or Shea Stadium or other ballparks like that. Those were the names of the classrooms. It was very cool to go into that environment and see all that happens in there. Given the chance to see how a school operates behind the scenes—you appreciate more what others do in education.”

Was there a classroom named RFK Stadium? And was it rundown and dingy? (Laughing--SBF)

(Laughing) “No, fortunately no.”

I also understand that you coach Winter Ball with your brother, Matthew at Don Lugo. (SBF)

“Of course, I enjoy doing that sort of stuff. For me, it was a lot of fun to go back and hang out with all the kids and try to help them improve. I have done it for a couple of years and it was really a lot of fun.”

What have you been doing with Matthew and The Make-A-Wish Foundation? (SBF)

“My brother is a big part of that organization. I have donated some stuff, and also some money so they could sponsor the kids. Whenever he gets the chance to bring me along, I make myself available. In the past, I have attended some fundraising parties with him. It’s not only fun, but exciting to be apart of something so good.”

“I have no problem donating the money, so this organization can make a kids wish come true. Let’s say a kid wants to go to Disneyland or be a Sheriff For A Day—I help them out. Since they (Make-A-Wish) are a non-profit organization—they don’t have a lot of money. So, they need people like me to donate and support their cause. Whatever I can do to help, I will try.”

Even helping your Sister Ashley hold a fundraiser for Hillview Acres (home for abused children) was something you could not turn your attention away from. (SBF)

“I put on a clinic for her to raise money. And for kids to attend the clinic—they had to bring a toy for admittance. My sister then took all those toys to the home for abused kids. Since The Clinic was held around Christmas—the timing could not have been better—and kids that do not normally get a Christmas—were able to have one—thanks to what my sister was able to do for them—with a little help from me. I believe we had 100 Kids (attend the clinic). So, that’s 100 toys these other youngsters would not have normally received. They experienced the fun of Christmas.”

I find it impressive that you were involved in all these donations and fundraisers, well before you were making the big bucks in The Major Leagues? (SBF)

"It's a part me. The way I was brought up."

Are you working on anything in the near future in community projects? (SBF)

“No, not right now, although I am sure something will come up soon enough. Something always comes up. I am going to be donating some more computers to first grade teachers (at E.J. Marshall Elementary School). Right now—that is the only thing I have going on.”

When you are home and walking around the neighborhood—I would take it that you are pretty popular—and not just because of being a Major League Player? (SBF)

(Laughing) “A little bit. When I go back to my parent’s house, I usually try to make a visit to the old High School—see how things are going there. It’s pretty cool.”

It is amazing how one gift—even a very small item—for you—can be a world of difference for someone else? (SBF)

“Exactly True. It’s why I enjoy doing it.”

“Chino is a middle class neighborhood. Not a really fancy place. At one time it was mainly dairy farms. Over the last couple of years, developers have bought them up. My Godfather grows strawberries. It’s that type of city, lots of cows and that sort of stuff. And people that need some help."

What kind of response do you get from kids at the elementary schools? (SBF)

“Most of the time, it takes them a little bit to realize what’s going on (When Chad shows up to speak with them). But, they get really excited. I go and speak at my aunt’s classroom and they have a video she plays for them. Once they see the video and realize that’s me on the television screen—their faces grow these huge smiles and they begin laughing. They really can’t believe it’s me that’s pitching to Barry Bonds, or someone else.”

She doesn’t play “Hail To The Chief” when you walk into the room, does she? (SBF)

(Laughing) “No.”

With that--My Conversation With Chad Cordero came to an end. For a few minutes longer we talked baseball--but mostly for fun. Nothing like talking to "The Chief". The African Queen and I only wish he was playing right now. We miss him on the field in the 9th inning. Sohna's palpitating heart awaits "The Chief Cardiologist's" return.

Clearly though, Our Number 32 has his priorities in order. Does Chad Cordero HAVE To donate his time and fortune to others? No--he does not. Caring is a human trait. A feeling of belonging. A willingness to be a part of society.

"The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" may not exactly fit into the "EVERYMAN" category--but Chad Cordero has not lost the fact that he can make a difference. No matter your position in society--he well knows--anyone can BE THERE for others--as long as they are willing to try. "The Chief" learned his lessons young and is, thankfully, carrying forward those moral beliefs today.

Sohna and I are very proud he also represents Our Washington Nationals.

Being There (Part One)

“He has been very important in my life. He has always taken me everywhere and been there for me," firmly stated Chad Cordero. "For years, my dad changed his hours at work—by working overnight—just so he could be with us at all our baseball games. When we went on field trips—he was there. Having him around for me and all my brothers and my sister was huge.”

And unquestionably--a big impact on Our Number 32's life.

If you have read The Nats320 Blog for any length of time, you have probably come to realize the action off the field is many times just as important to Sohna and I as the games played on the baseball diamond. Especially the work put in by many of those associated with Our Washington Nationals to help others. No doubt you have read the fine efforts being made by The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Community Initiatives, Our Manager Manny Acta's push forward with his impActa Kids Foundation and Our Franchise Player--Ryan Zimmerman's work with his ziMSfoundation--in honor of his mother, diagnosed with MS (Multiple Sclerosis).

All are honorable and great efforts, but I offer that many may not have heard about the PERSONAL TASKS put forth by "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game." No, he doesn't have his own foundation yet. But, since the very first moments Chad Cordero signed his INITIAL PROFESSIONAL CONTRACT, Our Number 32 has been giving back to those in need--throughout his Southern California Community.
Please take note of some of Chad's generosity.

Batting Cage for his college Alma Mater (Cal-State Fullerton);

Pitching Machine, Portable Batting Cage, John Deere Tractor to grade the infield, new baseball uniforms, new scoreboard, among other items donated to his High School--Don Lugo;

Don Lugo also received a brand new sports weight training room--in which Our Number 32 funded the entire amount of $62,000 for it's construction--All 2,300 Square feet.

$25,000 to local rival High School--Senator Reuben S. Ayala--for a new baseball infield--along with new baseball uniforms. (and no--this Ayala is no relation to Luis--although Chad gives Our Number 56 an "Ayala" Baseball shirt each spring--which Luis wears proudly).

And his personal charitable work does not stop at baseball and sports.

Add these to the list.

Computers for a special education class at nearby Glenmeade Elementary (California).

Six laptops, software and training for first grade teachers at Newman Elementary School in Chino--where his Aunt, Eva Rodriguez, is a first grade teacher.

New Laptop Computers for first grade teachers at his former elementary school--E.J. Marshall. A project currently in the works.

Monetary Donations and Personal Appearances for The City of Chino Recreation Youth Fund and The Make-A-Wish Foundation. Chad's brother--Matthew--works closely with The Make-A-Wish Foundation in Southern California.

"Any time you have the chance to help out kids, or anybody actually, it’s something that you just have to do," said Cordero. "Sure, it makes me feel good, but it’s the impact that one little thing, let’s say giving a kid a shirt, or a new pair of shoes, or something along those lines—makes on that person. It makes that kid feel special—a feeling they might not have had, many times in their lives. These kids don’t have a whole lot of money and can’t afford many things. I feel good knowing they now feel good about receiving something they needed.”

And Chad's big-heartedness all started with his family. A close knit one. Raised in Chino, California--Chad Cordero's Mother--Patti and Father--Ed have always supported their children. Along with his two brothers Matthew & Alan and their sister--Ashley--The Cordero Parents taught their children that hard work brings success.

And no one proved that more than Mr. Edward Cordero.
For 20 Years, Ed Cordero drove the late night delivery truck for Wonder Bread--so he could be with Chad and his other children at all their functions. Whether in Elementary, Intermediate, High School or College--The Cordero's were always there for their kids. At one point--Mr. Cordero also headed the booster club at Chad's Elementary School and was named--by the PTA--as Parent of the Year. He evened coached freshman baseball at Chad's High School--Don Lugo in Chino.

Chad and his Father bonded through baseball. And Mr. Cordero used their private time together to teach his son about the lessons in life. Recently stating; [In life}, "you have the ups and the downs. It's the same thing in baseball. You'll have good games and bad games, and you've got to get up the next day." (I love that line--SBF) Later, he personally told me: "You and I also know--we have to get up the next morning and go to work--no matter how we feel."
Unquestionably--Chad Cordero has learned his father's lessons. Whether accepting the role of Principal For A Day, Riding a Float in The Christmas Youth Parade or just stopping by to chat with kids at the local elementary school--Our Number 32 is taking the time to give back and help out those in need--by BEING THERE.

His ever growing list of good deeds also includes helping his sister, Ashley, to raise funds for Hillview Acres--a home for abused children in California and Coaching Winter Ball at Don Lugo alongside his brother Matthew. Believe it or not--Chad Cordero was The CLEANUP HITTER in High School. Matthew batted 3rd in the lineup.
Recently, Chad Cordero was kind enough to give me some private time--so we could chat about his charitable roles within The City of Chino, California and the surrounding area. But before that conversation can be read--it was important to set the stage for the interview that will follow.

Somewhat shy, but quite engaging--"The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" will discuss his volunteer efforts within the community in which he grew up. And why not--because as Chad Cordero said: "My dad was there for me. It's neat to be there for someone else."

Part Two Tomorrow.

PS--So, do you think Mr. Cordero deserves a nice Father's Day Gift This Year? Wow!!

Gamer

Having to get up at O-Dark-30 this morning, there was no way I could watch the entire game last night between Our Washington Nationals and The San Diego Padres from Petco Park. So, no--I didn't see the back to back home runs given up by Charlie Manning and Joel Hanrahan. And I didn't see Our Offense again go silently through the cool San Diego night--an eventual 4-2 loss.

But, I did stay up long enough to witness an amazing performance by Shawn Hill. All over the place with his pitches, throwing 10 straight balls at one point in the crucial bottom of the third inning--Our Number 41's wildness was so uncommon it was agonizing and downright fascinating to watch--during the same span. At times, you didn't know whether to feel sorry for him--or cheer for his competitive nature.

Inning after inning--he could barely find home plate. Frame after frame--he kept Our Team in the game.

Then, the sight of Shawn Hill "LOBBYING" (as Don Sutton called it on MASN) to stay in the game was just great stuff. Despite the fact that Hill was struggling--HE WANTED THE BALL. He did not care about his personal statistics. Not giving up--Our Number 41 wanted to continue the battle.

ANY DAY--I will take that type of attitude on MY TEAM. Always injured, never fully satisfied with his performance (even if he pitches seven shutout innings)--Shawn Hill is a ballplayer. One of those throwback type guys from decades past. The man's got guts. I love that aspect of his game. It's why I appreciate his effort so much and hope he can turn his injury prone career around.

Shawn Hill NEVER GIVES UP--OR GIVES IN!!

"Gamer" may be an overused term--but no better description for Shawn Hill last night at Petco Park.

Hopefully, his healthy teammates learned a lesson last night--watching this performance.

InGame Photo--(AP) Lenny Ignelzi

Nationals Park Tours To Benefit Dream Foundation

Our Washington Nationals announced this morning that The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation will receive ALL PROCEEDS raised during Private and Public Tours of New Nationals Park. Even before the April 19th start of Public Tours--corporations and special groups were already setting up their own dates for personal looks at the new South Capitol Street Ballpark.

Now--all the dollars raised will be used toward The Washington Nationals Foundation's Cornerstone Projects in and around the Greater Washington, DC area.

Here's the Official Press Release from Our Washington Nationals:

NATIONALS PARK TOURS PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT THE WASHINGTON NATIONALS DREAM FOUNDATION

The Washington Nationals today announced that proceeds from private and public tours of Nationals Park will benefit the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation. The funds will support the Dream Foundation’s cornerstone programs, which include the creation of the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy, in partnership with the District government, that will teach the game of baseball and provide after-school educational programs for children in the District; the creation of the Washington Nationals Pediatric Diabetes Care Complex at Children’s National Medical Center, a world-class facility that will provide a multi-disciplinary approach to supporting families of children with diabetes; and the Neighborhood Initiative, benefitting the Earth Conservation Corps and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington – Hopkins Branch, created to support small, non-profit organizations in the area surrounding Nationals Park with grants, in-kind donations and additional resources.

The tour program launched on Saturday, April 19 and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ballpark. Led by a Nationals Park guide, the one-hour and fifteen minute tour begins at the Center Field Gate and includes many areas of the ballpark the public cannot usually access, including the premium club areas and suites, the Shirley Povich Media Center and the Nationals dugout, batting cages and bullpen. Four tours are offered on most non-gamedays, at 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm and 2:30pm. Tour guides lead guests through interactive activities and provide them with ballpark facts and information on the Washington Nationals, the history of baseball in Washington and Nationals Park.

Tickets for Nationals Park Tours are available at the Nationals Park Box Office or online via nationals.com. The cost of the tour is $15 for an adult and $12 for seniors (fifty-five and older), military (with a valid identification), and children under the age of twelve. A group rate of $12 per person is available for groups of fifteen people or more. Private tours are available for groups of twenty-five or more. The Nationals Park Main Box Office is located at the Center Field Plaza on Half and N Streets, SE, and is open from 10:00am until 5:00pm Monday through Friday and Saturday from 10:00am until 3:00pm on non-gamedays.

Considering

Considering that Our Bullpen has been over used.

Considering that Our Manager says he can't use Saul Rivera, Luis Ayala & Big Jon Rauch every single game.

Considering that Jason Bergmann was pitching shutout ball through nearly six innings yesterday (almost 20 straight) and was relieved with a runner on second with two outs.

And considering that just about everyone watching in the stands, and at home, feels Our Starting Pitchers should be stretched a little longer in their starts.

Do you think it's not the right time for Manny Acta to considering doing just that?

52 Games into 2008--sure seems like Our Starters are capable.

In fact, the Starting Pitchers for Our Washington Nationals have been a strong point most all season long. Yeah, from time to time--they have laid an egg--it's bound to happen. Mostly though--Tim Redding, Jason Bergmann, John Lannan, Odalis Perez and Shawn Hill have been solid. Even Matt Chico had that one terrific start--before faltering.

At the other end of the spectrum, the Backbone Of Our Team over the past three seasons--since baseball's return to Washington--has stumbled. A once powerful bullpen is no longer. This season, the back portion of Our Relief Corp has been unreliable. A season long injury to "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" has changed many pitcher's roles. Situations--some have been unable to handle effectively. And with Chad Cordero out--Big Jon Rauch has stepped in to become Our Team's most reliable reliever. Three wins, 10 Saves in 12 Opportunities and a 2.45 ERA--proves that point.

But, "The Wookie" along with Luis Ayala and Saul Rivera can't do it all. They are not SUPERMEN. They are only human.

Our Manager Manny Acta should have considered leaving Jason Bergmann in the game yesterday. And after yesterday's disheartening loss--Our Number 14 should considering doing just that--in each and every upcoming ballgame--as long as Our Starting Pitcher is still throwing effectively.

Why not?

If Our Young or Emerging Pitchers are ever going to development under pressure--they must consider themselves capable of retiring every batter--under every situation. Sometimes you can win with your starter. Sometimes you can lose by taking him out too soon.

Consider that!

That Freight Train

As That Freight Train known as Dmitri Young pulled past the second station heading toward the third--it was not a question of whether Engine Number 21 was going to arrive safely or not--more of worry--would it RUN OUT OF STEAM!! Dmitri Young was gasping for air--running as hard as his big frame could carry him. Having scorched a liner off the top of the left centerfield wall into The Red Porch Restaurant Area, Young saw 2nd Base Arbitor Paul Emmel rule SAFE--as the baseball ricochet back on the field--away from The Milwaukee Brewers Centerfielder.

The Race Was Now ON!! Two engines of different horsepower looking to make the right move. The Announced Crowd of 28,552 was now on their feet--ROARING--maybe even laughing. Everyone could see this thriller materializing before their eyes. Not is some time--have thousands stood to watch--a train pass. And what a sight to witness. As the very swift and steady Brewers Mike Cameron fired up his engine to quickly run down the rolling baseball--Dmitri was motoring as fast as his caboose could take him. At times--looking like he was moving in slow motion. But This Engine called Dmitri Young was not letting up--huffing and puffing until he rumbled safely into third base--to a STANDING OVATION!!

If Third Base Conductor Tim Tolman had an oxygen tank in his possession--Our Number 21 may well have refueled.

Then--lo and behold--this unexpected detour became only a temporary station stop. After Our Chief Engineer Manny Acta came out to argue the judged ruling on the field--the Track Operators reversed their call--switched tracks if you will--and awarded Young a round trip ticket covering the final 90 feet of track work. This crushed ball HAD CLEARED THE UPPER WALL before bouncing back onto the field.

Our Number 21 celebrating by clasping hands with Conductor Tolman at third--while revving up his wheels once last time--to coast home and be greeted at the final destination stop. All his teammates saying--Welcome Home!! Unless you were cheering for The Milwaukee Brewers--there was not whole lot not to like about what was just witnessed. The Big Red Engine wearing Number 21 had just brought the house down. Most everyone at this Station Stop--rejoicing in the instant.

A Moment In Time To Be Remembered. What a Run!!

But, little did anyone realize this enjoyable moment would be the final real celebration for Our Washington Nationals in this ballgame.

You see, Dmitri Young's blast had only tied the score at three in the bottom of the 8th. While His Freight Train had nearly run out of steam--Young did make it home. A journey his accompanying Freight Cars never accomplished again this afternoon. Running late and behind schedule--Our Washington Nationals and The Milwaukee Brewers motored on--moving side by side--station to station--until the 11th and final destination stop was reached. Here--a crossroad determined the outcome when The Brewers stoked just enough fuel into their fires--to slowly pull ahead. A two out--first pitch--single up the middle by Pinch Hitter Gabe Kapler--which sent that Big Navy Blue Engine known as Prince Fielder past third and on to home--for the Winning Score--The Final Destination--Home Plate.

Our Washington Nationals never able to re-stoke their steam to pull even again. Washington's one final push into The Destination Station--had fallen short--sadly.

Final Score from Beautifully Warm & Comfortable New Nationals Park this Memorial Day Monday--The Milwaukee Brewers 4 and Our Washington Nationals 3.

But make NO MISTAKE ABOUT IT--No one who witnessed it--will EVER FORGET Dmitri Young's romp around the bases. That was not only GREAT THEATRE IN SPORT--BUT A PRICELESS MEMORY TO CHERISH FOREVER. Even a disappointing loss can not sour the taste of that play.

Game Notes & Highlights
Facing a runner in scoring position (2nd base) and the dangerous Prince Fielder stepping to the plate--Our Manager Manny Acta removed Jason Bergmann from the game in the top of the sixth with two outs. To that point--Our Number 57 had completed 19 2/3rd's scoreless innings since his recall from AAA Columbus. Why? You could tell Jason was not happy with the decision. Either, Our Number 14 felt that Fielder would crush Our Number 57--or Manny felt Bergmann had done enough. Either way--Charlie Manning was called upon to retire Fielder on one pitch and Jason went to The Clubhouse sporting a 2-0 advantage and the continued respect of his teammates, his opponents and Our Fans. Striking out 8 and allowing just four hits--Bergmann retired for the day sporting a more healthy 4.50 ERA. Considering that number was well above 11 before his recall--that's progress my friend. Jason Bergmann becoming more and more--the quality middle of the rotation starter--a position many felt he was capable of holding. Good for him.
Cristian Guzman powered out a Ben Sheets Fastball to the Second Level Mezzanine Facade in the bottom of the first inning. A clubbed shot just in front of Section 241 that had New Nationals Park Rocking. "The Guz" now with 5 Home Runs in 2008 alone. Since joining Washington in 2005--Our Number 15 has only hit six total homers before this season. Later in the key bottom of the 5th--Washington had Willie Harris on first and Jesus Flores on second via singles with two outs. "The Guz" hammered a hard hit grounder that appeared to be on its way to the outfield to score the speedy Harris. The Brewers 2nd Baseman Rickie Weeks knocked it down and kept the smash in the infield--saving a run. A Turnabout Play considering what happened later. Harris would have scored Washington's third run of the day at that point--a run that would have nullified Milwaukee's three run rally later. In fact, this game may not have reached extra innings--expect for Rickie Weeks. Our Washington Nationals might have won in regulation. Aaron Boone popped out with the bases loaded in that bottom of the 5th--killing that potential game deciding rally.

Elijah Dukes continued to show promise this afternoon. In the top of the 2nd inning--Prince Fielder HAMMERED a Jason Bergmann pitch over his head in right field and off the wall. The baseball momentarily being trapped between the seam of the electronic Out of Town Wall Board and The Padded Wall. On his caboose--Our Number 34 deftly retrieved the ball off the carom--then threw a toss to Cristian Guzman at second base--a little off the bag--but a good enough strike to retire the Hefty Fielder for The Defensive Play of This Game. Later, in the bottom of the 2nd--Dukes would blister a Ben Sheets high fastball to the left centerfield gap for a clean double. A fine hit immediately followed by Jesus Flores rapping another double down the left field line--scoring Dukes with the second run of the game for Washington. Flores' 10 RBI in 17 Games. A decent number of runs batted in for such limited duty by Our Number 3.

The Brewers fought back from that early 2-0 deficit thanks to some shoddy play by Our Washington Nationals in the 7th. Corey Hart lead off and singled with two strikes off Charlie Manning. Our Number 36 then uncorked a wild pitch--sending Hart to second and setting up this come from behind inning for Milwaukee. After Manning struck out the free swinging Russell Branyan--Our Number 14 removed him from the game and replaced Manning with Brian Sanches. Our New Number 22--effective during his first outing--was not as good this afternoon. Sanches allowed Hart to steal third--by not keeping him close. Then, he walked J.J. Hardy. And made matters worse when Jason Kendall rapped a hard single to left--scoring Hart. Still having the chance to get out of the inning with a lead--Sanches got Milwaukee Pinch Hitter Joe Dillion to hit a grounder--just to the right of Dmitri Young. Our Number 21 could not bend down to pick up the baseball cleanly. Before an unbelieving crowd--the baseball glanced under Young's glove and into right field. One sure out was loss. One sure and unexpected run by The Brewers was scored. Hardy plating the game tying run.

The Brewers would pull ahead on small ball in the 8th. Joel Hanrahan allowed a leadoff walk to Cameron--who immediately stole second base--moved to third on a fly ball by Ryan Braun and scored on a Sacrifice Fly by Fielder. A 3-2 lead short lived--when Young powered out The Moment of The Day in the bottom of the 8th.

Ryan Zimmerman did not play today--sitting out with a sore left shoulder. Manny mentioned in the post game comments that he never considered placing Ryan in a pinch hitting role late this afternoon. Interesting. He needed to rest--according to Our Manager. Also--Our Number 14 mentioned that he CAN NOT send out Saul Rivera, Luis Ayala and Big Jon Rauch everyday. (THANK YOU!!). But was forced to send Rivera out late--when The Brewers ralled against Manning, Sanches and Hanrahan. Reports are that "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" is beginning to throw. Estimated return--Mid June--at the earliest. Chad Cordero is needed in Our Bullpen--if healthy.



Sohna and I were surprised by SCREEEECH!! this afternoon. New Nationals Park is more difficult for My Best Friend!!, The NatPack and The Presidents to move around. So Screech has not visited Our Perch in Section 218 often enough in 2008. Today, thankfully he did--and not only meet up with Old Friends--but made some New Ones.

Finally--Memorial Day Monday--At 3pm Eastern Time--Our Washington Nationals recognized The National Moment of Remembrance--like every single person in America was asked to honor this day. The Baseball Game Stopped and everyone was asked to stand--in thanks for all those who have given their lives for the Freedoms we enjoy each and every day in The United States of America. A Video Tribute was played on the HDTV Scoreboard. A nice touch. No--believe it or not--Memorial Day is not about The Pool Opening, Going to The Beach--Or Cooking Out. Sohna and I visited my uncle--buried at Arlington Cemetery over 43 years ago--this morning. He passed away on D-Day--June 6, 1944.

Today's InGame Photos--(AP) Lawrence Jackson
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All rights reserved)

Growing Pains

He is Young, Big & Strong. And Elijah Dukes is learning to hit on The Major League Level--having struggled all season long since returning from an Opening Night Hamstring Injury. At times, Our Number 34 has shown some flashes of brilliance--the quality talent that many scouts drool over. This afternoon--he displayed why--with two good examples from this ball game against The Milwaukee Brewers . One--which led Our Washington Nationals to victory.

In the top of the 4th inning--Prince Fielder was on first with two outs for The Milwaukee Brewers. Milwaukee's Catcher Mike Rivera blooped a single down the right field line off Tim Redding. A faster runner than the hefty Fielder might have considered scoring--but Elijah charged the baseball and picked it up--just over the right field line. While STILL falling backwards and nearly off his wrong foot--Dukes sent a liner of a toss to Ryan Zimmerman at third. A terrific throw that nearly retired Fielder and had everyone sitting in Section 218 at New Nationals Park murmuring over the quality of his arm. Elijah Dukes threw a laser that had to impress--not only the Fans in the Stands, but Our Washington Nationals Staff and Milwaukee's as well. You just know--The Brewers are going to think twice about sending a runner on Our Number 34 from now on.

Then, with this ball game all tied up in the bottom of the 9th at six apiece--Elijah Dukes was sent to the plate with one out. Carrying a .105 average to the plate--Elijah was just looking to reach base--in any way possible. Most batters under similar pressure would be swinging at everything. Thankfully, Dukes was not. In fact, he was learning--on the job. With the hard throwing Guillermo Mota on the mound for The Brewers--Elijah battled and finished off his BEST AT-BAT OF THE SEASON. A very impressive plate appearance it became.

Down to his final strike after four pitches from Mota--Dukes showed patience. He did not OFFER at The Milwaukee pitcher's tosses off the plate. Two straight fastballs away--two straight takes by Our Number 34. A Professional At-Bat, this was, from a young hitter developing his skills. A resultant six pitch granted walk that now found Elijah Dukes on first base--representing the winning run. Undoubtedly wanting to get a hit to raise his personal average--this young man knew he just needed to become a base runner. Dukes realizing--he DID NOT have to offer at Mota's tosses. When Guillermo Mota DID NOT pitch to Elijah--Our Number 34 DID NOT GET HIMSELF OUT.

A HUGE STEP FOR THIS YOUNG PLAYER.

Eventually, Dukes would advance to third with nobody out on a pinch hit single grounded to right field by Dmitri Young. A setup that now reached it's zenith when FLop stepped to the plate--looking to be the game decider. As it turned out, Guillermo Mota never gave Felipe Lopez the chance. For whatever reason--Mota was worried about Willie Harris--now standing on first base--running for Young. Knowing the speedy Harris was going to flee to second--Guillermo lost his cool AND THIS GAME when he unleashed a WILD PITCH past his catcher Mike Rivera--as Our Number 1 took off for second base. A HUGE MISTAKE that immediately found the hard charging Elijah Dukes sprinting for home. An uncontested rush to to the plate to score The Winning Run and sending this rather LARGE CROWD of 35,567 into a frenzy!!

Our Number 34 was MOBBED near home plate. Bumping Chests with Lastings Milledge and Wily Mo Pena--Elijah Dukes had shown that--even when slumping at the plate--you can contribute in a winning fashion. Curly "W" Number 22 was an unexpected Barnburner--a near romp lost late--but recovered nicely--thanks to one fine plate appearance from a struggling hitter--setting the stage.

The Bang!! ZOOM!! of The Fireworks representing the maturity that Elijah Dukes is ever so slowly possessing. Hopefully, Our Number 34's Growing Pains can be harnessed to become a quality Major League Player. Today, taking baby steps--even the smallest of ones--represented forward directional movement for Elijah Dukes. A good At-Bat here, can lead to many more Good At-Bats there and eventually--One Fine Major Leaguer. The African Queen and I are rooting for him.

Now--can we possibly move Elijah Dukes to Centerfield--a position he has the arm and the ability to defend?

Game Notes & Highlights
This game should have never reached nail biter status. Tim Redding was tiring in the sixth inning--but led 6-0. Then everything fell apart for Washington. A single by Fielder followed by a 10 pitch At-Bat by Corey Hart should have sent up the warning sign. Hart fouled off three two strike counts and took two balls before HAMMERING Our Number 17's last pitch to him the opposite way--to the right centerfield wall--above The Geico Sign for a Two Run Home Run. A blast that should have led to Redding's removal--especially after Russell Branyan followed with a double to right. But on Tim Redding stayed--past a mound visit by Pitching Coach Randy St. Claire--and the recording of the next two outs in the inning. Just when thought Redding would survive--he was gone--for good. Thanks to a two out--two strike--run scoring--bloop double to left by Pinch Hitter Joe Dillon and a subsequent two strike HIT BY PITCH on Rickie Weeks.

Just like that--Our Number 17 was gone and Saul Rivera came on to pitch--even worse. Overworked and used in most every situational need--Our Number 52 had nothing on his pitches this afternoon. By the time he recorded the final out of this awful top of the sixth--he had allowed a DEEP double to left center to Mike Cameron scoring Dillon and Weeks--and a single to right by Gabe Kapler to score Cameron. Surprisingly--Tim Redding had lost a win, Our Washington Nationals had lost a lead and were now tied. The Boo Birds immediately taking flight over New Nationals Park.

Saul Rivera needs a break. If Brian Sanches and Charlie Manning have been brought on board to relieve an overwork bullpen--then put them in the game. Our Number 52 does not have the stamina to pitch each and every day. No one does--no matter how much they individually believe.

Thankfully, Luis Ayala and Big Jon Rauch combined to pitch three scoreless innings and get this ball game back under control for Washington. "The Wookie" getting the win by working the 9th inning.

Aaron Boone continues to swing a hot bat. Today--his fourth homer of the year--a liner just over the wall in the 5th for a two run shot. And a single and run scored. Our Number Eight a solid contributor in 2008. Maybe the best off season free agent signing by Our Washington Nationals. Healthy and playing regularly for the first time after a few injury plagued years--Aaron Boone is looking more like the All-Star player he was with The Cincinnati Reds. Honestly, he is having a fine season--a key player in a an ever revolving lineup.

Lastings Millege and Wily Mo Pena also provided doubles to knock in three Washington runs this afternoon. Ironically, Cristian Guzman would score Our Washington Nationals first run of the afternoon--in the exact same manner as their last. A wild pitch by The Brewers Manny Parra that found "The Guz" scurrying home for today's first tally.

In the bottom of the 7th--there was one terrific defensive play. With Cristian Guzman batting righthanded against The Milwaukee Brewers Tim Dillard--Our Number 15 HAMMERED a liner down the left field line. A sure double by "The Guz" only to see the Gabe Kapler--Milwaukee's Leftfielder run hard all the way toward the ball--never giving up on it--and finally DIVING FLAT OUT TO THE GROUND AND CATCHING Guzman's Drive. A fabulous catch and easily The Defensive Play of This Game. A one time top prospect and now journeyman--no one can ever take away the fact that Gabe Kapler is a great athlete. He showed those skills on this catch. If you didn't cheer for him on that gloved ball--you could not be a baseball fan. Great Stuff!!

Now compare that effort with one of Lastings Milledge in the bottom of the second inning. Our Number 44 had walked and stolen second base with one out. Wily Mo Pena hit a routine ground ball to Milwaukee's shortstop Craig Counsell. A play developing right in front of Milledge. For WHATEVER reason--Lastings decided to advance to third. Counsell EASILY threw him out. Base Running 101--Lastings--please don't run on a ground ball with the play in front of you--when you are not forced. Amazingly--a fan sitting near us thought this effort showed agressiveness on the part of Milledge. Even The African Queen had to laugh at that statement. A silly out that ended any threat for a score from Our Washington Nationals--that inning.

Later--in the top of the third--Milledge, FLop and "The Guz" all converged on a pop up past second base and into short centerfield by The Brewers Pitcher Manny Parra. No one took control. The ball glanced off Felipe Lopez's glove for a cheap single. Someone needed to call for that ball. And someone NEEDED TO CATCH IT!! Come on Guys!!
So--what's with the HDTV Scoreboard no longer showing previous At-Bats by hitters during the game? This information is no longer provided. Why? To follow the flow of the game--it's important to be reminded what occurred--previously.


Despite the announced crowd on 35,567--there appeared to be few empty seats anywhere in the park--expect for behind home plate. This was a LARGE CROWD--for The Brewers no less. Memorial Day may have something to do with it--but you can't take away the fact that fans came out to support Our Washington Nationals this afternoon. The largest crowd since Opening Night. A good sign with school letting out in a few weeks time.


Finally--today was such a GORGEOUS DAY at the ballpark. During the middle innings--I ventured up to The Gallery Level to take some pictures. The Capitol, the unobstructed views of the game. The atmosphere up there is quite nice. Many of the real baseball fans sit there. It was nice to visit for awhile. I really liked it.
Truth be told, I went upstairs last night too--to compare the difference between night and day. Even visited New Section 320 at New Nationals Park--just to say I went there--for old times sakes from RFK STADIUM.

Today's InGame Photos--(AP) Nick Wass
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Dear Lastings

Dear Lastings:

As you rounded third base tonight after your Home Run in the bottom of the fifth--your very first at New Nationals Park--you pretended to take a football handoff from Third Base Coach Tim Tolman. Then, after you crossed home plate--and pointed to the sky--you proceeded to move your way to Our Washington Nationals Dugout. Whereupon--you proceeded to FLAP YOUR WINGS IN GREAT JOY.

Now that was a Home Run Trot for the Memory Banks.

But, did you know Our Washington Nationals were still tailing at the time, now 3-1 to The Milwaukee Brewers?

I have to give you credit--your bravado is beyond reproach. But were those antics really that necessary at THAT PARTICULAR POINT IN TONIGHT'S GAME? We were LOSING. We were not ahead, nor did your home run decide this ball game. There were four more innings waiting to be played.

As I mentioned after your first home run in Philadelphia--you can salute, dance and prance all you want. Better than anyone out there--you must realize that very next pitch coming your way--may well be fired right at your head. As long as you are willing to take that chance and understand the risks--that's fine with me.

But, there are times where you really must contain yourself. Your Home Run Trot tonight was really not necessary under the circumstances. Our Washington Nationals were in the middle of a contested game--Our Team, Your Team, was behind and eventually lost to The Milwaukee Brewers 5-2.

Confidence you no doubt have. Please--think about how you handle yourself.

Baseball is a team game. A competition closely associated with individual accomplishments. One goes hand in hand with the other. They are inseparable. Yet, you must learn to control your emotions at times on the field. If you don't--your actions may well come back to haunt you and Our Washington Nationals in the future.

Dear Lastings--there is a time and place for all of that rejoicing in the game. Celebrating a fine effort on the field by one's self is understandable. But let's be clear--your resultant revelry should not have been displayed during THAT Home Run Trot. There is a better time and place for "The Football Handoff" and "Flapping The Wings".

Game Notes & Highlights
This was a very strange game. Each starter and the two subsequent relievers that followed for each team--did not pitch overly well. Only Solomon Torres from Milwaukee and Charlie Manning--making his Major League Debut for Washington--were effective. John Lannan was excellent over the first three innings--but eventually faltered and allowed a two out, one strike, home run to Corey Hart in the 4th. A turn of events that found Our Number 31 leaving this game early--after five innings and 86 pitches and three runs allowed. Relieved by Joel Hanrahan and Jesus Colome--Washington's Bullpen only extended Milwaukee's lead. Each reliever allowing one run apiece. Hanrahan allowing J.J. Hardy to score on a Jason Kendall double into the left field corner. The fourth run of the night for Milwaukee--where you could argue that Wily Mo Pena could have retrieved the ball sooner--in time for Ryan Zimmerman to make a better relay throw to the plate. "The Human Rain Delay" allowed a NO DOUBT HOME RUN to left center to Mike Cameron in the 8th.

Unexpectedly, this affair was extended and ended in dramatic fashion in the bottom of the 9th, when The Brewers Bill Hall committed two errors and threw away a sure GAME ENDING 5-4-3 Double Play grounder off the bat of Wily Mo Pena. New life that brought hope to the Nats Faithful still on hand. A chance to pull victory from the jaws of defeat. Unfortunately, that dream died, rather quickly, when Elijah Dukes struck out swinging and Pinch Hitter Aaron Boone--Struck Out LOOKING to end this ball game. A final out call by Home Plate Umpire Paul Emmel that Our Number 8 DID NOT AGREE WITH. Was Aaron EVER PISSED!!

Washington's only other score also came in the 5th. Elijah Dukes singled, moved to second on a wild pitch and scored on a RIPPED liner to right over Corey Hart's head for an RBI Double.

Otherwise--not much special about game Number 50 of the 2008 Season.


The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation had their monthly Saturday Night Auction to benefit their Initiatives and Projects. This evening--A Chad Cordero Signed Jersey was available, along with a signed Lastings Milledge Bat, Austin Kearns Opening Night at Nationals Park Cap & Matt Chico signed baseball. Also, for $25, grab bags which consisted of autographed baseballs from members of Our Washington Nationals.

The Milwaukee Racing Sausages again did not post up. And Our Racing Presidents made fun of them.
Tomorrow (Sunday)--Lastings Milledge, Jon Rauch, Jesus Flores and Ryan Langerhans will sign autographs for fans beginning at 12:15 PM--look at the picture provided to see their Section Assignments at New Nationals Park. Signature Sundays--these days are being called by Our Washington Nationals.

Finally--I did ask Usher Coach about what he said to Nick Johnson--and the response he received during last night's playing of "Sweet Caroline" during a Milwaukee Pitching Change. Coach says he looked at Nick Johnson and asked how his torn tendon in his wrist is doing? NJ said GREAT!! That answer apparently led Johnson and Aaron Boone to begin laughing--for some reason. OK.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais
All Other Photos (Nats320) All Rights Reserved

Nats Express From Lot 7 Tonight--May 24th

Just a reminder for those that use the convenient Nats Express from Lot 8 at RFK Stadium. DC United is playing tonight at RFK. So, as has been the case for three previous baseball games involving Our Washington Nationals & Soccer--fans must drive to Lot 7 off East Capitol Street or Oklahoma Avenue & Benning Road NE to access the free shuttle service to New Nationals Park.

Here is the complete Press Release

Nats Express to Operate Out of RFK Lot 7 on Saturday, May 24, 2008


WHAT: Washington Nationals fans choosing to park for free at RFK Stadium and take the Nats Express to Nationals Park may park in Lot 7 on Saturday, May 24, 2008. Due to the D.C. United game, RFK Stadium Lot 8 will not be available to Nationals fans. Lot 7 may be accessed off the Whitney Young Bridge (East Capitol Street) or off of Oklahoma Avenue. The Nats Express begins ninety minutes prior to Nationals home games.

WHO: Washington Nationals Fans choosing to take the free Nats Express

WHEN: Saturday, May 24, 2008

WHERE: RFK Memorial Stadium

Lot 7

Oklahoma Ave & East Capitol Streets, SE

The Routine Play

I guess Wily Mo Pena got the point. When even SBF starts being critical--you better straighten yourself out--or else?!! (and that's a joke and if you can't have fun with it--you just don't get it). Sohna had just finished saying--"You watch, after last night's post, today is the day Wily Mo is going to hit a home run!!" Seconds later--Our Number 26 hit a LASER BEAM over the left field wall--just over the Jackie Robinson #42 Tribute Sign. The First Home Run of the season for one of the strongest men in the game.

The African Queen and I couldn't stop laughing. In fact--we received a funny text message from one of our friends watching at home on television--stating he nearly fell out of his chair when Wily Mo poked Jeff Suppan's pitch over the wall for a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the second. And it was all my fault.

A long awaited moment in 2008 that became the very last hit The Milwaukee Brewers Starting Pitcher would give up--until one key error--prolonged the sixth inning, and jump started a rally for Our Washington Nationals. A night that found Washington getting just three hits--but receiving some quality pitching all evening long.
A ROUTINE PLAY was the downfall for Milwaukee. With one out and FLop on first base with a walk--Cristian Guzman hit a perfect double play ground ball right at The Brewers Shortstop--J.J. Hardy. Looking to pick up the baseball, step on second and throw to first for an inning ending double play--J.J. instead found himself looking to touch the bag BEFORE he fielded the rolling baseball. Fumbling the grounder badly--his momentum carried past second base--without the ball and his subsequent toss to first--too late for the hard charging "GUZ".

One simple everyday play that J.J Hardy will make 99 out of 100 times would lead to a turnabout in play. Nearly out of the inning-a dejected Suppan sagged his head--over this error by his shortstop. A miscue that became the focal point of this 1-1 game at that time. Rattled, Jeff Suppan now had to face Ryan Zimmerman. Even the announced crowd of 28,007 understood the predicament at hand. Waking up for virtually the first time tonight--the fans in the stands began to make noise. No better clutch hitter for Our Washington Nationals with runners in scoring position.
And "Z" didn't waste any time. As he has performed over his short Major League Career--Our Number 11 took advantage of a situation and looked for a ball to drive. Not surprisingly, Suppan gave it to him. On the very first pitch of this KEY At-Bat, The Milwaukee Starter threw an off speed pitch over the outside corner that Ryan Zimmerman DRILLED into the right centerfield gap. When Zimmerman is hitting well--as he has done of late--many of his extra base hits go the opposite way. This Drive easily scoring Felipe Lopez and moving Cristian Guzman to third base. A double that found the Home Faithful on their feet giving their approval. Washington, unexpectedly ahead 2-1.

RALLYTIME!! was now in full effect--thanks to a gift error. And when Dmitri Young was hit by pitch by the flustered Suppan to load the bases-Our Washington Nationals scored a fourth run when Lastings Milledge meekly grounded out to first base for the second out of the inning--plating Guzman from third. Still--this inning was not over--by a long shot. Thanks to another drive which Our New Starting Catcher stroked in his continuing efforts to remain on The Big League Roster.
Not wanting to be sent down when Paul LoDuca returns from The Disabled List--Jesus Flores has impressed once again--both behind the plate and at the plate. Tonight--he HAMMERED Suppan's very first pitch over the outstretched arms of The Brewers Leftfielder--Ryan Braun. A CRACK OF THE BAT that could be heard throughout New Nationals Park. Our Number 3 got good wood on that smack. A bases clearing double scoring Zimmerman and Aaron Boone (pinch running for Dmitri).

Minutes earlier, The Milwaukee Brewers were on their way to the 7th inning to bat in a tie ballgame. Now they found themselves four run downs--thanks to a bobble of an everyday ground ball. How quickly this game changed. Jeff Suppan would lose his compose and ultimately this game. And to think--he was totally in control--throwing a one hitter before Hardy's lapse. Our Washington Nationals had struck back and taken advantage of an egregious error for a 5-1 lead--which would hold up. How many times have we all seen the same scenario play out with Washington on the bad receiving end of a similar mistake?

Not this time.

The Bang!! Zoom!! of The Fireworks proving tonight that the most Routine Play--botched--can completely turnaround any ball game. A fact The Milwaukee Brewers learned tonight--the hard way. Our Washington Nationals taking advantage for Curly "W" Number 21.

Game Notes & Highlights

Odalis Perez started tonight for Washington and only lasted five innings. He was removed, sort of surprisingly after the fifth inning. Our Number 45 wasn't pitching badly, nor did he seem to be losing his control. Yet, Our Manager Manny Acta replaced him with recently recalled Brian Sanches. Later, it was announced Perez had cut his throwing thumb--tossing a pitch. Our New Number 22 then striking out three of the four Milwaukee Batters he faced in the sixth--only allowing a single to Prince Fielder. A drive by the hefty Brewers first baseman that bounced off the 14 foot wall in right field and was thrown back into the infield--before Fielder could run to second base. He should have been standing on second. Nonetheless--Fielder did not score but Sanches scored BIG TIME!!--when Our Washington Nationals rallied in the bottom of the sixth after Hardy's error. The four run frame that made Sanches the beneficiary and THE WINNER in his 2008 Major League Debut.

Only in baseball--how often stuff like that happens to recently recalled players.

Saul Rivera, Luis Ayala and Big Jon Rauch worked the final three innings--unscored upon--to close this win out.

Elijah Dukes fouled a baseball off his instep early in the game and was removed later with an ankle injury. Today's recall--Ryan Lanagerhans replaced him. If Dukes can not go tomorrow--would it not be better to place Langerhans in Center and Milledge in right? Langerhans the far superior outfielder.

I still can't get over the Wily Mo Pena home run. That shot is EXACTLY why Our General Manager Jim Bowden is so infatuated with him. The only problem is that Our Number 26 has never been consistent enough to establish himself. One decent game--does not a season make.

What more can you say about Jesus Flores. Why in world would Our Washington Nationals want to play ANYONE ELSE for an extended time behind the plate. If 2008 is to find out CORE PLAYERS--Our Number 3 is EXACTLY THAT--keep him in the lineup. Really, does it really matter if LoDuca & Johnny Estrada return? They are not the future. Jesus Flores IS!! He needs to continue to improve. Play Him--as many days as you can--without killing him.
When Prince Fielder hit that long single off Brian Sanches--The African Queen noticed that he and Dmitri Young standing side by side at first base--could pass for twins. Yeah, they could. Both are Big Boys!! We chuckled at the resemblance.


During the key sixth inning when The Milwaukee Brewers Manager Ned Yost finally took out Jeff Suppan--"Sweet Caroline" was played to entertain the crowd. As always Usher Coach stepped onto Our Washington Nationals Dugout to get the crowd going. What was funny was the sight of Nick Johnson getting into the festivities from the dugout--mimicking Coach and eventually yelling something out to him. Coach responded and laughed. Johnson and Aaron Boone Busted Out Laughing from the bench. I am going to find out the scoop tomorrow from Coach.

Of course with The Milwaukee Brewers in town--there was suspense over whether The Brewers Famous Racing Sausages would post up at New Nationals Park this evening? With the anticipation great for the middle of the 4th Presidents Race--The Rushmore ran out--alone. No Sausages to compete with. I have to say--The African Queen and I were very disappointed. We were really expecting them. Of course, Our Presidents showed signs after the race--calling out The Sausages for not showing up.
Later--I went over to the Kids Zone Photo Spot to asked what's going on? All The Racing Presidents could do was shrug their shoulders in dismay. Could this all be a set up for The Sausages showing up sometime over Memorial Day Weekend?

No excuses if they don't come.

Sohna and I also got a kick out of the wall scoreboard in right centerfield proclaiming Bang!! Zoom!! Go The Fireworks!! and another Curly "W" in the books at the conclusion of tonight's win. Radio Broadcaster Charlie Slowes had mentioned this to me last week and this was the very first time we had noticed "another Curly 'W' in the books!!" In such a short period of time, it's pretty impressive how many phrases Charlie has coined that are now a part of Our Washington Nationals Baseball Vernacular. Good for him. Fun for us.
Tonight was also Bang!! Zoom!! Go The Fireworks!! Friday Night at New Nationals Park. The less than 10 minute show above and behind the first base stands. The display is decent and the dimming of the stadium lights sort of eerie. We have always found the fireworks funny at the end of the big sendoff. Just as everybody is getting up to leave--the fireworks that apparently did not go off during the program--are set off--just to clear the firing devices. All making for an odd moment--fans thinking maybe they should not be leaving just yet.

Finally--this evening--many that work within New Nationals Park celebrated the 69th Birthday of Richard Miller. Long time Usher at RFK Stadium and now The South Capitol Street Ballpark. Richard, a good friend to Sohna and I, was honored by his teammates and co-workers when his name was placed on the HDTV Scoreboard during the traditional 5th inning Birthday Greetings. If you were paying attention and at the ballpark--there was quite the ruckus during this point in the game. Handclaps, hugs and kisses for this very nice man. Happy Birthday Richard!! May you have Many, Many, More!!

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

A Few Minutes With Lastings Milledge

Lastings Milledge was quite the engaging young man at The ESPN Zone this past Wednesday Afternoon. And after the conclusion of the signing session for fans, Our Washington Nationals Centerfielder was kind enough to give me a few minutes of his time. A one-on-one interview picking up on some of the topics discussed earlier and some others on my mind.

With that, here we go with A Few Minutes With Lastings Milledge.

There was an interesting quote from you the other day in The Washington Post after a reporter asked you whether centerfield is your best position. You responded that you are not fit to be a corner outfielder because you are not going to hit 30 or 40 Home Runs per season. Can you elaborate on that? (SBF)

“Centerfielders should be able to do more in the lineup. And when you take a centerfielder and put them in right or left field—your expectations have risen. Now, he must put up the power numbers and that can be difficult (for me). When I am in centerfield, I can just play my natural game and play how I grew up. There is less pressure on me—rather than moving to right or left field and do things that you can’t do.”

Are you comfortable playing in centerfield? (SBF)

“Yes, I am comfortable playing in centerfield. I think that is my primary position. But then again, I do have a lot to learn. I have a lot of repetitions to get. So, I am only going to get better.”

There was a story in The DC Examiner Newspaper that said you are a very gifted athlete, but not necessarily a gifted outfielder. Do you feel you can be a good outfielder and improve on your play? (SBF)

“Yeah. I have been bouncing around from left to right to center. Once I get consistent reps in centerfield—I will be a great centerfielder.”

As far as your hitting is concerned, what do you need to work on right now? (SBF)

“Nothing. I just need to go out there and get some good pitches to hit. Everybody goes through their own ups and downs. Whether it’s now or later, you are going to fall into a slump. Hopefully, I got mine out of the way and can improve on what I have been doing.”

You mentioned during the Q & A here at The ESPN Zone that sometimes the stands behind home plate in stadiums are so high—that it makes it difficult to track baseballs coming off the bats of hitters. Is that really the case? (SBF)

“Yes, because the baseball will be in the seats and you can’t really get a read off the ball until it gets above the seats and into the sky—where you can really see the ball well. It’s difficult, but the more reps you get in chasing those flies, a couple of years down the road, I will know how everything plays and I will be a decent fielder.”

Does that 14-foot wall at Nationals Park—help you or hinder you? (SBF)

(Laughing) “Oh-it’s OK. Just don’t expect me to be jumping over top of it!! (Both of us busting out laughing). It’s not that big of a deal.”

Looking to improve, before a ballgame—what are doing to enhance your game—in the field and at the plate? (SBF)

“I take plenty of flies off the bat in BP. I am always out there shagging the balls—that’s as close to live baseball as it gets. Taking those balls off the bat and working on my mechanics out there are important. I am trying to be consistent and that holds true in the batting cages as well.”

You knew Manny Acta in New York--obviously—how important is he in your development, so far? (SBF)

“He’s been supportive. I have not gotten off to the start that everyone wanted me to. But he is still there for me and still has my back. He knows that sooner or later, he is going to get the type of player in me—everybody wants. Now, there have been some struggles. The whole team has been struggling a little bit. But, we are winning as well, too. We can sacrifice some individual accolades to help the team.”

“Is it difficult to adjust from New York to Washington? Is this home yet? (SBF)

“”This is home. I am actually more comfortable here because there is a lot going on in New York!! Man, that place is unbelievable!! There are a lot of people. There is a lot of Chaos. But here it is more like my home in Florida—a lot of things are laid back. And still get a good taste of the big city.”

Easier to deal with the press—I guess? (SBF)

(Laughing) “Definitely, Yes!! No comparison!!”

Over the next few months—any short term goals to get your game going? (SBF)

“We just need the team to win. I keep elaborating on it. But winning takes care of a lot of things. If you can help the team and you are not doing as well as you want to do—that’s OK. You end up having more time to work things out. If you are not helping the team and the team is not winning—you can become more of a liability. I don’t want to be that.”

Final question: You feel you have all the skills to be a good outfielder? And what you need is experience playing on The Major League Level? (SBF)

“Yes, Definitely. I have just been in the Big Leagues for a little over a year. Everybody has gone through similar trials. The best players in the game went through it. But I feel I have the skills to be an All-Star Gold Glove Centerfielder—knowing I still have a lot more to work on. I will continue to work hard and eventually it will come.”

With that, my conversation with Lastings Milledge came to an end. There were a few other media outlets waiting to speak with him. Lastings Milledge is an interesting person to chat with. Confidence in himself, a trait not lacking in this young man. There is a lot of pressure on him to succeed in Washington. And at 23 Years of Age--Lastings Milledge will be given every opportunity by Our Washington Nationals to reach his self assured All-Star Status.

"Potential"

There comes a time when "Potential" has surpassed any player. And the colossal struggles of Wily Mo Pena immediately come to my mind. Originally a New York Yankee--Wily Mo was hotly pursued by Our General Manager Jim Bowden--when JimBo was the GM of The Cincinnati Reds. For a couple of years--Pena had some decent--if unspectacular years as an outfielder with The Reds. Eventually, he moved on to The Boston Red Sox--where he first played well--but eventually languished on the bench for The BoSox. Now--Wily Mo Pena finds himself a member of Our Washington Nationals.

Never has Wily Mo Pena earned a starting spot for any consistent period of time--during any point in his Major League Career.

And easily, Our Number 26 has been one of the most disappointing players so far in 2008.

Looking lost at the plate--Pena is receiving off speed pitch, after off speed pitch. Not a single pitcher has challenged him with a fastball. A pitch that--if Wily Mo connected on--could well end up in The Red Loft Bar in Left Centerfield at New Nationals Park. Of course, each opposing pitcher does not have to throw him their heater--as Pena is getting himself out--expanding the strike zone and swinging at everything. Wily Mo Pena has no plate discipline.

Which always bring up one of two questions--whether he is coachable or not receiving the proper coaching? That may be a thought for another day.

But, after 30 games this season and 91 At-Bats, Our Number 26 has not hit one single home run. As powerful and strong as Wily Mo is--that's pretty hard to believe. Being a 2 O'Clock Hitter (as my Dad always called batters that hit well in Batting Practice, but flailed in the game), Pena has been--mostly--an automatic out with runners in scoring position.

Simply--Wily Mo Pena is not helping Our Washington Nationals.

So, how long should Our Washington Nationals keep Wily Mo Pena in the lineup?

When should Our Washington Nationals decide that Wily Mo Pena is more of a deficit--than advantage in the lineup?

At what point should Our Washington Nationals cut bait with Wily Mo Pena--if he doesn't turn his season--and ultimately his career--around?

That time certainly appears to be coming fast.

Clearly--Wily Mo Pena is a below average outfielder. If he slugged 40 Homers and knocked in 100 or more runs--no one would probably care about his fielding. Unfortunately, since Our Number 26's struggles at the plate have been so great--his field work has been magnified--to his detriment. As someone once told me: "I learned early on--never to fall in love with my stocks. And the same holds true for baseball players."

I have never fallen in love with Wily Mo Pena. And Our Washington Nationals should not fall in Love with his "Potential" any longer.

There are better options.

Sorry Wily Mo--Nothing Personal.

PS--Give me credit, I just wrote an entire piece about Our Starting Leftfielder having a terrible season and I did not once, until now, mention My Main Man!!--as tempting as that may be. But even I realize--Ryan Church is perfectly situated in a New York Mets Lineup--behind Jose Reyes and in front of David Wright--that gives him the power to just be himself. And what a season Our Former Number 19 is having--being in a position--where he does not have to be The Mets "Main Man!!" In fact, possibly, Ryan Church is having an All-Star Season. And I am happy for him.

Skunked

As Jamie Moyer trotted home from third base on Shane Victorino's single to right field--The Philadelphia Phillies upped their lead tonight over Our Washington Nationals to 6-0. Then, after Elijah Dukes fielded this bases loaded RBI hit--right at him--the score advanced to 8-0, when a routine toss back into the infield by Dukes was poorly played by Dmitri Young. The site of the thrown ball glancing off Our Number 21's fielding glove--skipping on the grass off toward the 3rd Base Dugout--unable to be retrieved by Jesus Colome--encapsulated just how badly Our Washington Nationals were beaten tonight at New Nationals Park.

This one error set the tone for one of the worst innings Washington may ever play. By the time The Philadelphia Phillies had batted around and sent 13 hitters to the plate--Philly had scored 8 additional runs and lead Washington 12-0. Yes, 12-0!!

You had to wonder if The Umpires might call the game over The Skunk Rule. The Little League decision to stop play after so many innings when one team is up 10 or more runs on another. I would bet not many in attendance and even those playing on the field--would not have minded this Wednesday Night.

This evening--Washington received some poor starting pitching from Matt Chico. Our Number 47 giving up three Home Runs--including A TITANIC BLAST off the bat of Ryan Howard--his first of two homers in the game. This one--landed into the UPPER DECK in right centerfield. Worse--the shot came on an 0-2 pitch by Chico. Nothing worse than that for any pitcher. The first home run to EVER reach Section 243 in a regulation game. What a shot by Howard!! That ball had that majestic flight to it. Ryan Howard HAMMERED IT!!

Later in the terrible sixth inning--Jesus Colome relieved Chico--and just added fuel to the fire. Stepping on the mound with a 3.38 ERA, Our Number 43 was removed from this game--after recording just one out in the inning. But--after allowing five hits, one walk and six runs. Jesus Colome stepped to the Clubhouse sporting a new and not so friendly 5.82 ERA. Did he ever get beaten badly.

This eight run top of the sixth by Philadelphia found Colome and Chris Schroder (who allowed Howard's second home run on the very first pitch he threw in the game) combining to throw 55 Pitches in the half inning. That's right--55 PITCHES!! I recall a game in early 2007 at RFK Stadium--where Jason Bergmann threw 51 pitches in the first inning of his start that night--but at no other time--do I remember such an exhaustive effort to record three outs in just one inning in Washington's DC History Since 2005.

The Mock CHEERS from the those on hand to witness the catastrophe--LOUD AND BOISTEROUS--when the third out was finally recorded in the terrible top of the sixth.

This game so far out of hand, many in the crowd of 28,055 got up to leave immediately after that eight run sixth. By the time Our Washington Nationals actually scored two runs--New Nationals Park had reached "Friends & Family" Status. And the mock cheering in celebratory salute of avoiding the shutout--now echoing throughout the emptying park. For history's sake, there was hardly anyone in the park to witness the moment.

But--at least The African Queen and I can say--we did stay until the bitter end. In fact, Sohna and I were just about the only ones sitting in Section 218 from the 8th inning on. Few others were willing to provide support until the final out was recorded.

Although, it would be hard to blame anyone tonight as The Philadelphia Phillies Skunked Our Washington Nationals 12-2 at chilly and vacant (at the end) New Nationals Park.

Game Notes & Highlights
With John Lannan, Tim Redding and now Jason Bergmann all pitching well and showing promise--why not send "Our Starter In Training" to the minors for a refresher? Matt Chico is talented--but appears to have lost his confidence. Unable to locate his pitches consistently--he needs to regroup and comeback at a later date. There is no harm in that. I'm still sticking with my Dark Horse Favorite from Spring Training--Garrett Mock to make the transition from Minor League thrower to Major League Pitcher.

Amazingly--Washington had 12 hits tonight and could not push across any runs when the game was still in it's infancy. Jesus Flores with three, Ryan Zimmerman, Lastings Milledge and Felipe Lopez--all with two apiece. As has been a problem all season--runners are continually stranded in scoring position. Case in point in the bottom of the second--Milledge on third base and Flores on first with no outs. Wily Mo Pena--flys out meekly, Dukes and Chico strike out.

That Jesus Colome performance tonight was incredible for how badly he pitched. Batting Practice for The Phillies. Colome made Matt Chico's effort look respectable. It was that type of night--especially when Schroder comes on and throws Ryan Howard a first pitch fastball that Ryan deposits over the right centerfield wall. Only Joel Hanrahan would pitch for Washington tonight and get away unscored upon.

Late reports are stating now that Our Washington Nationals may place Austin Kearns on The Disabled List--as his elbow is not healing. Would Our General Manager Jim Bowden recall Alex Escobar to give him another shot? His last? Or Ryan Langerhans? Or someone else--if Kearns is disabled? Either way JimBo chooses--we need some offense--badly--from our outfield. They are not currently doing their jobs--offensively.
Until Dukes singled in his last At-Bat--Elijah's Batting average was down to .037. 037--that's correct!! Wow!!

At least there was some fun off the field.


Usher Rick made a costume addition to his special Nats Phanatic. Not only sporting a new Red Nats Jacket & Curly "W" Bear, but a sign stating: "I am a NATtily attired Phanatic!!"

In the 4th inning--during the GEICO Presidents Race--Teddy came running out of the centerfield gate flashing a cardboard sign. Handwritten on his pad was "Bring On The Sausages" and "Show Me The Mustard". This Memorial Day Weekend, The Milwaukee Brewers visit New Nationals Park. Are The Brewers bringing along their Famous Racing Sausages? As you may recall--The Pittsburgh Pirate Pierogies visited Washington early this month--when The Pirates played at New Nationals Park.

Finally, when the game became a romp--it was time to do some visiting. So, I headed down to the main concourse to catch up with Boris and Charles. They were our regular ushers for the past few seasons in Section 320 at RFK Stadium. We miss those two guys. They have always been into the fun of it all. We like that--a lot.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Lawrence Jackson
All other photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Lastings Milledge ESPN Zone

"I always compared New York to my dad -- I think my dad is worse than New York, to be honest. When I actually got there, I was able to handle myself in a professional manner. I was able to handle adversity real well because my dad put me through a lot. My dad put a lot of pressure on me when I was young. That's why I am here today, I guess.


Our Washington Nationals Centerfielder Lastings Milledge was speaking to an assembled group of nearly 100 fans at The ESPN Zone in downtown Washington, DC. Our Number 44 the first quest speaker of 2008 at the monthly lunchtime Meet & Greets with Fans. As usual, Nationals Broadcaster Charlie Slowes was the host. For nearly one hour--Lastings took questions, joked and provided questions for Charlie to ask to fans. Those fans answering correctly, received two free tickets to an upcoming home game at New Nationals Park.


After about 45 minutes of Q & A--Lastings took pictures and signed autographs for each and every person in attendance.

Lastings Milledge was very personable and--at times--frank about his short time in the Big Leagues. Below is my transcript of selected questions from Charlie Slowes and Fans to Our Number 44.

Here we go.

Question: What are your thoughts on the New York Media riding you over high fiving fans after your first home run at Shea Stadium?

“Well I don’t make $20 Million. So, I guess if you do, you can do whatever you want, I guess (Laughing). I don’t know if a lot of people were upset, but they seemed surprised that a guy, a rookie, would do something like that. I really caught some people by surprise. And I think that is the biggest thing—I caught a lot of people by surprise, because I was a rookie and I was exuberant. Honestly, I don’t think anybody was really ready for it. And I promise you—if I hit a WALK OFF HOME RUN—you will get it also!!”

Charlie Slowes—“Also, you were playing right field that day. If you were playing centerfield that moment might not have happened. You would not have gone down the line from the dugout. —You would have cut across to centerfield.”

“Exactly."

Question: What is your favorite ballpark to play in? The ballpark where when you step on the field—you can’t wait to play.

“Nationals Park. Really, Nationals Park. I love it.”

Charlie Slowes—“What do you like the most about it? From the time you guys arrived from Florida at the end of Spring Training—you saw The Clubhouse and all the amenities before you even walked out on the field.”

“I tell you what. When I first got here in December, I went out there (to Nationals Park). The grass was already out there. And I said ‘Wow’—this is going to be a nice place—despite the fact it was not completed. I said to myself: ‘This is going to be my place.’ I know I am going to be playing 81 games here and it’s easy to say this place is the best place. But, there is just something about it, that video board, when you see your face on there—the nice sound system—and the way they put together the pre-game—it makes you feel good. So honestly, Nationals Park is my favorite park.”

Charlie Slowes: “Manny has moved you around the lineup. You started the year batting second. Now, you have been batting 5th, 6th—does any of that matter to you?”

“No—to me it does not matter. But, at the same time, sometimes you feel comfortable in a position and the change they make affects your game. There are certain things you can or can’t do based on your position in the lineup. Like, in the five hole—I can’t bunt. Or, I don’t really want to steal that much. So, it really changes your game a little bit. But, that is what makes you a better player—changing your game—and being able to take on different roles. So, this has been a challenge for me to take on different roles throughout the year. But, to me, as long as I am out there, as long as I am able to help the team and be an asset on the team—I am comfortable hitting anywhere in the lineup.”
Charlie Slowes: “One role that has not changed for you when you are out there—is where you play. When you came up with The Mets, it was rightfield, left. I remember when The Nationals played in New York last year—when Carlos Beltran was hurt—that’s when The Mets played you in centerfield for a short stretch. Now—you know where you are going every time you play. The corner people have changed—Kearns mostly in right, the leftfielder has changed a lot—and that affects you too, when you have different people playing alongside you when you are the centerfielder—especially when it comes to communicating.”

“Yes, definitely. We have a lot of good outfielders out there. We’ve pretty much played together since spring training. That was enough time to get to know everyone’s game—get to know how much speed a person has. How much ground he can cover. So, we had enough time to really get each others games down and know he others abilities in spring training. So, when Manny switches it up, and there is a different outfielder like Dukes, or Wily Mo, or Willie Harris out there—we pretty much know what we have to do. And we pretty much know how we have to play.”


Charlie Slowes: “One thing that is different and I remember Lou Piniella saying that it is different when you come out of spring training and you become a big leaguer and you are now playing in the big ballparks—as far as—seeing the ball off the bat—the trajectory of the ball. Is it easier or harder?”
“It’s tougher. I had a lot of trouble and am still having a lot of trouble right now still picking up the ball off the bat. This is only my fifth season playing with wood. So, it’s still a little bit difficult to read the ball off the bat. These guys are so strong here and in the Minor Leagues they are not as strong. And you know how the ball is going to come off their bats (in the minors). But here, you have guys like Carlos Lee (Astros), Lance Berkman (Astros)—all these different guys and even Barry Bonds. The ball may not seem like it came off their bats—then the next thing you know it will be 100 feet past you. These guys here are very strong. The stadiums are higher (in the stands and lighting). So, you can’t really get a true read because once the ball comes off the bat the ball is still in the seats. And you really don’t get a good read until the ball gets above the seats. It’s really difficult out there. I can tell you it’s easier, but it’s harder than it really looks. I used to always say:’Dang!! How did that guy drop that fly ball!!’—When I was younger—‘I will never miss a fly ball!’ But, it’s really difficult out there.”

Charlie Slowes: “I hear guys say you can’t watch the bat, you have to watch the ball. If you get the big swing like Carlos Lee—if he doesn’t hit it off the sweet spot—you get fooled by the wood bats.”

“Definitely—because of the sound. What I have always been taught to do is break back—when you hear the crack of the bat. But here—it’s the total opposite. You really have to read the ball. You can’t make a move until you actually see it or read it. So, it’s a little bit different than High School or College (using aluminum bats).

Question: Which pitcher is the toughest for you to face and why?

“I would say Jake Peavey (San Diego) is a tough guy to face. I can tell you that right now. It’s between him and John Smoltz (Atlanta). I would probably say I would rather face Smoltz—as I have a couple of hits off of him. But, I nearly tied the record for consecutive strikeouts because Peavy put me in a slump once. It was crazy. Jake Peavy is one of the better pitchers in the league. He is very deceptive. You never know what he is going to throw.”

Question: How do you like playing in Minute Maid Park with that funky outfield?

“It makes it tougher to read the ball. Left field is so short and then the field plays deep to the gaps. So, you can either run for days or for just 10 feet. A fly ball there—you might think it is gone—but it gets past that short corner and you have to run about 40 feet deeper. So, when you get a fly ball that is in that corner—you don’t really know what to do.”

“I like the old school equal distance type circumference. That is me—all me. I don’t like the short, go deep, come back, and curl route type of fields. I am not a big fan of that.”

Question: There is a lot of controversy about maple versus ash bats. What do you use and why?

“I got caught up in that too-when I first came up (to the Majors). Ash bats are less condense. Maple bats let the ball jump off better. I like using maple for the simple fact that it does not splinter. It is a harder wood. There are the pros and cons. Maple breaks from the inside. So, you never know if you are using a broken bat or not. You can then end up using a bat and it explodes upon contact with a thrown ball. So, I would say that maple bats are probably better because they last longer. Ash bats tend to splinter—unless to bone them. And nobody wants to do all that work. That’s a lot of work. I don’t want to be on the side of the toilet boning my bats. (laughing) I just pick one up and go with it. You can’t just pick up an ash bat and roll with it.”

Question: Ever since The Pope came to Nationals Park, the team is over .500—are there any thoughts to asking The Pope to come back as we get closer to the playoffs?

“We may need to get him to throw out the first pitch. We need to bring him back, man.”

Question: Charlie’s counterparts on TV are always saying they want to see Lastings go to right field. What’s going through your mind when you are at bat? Are the coaches working with you to do that, or is this something the announcers are dreaming up on their own?

“Sometimes you want that approach. Sometimes it depends on how the team is pitching you and the different scenarios that are in play in the game at that time. There are a million and one scenarios. You don’t want to force yourself to go a certain way. It’s better to approach everything in the middle so you can be able to drive the ball to right field, left field and not overly commit to one side of the plate. If they pitch you there, you will be ready. If they pitch you somewhere else—you will not be ready. So, when the announcers are saying he needs to drive the ball to right field—they are basically saying you need to stay on the ball—not pull it—not pull your head and just trying to hit a home run.”

Charlie Slowes: “With all the game scenarios that can play out in each and every at-bat. Is there ever a time now—where you can just step up to the plate and react to the pitch coming?
“When you are hitting and not thinking, you are usually crazy hot. You are not worried about anything or anybody that is on the mound. Pretty much anything that they throw out there on the mound—you have the confidence to do damage at any given time. When you are struggling a little bit and not getting hits—that’s when you have to be mentally strong. You can’t worry about: ‘should I go right field? Left field? He’s pitching me here. He threw me two curve balls and I think he is going to throw me another.’ This is where you start thinking too much and start making the game more difficult than what it already is. You are mentally out of it.”

“It’s a tough game out there. It is a game of failure. It affects you mentally. This is one of the only games that really affects your family. It goes beyond play and affects your home. If you don’t come through, if you don’t get ahead, you don’t want to disappoint your family. They want you to do so well. They are so use to you being an All-Star or MVP or High School Player of The Year—and you get to The Major Leagues where EVERYBODY has had those accolades. Baseball is a toll on your family, but this is what we want to do. It’s a dream, so you kind of have to go with it.”




With that--Charlies Slowes invited all those in attendance to line up for autographs and pictures. The Next Scheduled ESPN Zone Meet & Greet with a player for Our Washington Nationals is June 25th.

By the way--notice the special Washington Nationals Leather Lounge Chair in which Lastings sat in during the get together. It will be given away--by ESPN Zone after the final Meet & Greet in September. Raffle tickets are given out by ESPN Zone Staff during the luncheon and collected at the conclusion of the program. Each and every Guest of Our Washington Nationals at the ESPN for the Five Scheduled Dates will sign the chair--as Lastings Milledge did before leaving ESPN Zone in Downtown Washington, DC.

Patience & Forethought

Those cheering for The Philadelphia Phillies were on their feet--whooping it up. Our Washington Nationals Rob Mackowiak was down to his final strike. The Potential Final Out of this game. But, the Washington Faithful were not going to let The Phillie Fans take over New Nationals Park. No--not tonight and not in this very closely played affair. Eljiah Dukes was standing on second base after a two out walk and subsequent steal. The Score Now--Philadelphia 1 and Washington 0.

Not wishing to be out shouted in their very own park--the Washington Fans let loose. Just about EVERY SINGLE PERSON remaining among the 28,105 was standing. The New Ballpark on South Capitol Street was ROCKING as The Phillies Brad Lidge set and threw the 7th pitch of this crucial At-Bat. A CALLED BALL THREE!! that raised the tension level inside New Nationals Park a bit higher--especially after Dukes took off again--stealing third base--now finding himself 90 feet from home plate with the tying run.

How quickly this bottom of the 9th inning had changed--all with two outs.

As Phillies Fans attempted to get louder--they were drowned out by Washington's Fans. A thankful occurrence that nearly exploded into hysteria when Mackowiak would battle on and into the 8th and final pitch of this terrific Pinch Hit At-Bat by walking--putting runners on first and third with two outs. The eruption inside New Nationals Park had the Club Level Section--in which we were sitting--ACTUALLY MOVING!! The Concrete Floor below our feet was SWAYING--not the first time we have felt this phenomena this season. But, sort of similar to those jumping seats that so many enjoyed along the third baseline at RFK Stadium.

Our Manager Manny Acta realized this game was now at hand and substituted the speedy Willie Harris to run for the slow moving Mackowiak at first base. Unexpectedly, Our Washington Nationals had fought back into position to tie and even possibly win this game--in a walk off. All thanks to Lidge--the one time Houston Astros Closer given up on and traded over this past winter to Philadelphia--for just this same reason--being inconsistent in the strike zone and losing ballgames late. Brad Lidge was doing just that tonight--despite his terrific start to his 2008 Season. He could not command the strike zone and Our Washington Nationals were slowly chipping away at his mistakes.

The Crowd Noise was now at an all time high for the evening. The Dueling Chants from the fans of the opposing sides--filling New Nationals Park. With Felipe Lopez coming to the plate with runners on 1st and 3rd with two outs--in the bottom of the 9th--Our Washington Nationals found themselves in the position to win. Who didn't think Harris would possibly attempt to steal second and get himself in scoring position. Patience at the plate--was all Washington needed to set up the winning score.

All FLop had to do was take a pitch. A toss to help his team. A throw to find out whether Brad Lidge was losing it and was ultimately going to cost Philadelphia this game.

With great anticipation hanging in the air--Brad Lidge looked in for the sign from his Catcher Carlos Ruiz. Our Number 2 set himself. Willie Harris took his lead--hoping to move to second base. Finally, Lidge set himself and fired--not a 96 MPH Fastball, but an off speed slider--an 86 MPH toss that FLop INCREDIBLY swung at?!!

Like why?

Fooled badly on the pitch by Brad Lidge--Felipe Lopez meekly grounded out to Chase Utley at second base. A rally killing and DEFLATING final out of this game. Not often do you witness--first hand--a complete turnabout of emotions--in a split second.

Just like that--the balloon had busted for Fans of Our Washington Nationals and those Phillie Fans now proudly pumped their fists and chests in jubilation over their fortune. Moments away from losing the slimmest of leads and possibly receiving a loss in the standings--The Philadelphia Phillies had now defeated Our Washington Nationals 1-0 because with the game on the line--Felipe Lopez did not have patience. The forethought to allow Harris to scoot to second base. The tolerance to wait a struggling pitcher out.

Game Number 47 of the 2008 Season was a hard loss to swallow--and not just because of the manner the final out was executed. But, because Jason Bergmann pitched another GREAT GAME TONIGHT--seven innings of shutout ball. Since his return from AAA Columbus--Our Number 57 has yet to allow one single opposing runner to score.
Of course--his counterpart on the mound tonight for The Phillies--was equally OUTSTANDING. Cole Hamels is one mighty impressive southpaw--too.

Game Notes & Highlights

John Lannan this past Sunday, Tim Redding last night and Jason Bergmann this evening. Over 20 innings pitched by these three starters and just one run scored off of them. Not many times that has happened with Our Starters in the three plus years since baseball's return to Washington. Our Starting Pitchers a backbone on this 2008 Version. In fact, until Big Jon Rauch allowed the only scored run tonight in the top of the 9th--Washington Pitchers had thrown 18 consecutive scoreless innings--the most since last July (21 Innings total from July 20-24, 2007)

Swing and a miss; called strike three; WHIFF!!--Cole Hamels was powering his way through Washington's Starting Lineup. 4 hits allowed and two walks--but did he ever Strike Out Our Washington Nationals--a plenty--tonight. 11 times for Hamels and 13 overall this evening--a Washington Batter dejectedly walked back to the home dugout with the bat still on his shoulders--having K'd. Using mostly fastballs and changeups--Hamels fooled Washington's hitters all night long. Cole Hamels--enjoyable to watch pitch--even if he does play for Philadelphia.

The only run of the evening--off "The Wookie"--was the result of a leadoff double by Pedro Feliz down the left field line in the top of the 9th. The game changing hit that eventually plated Feliz's pinch runner--Eric Bruntlett--on a bloop single to center by Pinch Hitter Greg Dobbs--one of the finest pinch hitters in the game. But not before Lastings Milledge, Cristian Guzman and Jesus Flores combined to perform The Defensive Play of This Game.
With two outs and that one Philadelphia run already in--Shane Victorino got a hold of another Rauch pitch and set the baseball flying over Milledge and to the wall in centerfield. Clearly--this smash looked to easily score Dobbs from first base as he was sent home by The Phillies Third Base Coach Steve Smith. As Dobbs rounded third base and head for home--"The Guz" did not even have the heave back into the infield by Milledge in his hand. And looking with the naked eye--it clearly appeared that Our Number 15 had NO CHANCE of throwing out Dobbs. Catching the baseball and turning--Cristian Guzman threw a PERFECT STRIKE to Jesus Flores at home. An on time arrival--that found Our Number 3 tagging Dobbs--and Home Plate Umpire Phil Cuzzi--giving the dramatic OUT CALL--for this final unexpected out of the inning.

What a relay toss by "The GUZ"--which reminded me of a conversation I had with Nationals Radio Broadcaster Charlie Slowes this afternoon at The ESPN ZONE in Washington, DC. On site to attend the Lastings Milledge Q & A hosted by Charlie--we were discussing how valuable Cristian Guzman has been for Our Washington Nationals all season long--maybe our most consistent player and All-Star Candidate for 2008. Charlie saying that last year's freak injury on Guzman's thumb after slamming into a Cleveland runner's helmet at Second Base--may well have benefited him in the long run. Two years ago--Our Number 15 had surgery for a slap tear in his throwing shoulder. An injury that may well have not sent him back on the field for--2007--100% healthy.

Now--Charlie believes--last year's unexpected early ending to Guzman's Season helped his shoulder to return to the strong health we have witnessed all 2008 season long. "The Guz" is making throws from deep in the hole--and even getting the speedy runners--with time to spare. Proof today, Cristian Guzman made a FABULOUS TOSS to Jesus Flores from short left centerfield for The Defensive Play of This Game.

In the top of the 3rd inning--reigning National League MVP--Jimmy Rollins--popped a foul down the 3rd baseline. Ryan Zimmerman ran hard and a long way--but caught the baseball right on the railing near the stands. Another fine defensive gem from--consistently--the best third sacker in the game.

When Big Jon Rauch allowed tonight's game winning run--it was the first score he had allowed in 12 innings of relief appearances.

What is it with Phillie Fans? They RIP their very own players throughout the game. And they RIP!! Washington Players throughout the game. Even Jimmy Rollins was treated like crap by a handful of Philadelphia Fans sitting a couple rows behind us tonight. Then, once their team wins--all seems forgiven--for then--they can RIP!! Our Fans. There is something wrong with some of these folks. Sohna, most of all--doesn't understand their odd ways.

Finally--Sohna and I just cracked up when we saw one our good friends--Usher Supervisor Jimmy--handing out Tee-Shirts to fans as they entered the Centerfield Gate. The Man who always says "WELCOME HOME!!" to The African Queen and I--it's a running joke--was seen actually DOING something tonight--and that's a JOKE TOO. We all had a good laugh. Jimmy is really fun--each and every time we meet up with him at New Nationals Park. We both must have laughed for good five minutes over this picture.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Lawrence Jackson
All Others Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

impACTA Kids Donates Baseball Cleats to District Youths

“And the fact is that when I die, I don’t want to be remembered as the guy who won a championship for The Washington Nationals. Or, the guy who caught the first pitch from President Bush here (at New Nationals Park) in 2008. I want to be remembered as the guy who built a complex--which 100 years from now—the kids where I come from—instead of being involved in wrongdoings—they will be playing baseball. That is the way I want to be remembered from where I come from.”

“I am a little different, that’s me. That is the way I am. Very few things impress me.”

Our Manager Manny Acta was sitting in The Press Interview Room at New Nationals Park--it was Monday, May 19th at 11:30AM. He was on hand to discuss a major step in his impACTA Kids Foundation. Formed just six short months ago--impACTA Kids is dedicated to helping youths in his Native Dominican Republic and here in The United States. The goal--to give the kids of today a better chance of succeeding in life. A task that was difficult for Our Manager--growing up in a land with little to offer him--at the time of his youth.

Joining Manny at the Press Conference were his sister--Anayma--and Jeff Locklear--Senior Marketing Manager of Under Armour.


Manny was speaking to a select group of 12 District Of Columbia High School Baseball Teams and their coaches. All gathered for the announcement that The ImpACTA Kids Foundation was donating 180 pairs of Baseball Cleats, courtesy of Under Armour, to the many District High School Players in need.


But this event was more than just about handing out shoes. Manny's a proud man and wanted to emphasize to these youngsters that there is more to life than sports. At times--Our Manager wasn't mincing words.
“I grew up in a little dinky town in The Dominican Republic. Don’t tell me how tough it is where you come from. In front of the house (which he grew up), there is still a dirt road which you don’t have here (in DC) and a sugar cane field right in the backyard. That’s how I grew up. No shoes, no nothing. We would play baseball by grabbing a milk carton and making that the base and we just played. Some of the baseballs we throw away during batting practice right here (at Nationals Park) would be the ones we use on Sundays over there to play a doubleheader.”

“So, don’t tell me you had it rough. We had it worse over there.”

As the many kids on hand listened with rapt attention, Manny explained the goals of his Foundation. His first major initiative is to build a baseball complex in his Native Dominican Republic--in his hometown of Ingenio Consuelo--included will be three Little League Fields. Currently--impACTA Kids is working with the Government of The Dominican Republic to secure the land and file the proper paperwork for his Baseball Academy. In the meantime--as impACTA Kids raises money through their website and other donations--Manny started and funded--thanks to Under Armour--his own Little League program in Consuelo. Additionally--his foundation is working to help raise awareness of children in The United States. And that's where yesterday's announcement for High School Baseball Players receiving baseball cleats comes into play.

Manny continued: “But, I am also part of this community (DC)—at least for seven to eight months out of the year. And who knows for how long. But, I thought it was appropriate that I do something for you guys (High School Baseball Players). And this is just a start.”

“Today, thanks to my sponsor—we (impActa Kids) are going to be able to provide you High School players shoes (cleats). I know that a lot of you guys like basketball, but I am not giving away sneakers. Baseball is my game and I want to get some of you guys involved in baseball. It’s a beautiful game. It’s a good game. And a lot of you guys are good athletes. You can handle this and we are hoping we can get some of you guys to embrace the game.”

Frazier O'Leary--Head Baseball Coach of Cardozo High School stating: “This is just wonderful to me. Anything to help the kids become baseball players is wonderful. I really like what he (Manny) said about being available to help come tutor our students in baseball. That is one of the biggest problems we have as coaches—is that a lot of our players come to us having never played baseball before. We grew up playing baseball as little kids. Our kids don’t do that. That's been a problem."

But before these kids where handed their new shoes--Manny Acta had some things to tell them about responsibility.

“The main thing is that everyone in here—regardless of where you come from—has a choice in life—which is the number one thing to remember in life. We are able to make choices. That is the biggest power we have. A plant can not make a choice. You can chop it down anytime you want and not water it down.”

“We have the power to make a choice—whether we want to take the right road or the wrong one. Everyday in the morning—when you wake up—you have a choice to either have a good attitude or a BAD ATTITUDE. It’s not genetic. So save it—if you want to tell me you have a bad attitude because your grandpa had a bad attitude 200 years ago.

"You can’t put school aside. You can’t get out of school. You have to stay in school. School helped me to get where I am right now—believe it or not. I went to High School, started to go to College. I was able to play baseball. And just because school helped me develop my brain—I came over to this country (USA) when I was 18 years old and I could not say ‘water’ in English. But, I picked it up quickly.”

“I made the adjustment over here. I knew The United States was not going to adjust to me. This is the greatest country in the world, but everything happened (to me) because of school. Not everyone in this room is going to be Ryan Zimmerman or Dmitri Young. Not everyone in here is going be Agent Zero (Gilbert Arenas—Wizards) or Caron Butler (Wizards). But there is a need for lawyers. There is a need for doctors, dentists. There is a need for financial advisers. And we need nurses and teachers in the community too.”

So, everyone in here has a choice. And the choices that you make today—it’s going to reflect on our life later on. So—think about what you are going to do. Not everyone is destined to be a superstar. You can have a lot of money, but this is a country where you don’t really have to be rich--to lead a nice comfortable life.”

With that--Our Manager Manny Acta handed out many of the 180 Baseball Cleats to the assembled High School Baseball Players and their coaches. Manny saying this project is the first of many to come for District Youths. Later, after the kids had left the Briefing Room for lunch in The Lexus President's Club and a Tour of New Nationals Park--Our Manager told me: “I get frustrated by young people that are disrespectful--that have no goals in life and are violent. They are the type of people that really frustrate me in life. And hopefully—some of these kids can go in the right direction. That’s why we are here—to try to pass on that message. It's important to be there and make the effort to help someone. You have to try."
Our Manager Manny Acta is the most Charismatic of Men and he also has a Heart. If you wish to help Our Number 14 in his quest to help children in his Native Dominican Republic, as well as, here in The States and The District of Columbia--you can donate through his website: www.impACTAkids.org
Beginning in just a few short weeks--impACTA Kids Foundation Tee-Shirts will be available at all Team Stores and Souvenir Shops throughout New Nationals Park. All money raised going directly to Manny's core programs of his Foundation.


The 12 District Schools represented at the press conference to receive baseball cleats from Manny Acta's impACTA Kids Foundation were:

Anacostia High School
Ballou High School
Bell Multicultural High School
Cardozo High School
Coolidge High School
Dunbar High School
McKinley Tech High School
Roosevelt High School
Spingarn High School
School Without Walls
Wilson High School
H.D. Woodson High School

Finally--when Manny was handing out the baseball cleats and taking photos with the various school team members--the kids from the School Without Walls stepped over to meet Manny. Hearing the announcement of their school name--Our Manager smiles and says: "School Without Walls!! Now, that's the type of school I WISH I HAD A CHOICE TO ATTEND!! Very cool!!"
Of course--Manny Acta stayed around until each and every child wanting--received an autograph from him.

Checking That List

Let's See. If Manny was making a list from tonight--this is what he would highlight.

Shutout Pitching From Our Starter This Evening On A Night He Gives Up Seven Hits and Two Walks--Give That A CHECK.

Thanks To The Ability To Get Out Of Jams--Defensively--Another CHECK.

In Fact, Solid Defense With Runners In Scoring Position All Evening by Our Washington Nationals--CHECK.

And Assisted By Two Stellar Defensive Plays From Our Franchise Player--That 3rd Baseman called "Z"--HUGE CHECK.

Later--When That Starting Pitcher Got Into Trouble--Three Successive Relievers Shut The Door--BIG CHECK.

Not Only Some Timely Hitting At New Nationals Park Tonight by Our Washington Nationals--But Six Doubles, Tying A Season High--ANOTHER CHECK.

Including A Game Breaking Two Run Bloop Double By Our Centerfielder Struggling Of Late--BIG, BIG CHECK.

All On A Night--Not Nary A Sound Was Heard From The Most Obnoxious Baseball Fans On Planet Earth--Philadelphia's. That's Not Only A HUGE CHECK--But Also A Couple Of Thumbs Up and High Fives Added For The Distinct Pleasure of NOT HEARING THEM.

This Monday Evening at New Nationals Park--Our Washington Nationals shutout The Philadelphia Phillies by playing a nearly flawless baseball game. From start to finish--Washington was hardly in trouble. And for every Phillies offensive move--Our Washington Nationals made a defensive counter move.

Resulting in only one outcome for Philadelphia this evening at New Nationals Park: Checkmate.

By the time this fairly swiftly played game ended after Two Hours and 34 Minutes--one could rightly state that Curly "W" Number 20 was Our Washington Nationals most complete game of 2008. And if Our Manager Manny Acta was making a list and checking it twice for what constitutes a good performance--The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! after tonight's win would signal what Our Young Team can do--when playing solid baseball against Good Hitting Teams.

Game Number 46 of the season was a ball game--Really--NEVER IN DOUBT.

Final Score from slightly chilly New Nationals Park--Our Washington Nationals 4 & The Philadelphia Phillies ZERO!!.

Game Notes & Highlights.

Tim Redding pitched shutout ball into the 7th inning--but was far from perfect. In the very first inning alone--he was hit hard and in trouble. Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino and Chase Utley all slammed pitches into right field. Fortunately, Rollins' was stroked directly at tonight's starting rightfielder Rob Mackowiak for an out. But Victorino and Utley had singled putting runners on first and second with the dangerous, but slumping, Ryan Howard at the plate. For all his power--Ryan Howard has holes in his swing. And Major League Pitchers have found all of them. Setting Howard up with the off speed stuff--Our Number 17 eventually struck Ryan out on a fastball up and away--a pitch he simply can not hit.

But Tim Redding was not out of trouble just yet. Pat Burrell was now up with two outs. Another dangerous hitter off to a fine start to his 2008 season. Burrell can jack the baseball and he was looking to jump all over Redding. A pull hitter--Burrell would slam Our Number 17's offering right down the third base line--a sure run scoring double. Except--Ryan Zimmerman was all over it. Reacting with his cat reflexes we have all enjoyed--Our Number 11 slid toward the line--sliding on the right side of his hip. Then, after catching the baseball in the left hand--his glove hand--"Z" proceeded to slide over the foul line--into foul territory and stopped himself by putting his right hand down directly on the dirt--not only putting an end to his forward momentum--but using his right hand to lift himself off the ground AND TURN toward first base. Immediately upon righting himself--Ryan Zimmerman threw a perfect toss to Dmitri Young at first base to retire Burrell and end The Phillies threat to score--while making The Defensive Play of This Game.

Over the course of his mound appearance--Philadelphia would have baserunners in all but the 5th inning against Redding. But every time a threat was upon him--either Our Number 17 made some quality pitches to get the subsequent batters out or he received some nice defensive work from his teammates in the field.

During that top of the 5th--Ryan Zimmerman prevented the speedy Shane Victorino from reaching base on an infield single after Shane hit a soft dribbler down the 3rd base line. With "Z" charging in all the way--hard--he proceeded to pull off the defensive play he executes, as well as, ANYONE IN THE GAME. A bare handed pickup and toss to first base--all in one motion. Since the very day Ryan Zimmerman started playing for Our Washington Nationals--I have never been anything but impressed with his consistently deft way of handling such a difficult maneuver. Again tonight--Our Number 11 with a beautiful one handed pickup and toss to first to retire another fast runner. Just great stuff.

When Redding finally got himself in a tight spot in the 7th, Our Manager Manny Acta decided to remove him from the game. No way--Our Number 14 was going to allow Our Number 17 to receive a loss for this outing--having pitched so gallantly. Manny calling for Saul Rivera to protect Redding's lead. With Philadelphia Runners on first and second with only one out and Washington holding a three run lead--Our Number 52 trotted out to shut the door again on any Phillies rally. Saul Rivera getting Victorino to ground out meekly to Dmitri Young and Utley to fly out to Willie Harris in leftfield.

Luis Ayala and Joel Hanrahan would close this shutout victory out over the final two innings. The final out coming on a swinging strikeout of Philadelphia's Jayson Werth. A "K" that witnessed not only Hanrahan fist pumping in joy, but his catcher Jesus Flores doing the same--then both fist bumping on the field as the partisan faithful cheered on this decisive victory.

Tim Redding received his sixth win of 2008 and lowered his ERA to 3.16. Remember--in 2007--the most victories by any pitcher for Our Washington Nationals was eight--8!! And that was for the entire season. And that leader was Jon Rauch--a reliever/set up man.


Washington scored their first run of the evening in the very first inning, when Zimmerman ripped a liner to the wall in left field--over the head of Burrell after Cristian Guzman had slapped an infield single to reach base. Then Dmitri Young would hammer a liner to center--caught by Victorino--who threw home in an attempt to toss out "The Guz". But the relay throw was a split second late--allowing for Our Number 15 to use his patented left handed hand slap down on Home Plate as Philadelphia's Carlos Ruiz applied the tag--too late.

Later in the 3rd--FLop had lofted an opposite field double to the wall in left center off The Phillies Brett Myers--followed immediately by "The Guz" lacing a sharp liner to left and a Zimmerman walk to load the bases. With one out--Lastings Milledge swung at the very offering from Myers and blooped a fly down the right field line--JUST INSIDE THE LINE--Fair territory--the game breaking double. Felipe Lopez and Guzman scoring on the play. A two RBI hit for Our Number 44 that found him standing on second base--clapping for himself--and pointing to his teammates in the first base dugout--happy over his contribution.

Guzman would also score his third run and Our Washington Nationals final tally of the night--when he scored from third on a Double Play grounder hit by Dmitri Young. "The Guz" continuing to play his BEST BASEBALL EVER in a Washington Uniform--easily our most consistent player all year. Excellent at the plate, running bases and decent in the field. If The National League was picking their All-Star Selection from Washington--it would be hard NOT to pick Cristian Guzman. Although, Tim Redding is making a nice run for the honor, too.

Tonight's shutout of The Phillies is Washington's 5th of 2008. Over 162 games in 2007--just six total Shutouts. Starting pitching is keeping Our Washington Nationals in the games.

There was a strange moment in the bottom of the 7th. After Guzman had led off with a double and Ryan Zimmerman followed with single--Philadelphia Pitcher Ryan Madson said something to Home Plate Umpire Jerry Layne. Not sure what was said--but Layne then immediately took off his mask and pointed at Madson. A potential confrontation simmered when his catcher--Ruiz stood between them and eventually walked out to talk to Madson. Once the inning was over--Madson was slowly walking toward the third base dugout and Umpire Layne made the concerted effort to walk toward him to get the last word in. Interesting.

Finally--check out the Build-A-Bear Phillie Phanatic brought to the ball park tonight by one of Our Ushers--Rick. Last season, while attending a game at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia--he asked the folks there whether their Build-A-Bear Operation had a Nationals Uniform. They did and this particular Phanatic dressed in DC Red/White/Blue & Gold was born.
Of course--My Best Friend Screech!!! took exception to its appearance. At one point during the game--punching The Phanatic Doll and making every attempt to pulverize it. At long last, this Phillie Phanatic was saved--for another day--by another Usher--Coach.

Tonight's In-Game Photos--(AP) Lawrence Jackson
All other photos--Nats320 (All rights reserved)

Learning How To Pitch

For seven innings this afternoon, John Lannan was pretty tough. Facing a new opponent--most pitchers have the advantage in the first At-Bat against new foes. Sometimes, even the second go round. But, usually by the time any Major League Hitter comes to the plate against any ONE PITCHER--you can bet--those professional batters have an idea of what to do to beat that pitcher. What comes around--goes around.

John Lannan felt that type of pressure late this afternoon at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Pitching against Hitting is a game of moves--followed by counter moves. Eventually--one more move. A process that continues on until familiarity decides the outcome. Ask anyone that has faced Livan Hernandez over the past ten seasons in The Major Leagues. Any veteran hitter can tell you EXACTLY what Livo can command. But, what they can't tell you is how and in what situations Old Number 61 will use everything his arm can possibly throw. That's respect and concern. Because timing is everything when hitting at the plate--and when any pitcher confuses that batter--the pitcher most always wins.

Something John Lannan was doing nearly all day in Baltimore. This young man does not throw overly hard. If Our Number 31 is throwing a 90 Mile Per Hour Fastball--that's about as good as he's going to get. So, Lannan must KNOW HOW TO PITCH. He has no other choice as this 23 year old is never going to blow hitters away for velocity. For five innings this Sunday, John cruised through The Oriole lineup. Facing just two hitters above the minimum--a single and a walk--Lannan was basically untouched. And thanks to a Cristian Guzman Home Run in the top of the third off Baltimore's Jeremy Guthre--was holding onto a slim 1-0 advantage.

This was a precarious situation and became worse when Melvin Mora belted a two out double down the left field line in the bottom of the 6th. Baltimore now had a runner in scoring position for the first time all afternoon and the very dangerous Nick Markakis was stepping to the plate. Markakis had grounded out twice in his two previous times in the batters box.

It was at this point, Our Young Starter began to grow up. Knowing Markakis can crush the fastball--Our Number 31 started feeding in some off speed stuff. Only throwing the heater (all of 89 MPH as it was) to set up his slider and curveball. This six pitch At-Bat showing the promise of a Rookie finding his way in the game. Nick Markakis would finally be fooled again with two strikes and meekly ground out to Aaron Boone at first base--on an off speed pitch.
Last season, John Lannan may well have crumbled under that same type of pressure--especially in a hostile park. But today--he calmly and cooly stuck to his game plan--and retired a difficult batter for the third consecutive time--and eventually moved on to the bottom of the 8th inning--finding himself still unscored upon and now ahead by two runs--thanks to an RBI Double by Ryan Zimmerman.

As luck would have it--the cooling rains that reappeared from the skies above (which eventually halted this game for the second time this afternoon)--began to cool off the very hot John Lannan. He would not survive the 8th frame after giving up a lead off single to Adam Jones and one out double to pinch hitter Luke Scott. With runners now on 2nd and 3rd and the go ahead run at the plate represented by Brian Roberts--Our Manager Manny Acta made the right move--calling for Luis Ayala from the bullpen. Lannan was through for the day. And he received a nice ovation from the few thousand Washington Fans in attendance in Baltimore--and hearty thanks from his teammates in the visiting dugout--deservedly so.

It was quite the performance as John Lannan tasted success late in a Major League Ball Game. And Manny did not wish for Our Number 31 to lose confidence after such a fine performance. Thankfully, Luis Ayala would quell the final storm--after a 30 minute rain delay. Brian Roberts would knock in Baltimore's only run of the game on a sacrifice fly in that 8th.

Curly "W" Number 19 was a confidence builder. The 45th Game of 2008 proving that you don't have to be a fireballer--one who throws in the Mid-90's to be successful in the game. What any pitcher really needs is--guts and the touch and ability to confidently throw your pitches for strikes--no matter what the count. No matter how many times you have faced any hitter.

Game Notes & Highlights

Lannan's numbers today quite impressive--7.1 innings giving up just four hits and one walk. He was IN CONTROL until the 8th and evened his season record at 4-4. Big Jon Rauch picked up his 10th save of 2008.
Ryan Zimmerman's RBI Double in the 8th scoring FLop was a fine piece of hitting. Facing submarine pitcher Chad Bradford, Our Number 11 shortened up his swing and laced a liner down the right field line on an up and over the outside portion of the plate fastball. A nice hit that also found Ryan diving Head First into the bag at second to beat the throw from the strong arm of Nick Markakis. I don't recall Ryan Zimmerman EVER diving head first into ANY BASE? Either way--"Z" has been hot of late at the plate. A good sign.

Speaking of a strong arm--with Washington holding that slim one run lead in the top of the 7th, Elijah Dukes was standing on second base with two outs--Wil Nieves at the plate. Looking for an insurance run--Nieves stroked a soft liner into right field--a single that appeared to be a sure bet to plate Dukes with the second score of this game. But The Orioles Nick Markakis had other ideas. Moving swiftly and deftly toward the skipping baseball--Their Number 21 cleanly fielded the ball as Our Number 34 rounded third base and was waved home by 3rd Base Coach Tim Tolman. This was going to be a close play and became more daring when Dukes slightly slipped on the wet turf heading toward home. A split second delay that proved costly. Markakis threw a PERFECT TOSS to his catcher Guillermo Quiroz--a one hop strike right on the plate. All that Quiroz had to do was apply the tag on Elijah for The Defensive Play of This Game. This 3rd and final out of the 7th brought the house down at Camden Yards. Oriole Fans up in jubilation over the effort by their up and coming star rightfielder. Nick Markakis made a TERRIFIC THROW--whether Dukes slipping--cost Washington the run or not.

There was concern on the injury front today on two players for Our Washington Nationals. First, the fact that Shawn Hill received a cortisone shot in his right forearm. Once again--Our Number 41 admitted the pain is worse than he has let on. In fact--is hindering his pitching mechanics. Knowing it takes a few days for cortisone to run its course through the human body--Shawn Hill may well miss his next start.

A start which Austin Kearns was denied today--although originally penciled into the starting lineup. Listening on WTOP while driving to Baltimore today, it was reported that Kearns would sit out today--just to gather his thoughts after his rough start to 2008 and after last night's game changing strikeout. But then, Our Washington Nationals reported Kearns has an elbow problem and was being rested as a precautionary measure. Interesting development. And which report is the correct one?

Despite losing the first two games of this Inter-League Series--Our Washington Nationals actually had a winning week. They went 4 and 3 thanks to The New York Mets at Shea from this past Monday through Thursday.
At the conclusion of each rain delay--when the grounds crew at Camden Yards was removing the protective tarp on the field--the P.A. played the Starters Bell of a Horse Race and then the Lone Ranger Song in conjunction with the crew running across the field hauling off the cover. It was funny. Speaking of the music at Oriole Park--it's mighty good. Someone knows what they are doing in Baltimore with the sounds. The music is always lively and entertaining and well timed to the mood of the audience. Well done and Melvin Mora's Personal Batting Salsa Music--the best tune we have heard from any player in some time. Melvin's got it going.

And what's up with this guy? Prancing around all day long with his Leopard Skin Full Length Coat. Not really sure--but he did get alot of attention--even as a potential Fan of The Game.




Sohna and I had some unexpectantly great seats this afternoon. In the pre-season sale of individual game tickets offered by The Baltimore Orioles--we purchased seats in three different areas of Camden Yards to try different offerings. Today's seats just so happened to be in The Family & Friends Section of The Orioles & Our Washington Nationals. Right behind home plate and in front of the Press Box--these tickets were TERRIFIC. We spent the afternoon chatting with many of the folks sitting in our section. And had a terrific conversation with Orioles Broadcaster Jim Hunter's Good Friends. These three guys were fun to talk to and helped pass the time during the two long rain delays. And it just goes to show that it's always best to move around in any visiting ball park--not just remain in one place. You never know who you might meet or what opportunity may come your way--by just being friendly.
At the end of the game--Sohna and I ran into Huge Nationals Fans--Karen and Lou Gehrig (that's right that's his real name and also now as TEDDY--stock picture from Viera). Jim Hunter's Friends walked down to meet them. One saying:"I always wanted to meet Lou Gehrig!!" It was funny. Everybody laughed.
Of course what would be any Nats Away Game without seeing some more of our friends from Nationals Park? Last night--we met up with MickNats and Little Andy's Parents from Section 218. Today--MsZimmy--ironically sitting in the exact same Club Level Section that The African Queen and I sat in last night. We all spoke for some time.



After the game ended--Sohna and I took the opportunity to actually visit the Babe Ruth Statue and Retired Oriole Jersey Numbers Tribute just outside the Eutaw Street Gate in Centerfield at Oriole Park. That area is constantly filled with heavy pedestrian traffic. After all the rains this afternoon--we had the chance to view the displays virtually all by ourselves. Worth doing.

Finally--as has become tradition for Sohna and I after the final game of each Orioles/Nationals Series played in Baltimore--we head over to Edo Sushi at The Inner Harbor to celebrate. Never disappointing, the sushi and maki were very good.

Today's InGame Photos--(AP) Nick Wass
All other photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

The Chance To Win

Three runs were already in. Our Washington Nationals were staging a rally--on the heels of some shoddy relief pitching by The Baltimore Orioles. A four run deficit was now just one. These two teams were playing the top of the 8th inning. The score 6-5 and not a sole still inside Oriole Park at Camden Yards was not tuned to the action on the field. Even the 20-something bozos drinking and partying just two rows in front of us all night long--had finally turned their attention to the baseball game. Club Level in Baltimore tonight--sitting just off home plate was a prime place to be this evening. From this vantage point--The African Queen and I could see the plays directly in front of us; look over to our left at Charlie & Dave, Don & Jim Palmer in the broadcast booths; and peer directly down into the dugout of Our Washington Nationals.

Being in Birdland--as they call it 40 miles to the north--Sohna and I were PERCHED and watching develop the most important moment of this evening. Lastings Milledge had just taken--FOR THE TEAM--a 96 Mile Per Hour FASTBALL right into his left side, under his armpit and probably in the ribs. A hit-by-pitch that had to HURT!! And this was an 0-2 pitch by Baltimore's Jim Johnson that scored Dmitri Young from third. You see, the bases had been loaded and now they were once again.

As Our Number 44 was being attended to by the Medical Staff and eventually sent on to first base--Austin Kearns was slowly, methodically, getting loose in the on deck circle. Benched last night in an effort to right his game--Kearns now found himself the chance to be a hero. And what player would not want to be in this position? A late lead potentially lost by The Orioles. A comeback on the road that now worried--a loud and vocal crowd--all between two teams that are slowly building a local history--playing each other in Inter-League Play.

Once it was determined that Lasting Milledge could continue in this inning--Home Plate Umpire Tim McClelland signaled: "Let's Play Ball!!" and Our Number 25 walked to the plate--steadying himself for this key At-Bat. Resetting the scene: There were Two Outs, The Bases were loaded. Our Washington Nationals were only down by one. And the crowd--WAS JUICED!! Yes, Oriole Park was ROCKING!! There was no New York Yankee or Boston Red Sox Type Takeover of Baltimore's Home Stadium by Washington Fans this evening. Yes, there may well have been a few thousand fans of Our Washington Nationals in attendance, but this Saturday Night found a very partisan Orioles following.

As you would expect upon any such dire circumstances--they had ERUPTED--wanting to see Washington's rally ended. On each and every subsequent pitch of Austin Kearns' At-Bat, these Baltimore Faithful became louder and Louder and LOUDER!! They wanted to see an out. We wanted to see at least one more run scored.

Austin would take ball one in the dirt and called strike one from Umpire McClelland. Then, Our Number 25 took ball two in the dirt--followed immediately by called strike two--a high fastball that Kearns did not agree with. Nevertheless--Austin was now down to his last strike. He knew it. Our Washington Nationals and The Baltimore Orioles knew it--as well as every single other person in the park. With The Orioles Faithful know all standing and rhythmically clapping--Baltimore's Jim Johnson sent in pitch number five of this nerve racking At-Bat. A toss Austin Kearns decided NOT TO SWING AT-- a pitch so close to the strike zone--you had figure he would be called out on strikes. Yet, McClelland ruled Ball Three--Full Count. A decision that brought incredulous boos and guffaws from the audience and a HUGE SIGH OF RELIEF from Sohna and I. We had thought he had struck out.

Given new life--Austin then fouled off the sixth pitch of this excruciatingly exciting appearance.

Remember: a single would most likely score two and give Our Washington Nationals a lead. A Home Run would, most likely, put this game out of reach--for Washington.

As The Orioles Number 43 leaned in for the sign from his catcher Ramon Hernandez, Austin Kearns leaned in over the plate--waiting for the pitch at hand.

And the ever growing crescendo in the stands found the crowd leaning forward in anticipation of what was to come. The clapping louder. The nervousness building. This particular At-Bat was now Theatre. The Actors were all set on stage. The Final Act was about to be delivered--right before everyone's eyes.

As Jim Johnson wound up to throw the baseball--all three runners for Our Washington Nationals took off. Any hit now would probably decide this game. Having little command of his off speed pitches--Johnson chose to throw his fastball--his 95 MPH Heater. A pitch that Austin Kearns was dead on correct in expecting.

Now--seeing the fastball heading his way, Austin swung on and this brought an INCREDULOUS REACTION from VIRTUALLY THE ENTIRE AUDIENCE AT ORIOLE PARK.

"YYYEEEEEEESS!! Orioles Fans screamed throughout Camden Yards. A loud and celebratory bellow that reverberated throughout the ballpark. Was it EVER LOUD!! The sounds telling the outcome. The final act had played out and Austin Kearns had--unfortunately--struck out--swinging right through the pitch.

Distraught over not producing in this key situation and realizing the magnitude--Our Number 25 then proceeded to fling his bat violently to the ground in disgust. Walking slowly with his hands on his hips along the third base line--Austin Kearns well knew-This Rally Was Over. This Inning Was Over. And This Game Was Now--Probably--Over Too.

The Chance To Win Had Been Lost.

Final Score from Oriole Park at Camden Yards--The Baltimore Orioles 6 and Our Washington Nationals 5.

Game Notes & Highlights

Wily Mo Pena had quite the adventures in left field tonight. He missed a liner over his head in the first off Melvin Mora. A resultant double that found Mora scoring The Orioles first run of the inning. Then--in the 3rd--he could not track down a high pop down the left field line from Brian Roberts. This, after he was shading Roberts slightly to center. Just one batter later--another bad double that became a run scoring opportunity for Baltimore when Pena again misplayed a liner directly at him by Mora--that scored Brian Roberts.

Odalis Perez had little in the tank tonight. He surrendered two, two run home runs. One crushed by Nick Markakis to dead center--a shot in the 3rd and the other by Jay Payton in the 5th.

Ryan Zimmerman slammed another Home Run tonight off Baltimore's Brian Burres in 4th--continuing his recent surge at the plate. And Aaron Boone continues to stroke a hot bat. Washington's comeback in the top of the 8th was fueled by two singles and three walks off the hands of three different Baltimore Pitchers. Trying to hold a 6-2 lead--Chad Bradford, Dennis Sarfate & Jim Johnson all struggled during their appearances. Thankfully for The Orioles--they eventually finished off Our Washington Nationals.

Baltimore Starter Brian Burres pitched into the 7th and once removed by The Orioles Manager Dave Trembley--the opportunity for Washington to get back into this game arose.
Jesus Flores was ejected by Home Plate Umpire Tim McClelland in the bottom of the sixth inning--apparently arguing over balls and strikes. The removal happening so quickly and quietly--not many people noticed until Wil Nieves starting running from Washington's Centerfield Bullpen to the dugout to report into the game.

This evening Sohna and I enjoyed Club Level at Camden Yards. Similar but different than The Stars & Stripes Club at New Nationals Park. Little alcoves for bars, concessions, lounge chairs and seating areas--separated in spots by lattice walls. The food choices were OK. The Orioles also provided for each and every Club Level Patron wanting--a complete set of game notes for each team, scorecard (with starting lineups aleady printed on) and thick photo copied pages of statistics covering each and every player in the game. This was nice and detailed--available at the Main Entry Reception Area.


Having tried the crab cake meal the previous night--The African Queen chose The BBQ Beef Platter with all the fixings for $9. A good deal for a very full plate--while I had the Crab Bisque and Brie Soup for $4. We enjoyed the meal while sitting at The Diamond Bar near our seats in Section 228. The looks on the faces of the many Orioles Fans surprised we sat down with them to chat and have fun--a real blast. They seemed shocked that we had no problem wearing Our Nats Gear into their alcove. FUNNY.


It also appeared to us that The Oriole Park Club Level had received a face lift since the last time we went there. Some of the lounge areas were very inviting. Of course--we appreciated some of their history displayed. The famous jerseys of former players, team photos and memorabilia. Really, it was nice--although Sohna and I found the seats smaller and a little cramped for leg room. Note to Mr. Kasten--we enjoyed the in-seat waiter service in Club Level at Camden Yards--something not available in The Stars & Stripes Club. Otherwise--we like New Nationals Park's two tier club far better.
Finally--that new Hilton Hotel overlooking left centerfield at Camden Yards completely blocks the view of Baltimore's famous Bromo Seltzer Tower from fans. Too bad--we always liked that clock tower as part of the backdrop while watching any game at Oriole Park.

PS--Sorry for the late post after such a dramatic game. Sometimes it's necessary to get some sleep after the drive home. We were exhausted.

All Photos--Nats320

Windy, Rainy, Cold & Sloppy

The winds were whipping hot dogs wrappers and trash throughout Camden Yards. An almost autumn chill was in the air. But these gusts had nothing to do with Lastings Milledge's circular route to a hit baseball. Nor, did it effect a relay throw from FLop. And that stiff breeze tonight at Oriole Park was also not caused by the whiffing bats of Wily Mo Pena and Elijah Dukes--with the game on the line. Once again--Our Outfield not producing in the clutch in a sloppy affair.

Our Washington Nationals had their chances this evening in Baltimore against The Orioles to win. They failed. And sometimes there can be no more excuses.

Our Number 44 badly misplayed a looping liner to right center by Baltimore's Melvin Mora in the bottom of the 5th. A terrible tract to the hit baseball by Milledge which amazingly found grass for an RBI Double. Lastings simply muffed this fly. In fact, he looked like he didn't even want to pursue the ball--consistently looking at Elijah Dukes running toward him from right field. The Centerfielder needs to take charge on this play. Milledge did not--yet again.

With the bases loaded and one out in the bottom of the 3rd--Felipe Lopez--looking to turn two and end a rally by The Orioles --crossed over the second base bag--taking a throw from Ryan Zimmerman to retire Mora--then proceeded to wildy throw to first base--well past the stretched glove of Aaron Boone. A crucial error that allowed Baltimore to score their first two runs of the evening and draw even. Yeah--Melvin Mora slid hard into FLop, but he still had plenty of time to make the throw. Our Number 2 rushed when he didn't have to.

Wily Mo Pena continues to be an enigma at the plate. Again tonight--hitless and striking out badly with runners in scoring position. Our Number 26 not helping by walking back to the dugout with his bat on his shoulder. Pena looks completely lost at the plate. Who would have thought--nearly 100 At-Bats into his season--not one single home run.

Elijah Dukes also hitless tonight--although he did knock in one run with a Sacrifice Fly with the bases loaded.

Three times each this evening--both Pena and Dukes headed to the plate with runners on and less than two outs--and only one time did a single runner score for Our Washington Nationals.
Of course, Shawn Hill did not have a good night also--throwing way too many pitches--99 of them before he left after five struggling innings. A eight hit, two walk performance for Our Number 41 that could have actually ended better--if Milledge and Flop had turned the two key defensive plays of this game.

Really there is not much more to say about this poorly played baseball game. On a night the strong winds and whipping rainy mist wreaked havoc around Camden Yards--The Baltimore Orioles overcame this disadvantage--while Our Washington Nationals were blown away.

Final Score from Orioles Park at Camden Yards: Baltimore 5 and Washington 3. The momentum gained in Queens over the past four days--at least temporarily--lost. In fact, this game is just hard to write about. As artistically pleasing as yesterday's victory over The Mets was--tonight's game was the exact opposite--hard to watch.

But you can bet--Sohna and I will be back tomorrow night. We are sitting in Club Level at Camden Yards on Saturday. We want to compare their service (provided by Aramark) to New Nationals Park (Centerplate).

Game Notes & Highlights

This game stared so well for Washington. Three straight hits scored two runs off The Orioles starting pitcher Garrett Olsen. FLop single to center. "The Guz" ground rule double over the left centerfield wall and Ryan Zimmerman with a slashing single down the left field line for two RBI's. Olsen was in trouble with no outs--but Our Washington Nationals could not further capitalize--a trend that continued throughout this game.

Zimmerman had a fine game--three hits, two rbi and smacked a hard hit liner right at Kevin Millar at first base for the final out of this game. For a moment, it appeared Our Number 11 would gather four hits tonight. At least Ryan appears to be coming around--while others are continuing to slump. Even Austin Kearns was held out of this game--reportedly working on his swing in the batting cages.

There was a very odd rundown in the key 5th inning. Right after Mora had doubled--thanks to Milledge's miscue--Aubrey Huff smacked a comebacker to Shawn Hill on the mound. Mora was trapped between 2nd and 3rd. Hill hesitated then finally ran directly at Mora. But instead of continuing to run right at him--Shawn threw to Zimmerman at third--and a way too long of a rundown commenced. Eventually, a 1-5-6-1 recorded out, but not before Huff ran all the way to second base--scoring position--where Aubrey should not have been. Sure enough--Millar would knock him home on the very next at-bat for Baltimore's 5th and final run of the game. Four runs scored tonight by Baltimore that were preventable. Only Luke Scott's rocket shot home run off Hill in the 4th was a sure thing for The Orioles.

Dmitri Young returned to the lineup after his extended absence due to back pain. He received a gift single when The Orioles misplayed a routine pop up in the wind behind shortstop. Other than that--Our Number 21 was not a factor. Although Sohna and I both noticed that Dmitri looked slightly heavier than what we recall from Spring Training.

Finally, on the field-we got to do something about Our Outfield. Pena, Milledge, Dukes and Kearns are under performing so poorly--you just have to wonder what's wrong. There is NO WAY they can collectively be this bad--at the same time.
Of course there was alot of stuff off the field and in the stands tonight worth mentioning.


None better than MY BEST FRIEND!! SCREECH!! on hand at Oriole Park. During the entire 4th inning, Screech came to visit The African Queen and I sitting in The Terrace Box Seats--just off first base at Camden Yards. Having spotted him earlier near Home Plate--I went down to visit him. The second I told him Sohna was sitting three sections away--off he went--to see his Girlfriend. His presence sending our Section into overdrive. Orioles Fans rooting vocally for their team--now turned their attention--totally--to Our Washington Nationals Mascot.

The looks on some of the children wanting pictures and autographs--PRICELESS. One parent telling her daughter after hugging Screech--"You Traitor!!" (That's Good Stuff). We were all having a good time and it was nice to see those not familiar with My Best Friend! enjoying his antics.
The New Scoreboard in Right Center is very colorful. Not as big as the HDTV Scoreboard at Nationals Park--but the content is good and alot of information is provided. Although--unless I just couldn't see it--I did not notice the pitch count and number of balls and strikes thrown by any pitcher on any tally board. Did I miss it?

Also--Baltimore has replaced their out of town wall scoreboard with a better quality one.
There is a new Seafood Stand at Camden Yards located behind Home Plate on the Main Concourse. Charm City Seafood served up some good offerings this evening. The $4 Maryland Crab Soup with spices--EXCELLENT. The freshly made Maryland Crab Cake Sandwich with Old Bay Potato Chips equally as good. This Crab Cake melted in your mouth. $13 and worth it. Of course Teddy's Pretzel (located behind the first base side) still sells the best melt in your mouth soft pretzel we have EVER tasted in any ballpark. Whether you choose Cinnamon, Buttery or Plain--a great deal for $4.

Finally--tonight was Friday Night Fireworks at Oriole Park. For this show--Sohna and I moved to the field box seats directly behind home plate. The display was excellent--a good ten minute program. We liked it and the program provided a nice alternative to waiting in line to drive out of the nearby parking garage to head back to Alexandria.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Nick Wass
All other photos--Nats320

Nationals Dream Foundation Raises Over $600,000

The final figures are now in and The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation raised over $600,000 at their Dream Gala on May 3rd. All proceeds gathered will head directly into The Foundation's Core Programs--initiatives focused on children's education, health and recreation.

This third of a scheduled annual event was held at the new Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Prince Georges County. As you may recall--the evening's events included a Cocktail Hour with Silent Auction--attended by most every player for Our Washington Nationals. Also--a live auction was conducted after dinner where Our General Manager Jim Bowden put on quite the show--in an attempt to raise money for the many kids in need.

Sohna and I were honored to attend and join in the night's festivities.

Here is The Official Press Release.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 2008 DREAM GALA RAISED OVER $600,000

The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation’s third annual Dream Gala, presented by the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center raised over $600,000 at the May 3, 2008 event. Proceeds from the event, which included a cocktail reception, silent & live auctions, dinner and dancing, will benefit the initiatives of the Dream Foundation. “The impressive sum raised at this years Dream Gala is due to our many supporters who are enthusiastic about the work our Foundation is doing in the community,” said Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Chair Marla Lerner Tanenbaum. “We are grateful to our presenting sponsor Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, partners, Nationals broadcasters Don Sutton and Bob Carpenter, team officials and Nationals coaches and players for their participation in this successful event.”

The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation’s programs are focused on children’s education, health and recreation. The cornerstone programs of the Dream Foundation are the creation of the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy, in partnership with the District government, that will teach the game of baseball and provide after-school educational programs for children in the District; the creation of the Washington Nationals Pediatric Diabetes Care Complex at Children’s National Medical Center, a world-class facility that will provide a multi-disciplinary approach to supporting families of children with diabetes; and the Neighborhood Initiative, benefiting the Earth Conservation Corps and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington – Hopkins Branch, created to support small, non-profit organizations in the area surrounding Nationals Park with grants, in-kind donations and additional resources.

For more information about the Washington Nationals or the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation, visit nationals.com or washingtonnationalsdreamfoundation.org.

Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Mission Statement

The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation and the Washington Nationals Baseball Club are committed to community partnerships that improve the lives of children and families across the Washington Capital Region. The Foundation's cornerstone programs are focused on children's education, health and recreation. A 501(c)3 charitable organization, the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation has committed to, among other projects, a partnership with the D.C. Government to build the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy to teach the game of baseball and provide after school educational programs for children in the DC region.

That Inner Harbor Invasion

All Photos Courtesy of Mike Schaffer--Senior Account Executive of Brotman-Winter-Fried Communications--Falls Church, Virginia



It's worth repeating--it's all about the fun when it comes to Our Washington Nationals--both ON and OFF the field of play for Sohna and I. And yesterday--in the bright sunshine of Baltimore's Inner Harbor--Our Racing Presidents and My Best Friend Screech!! posted up in an attempt to turn Baltimoreans over to the Washingtonian Side. A Public Relations Stunt to promote this weekend's Inter-League Series against The Baltimore Orioles.

Any way you look at it--that's having fun--especially when The Oriole Bird shows up and gets dismayed over SCREEEEECH!! feeling the love from the kids--children wearing Orioles Caps!! That's a good picture my friend.
And how about those signs carried by The Rushmores?

Teddy: "I'll race The Oriole Bird and Beat Him!!"

Tom: "Old Bay Stinks!!" (The Food Seasoning Spice Made In Baltimore)

Abe: "Honestly, The Nats Will Sweep Baltimore Hun!!"

And GW: "I Can Not Tell A Lie--The Nats Will Win!!"

Screech & The Presidents were booed by some. But who cares? It's part of the fun.

Sometimes you just have to sit back and enjoy the potential rivalry--the proximity for cross promotion. One day--Our Washington Nationals and The Baltimore Orioles will both be competing for the title. And when that moment comes--Baltimore and Washington will face off like not seen in these Mid-Atlantic States for years. But until that day arrives--it's good to see both The Baltimore Orioles and Our Washington Nationals jointly sponsoring a public event.
As much as I don't like Peter Angelos--The Owner of The Orioles--and all he did to hinder The Montreal Expos move to Washington--at some point--you just have to get past it. And yeah--I dislike the MASN contract as much as you. "It is what it is," as Team President Stan Kasten told me once. "Let's move on."

And The African Queen and I shall.

Just look at the other two team regions in the sport.

The Oakland Athletics and San Francisco Giants are good for baseball--even after The A's move farther south on The Bay.

The proximity of The Los Angeles Dodgers & The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim is worth their Freeway rivalry.

The Chicago Cubs & Chicago White Sox divide a city like few others.

And The New York Yankees and New York Mets have built passion among the boroughs like no two teams in the game. There will probably never be anything like New York in baseball.

A feeling that is long off between Our Washington Nationals and The Baltimore Orioles. But a relationship that, over time, could build into a premiere event in this game. Unquestionably, it's going to take years and IMPORTANT GAMES to build such a rich and vibrant rivalry.

Over 36 years ago, The Baltimore Orioles used to CRUSH My Washington Senators of The American League. The times have now changed and Washington's Team has even changed Major Leagues. But, such a passion between two cities--can only help both These Franchises and The Great Game grow--in the near and long term future.


Just look at those kids in these photos. They are having a good time. They don't care about Peter Angelos. They don't care about a TV Contract. They are young--impressionable--and they are enjoying baseball in a different way. The past is history and it's time to enjoy the fun possibilities between Our Washington Nationals and The Baltimore Orioles--like these kids yesterday afternoon at The Inner Harbor in Baltimore.

Baltimore had Brooks, Frank & Cal. Washington had The Big Train, Josh, The Capital Punisher (My Favorite Player of All Time!!) and even their Frank (briefly), but here in DC, it's all just starting new again. One Day--EVERYONE who follows baseball will recognize Washington's Rich Baseball History. At one time, an important Original American League Franchise existed here and hopefully soon--a top flight National League Team will re-appear . And when that day comes--Baltimore & Washington can share a welcomed regional rivalry--like those today in The Bay Area, Southern California, Chicago and New York.

But for now--as Abe proclaimed yesterday in Baltimore's Inner Harbor--Let's Sweep The Birds at Camden Yards--this weekend.

Go Nats!!
PS--Looking for love in Baltimore, The Presidents handed out George Washington & Teddy Roosevelt Bobbleheads to fans.

The Very Last Swing Of The Bat

There may not have been a more exhilarating bottom of the 9th inning played in some time. If you had any rooting interest or just wanted to see excellence in the game—there was no better treat than the finish to this afternoon’s affair between Our Washington Nationals and The New York Mets. This one deserves to be REMEMBERED for some time.

A tight well-played and well-pitched game is always worth the memories. Because when the score is 1-0 and the slightest mistake or error could cost you the game---the mind becomes frazzled. The resultant worry leaves you on the edge of your seat. This was a thriller that played out in full form at Shea Stadium this afternoon.

Being at work, watching on television—the only thing missing were the calls from Charlie Slowes on the radio. Why do I have the feeling that Mr. Bang!! Zoom!! was well over the top. I just know Dave Jageler was looking to retrieve the oxygen tank for Charlie.

What a way to end a ballgame!!

But, before all that:

For seven innings The Mets Mike Pelfrey and Our Jason Bergmann matched up in a scoreless duel. Pelfrey throwing the No-No until Aaron Boone touched him for a single--the first hit of the game for Our Washington Nationals in the 7th. A rare base runner, this afternoon, which Our Number 57 was also unwilling to allow consistently. Having just been called up after three outstanding outings at AAA Columbus—Jason Bergmann was in a groove. A mindset that comes from again being confident and on a mental high—due to the birth of his first child—Alexandra—by his wife—Jarah.
This Rutgers Grad showing the stuff everyone knows he posseesses—shutting down The New York Mets on just three hits. An effort that allowed Our Washington Nationals to manufacture the only run in Queens scored on May 15th in the top of the 8th. A double by last night’s hero—Jesus Flores—who eventually scored on a routine Sacrifice Fly by Felipe Lopez.

That slim lead--setting the stage for one miraculous finish.

On came Big Jon Rauch to close out this tight affair--an appearance that found The Wookie giving up a leadoff single to Carlos Beltran. A perilous moment now at hand which became far worse—when Ryan Church followed and lofted a fly down the left field line. A fast dropping looper that late inning defensive replacement—Willie Harris—strode swiftly for---running toward the chalk mark and the stands before him. Using all his speed, his agility and ultimately—HIS ENTIRE BODY—Our Number One dove at the very final split second. Completely parallel to the ground and ultimately face planting himself—Willie stretched out his left hand—his glove hand--and CAUGHT THE BASEBALL—inches before it hit the ground—in fair territory.

A GREAT CATCH that then found this tiny man sliding a good 10 feet along the rough gritty terrain of the left field line warning track. A Tremendous Effort and FINEST DEFENSIVE PLAY OF THIS SEASON by Our Washington Nationals—hands down. A game changing out that if missed would have allowed Carlos Beltran to score the tying run and would have left Our Former Number 19 standing on second base with a double.

As Jon Rauch raised both his hands in salute—Willie Harris rose from the dust, threw the baseball back to Cristian Guzman at shortstop AND SMILED BROADLY. Showing his purely whites—Our Number One knew he had made a terrific catch—despite the fact—he may well have tore the skin off his chest—sliding after this recorded out. It was a great moment. A time to remember.

But unfortunately, this game was FAR from over—especially when Carlos Delgado stepped to the plate with now one out. A battle renewed when Beltran took off on the very first pitch by Big Jon Rauch. An easy steal that turned worse for Washington, when Jesus Flores jettisoned the baseball into centerfield—trying to throw the speedy Beltran out. Just seconds after a feel good moment—the concern and worry was now back on Our Washington Nationals and their fans. Carlos Beltran now stood on third base. And a Power Hitter was up against a Power Pitcher.

All Delgado had to do was loft any baseball to the outfield to tie this game. A well stroke ball might win it. Who was going to survive? Would The Wookie beat The Slugger? This was crunch time. This really was--A REALLY GOOD BALL GAME.

Ultimately, this six-pitch confrontation produced the climatic moment. A foul ball here, a ball there and three more subsequent balls batted foul by Delgado--leading everyone to the finish—an unexpected ending it was.

Looking to drive the baseball—Delgado was ready at the plate. Beltran was ready to score from third. And Big Jon Rauch was ready to end this nail biter. Finally, Our Number 51 delivered an off speed pitch. Delgado was NOT FOOLED. Carlos HAMMERED Rauch’s offering and drilled the baseball on a line. A SCREAMER—RIGHT AT AARON BOONE--near the first base bag. Our Number 8 catching the ball—just off his shoelaces—lunging to his left—then calmly setting himself and throwing to Ryan Zimmerman at third for the inning ending---GAME ENDING—Double Play!!

Carlos Beltran—believing his teammate Delgado had driven him home—was well off the bag and was easily retired for The FINAL OUT OF THIS GAME!!

Two GREAT DEFENSIVE PLAYS had won this ball game. Two Gems where if the hit baseballs had been inches more out of reach of Willie Harris and Aaron Boone—Our Washington Nationals and their Fans would not be celebrating tonight.

This was A GREAT GAME!! A 1-0 Toe Tingling Sensation. An affair that you have NO IDEA who is going to win until the VERY LAST SWING OF THE BAT!! You can play baseball all season long and you can have all the high scoring games you want. But, I will take this one as The Game Of The Year—Thus Far—until another proves itself worthy.

Today was baseball at its best. Curly "W" Number 18 is why I love The Great Game so much. Just not much better than a 1-0 thriller.

Game Notes & Highlights
Jason Bergmann was outstanding. This afternoon at Shea Stadium he showed the ability witnessed by many last season. No hit and dominating stuff. The Power Hitting New York Mets could not touch him this afternoon. A continuing steady performance by Our Number 57 would do wonders for our ever-developing Starting Rotation.

The Mets’ Pelfrey was equally as good and deserved better on most any other day he will ever pitch in The Major Leagues. He just got beat today—but just barely.

Until the memorable bottom of the 9th—Aaron Boone had produced The Defensive Play of This Game. With Luis Ayala replacing Bergmann in the 8th—Jose Reyes led off with a chopper in front of the plate. He slapped the baseball dead into no man’s land. An area in front of the plate where Ayala and Flores had no chance of throwing out the speedy Reyes. A resultant single that found The Mets looking to advance their shortstop to second base on a bunt. A subsequent sacrifice that Luis Castillo laid down—but not well. Ryan Zimmerman charged in—scooped up the baseball and fired to Boone covering first for the out.

But Reyes—using his speed, but maybe not his head—thought he could beat any relay throw and rounded second and jolted for third--a sure free base with Zimmerman already well in on the grass after his toss. What a mistake by Jose Reyes. Aaron Boone saw the entire play developing in front of him, and like a veteran Quarterback looking for his downfield receiver—double pumped while Cristian Guzman ran over and side-by-side with Reyes. Our Number 8 fired a rocket across the diamond and hit Our Number 15 in stride. Such a perfect throw that the baseball and Guzman and his glove ran directly into their Number 7’s side. Jose Reyes out on a very unusual 5-3-6 Double Play. A toss by Boone that if late might well have found Guzman interfering with Reyes—giving the umpire the option of sending Jose home—safe on interference.

It was a GREAT PLAY—A PERFECT DEFENSIVE PLAY—but ultimately not The Defensive Play of This Game. That moment would come one inning later.

Carlos Beltran also made a very nice sliding catch on a Cristian Guzman liner to centerfield in the top of the 1st inning.

Jason Bergmann recorded his first win of 2008. Big Jon Rauch his 9th save.

Today's InGame Photos--(Getty Images) Al Bello
Willie Harris Sliding--(MASN--OFF AIR)

Nick Out--Yet Again

Sometimes you just have to wonder. The only luck that Nick Johnson seems to have is bad luck. And today--that bad luck returned. The announcement came down at 12 Noon from Our Washington Nationals. Our Number 24 once again placed on the Disabled List with a torn tendon in his right wrist. An injury aggravated two nights ago by Nick--while swinging at a pitch in Shea Stadium.

Really, this is just sad news. More than 19 months removed from that terrible broken femur and day-by-day showing that he was once again a quality Major League Player--Nick Johnson must again feel the pain--both mentally and physically. The hurt of another injury. The agony of sitting on the sidelines and watching the scheduled games pass him by.

Dmitri Young will be re-instated from the Disabled List tomorrow to fill the void. But who can say--right now--that last year's Comeback Player of The Year will be 100% ready to replace Nick Johnson at First Base.

Our Number 24 will be missed--on the field, at the plate and in the clubhouse. No one plays as hard for Our Washington Nationals as Nick Johnson. His lost presence--an absence felt throughout Our Franchise.

Good Luck Nick Johnson. Our thoughts are with you--as always.

The New York Minute

He's Young. He's talented. And he's needs some more seasoning. But more and more--Jesus Flores is becoming a legitimate Major League Catcher--and a dependable hitter in the clutch.

A feeling many watching probably did not have about Jesus--two pitches into his 7th inning At-Bat. Jesus Flores had looked overmatched. The New York Mets Aaron Heilman had Our Number 3 down 0-2 in the count. Elijah Dukes may well be standing on second base with the go ahead run with two outs in a tie ball game, but who could have figured what transpired next.

With the Shea Stadium Crowd now roaring--looking for the inning ending strikeout--Heilman looked in to his catcher Brian Schneider and threw a waste pitch. A 94 MPH Heater over the outside corner--taken by Flores--just off the plate for ball one. Then Aaron followed with a pitch in the dirt. A called ball two that started the worrying among The New York Mets Faithful. And gave Jesus Flores a little more confidence. The belief he could be the difference in this At-Bat. Especially, when Heilman threw ball three in the dirt for a full count. A toss that sent The Partisan Mets Crowd up in arms.

If you thought New York Fans were unforgiving, their reaction thus far was pale--compared to what transpired over the next few minutes.

Because as the locals continued to bellow--still looking for the final strike and final out of this key frame--Aaron Heilman delivered a fastball to Our Number 3. A low and on the outside corner pitch--but in the strike zone. Having no choice but to protect the plate, Jesus Flores swung--reaching out, hitting and PULLING the baseball toward the hole between shortstop and third. A hard grounder that just missed--the on the move Dukes--running on the pitch.

Jesus Flores had singled to left--scoring Dukes and giving Our Washington Nationals a surprising 2-1 lead. Just when you least expected it--A Two Out Run Scoring Rally by Washington sent great displeasure to those many New Yorkers at Shea.

And when Heilman continued his downward spiral on the mound--by walking Pinch Hitter Willie Harris to put runners on 1st and 2nd--opportunity was again at hand. The chance to extend this two out rally--extend the fresh lead and extend the booing at The Mets. An opening taken advantage of when FLop followed with a single to right. A drive that Ryan Church was quickly on--immediately throwing a fine toss to his catcher Brian Schneider at the plate. A pegged liner that would have NAILED Jesus Flores rounding third and heading for home--if not for ONE TERRIFIC SLIDE by Our Number 3. With the ball arriving a split second before Jesus reached the plate--Flores DOVE HEAD FIRST--AND LEFT HAND FIRST--toward the outside part of home--around Schneider's left foot blocking the plate and SCORED!! A Bang!! BANG!! play that found Home Plate Umpire Dana DaMuth signaling SAFE!! SAFE AT THE PLATE!!

A climactic moment that extended the lead to two while extending the displeasure echoing around Old Shea Stadium. A disgust by New Yorkers that became UNLEASHED when Cristian Guzman followed with a two out rally hit of his own. Singling to center and putting Washington up 5-1, The Mets Aaron Heilman was then unceremoniously booed off the mound. Slowly walking to the home Mets Dugout--this New York Reliever felt the pain of being beaten by a Young Washington Catcher, DC's Two Out Rally and the Unmerciful Venom of a New York Crowd.

Just like that--this game had turned, the crowd had turned on their Home Team and Our Washington Nationals had turned around a tight ball game with a feel good victory over The New York Mets.

All In A New York Minute.

Final Score from Shea Stadium--Our Washington Nationals 5 and The New York Mets 3. Curly "W" Number 17 of 2008.

Game Notes & Highlights

Until the key seventh inning two out rally--this was one fine pitchers duel. Both Tim Redding for Washington and Claudio Vargas for New York pitched six solid innings apiece. Each was tagged for a home run--Ryan Zimmerman for DC's Team and Brian Schneider for The Mets. Vargas made it into the 7th, but was replaced by Heilman after walking Dukes. The managerial move by The New York Mets Manager Willie Randolph which decided this affair. Redding would gain his team leading 5th victory of the season--leaving the game with a 3.55 ERA. Good Stuff.

Of course, Our Washington Nationals made it interesting at the end. Our Manager Manny Acta sent out Saul Rivera for the bottom of the 7th and he struggled. Giving up runs in both the 7th and 8th--Our Number 14 made a bold move--when he sent out Luis Ayala for a one batter situational assignment in the 8th. With Marlon Anderson and Ryan Church on first and second with one out--Our Number 56 trotted out to face just one hitter--the dangerous David Wright representing the go ahead run. Having struggled over the past 10 Days--Manny was showing confidence in Luis. A faith that proved correct when David Wright broke his bat swinging at Ayala's Change Up. A Rally Killing Moment that was extinguished when Big Jon Rauch then trotted out for the four out save. Mission Accomplished--for The Wookie's 8th save of 2008.

For the second consecutive night--Ryan Zimmerman homered. This one a Blast off the facade above the second tier of Shea Stadium's Upper Deck. Maybe the sign that Our Number 11 is coming around at the plate--worries he has not had in the field. As tonight--he snared a Carlos Beltran liner lunging to his right. A smash heading down the left field line in the bottom of the 4th. A caught ball that pulled "Z" off balance, but not enough for him to show some fine dexterity and hop off his wrong foot while turning toward second base--and lofting a football looking screen pass to Felipe Lopez--to double off the speedy Jose Reyes for The Defensive Play of This Game. It was a very nice play. A maneuver even Former Redskins Coach Joe Gibbs would be proud of.

Finally--how disturbing is it to hear that Nick Johnson's hurt wrist is bothering him more? So much so--he is already back in Washington and heading for an MRI tomorrow morning. A hard and gritty player who never gives up--you have to feel sorry for Nick Johnson, if this diagnosis is worse than expected. Our Number 24 deserves better and the chance to play a full season healthy. Will The Baseball Gods allow him to? Keep those fingers crossed. Our Washington Nationals need him in their lineup.

Tonight's InGame Photo--(AP) Frank Franklin II

Inner Harbor Invasion

I would LOVE to see the reaction to this event. Our Washington Nationals are sending The Racing Presidents, My Best Friend SCREECH!! and The Nat Pack to The Baltimore Inner Harbor tomorrow for a Photo Op--and to promote Our Washington Nationals upcoming series against The Baltimore Orioles this coming weekend.

From 11:30AM to 12:30PM on Thursday May 15th--The Rushmores, Screech and The Nat Pack will be available for fans--just a few short blocks from Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

Moving directly on to Baltimore's Turf--A Major Landmark of Charm City.

How will they be greeted? Will those lunching in and around the Inner Harbor embrace them? Jeer them? Or be indifferent?

This is interesting. Hopefully SCREECH!! will not come back with his feathers plucked. And Our Racing Presidents aren't forced to walk the plank off The USS CONTELLATION.

The reaction should be good.

My Conversation With Barry Svrluga (Part Two)

The gained knowledge and experience of spending day after day following just one team--is what makes chatting with Barry Svrluga of The Washington Post special. He is familiar with the ebb and flow of Our Washington Nationals. And as we pick up with Part Two of My Conversation--Barry and I are discussing the bonding of teammates, both on and off the field--and whether that adds to victories in the win column.

Here with go:

(Team President) Stan Kasten once told me that chemistry means nothing, as long as you have good players. How do you feel about that? (SBF)

“I think he is right to a certain extent. If you win, chemistry takes care of itself. And if you have good players, you generally win. We have seen a chemistry transformation in this clubhouse in a two-week period, because they are not 5-15 anymore. Some people have started committing themselves more, because things were getting out of hand. But this is not basketball, where your chemistry involves reading a guys tendency of how he might cut on a certain play. This is not football, where there is a big timing thing involving two different people. Of all the team games, baseball is the most reliant on individual performance. So, chemistry in baseball is a little bit different than other sports.”

Do you find Brian Schneider being missed on this team, based on that chemistry? (SBF)

“This is an interesting thing. Game calling is something I am not smart enough to know myself. And I think it takes a lot of years in the game and a lot of catching to really understand it. So, I always go to people like Bob Boone (Assistant General Manager—Head of Player Development) and Pat Corrales (Bench Coach) or Randy St.Claire (Pitching Coach) or the pitching staff about that kind of stuff. They have always vouched for Schneider and his sticking to the game plan they come up with—and coaching the young pitchers through whatever struggles they might be having.”

It’s early in this season still and with (Paul) LoDuca missing a lot of time, we really don’t know how that is going to go, this might be a story down the road. How are the games being called? Are the guys sticking to the plan—like Schneider did? We know that John Lannan is raving about Wil Nieves and his abilities to call a game and kind of be fiery back there. There is something to it. I think if Schneider is missed, it’s in that regard more than anything else in the clubhouse.”

Seeing Matt Chico looking confused on the mound these days, reminds me of what Schneider told me late last year. On the final game that Chico pitched in 2007 at Citizens Bank Park, Matt personally came over to him and thanked him—for helping him and getting him through his rookie year. (SBF)

“And he’s probably right. For Livan Hernandez, it really didn’t matter that Schneider was back there, because Livo is going to dictate his own game. Even a guy like Tony Armas was like that. The younger guys relied on him (Schneider) more. And remember about Matt—he survived last year 31 starts with a 4.63 ERA—which was basically the league average for a starter. But, a lot of his starts were at RFK Stadium. He’s not pitching well right now, but his stats were bound to suffer a bit in this new park. This being a little smaller ballpark.”

Speaking of Livo—how big of role did he play on this team? (SBF)

“He is a really interesting personality. At some level, it’s all about Livo—his starts and how he’s doing and all that kind of stuff. But, he was also a very generous teammate. He would buy his teammates gifts and stuff like that. He’s just a strong person—a strong personality. And a strong personality tends to—whether in a positive way or negative way—influence stuff in the clubhouse. He was one of those.”

There was this game at RFK in early 2006 against The Mets. Livan gave up three home runs in the first two innings and was down big. But, there he was standing in the On-Deck Circle waiting to bat, chatting and laughing with fans in the stands like it was no big deal. (SBF)

“He is a weird personality. If you are Livan Hernandez you know you are going to give up some home runs. You can’t get too rattled by it.”

You been around the league a few times, you know all the beat writers from the other teams. How do they view The Washington Nationals Franchise? (SBF)

“Right now, I think they view The Nationals as an afterthought. In the last couple of weeks, I have received questions about whether Bowden is going to get fired? I don’t think there is a national understanding of what we have heard harped about since The Lerner’s took over: ‘Here is how we are going to build this and it’s going to take time and we are not going to spend $100 Million right out of the gate.’”

“This front office has spent a lot of time educating the local media, so they in turn can educate the local fans. But nationally, this franchise gets little recognition or credit. If or when they do turn it around—then the understanding of how they did it—will follow.”

Has this slower process of building the franchise—made it more difficult for you to do your job? (SBF)

“No—because I would be here whether they were winning, losing or in-between. The thing that has surprised me over the past four years has been the vast majority of days getting a good story to write about. There might be a tough loss, an exciting win, it might be an individual performance like Dmitri Young’s miraculous massage (chuckling). So we (the writers) can win in all sorts of ways. They lost eight in a row earlier in the year, or whatever it was. And it gets harder to come into the clubhouse and ask the same questions—since it’s obviously tougher for them to stand there. In that regard, it’s easier to cover a winning team. But otherwise, it really doesn’t have much impact.”

At times of late, when I hear Ryan Zimmerman speak to the media after a game, he sounds like he just wants to get it over with. (SBF)

“He is very accommodating and there are very few players on this team that are problematic in those type of situations. Zimmerman is certainly not. He does basically whatever the team asks of him.”

With you, Mark Zuckerman (Washington Times) and Bill Ladson (Nationals.com) at virtually every game, how difficult is it to get something fresh and exclusive? (SBF)

“Yes, but at the same time, it’s not like New York where it’s really a herd mentality. We are the three guys who have been here from 2005. The players know us better than other reporters. After games, it’s harder to get something of your own—because everyone is on deadline—and everyone is going from one person to the next. Before games, it’s easier, because you can say to a guy: ‘Hey, let’s go sit in the dugout so we can talk about X, Y, & Z.’ and people have different agendas before the game. I might be thinking about my notebook needs, while Mark or Bill might be thinking about something else.”

Do you really find the players very accommodating? (SBF)

“Yes, and this is why you have beat writers, so the players can be familiar with those covering them. It’s a lot harder for them to say no to someone they see every day--than someone just rolling in for a game. This group has been very, very good. And when I say this group, I mean since 2005. There have really been very few problematic people here for the media to cover. In fact, they have been better to deal with than I thought Major League Baseball Players could be—in terms of accessing.”

Which reminds me--many readers complain, not necessarily about the content, but the quantity of reporting by The Post. How do you respond to that? (SBF)

“I am very defensive about it. I grew up outside Boston. I delivered The Boston Globe. It’s a huge baseball town. They have several reporters at every Red Sox Game because every one is an event. Like it or not—baseball in DC is not at that level yet. What I will defend, is that what we are given for our game stories—960 words per night—is much, much more than most any paper in the country. So, I am able to not only tell about the play-by-play of the game, but a little bit of the back story, the decision, here is what this guy is going through. I can talk to more people. I can get more information out that way. Some people don’t like reading those long game stories. But, that is the format we have chosen. So, they will complain. Others want Tom Boswell to write more and only about baseball. And ‘Oh—he’s only writing about The Capitals, or The Orioles.’ He’s a columnist. He loves this game more than anyone that I know. And if they (Post Editors) would allow him to write six columns a week about The Nationals, he probably would. But, he’s got a lot on his plate.”

Are west coast games easier because of the early deadline? (SBF)

“No—actually harder. What I do is write a feature for the paper, then have it morph into a game story. And if the game finishes before our last deadline—which is 1AM—10PM out there—you end up writing twice as much for one space (in the paper). The West Coast Trips are a little stressful.”

So, you are going to the 2008 Olympics in China, then on to The Redskins Beat. When Spring Training begins for The Washington Nationals next February—what will you miss most about it? (SBF)

“The thing I like about baseball reporting is the access. Because you are around these guys so much, they know you; you know them. Worried might be an overstatement, but I am concerned about The NFL where your access during the week is a scheduled finite amount of time. You only have one game to write every seven days. So, you really need to maximize the hour you are given each day to get some useful stuff out of guys--who may or may not be willing to give you quotes that day.”

“This sport (baseball) gives you a fresh development basically every single day—win or loss—that involves several little fresh developments—someone is hot or someone is slumping—someone pitched well or someone pitched poorly. Then, the clubhouse opens at 3:30PM for a 7PM Game—you got three and one half hours to get to learn the participants and figure out what makes everything tick.”

“That everyday access I will really miss.”

But, probably not the travel? (SBF)

(Big Laugh)” Probably Not The Travel!! Houston in the middle of May is not exactly what I have in mind.”

Anything else? (SBF)

“I wouldn’t want anyone to think that I was leaving the job because I didn’t like it. There are a lot of factors involved.”

With that, My Conversation With Barry Svrluga of Washington Post concluded. For over three years, Barry's Coverage of Our Washington Nationals was a mainstay for many of Our Fans. A Daily Must Read. Hopefully,from time to time, Barry can return back to the baseball beat. I am sure he will be missed. Just like his presence each spring at Panera Bread in Viera, Florida. Which makes me wonder whether that particular franchise located near Space Coast Stadium will survive without Barry Svrluga's daily appearances for lunch??

Good Luck Barry!! Thanks for your excellent coverage of Our Washington Nationals.

Our Team Versus Our Former Players

Our Right Fielder misplays a liner right at him--letting two runners score.

Our Second Baseman throws to the wrong base.

Our Second Baseman also fails to cover the base with a slow runner coming to the bag--after an excellent throw from Our Leftfielder.

Our Centerfielder drops a hard hit grounder with a chance to throw out that slow runner at the plate. But, to be fair, makes a nice catch on a run to the wall in the bottom of the 5th inning.

One of Our Relievers throws a pitch out and Our Catcher drops it for a passed ball.

Our Former Centerfielder smacks a Home Run to Dead Center--that misplayed liner to right and a sacrifice fly--to knock in four runs.

Our Former Starting Catcher knocks in one run and scores another--when Our Centerfielder dropped that ball.

Our Former 2nd Baseman and Pinch Hitter scores on that sacrifice fly for the final run of the evening.

Our Centerfielder also strikes out on three straight pitches with runners on 1st and 2nd with one out and down one run. Our Centerfielder showing Zero Plate Discipline--with the game on the line.

Our Franchise Player hammers a nice Two Run Home Run.

But, Our Starting Pitcher gives up 12 hits in six innings.

Which must only leave Our Manager sullen over the night's effort.

Because tonight everyone witnessed, Our Former Washington Nationals simply beating Our Current Washington Nationals.

Final Score Tonight from Shea Stadium--Our Former Players--My Main Man!!, Schneiderman and Marlon Anderson helping to score six for The New York Mets. Our Team consisting of Zimmerman & everybody else--just three.

And to think--tomorrow Our Washington Nationals get to bat against one of Our Former Starters--Claudio Vargas.

Tonight's In Game Photo--(AP) Frank Franklin II

My Conversation With Barry Svrluga

Since virtually the very first days of Major League Baseball's return to Washington, DC--Barry Svrluga of The Washington Post has been on the beat--covering Our Washington Nationals. Whether through game stories, features or consistently updating his Nationals Journal Blog--Barry found a following among the many fans of DC's Team. Now--Mr. Svrluga is moving on. This summer he will travel to Beijing for The 2008 Summer Olympics and return to cover The Washington Redskins.

This past weekend, Barry handed over his coverage of Our Washington Nationals to his replacement--Chico Harlan. As Mr.Harlan settles in, Mr. Svrluga is traveling with Chico to assist in the handover.

Knowing this time was coming, I reached out to Barry a few weeks ago and asked whether he would be willing to sit down and chat with me for The Nats320 Blog. An exit interview, if you will, to discuss his time covering Our Washington Nationals.

Enthusiastically, he agreed to chat and we met on Friday, May 2 at 3PM in the afternoon--in the Press Box at New Nationals Park. Many thanks to Our Nats Media Relations Staff for allowing this location for the interview. Over the course of this two parter--Barry and I discussed his life as the beat writer, blogging, covering the team and some of the many personalities with whom he has crossed paths.

With that, here we go with My Conversation With Barry Svrluga.

How is it that you found so much time to put into your Nats Journal? I put a ton of time into mine— and I am totally for fun. Are you being paid extra for it? (SBF)

“It is a part of the job now. The best part about it is—take today (Reminder--Interview on May 2nd). They (The Nationals) made a move. A simple move this morning. Paul LoDuca activated with Chad Cordero put on the Disabled List. Not a big thing, not worth a separate story in the middle of the day. But, it’s an easy way to get news out to people immediately. So, if I get the email at 10:15AM, it’s up on the blog by 10:20AM. Just a really good way to get the information out.”

“Now, it can become a little consuming. You do feel an obligation to get fresh stuff up there as much as possible. And we (Post Correspondents) get a report every day on how many hits each of the sports blogs get. (Chuckling) So, you kind of attach your self-worth to the rankings.”

At times, I have read your posts where you stated you were sitting in an airport. And even on off days—you are doing stuff for your blog. (SBF)

“Yeah, Yes. We are encouraged every day to produce content. If you brand it as a place to come, and reliable information is there, and you can add new stuff a lot—people are going to check more often. We have actually had discussions at The Post on how to balance making sure stuff is fresh--without wearing out the beat writers. There may not be a right answer, but it’s just another part of the job now.”

How much of an effect has other Blogs—just look at all the ones surrounding The Nationals—had over The Post getting into the fray? There had to have been some realization by The Post that many other blogs have audiences. (SBF)

“I think that fact is the absolute genesis for Nationals Journal. There is a kind of balance. I can’t take the same opinions that some of the Nats Blogs take. But, I do have access to things that they do not have—the team, officials and those types of things. I wrote that story about blogs a year or two ago. A lot of those Nats Blogs fill different needs. (Wants? —SBF) Yes, absolutely. But, I think Nationals Journal fulfills the little more newsy need.”

I am always amazed at the immediate comments that show up—sometimes reaching into the hundreds—if some newsworthy item occurs. (SBF)

“Right. Those are the best days. Let’s take stuff surrounding the trade deadline. NJ is a great outlet while you are trying to figure out what’s going on. Things might be happening, might not be happening. Last year, we had a really big day on trade deadline day. People were interested. They wanted to know what the team was going to do--anything, or nothing at all. It teaches you that people want to know immediately.”

It’s a common thread on blogs—including yours. People can be very critical, even take you on personally. How do you deal with it? (SBF)

“It’s a little alarming. Before, you use to get maybe a phone call from someone who was irate over something. But, it took a step for the reader to get your number and call. You really had to be committed to lodge a complaint. Now, just click and you can say whatever you want. It’s just like the players—if they are criticized by a columnist or the media. You have to have a thick skin about it. You also have to think about what the criticism is. Is it valid and should you think about doing something in a different way? But, you also have to understand that some people are going to be upset about—whatever. And as long as you have handled the situation fairly—you just move on.”

Moving on—you knew this beat covering The Nationals was coming to an end. Are you going to miss it? (SBF)

“Absolutely. I have very mixed emotions about it. I love baseball and I love coming to the park. And these players have been—in general—very good to work with. I had never covered a Major League Baseball Team before I came here (to Washington). I did cover a few Minor League Teams. But, I never thought I would do it for twenty years. In large part, because it’s a hard lifestyle. You are away from home a lot and it wears on you, despite how much you love coming to the park each day.”

“There is a little bit of a toll. But, this is the right time. The Boss had always pitched it as a three-year thing. It also doesn’t mean I might not come back to baseball at some later point. Definitely though, there will be parts that I miss—parts that I won’t.”

As a baseball fan, do you find it difficult to sometimes NOT cheer for the players? (SBF)

“No. I covered college basketball for years—University of North Carolina first, then University of Maryland here. I am a Duke Grad. Obviously, I had rooted for Duke when I was in college. But, you can’t cover their two biggest rivals and root for Duke. You find yourself just stepping back and watching from a distance. It’s terrible in one sense, but it’s the only way you can handle it—by not being a fan—focusing on the story.”

“It’s amazing—and I don’t know if everyone can do it. But, it’s come naturally for me. If Gary Williams (UMD Basketball Coach) ever sensed from me that I was rooting for Duke—my credibility with him would be shot.”

“Covering The Nationals is a little bit different. I didn’t have any history with this franchise. Now, you can’t say you don’t like some players more than some other players. Or that you have trouble with some people you cover—all that type of stuff—that can color your vision. But, we always say: ‘We root for the best stories.’ And as long as they are interesting stories, I am fine.”

How interesting has it been for you to see this team basically start from nothing? (SBF)

“Yeah, it has been interesting, but at the same time this franchise has such a long way to go. The Ballpark (New Nationals Park) was a huge step. But, we are already seeing that the ballpark does not solve all your on-field problems. So, they are playing good baseball now (Reminder again—this interview took place on Friday May 2nd). I didn’t think they were a 5-15 team. I thought that was a very surprising start. The Franchise looks like it is now on solid footing. This is a real ballpark. It’s very, very nice. The players are immensely happy about it. But, it’s equally amazing how quickly you move on to what’s next? Who do they (The Team) bring in? How do they go about adding more star caliber players?”

Did RFK Stadium actually hinder the team’s development or was it just in their minds? (SBF)

“It depends. I think it could have, as RFK made it hard for the team to sign major free agents to come to Washington. But if you look at it, as we have seen, many, many times—that was not part of The Plan out of the gate—anyway. I think the way The Lerner’s and Jim Bowden were going to go about this—is by doing what they are doing right now. They are building the farm system and they really did ratchet up the scouting. And that development was immediately shown in the draft last year."

“When the team was still at RFK, I think that was used as a crutch. Now, the next step would be to use the revenues produced here, and they are going to make more money here, and put it back into (Team) payroll.”

The players bitched about RFK—fences too long, shoddy field. Have you heard any comments or complaints from the players of Nationals Park? (SBF)

“They haven’t because I don’t think you have seen the number of balls hit to the warning track. The obvious ones at RFK where you just say: ‘Well, that would have been out at Philly.’ I just don’t think they have hit the ball well enough to be complaining about the fences. But (Austin) Kearns did hit a ball to right center a few days ago that he hit pretty well—about as well as he could hit it the opposite way. But that is a 14-foot wall and it’s pretty deep. Everybody seems to think the ballpark plays fair—slightly in favor of the pitchers. But, I don’t believe this teams offensive start has anything to do with the dimensions here.”

I have asked Bowden this question, but either he doesn’t really address an answer or respond. Does he favor Cincinnati Players from his past? And, is it a fair question? (SBF)

“Yes, it is a fair question, because of the number of guys he has here—even on the coaching staff and front office. He also has Lenny Harris down in the dugout as Hitting Coach. Harris knew Jim from Cincinnati as well. Last spring, Barry Larkin—who played with Austin Kearns in Cincinnati said it best: ‘Let’s stop putting expectations of .300, 30 Homer and 100 RBI’s on the guy, because his record does not show that is what he does.’ His record also says he doesn’t hit .194 either. He usually hits around .260--.265 and he has a little bit of pop—but not 30 Homer Pop."

"Bowden will have that label because he made that big deal to get two guys he was very excited about getting (Kearns & Felipe Lopez) as well as the little pieces he has picked up. I don’t know if it’s favoring, but maybe just familiarity. He knows exactly what he is going to get. I just don’t know if I would call it favoring.”

Although some have stated if a player was already on the roster before he became General Manager—they may not be his favorites because he did not personally scout or draft them. (SBF)

“I don’t know if that is fair either because he loves Shawn Hill. He knows exactly what his potential is. He has no problem with Nick Johnson and his on base percentage. If Ryan Zimmerman had been here beforehand—Jim would have not been foolish enough to say ‘we don’t need him.'(Both of us chuckling) So, I understand where the criticism comes from, but I know Jim well enough to know that he doesn’t sit there saying: “Oh, Cincinnati—Yes! Cincinnati—Yes!”

Bowden does have a lot of detractors. You find him good at his role? (SBF)

“We are not into the opinion thing. But, we have chronicled his moves—move by move. They kind of speak for themselves. And I think you will see more moves as these draft classes get closer and closer to The Majors. But keep in mind—he is not in complete control of what he does with the roster. The Nationals are going by a very specific plan, step by step. Any General Manager of any team would want more payroll and more ability to pickup great players. People above him are preaching patience. It’s a little harder for him.”

How was Frank Robinson compared to Manny Acta as manager? (SBF)

“You know, I love dealing with both of them in different ways. Frank to those on the outside seemed like a hard ass—and he was. But, this is the part where you feel like a kid. You could show up to the park every single day (as a reporter) and sit down with a Hall of Famer. Frank was great—particularly on the road—sitting in his office and telling stories. And he was not afraid, and this was always good for writers, to criticize his own players and publicly—if he felt it was warranted. So, if you are rooting for good stories that make good copy. Frank was always good story.”

“Manny is younger, more vibrant, doesn’t have the history as a player. So, he has to establish his credentials in a different way—both with his players and the media. One super energetic guy and genuinely friendly person. He sets a real nice tone for this franchise and everybody who deals with him.”

I always got the impression from Frank Robinson that if he could help you in any way—he would—as long as you were willing to learn? (SBF)

“Yes, that is true. Like I said, his image as a hard ass was a little bit overplayed. I always found him approachable. He loved talking baseball. He LOVED TALKING BASEBALL.”

Obviously, you have seen many moments in this franchise’s history in Washington, and I would say Jose Guillen’s Home Run against The Angels in Anaheim the very night Frank and Mike Scioscia got into that great argument was one of the most memorable. (SBF)

“That one is right up there. I still have the tape of Guillen calling Mike Scioscia ‘A Piece of Garbage’ the next night—which is one of the BEST POSTGAME QUOTES EVER!! (Both of us laughing). Jose Guillen is perhaps not a good teammate, but he was great to cover because he was a story more often than not.”

“I would put that moment right up there with Zimmerman’s walkoff home run against The Yankees. The biggest baseball crowd in DC History, Father’s Day, against the most storied franchise in the game. And the one guy who is supposed to carry this team into the future—comes up with his first walk off hit as a National. It seems now like Ryan has had so many more. In fact, I remember telling people that day, there was enough juice in the park that Washington felt like a baseball town.”

“So, those two are almost a toss up in my mind of memories.”

Since you brought up his name—was Jose Guillen the diva player so many said he was? Was he difficult to deal with? (SBF)

“Absolutely yes. He’s a guy who spends a lot of time in the manager’s office, high maintenance. He is very interesting because he talks about guys being committed to winning, guys playing hurt and all that kind of stuff. But, he doesn’t always look inward and evaluate his own performance in that regard. People say this in this game and it’s true: ‘There is a reason guys have been on 10 different teams.’ I don’t even recall now how many Guillen has played for—as I have lost track—something like 10 teams in 11 years.”

“He was enormously fun to cover, but I don’t think he is enormously fun to manage. (Chuckling) And those are two different things.”

That concludes Part One. Tomorrow, Barry and I will chat about Livan Hernandez, Team Chemistry, covering a team full time--with your competition standing by your side, among other topics as My Conversation With Barry Svrluga concludes.

Opportunity Lost On Mother's Day--A Continuing Trend

Even Mother Nature Was Upset.

The damp dreary sprinkles falling throughout the afternoon had dramatically changed. A Rain Of Boos were now cascading down from above. Fans at New Nationals Park were not happy. Luis Ayala had trotted out to pitch the just completed 8th inning with Our Washington Nationals up 4-2. An advantage held due to some solid starting pitching from Shawn Hill and some timely hitting from Aaron Boone and Ronnie Belliard.

A two run lead washed away--almost instantly.

Our Number 56 needed just three pitches to tie the game and five batters to lose it. Luis Ayala has not been the same solid pitcher over the past week. Consistently leaving his patented slider up in the zone. And at times--late this afternoon on South Capitol Street--Ayala looked like he was throwing batting practice. No zip of any of his pitches.

Alfredo Amezaga led off the top of this pivotal 8th and slammed Luis' second pitch near Aaron Boone--today's first baseman. A hot potato that Boone deflected and picked up--only to see that Ayala had delayed his run to first base to cover the bag. A brain lock and resultant infield single that changed this game--for the worse. For on Our Number 56's very next pitch--a hanging slider in and over the middle the plate--The Florida Marlins' Jeremy Hermida CRUSHED this toss deep into the right field seats--over the Scoreboard Wall. A Tying Homer that immediately found the home crowd turning.

Upset over the lost lead.

Disappointed over another Bullpen Failure.

In a tizzy over Our Washington Nationals putting themselves in another position to lose--a winnable game.

A Victory Lost three batters later when Dan Uggla got ahold of an Ayala Fastball laid in over the middle of the plate. A drive that landed well over the right centerfield fence for the Go Ahead and Eventual Game Winning Run. Just like that, Our Washington Nationals were trailing, and the restless faithful were letting Our Team on the field know their feelings. This was not pretty. After last night's horrendous 11-0 loss, an affair where Washington was never in the game--a turnabout victory this Mother's Day Sunday would have done wonders to take the bitter taste out of such a bad loss and head on to The Big Apple to play The New York Mets.

Instead, an overwhelming feeling of sorrow developed late this afternoon--when Our Manager Manny Acta called on Luis Ayala to stretch this ballgame to the 9th--looking for a win. An untidy effort by Our Number 56--which washed away a deserved victory--just like the raining downpour that immediately followed the conclusion of this awful loss. Apparently, even Mother Nature crying and upset over today's turn of events--letting Our Washington Nationals know: It's OK to lose--but not so consistently--in such bad fashion.

Final Score--The Florida Marlins 5 and Our Washington Nationals 4. Washington, losers of five of their last six games. Yes, once again--opportunity lost this Mother's Day. A continuing trend where poor play and mental mistakes have taken their toll--limiting any chance to win--consistently.

Maybe, we can get Chicken Man to Sacrifice another Rubber Chicken as penance? That and some much better play by Our Washington Nationals needed. Like Now?!

Game Notes & Highlights

Shawn Hill pitched well enough to win. The Florida Marlins manufactured a run in the 2nd inning with a Hit by Pitch of Dan Uggla, single by Luis Gonzalez and sacrifice fly by Wes Helms. And plated their second run of this afternoon--when Uggla slugged his first home run and eventual third over two days--just over the left field wall. A blast that brought Florida within two, before the disruptive 8th inning. Our Number 41 not walking a single batter--giving up five hits. And when he completed his seven inning effort--not many watching did not believe his first victory of 2008 was in hand.
Aaron Boone continues to swing a hot bat. Over the past week, Our Number 8 has more resembled the fine player he was--before his knee injury. Hitting with power, stroking key hits. Today--a nice home run into the Red Porch Seats in left center. A triple over the head of the slipping Amezega in centerfield and a single. When Aaron Boone batted for the final time late in the game--not a sole rooting for Washington--did not wish to see him hit for the cycle. Needing a double, Boone flew out to right field.

Washington pulled ahead with what many felt were the game winning runs in the bottom of the third, when Ronnie Belliard laced a home run down the left field line--a two run shot--with Jesus Flores on second base. And Ryan Zimmerman was safe on an infield single and scored Our Washington Nationals 4th and final run of the afternoon on Boone's ruled triple.

Immediately after Boone's Home Run--Lastings Milledge laced a sharp grounder into the hole between shortstop and third. A hard hit ball which The Florida Marlins Hanley Ramirez dove to his right. Totally stretched out and face planting himself, Ramirez gloved the ball, got up, and threw out the fast moving Milledge for The Defensive Play of This Game.

Once again--no significant production from our Outfield. Wily Mo Pena, Lastings Milledge and Elijah Dukes (today's right fielder)--all hitless. Austin Kearns had the day off.

It's worth mentioning again--What is wrong with Luis Ayala? This one time dependable setup man appeared to be 100% back from his elbow surgery--over two years ago. Lately, Our Number 56 has not been the same. Is he hurt? Or just going through a bad streak? Either way--his work of late--poor.

Which also brings up questions concerning Our Bullpen. Starting Pitchers not going late into games, most all season long. Relievers putting in extended times on the mound in relief. Overworked players like Saul Rivera. Our Washington Nationals Bullpen has always been the Strongest Part of This Franchise. Today--it's becoming more of a question mark.

The Florida Marlins--now undefeated in six games at New Nationals Park. Our Washington Nationals the sole reason The Fish are in first place in The National League East.

Our Washington Nationals Celebrated Mother's Day by Honoring Breast Cancer Survivors, Celebrating Mothers and Raising Awareness of Breast Cancer Research. The first 20,000 Fans entering New Nationals Park were handed a white embroidered Pink Curly "W" and Pink Ribbon Cap. 200 Breast Cancer Survivors were honored at today's game. Nine of whom took the field to greet Our Washington Nationals Starting Nine at the beginning of the game.

As has been the case over the past three Mother's Days--Major League Baseball approved the use of special Pink Bats for those players wishing to participate in the special event on Game Day. Each and every base on the field and The Batting Lineups handed to The Home Plate Umpire contained The Pink Ribbon. Each Player (except pitchers), Coaches, and Umpires wore Pink Wristbands.

And, of course--The African Queen participated in her own way. She wore her Pink Nationals Jersey and Pink Curly "W" Cap. And was joined in celebration by, not only Iris, but Little Abby & The Expectant Becky.

We love those PINK BATS. So why DID NOT Our Washington Nationals sell them in The Team Store Today--as has been the case each of the past two seasons? We really wanted to buy one? And asked all over--to no avail--sadly.
Finally--Sohna and I have become addicted to the Curly "W" Popcorn. Very Salty and Buttering--all the bad things, but freshly air popped--it's very good. $4.75 at various concession stands around New Nationals Park.

But, we continue to be stumped by the EXTREMELY slow lines at the many Nats Dogs stands. Again this afternoon, a one minute walk to our closest Nats Dogs Stand behind Section 223--took AN ENTIRE INNING just to get to the front of the line, order and return to my seat. Yet, there were just THREE people in front of me. How is that conceivably possible? The first person ordered a pretzel and a beer. The second--two nachos and a two cokes. The third--three Nats Dogs. Why over 10 Minutes to complete the process? There seems to be ZERO effort to move fans through the line promptly. Concession Workers behind the counter constantly yelling at each other. No one in charge.

Today's InGame Photos--(AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Ugly On The Field--Nice Off The Field

At 7:11PM, Mike O'Connor threw the very first pitch of tonight's game. And before the clock struck 7:12PM--The Florida Marlins had already scored. A Leadoff First Pitch--Hammered--Home Run well over the leftfield wall by Cody Ross. A Tone Set that played out all night long. Not many baseball games are over early. This one was. Five Singles, Two Doubles, Three Home Runs and Seven Walks allowed by Washington this evening.

The Fish plating runners at will in ONE UGLY GAME.

Making his first Major League Start since September 28, 2006--the night of the infamous Midnight Game at RFK Stadium--Mike O'Connor did not have anything in the tank. No control, less command and when Our Manager Manny Acta slowly walked out to the mound to remove Our Number 54 from this game--you had to feel sorry for him. Because not only was Mike booed by those fans on hand, but the emergence of Manny from the dugout to take him out--elicited cheers--sadly. Tonight's crowd not in a forgiving mood. Mike O'Connor slowly and dejectedly walking to the home clubhouse having allowed six walks, six hits, two home runs and eventually nine runs allowed.

Because--once Joel Hanrahan relieved O'Connor--amazingly--this game GOT WORSE. The Hard Throwing and many times out of control Hanrahan immediately threw a wild pitch to score Florida's sixth run. Then, after walking Jorge Cantu to again load the bases--Dan Uggla UNLOADED A GRAND SLAM off Our Number 38 over the left wall into The Marlins Bullpen. A 93 MPH First Pitch Flat Fastball that Florida's Second Baseman whacked. A resultant Seven Run 4th inning that now put this game out of reach. 10-0 before The Geico Presidents Race was even run. I don't recall that large of a deficit, ever, at RFK Stadium by the 4th inning--during the first three seasons since Major League Baseball returned to Washington.

An eventual 11-0 shellacking by The Florida Marlins--winners of all five games they have EVER PLAYED at New Nationals Park. A lopsided victory for The NL East Leaders that also found Our Washington Nationals providing no offensive support. Highly touted Florida Lefthander, Andrew Miller, shuting down the Washington Offense through seven innings. Taylor Tankersley and Matt Lindstrom finishing this blowout off.

Not much more to say about this one. Just a terrible game to watch on the field. Ugly. Thankfully, Sohna and I were treated tonight to a special time--off the field--making this evening far more bearable. More on that later.

Game Notes & Highlights

By the time The Marlins completed their game breaking Seven Run 4th inning--Mike O'Connor's ERA had ballooned to 13.00. Ouch!

Only FLop seemed to have his bat moving in a positive direction. Felipe Lopez with two of Washington's three hits. "The Guz" with the other. Not one--for extra bases. At one point--Andrew Miller retired 14 Nats Batters in a row. When Cristian Guzman singled in the bottom of the first--not one Washington Batter reached base again until FLop singled in the 6th--to rousing applause.

With the score already 11-0, Cristian Guzman ripped a Taylor Tankersley pitch to the wall in left field in the bottom of the 8th. Florida's Brett Carroll ran hard all the way to the track and leaped into the fence--making a very fine catch. The Defensive Play of This Game that also found Carroll bouncing off the wall--onto his back--and flipping over--landing steadily on his two feet. It was a very nice catch and roll for a game well out of hand.

The Marlins' Matt Lindstrom can HUM the baseball. Pitching in a mop up role in the bottom of the 9th--this righthanded fireballer consistently reached the upper 90's. Three times, the radar gun clocked him at 97 MPH. He was impressive!! What an arm--with control.



Tonight Sohna and I were invited to The Lexus Presidents Club. An opportunity to enjoy the various amenities. Sitting in the first row, next to Our Washington Nationals On Deck Circle--we experienced the ball game up close and personal--like never before for a Washington Home Game. Impressive to witness a 96 MPH heater thrown directly in front of you. The game appears to be played at a faster pace. The reaction times speeded up. The many Grunts, Groans and Chatter among the players--compelling and within earshot. The players so close--you could actually reach out and touch them--if not for the protective screen.

At first, we found ourselves a little disoriented. After sitting 25 rows from the field in Section 320 at RFK Stadium and now slightly farther back but higher in Section 218 at New Nationals Park--watching the game flat was odd for Sohna and I. But, as the game progressed we became far more accustomed to the sight angles. And we enjoyed the ability to look into Our Washington Nationals Dugout during a game for the very first time ever.

Even Nick Johnson acknowledged The African Queen while warming up. Third Base Coach Tim Tolman stopping by for a brief chat before the game.


The fully padded seats extremely comfortable. In-Seat Waiter Service included a whole host of food menu items at no cost--except for Alcohol/Liquor--available until the 7th inning stretch. The Order Taker simply came to your seat--asked for your choices. Shortly thereafter--a waiter would bring your items directly to you. This evening--Sohna sampled The Chicken Tenders, while I enjoyed The Chicken Ceasar Salad for dinner. Later--The African Queen ordered a Hagen Daz Chocolate Ice Cream Bar, while I munched on some Curly "W" Popcorn.


After the game ended--we retired to The Presidents Club for Coffee & Tea--while watching Our Manager Manny Acta's Press Conference from the Viewing Glass inside The Club. Very neat.

A different experience. A different angle to watch the game. All providing a different story to tell and pass on. Team President Stan Kasten chuckling upon first noticing us sitting in tonight's seats, stating: "This ought to be good, and I want to hear the entire story!"

We LOVED the opportunity to see Our Washington Nationals play at New Nationals Park from just off home plate. The Presidents Club was enjoyable and helped take the sting out of tonight's ugly loss. Many thanks to Pete--Presidents & Diamond Club Team Captain--for his hospitality this evening. He was TERRIFIC!!
Finally--this post could not finish without noting that The African Queen was voted The Fan Of The Game!! this evening by the 28,663 in attendance. Cheering for Ryan Zimmerman--the NatsTV camera caught her rooting for Our Number 11. Later in the game--she was shown on the HDTV Scoreboard with two other contestants. Sohna received the biggest cheers and was given a $50 Harris Teeter Gift Card for her effort. She was quite thrilled.

Tonight's Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

One Pitch

Austin Kearns was digging into the Batters Box. The Crowd now on it's feet. This WAS THE CHANCE. Down 7-1 entering the bottom of the 7th inning, Our Washington Nationals were slowly battling back into this contest. Thanks to the very fact that The Florida Marlins Manager, Fredi Gonzalez, had taken his starter Ricky Nolasco out. A game changing decision that now found Our Number 25 standing at the plate--representing the tying run. How quickly any ballgame can change. Just when you think any team has ZERO Chance of winning--opportunity suddenly arises.

As efficiently as Nolasco was shutting down Washington all night long, his replacement, Doug Waechter, was just as ineffective. Trouble was brewing with two outs and Wil Nieves standing on first base after a leadoff single. An uprising was in the making when "The Guz" continued his hot hitting--by doubling down the right field line. A run scoring rip that got the Home Faithful on their feet in applause. A stirring--both on and off the field of play--which grew ever feverish when Ryan Zimmerman walked and Nick Johnson followed with a looping single to right--scoring Cristian Guzman. Just moments ago--a six run deficit was now down to four. And when Lastings Milledge followed with a walk of his own to load the bases--those remaining from the head count of 23,379 felt the resurgent rush.

"Bluegrass" was now stepping to the plate. Doug Waechter was stepping into the dugout--moving on to the showers. Fredi Gonzalez had just stepped to the mound having seen enough of his Number 35. The Marlins were in trouble. Our Washington Nationals were about to bulldoze their way back into this game. Florida's Manager called on the righthanded Justin Miller to block the onrushing tide.

At 10:08 PM Eastern Time, The Moment Was At Hand.

In most every baseball game, no matter the deficit, every team usually gets one comeback chance. This evening, Austin Kearns represented THE BEST CHANCE. THIS WAS IT.

And EVERYBODY KNEW IT!!

As The Faithful stood--rhythmically clapping in the stands, Our Number 25 took a called strike one. Moans and Groans immediately followed. Worry which turned to hope after Justin Miller threw the second pitch of this crucial at-bat outside, for ball number one. Even in the count now--neither of these combatants had found an advantage. The signal that either one was going to win this battle. A tense moment that had every one's rapt attention.

With the balls and strikes now at one and one--Austin Kearns stood ready at the plate. Justin Miller stood on the mound-awaiting the sign from his catcher--Matt Treanor. The now Roaring Crowd stood on their feet--awaiting the climatic moment. A crossroad had finally arrived and this game would be decided on the very next pitch.

Into the full windup Miller strode and fired in what appeared to be a hanging slider. A GRAPEFRUIT SIZED PITCH awaiting to be WALLOPED out of New Nationals Park. A hitter's pitch that must have made "Bluegrass'" eyes bulge in excitement. The Perfect Pitch to hit--high and in the strike zone. This thrown ball had HANG TIME. Everyone saw it, including Austin. Only Kearns was expecting a fastball. With his hips already moving through the strike zone, well ahead of this pitch--all Our Number 25 could do was slow up his bat in compensation. A re-coil that found Austin Kearns making contact, but not with the impact he so badly wanted. A resultant sky high fly to centerfield that Florida's Cody Ross easily settled under to not only end this most crucial of innings, but also finish off the final rally for Our Washington Nationals Tonight. The raptured crowd of just a few seconds ago--now sullenly falling back into the seats in disappointment.

One toss by Justin Miller had decided the outcome. One Pitch that left Austin Kearns wondering--what could have been--If only he was expecting a slider. A nice juicy hanging slider. If Our Number 25 had smacked that ball out of the park, we might still be playing right now. That was a Home Run Pitch like no other. Unfortunately, that one pitch became just another out.

Final Score from chilly & wet New Nationals Park tonight--The Florida Marlins 7, Our Washington Nationals 3.

Game Notes & Highlights

Tim Redding was all over the place tonight. Four walks, four hits in 103 pitches. He was not sharp. And he wasn't helped either by "The Human Rain Delay". Jesus Colome may have decent stats--but just how many Inherited Runners does Our Number 43 allow--seemingly every single game--upon being called on with runner on base? This evening--Colome broke this game wide open in the top of the sixth--when he allowed the aging Luis Gonzalez to rip a liner down the right field line into the corner--emptying the bases. A Three Run Double with the bases loaded that put Washington behind 6-1 at that point. A close game no longer. Our Bullpen again a culprit tonight. Our Relief Corp not the same so far in 2008. Chad Cordero may be down--but "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" being out has affected the effectiveness of Our Manager's Relievers. At times--they seem not only overworked, but out of sync.

Ricky Nolasco threw a fine game for The Marlins. His only rough spot the bottom of the 4th, when Nick Johnson started a two out rally with a single, followed by a Milledge single and Austin Kearns walk to load the bases. Whereupon Wily Mo Pena licked his bat (as he always does before each at-bat) and walked to the plate--looking to provide some substantial offensive support for the first time all season long. An At-Bat that found Our Number 26 producing his best plate appearance of the year. No--he didn't jack one out--nor even get a hit. But, Wily Mo Pena drew a terrific seven pitch full count walk to plate Johnson with Our Washington Nationals first run. A turnaround that ended with the very next hitter. Wil Nieves meekly grounding into a fielders choice to Hanley Ramirez at shortstop.

Speaking of Wily Mo--Our Washington Nationals continue to get LITTLE production out of their leftfielder. And virtually no power from their centerfielder--Lastings Milledge. How much better would this team be--if only their outfielders contributed a few more times in clutch situations. Even Kearns has struggled--but at least he is driving in some runs--that count. Something Pena and Milledge have provided little of in April & May. The good start from My Main Man!! Ryan Church, in New York, is making Washington's efforts look that much worse.

What is it with The Florida Marlins? They just seem to have Our Washington Nationals number. Already in 2008--The Fish have won 6 of 7 against Our Nats. Miguel Cabrera is long gone from South Florida--yet Jorge Cantu now owns Washington pitching while playing a better third base than Cabrera could ever provide. In fact, you would have to say--The Marlins are a pretty good team. Their 21-14 mark, the best start in team history. And Hanley Ramirez continues to show he is one of the finest young players in the game--proving his 2006 Rookie of The Year Award--may not have been a fluke after all--despite all the pleas from Washington Fans (including myself) that Ryan Zimmerman was robbed of the award. That man can play.

Matt Chico made his very first relief effort in his Major League Career tonight--throwing two innings of shutout ball. Once again known as "Our Starter In Training" (to me)--Our Number 47 looked mighty odd pitching in a mop up role. Would it not serve Matt better--to let him work out his kinks at AAA Columbus? Being the long man out of the bullpen or the situational lefty--just doesn't fit his bill.
Speaking of kinks--Elijah Dukes looked lost at the plate tonight. Returning from The Disabled List after missing all but Opening Night with a hamstring injury--Our Number 34 swung meekly during his first At-Bat and struck out badly. Then, was K'd again when he could not get around on a 90 MPH Fastball--which he seemed to know was coming from the hand of Reynel Pinto. Sohna and I were happy to see him back. It just appeared he wasn't 100% ready--not yet.
Off the field--how about that Inside Pitch--the free scorecard handed out as you enter the gates at New Nationals Park? Slick with a couple of stories, trivia, scorecard and lineups--it's quickly become one of my favorite items available. Updated for every homestand--Inside Pitch is a nice giveaway for those who like to keep score, find out some information about the teams, while not having to buy the larger $5 program each and every game. A GREAT IDEA!!.
Tonight was the first night fans could begin voting for the 2008 All Star Game to be played at Yankee Stadium in The Bronx. Ballot displays are now located throughout the South Capitol Street Ballpark. Ushers will collect your voting cards during each home game.

As this game got out of hand--more and more patrons began to leave. As the crowd size slowly dwindled toward Friends & Family Size--The Red Loft Bar continued to pack them in. Sohna and I found ourselves laughing: "There could be 100 people still watching the game and 95 of them would be jostling each other in The Red Loft." That Bar is like a magnet. People tend to stick there and can only be peeled away--when told to leave--when the game is over. Remarkable.
Finally--there was a family sitting to our right tonight in Section 218. The Parents had bought their youngster a complete Washington Nationals Setup of Clothing. Jersey, Team Jacket and Matching Pants. He looked GREAT! This young boy was quite the sight dressed up in his Nats Gear. Excited and full of energy early on--by the 6th inning--he had passed out--asleep in his parents arms for the remainder of the game. But before he took the rest of the night off--he posed for this GREAT PHOTO!! His Parents--very proud.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Lot 7 & Nats Express On Saturday Night

Just a reminder--due to the US Women's National Soccer Team's Game against Canada at RFK Stadium on Saturday Night--Lot 8 will not be used for The Nats Shuttle. Instead, as before, Fans of Our Washington Nationals wishing to use the Free Park and Ride Service to New Nationals Park must enter Lot 7 through either East Capitol Street, or Benning Road/Oklahoma Avenue.

As mentioned yesterday--Metro has Track Maintenance scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday on the Green Line. Shuttles are available to get fans using Metro to and from the park.

Also keep in mind (thanks to Brandon), The Woodrow Wilson Bridge outer loop will be just ONE LANE from 9PM Friday Night (May 9th) through Sunday May 11th.

Plan Accordingly.

Below is the Press Release from Our Washington Nationals concerning The Nats Express change.

Nats Express to Operate Out of RFK Lot 7 on Saturday, May 10, 2008
WHAT: Washington Nationals fans choosing to park for free at RFK Stadium and take the Nats Express to Nationals Park may park in Lot 7 on Saturday, May 10, 2008.

Due to the U.S. Women’s National soccer team’s exhibition game against Canada, RFK Stadium Lot 8 will not be available to Nationals fans. Lot 7 may be accessed off the Whitney Young Bridge (East Capitol Street) or off of Oklahoma Avenue. The Nats Express begins ninety minutes prior to Nationals home games.

WHO: Washington Nationals Fans choosing to take the free Nats Express

WHEN: Saturday, May 10, 2008

WHERE: RFK Memorial Stadium

Lot 7

Oklahoma Ave & East Capitol Streets, SE

Resetting The Tone

When Willie Harris lashed a homer to right field off Brandon Backe--you had to figure this was going to be Our Washington Nationals Night.

After two straight disappointing losses--Washington played a good tight ball game this evening in Houston.

They didn't make silly mistakes.

They got some timely hits.

They were focused.

They were resetting the tone.

And most importantly, Our Washington Nationals received a fine starting effort from John Lannan. One they did not waste.

Some very fine pitching--in fact.

Twice on the ropes against Houston--John Lannan battled back to retire The Astros while allowing just one run. None better than his effort during the bottom of the sixth. After two straight singles by Lance Berkman and Carlos Lee, Our Number 31 remained in control--getting the young and talented Hunter Pence to hit into a double play grounder. A smoked ball that "The Guz" swiftly fielded moving to his left. A carried direction which found Cristian Guzman touching second base then firing to Nick Johnson at first base for a key double play. A inning-turning play that allowed John Lannan to end this latest threat, just one hitter latter, by getting Ty Wiggington to also ground out to Our Number 15 for the final out.

Earlier in 4th--Miguel Tejada and Berkman singled to start the bottom half. And although Houston would score one run on a infield single by Hunter Pence with one out--Lannan again settled down to retire the next two Astro Hitters to end the threat.

Our Number 31 pitched an excellent game, seven complete innings worth. And his work set the stage for Our Washington Nationals victory to end this short three game road trip. Home Runs from Harris and Rob Mackowiak and a three RBI night from Austin Kearns. Every starter but Ronnie Belliard getting in on the hit parade. All on a night Our Manager Manny Acta did the right thing and sat down the slumping Wily Mo Pena and the exasperating Lastings Milledge. Both Our Numbers 16 & 44 need to get their heads back in the game. Right now--they are not helping in any consistent manner.

Cury "W" Number 15 was a much needed 8-3 win by Our Washington Nationals.

Because it stops a small losing streak.

Stops a string of bad games.

And resets the tone for an important three game match up with The Florida Marlins this Mother's Day Weekend. An opportunity to move ever so closer to the .500 mark.

Game Notes & Highlights

John Lannan continues to show he has moxie. Not the most talented hurler, but the gumption to pitch without fear. You got to like that from a 23 year old.

With Darin Erstad pinch hitting in the bottom of the 7th for Houston--the veteran lefthanded hitter stroked a blooping liner down the left field line off Saul Rivera. An opposite field stroke that found Rob Mackowiak diving face first into the ground--stretching full out to make the catch. A very fine effort that would have been The Defensive Play of This Game--if not for the defensive snare of a liner back to box by The Astros Tim Byrdak. "The Guz" flatout nailed a drive right to Tim's head. Reacting only--Brydak stuck up his glove in self-defense, caught the smashed ball and easily doubled off Aaron Boone, standing well away from the second base bag for a TERRIFIC PLAY!!

What's wrong with Luis Ayala? Is he just overworked? Or hurting? Of late--he has struggled mightily on the mound. Tonight in the 8th, a laborious 34 pitch effort. Our Number 56 giving up two runs on two hits and one walk. As Charlie Slowes mentioned on the radio--"an adventurous outing". Manny--either set him down for a spell or find out if something is wrong--before it's too late.

Rob Mackowiak contributed this evening for one of the first times all season. His two run homer in the 8th, just reached into the Crawford Boxes in left field. Our Number 12 also hitting a single and making that fine defensive play.

Speaking of The Crawford Boxes--they are just silly. When Ronnie Belliard came up in the top of the 6th, he lofted a routine fly ball to left. An easy out in every other park in America. But at Minute Maid Park, nearly a home run. The Short Porch in left does not add to the game--only hinders the outcome. Those Crawford Boxes have got to go, too gimmicky and they reflect badly on the game.

Finally, Charlie & Dave Jageler were lamenting their upcoming late night flight back to Dulles International Airport from Houston after tonight's game. Realizing the late hour of this game, both knew their charter would not get back to DC before 4AM. Charlie's response about driving home from IAD at that early hour: "At least we can wave to all you fans heading off to work driving past us." Very funny.

Tonight's InGame Photo (AP)

The Way To Go This Weekend

As you are well aware--Metro Is The Way To Go. Maybe, not this weekend.

Last night, while watching Our Washington Nationals on MASN, a Metro Weekend Disruption Announcement was shown on the broadcast. The information stated that due to Track Maintenance--customers using Metrorail to and from New Nationals Park this coming weekend MAY face significant delays leaving the South Capitol Street Ballpark after the game.

This is a problem I have feared for some time.

For well over one year--Metro has been virtually an impossible service to depend on during any weekend. Continuing Track Maintenance forcing single tracking--causing delays up to 45 minutes in any one direction. It's why Sohna and I NEVER use Metro on the weekend.

Now--fans of Our Washington Nationals are going to have to make a determined choice. What mode of transportation to use for this weekend's games against The Florida Marlins. Mother's Day Weekend--usually well attended affairs.

According to Metro's website--when leaving the ballpark after the game--Free shuttle buses will be available from Navy Yard Station to Federal Center SW beginning after the 7th inning of each game. The N22 will also be a Free Shuttle after the 7th inning to Eastern Market Station and on to Union Station. Each shuttle bus running every five minutes.

Also--a shuttle train link will run from Navy Yard to L'Enfant Plaza Station.

Before the game--fans on The Red Line commuting from Shady Grove are requested to get off at Metro Center, Not Gallery Place/Chinatown, then transfer to a Blue or Orange Line train to L'Enfant Plaza--then catch the shuttle train to Navy Yard/Nationals Park. Red Line customers from Silver Spring are asked to get off at Union Station and transfer to the N22 Bus to Nationals Park.

There is a lot of information to shift through. So, if this disruption might affect your route to the ballgames this weekend--please read the information provided in both links.

Thankfully, The Free Nats Express has worked wonderfully from RFK Stadium's Lot 8. And parking in and around New Nationals Park has not exactly been hard to find in the designated lots. Especially since paid daily parking is now available.

Unfortunately, this is exact type of scenario where Metro promises, then historically changes it's tune to satisfy their needs--not necessarily those of their customers. Yes, Metro needs to retro fit and maintain their system. But, do they have to disrupt the time and ease of the up to 20,000 Patrons whom have been ASKED/BEGGED to use Metro as their sole choice of transportation to and from the new ballyard?

Sohna and I are taking The Nats Express this weekend as Our Way To Go. And we can imagine many more fans deciding to use their cars as well for their Way To Go--not willing to experience a SIGNIFICANT DELAY on Metro on Saturday or Sunday.

The Little Things Matter

Odalis Perez fails to cover first base on a hard smash to Nick Johnson at first base.

Perez allows a two out, two strike, two RBI Single to The Houston Astros Pitcher--Roy Oswalt--in the bottom of the 4th.

Mike O'Connor doesn't realize the situation at hand when Roy Oswalt slams a liner right back to the box with runners on 2nd and 3rd and one out. A liner that Our Number 54 freezes on, and fails to pull off an easy double play to end the inning--with every Houston runner well off their respective bases.

Third Base Coach Tim Tolman sends Wily Mo Pena home from second base--with two outs--in the top of the 7th on a single up the middle by Felipe Lopez. A stroked hit that is quickly picked up by The Houston Astros Centerfielder Michael Bourn. A decision by Tolman that results in Wily Mo being gunned down at home--EASILY--in a tie ballgame. Unless it's the the 8th or 9th--why risk such a move? Especially with the hotting hitting "Guz" next?

Joel Hanrahan walks the very first hitter he faces in the bottom of the 7th. Velocity is one thing--control is far more important. Our Number 38 has quite the arm--but no command at times.

Then--Hanrahan walks the leadoff hitter in the crucial bottom of the 9th. Moments later--Hanrahan fails to throw out Kaz Matsui--leaning on a steal attempt. An advance to scoring position that sets up Carlos Lee's single to center when Jesus Colome replaces Joel. A relief effort directly leading to The Houston Astros victory over Our Washington Nationals 4-3.

This was a fundamentally poor game played by DC's Team which erased a fine performance by Ryan Zimmerman. "Z" slamming two home runs and providing all three RBI's tonight for Washington. A hopeful turnaround performance by Our Franchise Player. A nice sight to see after an otherwise glum team performance.

Unfortunately, other than Ryan Zimmerman--not much good about this ball game tonight.

The Little Things Matter and Our Washington Nationals failed to execute those skills this evening. Practiced precision that leads to winning any Major League Ball Game.

Tonight's InGame Photo--(AP) Dave Einsel

Good Luck!! Chris!!

We have only met once--at RFK Stadium.

Occasionally, we have agreed on topics.

But mostly, we live at the opposite ends of the spectrum concerning Baseball in Washington, DC.

Opinions--that have made blogging about Our Washington Nationals Fun. You know, debating about The Great Game has added to my enjoyment since baseball's return to Washington. I always love the give and take of blogging--as long as it's not personal.

And when I first heard that Chris Needham announced he was RETIRING from his Capitol Punishment blog, I thought IT WAS A JOKE!!

Apparently Not!!

So, I just wanted to say: I am sorry to see you go Chris. As long as everyone is talking about Our Washington Nationals--in praise or criticism--it's important. Talking about the team gets people excited and draws in more fans. I know we have battled at times. But at the end of the day--I also know--DEEP DOWN--we are both Fans of Our Washington Nationals.

GOOD LUCK TO YOU!!! SOHNA AND I ONLY WISH YOU THE BEST!!

PS--Knowing how much you love it-- I just had to put the Caps Lock on--just to EMPHASIZE THE POINT!!

Odds & Ends While Away

Being on the Campaign Trail again (Thanks to Hillary & Barack)--not much free time. But, I wanted to pass on some information that has come my way concerning seats at New Nationals Park.

Not only have many noticed the openness of The Presidents Club & Diamond Club Seats behind Home Plate--but The Stars & Stripes Level Seats have not been fully packed as well--despite being sold out. Our Washington Nationals confirm that each and every seat from Sections 206 to Section 221 is paid for--in full. In fact, Team President Stan Kasten personally told Sohna and I that everyone is indeed sold. Although, he couldn't say why many are not using their seats on a regular basis.

But, the smart shopper can apparently take advantage now to purchase Stars & Stripes Level Seats to certain games. Our friends, Phil & Robert, this past Sunday--turned in their regular season tickets--two seats in Section 130 and treated Phil's Sister and Robert's Wife to yesterday's game with The Pittsburgh Pirates. Paying for the price difference for the upgrade--they enjoyed the afternoon sitting in Section 218--two rows behind The African Queen and I.

Apparently, for some games--certain Club Level Ticket Holders have turned their seats back over to the team for tickets to other games later in the season. And Our Washington Nationals are selling those turned-in seats on game days--apparently not in advance. Phil & Robert are the second group of folks we know that have purchased Club Level Seats on Gameday. Recently, I recall reading someone else mentioning this online--in another thread.

Also--we know of some friends who have purchased Diamond Club Seats--without the food option. The $35 Food & Beverage Credit for In-Seat Waiter Service. These folks told us the price of their tickets were reduced by $35 to sit in Diamond Club for that particular baseball game at New Nationals Park.

Finally--I am happy to read that some ushers are attempting to enforce the rule of not allowing patrons to walk down from the concourses to their seats during play. It's going to take a while to get everyone on the right page. And I wouldn't mind seeing Ushers have a small sign to hold up--at the top of each aisle--to get the attention of those who might not be aware. Reinforcement, that not walking down during play is a Team and Stadium Request--to be adhered to.

Just passing along information that might be helpful to someone.

The Zone

When Tim Redding threw a 95 mile per hour heater right past The Pittsburgh Pirates Brian Bixler in the top of the third inning--you just knew he was mentally into this game. Our Number 17 was showing the confidence to succeed. That psychological freedom of being in "The Zone."

There is a moment in most every one's sports career where you can do little wrong. Sometimes almost without effort--the game becomes easier. Every pitch thrown by any pitcher looks like it was shot from a gun--dipping, dropping or smoking right past each and every hitter. This afternoon at New Nationals Park, Tim Redding was virtually lights out--until he tired in the 7th. This one time top prospect with The Houston Astros, now veteran journeyman, looking to again find his spot in The Great Game. And when he blew away Bixler for strike three for today's 2nd out in the 3rd inning--Redding must have also turned some heads. He hasn't thrown that hard and this consistently in years. At The Major League Level--Tim is slowly becoming Our Washington Nationals most consistent starter. Unquestionably, success breeds confidence. Our Number 17 was in "The Zone" this afternoon.

A feeling Ryan Zimmerman has currently lost. Our Franchise Player mentally exhausted. And who can really blame him? For this 23 Year Old--Major League Baseball has become a day-to-day grind. Expectations placed on this young man--exorbitantly high. So much so, Our Number 11 looks tired--down right worn out. Everyone realizes, Zimmerman has succeeded beyond what many thought possible in his short two plus seasons in Washington. But now--he is many times getting himself out at the plate--swinging at his opposing pitchers best pitches. You see--Ryan is far now from "The Zone". And rightfully today--Our Number 11 asked to be taken out the lineup--after 205 consecutive appearances. With a scheduled off day on Monday, Our Manager Manny Acta granted Ryan Zimmerman his request. "Z" needs these two full days to relax, unwind and get back on track. Hopefully, find "The Zone"--again. You know he can.

That cerebral tranquility which Cristian Guzman continues to possess. Is anyone HOTTER on Our Washington Nationals than "The GUZ"!!? Nearly run out of town by The Faithful before the 2005 Inaugural Season even concluded--Our Number 15 has found a new following. How surreal to hear "GUZZIE" in his praise at New Nationals Park--than the many "Booz" which rained down on him from the vast expanses of RFK Stadium. At the Old Ballyard on East Capitol Street--I could count the number of Cristian Guzman fans sitting in and around Old Section 320 as two: The African Queen and BangTheDrumNatly. At New Nationals Park--seemingly the ENTIRE CROWD of 30,564 was CHEERING ON our starting shortstop this afternoon. Today--Cristian Guzman with two more hits and one run scored--continuing a breakthrough series of games. All because--unlike any other player on Our Team--"THE GUZ" is clearly STILL in "THE ZONE." Unstoppable at the plate and in the field. Without a doubt--Our Washington Nationals Most Valuable Player over this just completed 11 Game Homestand. How odd is it to actually call "THE GUZ"--Our MVP? I have to give him huge credit for his efforts.
Acknowledgement no one would have believed for Washington's Major League Team after the first three weeks of this new campaign. Struggling early--Our Washington Nationals are also playing in "The Zone" now. This Physic Development held collectively as a team. Mostly quality starting pitching, timely hitting and some fine defensive plays in the field. A one time 5-15 ball club, now sitting at 14-18 in the standings after concluding this afternoon's win. A very impressive 8-3 homestand.

"The Zone" directly responsible for Curly "W" Number 14 this GORGEOUS SUNDAY at New Nationals Park. The Bang!! Zoom!! of The Fireworks!! signaling that Our Washington Nationals are building on their success--finding the psychological freedom to joyfully walk on the field, not run in unbelieving merriment, after this afternoon's 5-2 victory over The Pittsburgh Pirates. Confident in the fact they are--on a daily basis--becoming a very competitive Major League Team.

On to Houston now--for three games at Gimmicky Minute Maid Park. Can Our Washington Nationals stay within "The Zone"? And edge their way--ever so closely toward .500?

Game Notes & Highlights

From the get-go, Tim Redding was on his game. Solid, in command, and sitting The Pittsburgh Pirates down in order. Looking to save his bullpen--Our Manager Manny Acta attempted to stretch Our Number 17 into the 7th inning. A decision that almost proved costly when Redding allowed back to back hits--a single by Xavier Nady and a BOMB by Adam LaRoche. A hammered pitch that just missed for his second home run of the day. A drive that banged high off the Out Of Town Scoreboard in right. A resultant double that moved Pittsburgh's baserunners to second and third with one out--and removed Tim Redding from this game.

A smart decision as "Everyday" Saul Rivera trotted on to retire the next two Pirate Batters in order--on comebackers to the mound. An impressive performance that, not only maintained a slim two run lead at that time--but assured Our Number 17 of the victory--his 4th of 2008. Not only was Tim Redding outstanding this afternoon--but Rivera and Luis Ayala again proved how invaluable they are out of the bullpen. Both--excellent in the 7th and 8th innings. No--you can't have your best stuff everyday--as our relief corp is continually called on--exceedingly so. But, Our Numbers 52 & 56 are quality pitchers. Relievers that most any team in the game would love to possess.

In the top of the 4th inning--Pittsburgh's Nate McLouth drove a Redding pitch into the right field corner. Having seen Austin Kearns have trouble with a similar drive yesterday afternoon--McLouth never stopped rounding first and headed for second base. BIG MISTAKE!! Our Number 25 is one of the finest rightfielders in the game. Not many take better tracks to the hit balls than Austin. As Nate rounded first--"Bluegrass" retrieved the baseball and threw a one hop STRIKE to "The Guz". A fabulous throw right on the money. If that baseball had arrived even the slightest bit off target, McLouth would have been safe. But it wasn't, The Pirates Centerfielder realizing yesterday's mistake was unusual. Today, was vintage Austin Kearns. Nate McLouth out at second base with The Defensive Play of This Game. A GREAT THROW!! The Standing Ovation to Our Number 25 was well deserved.

One of the men in "The Zone" got the scoring going for Our Washington Nationals today. Cristian Guzman slapped a single into the hole between short and third in the bottom of the first. Followed immediately by Lastings Milledge being hit on the helmet by a pitch from The Pirates Ian Snell. A glancing blow that put Washington runners on first and second with one out. An advantage taken care of--when Nick Johnson followed with a blooping single to left scoring "The Guz" and Austin Kearns followed with a clean single--also to left.

Aaron Boone--filling in for the resting Zimmerman--increased the Washington scoring to three with a drive--just over the fence in left center--for a home run in the fourth. A Red Porch Seat Shot--his First Homer of 2008.

Later in the 7th--Willie Harris drilled a Snell pitch into the right field corner. An easy double for the speedster that resulted in the fourth run of the afternoon--when FLop followed with a clean single to centerfield. Washington's final score of this game came in the bottom of the 8th, when Wily Mo Pena--pinch hitting for Luis Ayala--drove a John Grabow pitch deep to left center. A single that plated Austin Kearns--who had reached on a single earlier--and had advanced to second on a Paul LoDuca single.

In the bottom of the 4th--Rob Mackowiak was at the plate. Today's starter in left field for Our Washington Nationals--he received a nice round of applause from Pittsburgh Fans--appreciative of his five years playing for the home team at PNC PARK. Then, he blooped a looper down the left field line toward The Pirates' Jason Bay--AND DIDN'T RUN!! Figuring his former teammate Bay would easily make the catch--Our Number 12 loafed to first base. Bay missed the fly. Mackowiak missed out on a double. He was booed--rightfully so. If you don't want to run any batted ball out--don't play. Simple as that.

Did you know that Our Washington Nationals are undefeated in 2008 (3-0) wearing those gorgeous Red "DC" Uniforms. 32-15 overall since the Red Tops were first worn in 2006. As I have said before: Let's Wear Them More!! They look GREAT!!


Today was Scout Day. Group Discounts Available for Kids Run The Bases Day. Each member of a pre-registered Scout Group received a very nice Scout Day Washington Nationals Uniform Patch. There are three other opportunities later this season.

Also today--was My Best Friend's!! Birthday. Although Sohna and I recognize the birthday of Screech!! as April 17th--Our Washington Nationals did not play at home on that date. So, on May 3rd--Screech celebrated along with fellow Mascots--Talon from DC United and The Blue Hen from The University of Delaware. A birthday cake was presented to My Best Friend on top of The Nationals First Base Dugout by Clint and The NatPack. A present that promptly landed in a patrons face in Section 127--when Screech clumsily tripped and feel hopping off Our Washington Nationals Dugout.

By the way--"Peanut Butter and Jelly Time" (a song from the mid-90's) is quite the bizarre interlude between innings. Last week a Banana danced along with Screech and Our Presidents. Today--Screech, The Blue Hen, Talon, The Pittsburgh Pirogues, Our Racing Presidents and an inflatable Blue Hen all joined the fun. The moment so bizarre, it's going to take time to catch on. But, we like it. "Peanut Butter and Jelly Time" is different--worth keeping.

Finally, speaking of The Pirogues--for the second consecutive day--The Racing Pirogues from Pittsburgh competed at New Nationals Park. This afternoon a relay race that Abe won handily. A competition that was different and fun to watch. Of course--Teddy did not win again. Sohna and I like the fact that The Pittsburgh Mascots showed up for Our Washington Nationals Home Game. When Our Washington Nationals head to Pittsburgh in June for their visit to PNC Park--hopefully Our Racing Presidents will return the favor. Now--what about those sausages? Milwaukee visits New Nationals Park on Memorial Day Weekend. Bring on The Chorizo and his Gang!! This time for some REAL RACING. That would be FABULOUS!!

Today's InGame Photo--(AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais

Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Third Annual Gala

"Come On!! This is not only for the kids--it's for pitching. Everyone wants to see good pitching!! Show us what you got!!" Our General Manager Jim Bowden was in PRIME FORM. Standing on stage at The Gaylord National Resort--ANIMATED--encouraging the many assembled guests to bid early and bid often in this evening's Live Auction. The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation was holding their Third Annual Gala. A Fundraiser to provide support for their three cornerstone projects.


Over 750 guests on hand at the Prince Georges County Hotel & Convention Center local--including virtually the Entire 2008 Version of Our Washington Nationals--players, coaches, manager and staff--as well as the hosts for this evening's event--Hall of Famer Don Sutton and his broadcast partner--Bob Carpenter. You better believe--The African Queen and I were in attendance.

"We have done very well tonight, although I don't know the exact figures yet," stated Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Chair Marla Lerner Tanenbaum. "But, I am sure we have completely outdone our effort from last year's Gala." In 2007--The Second Annual Gala raised over $454,000 for their projects.



Nearly 120 donors provided sports memorabilia, vacation packages, wine gift packs, fine dining, spa treatments and jewelry--among many other items--for auction. 16 Different Major League Baseball Teams participated by offering items to The Dream Foundation. The Washington Redskins, Capitals, Wizards, Mystics and DC United also provided auction items--as well as a handful of NBA, NHL & NFL Teams--including The Boston Bruins, Cleveland Browns, St. Louis Rams, Dallas Stars and Dallas Mavericks.

"Everybody was into the spirit of the evening," said Alphonso Maldon, Jr.--President of The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation (shown above alongside his wife Caroline and Sohna). "We had some nice items up for auction to help the kids. It's always good when people come out to have a good time and help our initiatives. I thought everything went really well."

The three cornerstone projects for The Dream Foundation include: A State of The Art Diabetes Care Complex at The Children's National Medical Center in NE Washington; The building of a Youth Baseball Academy in DC, and their Neighborhood Initiatives. Funding and support for The Hopkins Branch of The Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The only Club still located in a Public Housing Project. The Hopkins Branch is located less than two miles from New Nationals Park. And The Earth Conservation Corp. A next door neighbor of Our Washington Nationals. The ECC is a non-profit group dedicated to helping youths re-shape their lives, while restoring The Anacostia River and the surrounding environment.



Before the live auction began--there was a Silent Auction held during the Pre-Dinner Program Reception. Guest, Players, Staff and Patrons could place their bids on a myriad of items laying on the many tables in the ballroom. After the cocktail hour--everyone was escorted into the main ballroom for Dinner and the Live Auction. Eight Big Ticket Items were available including VIP BATTING PRACTICE, GOLF OUTING WITH A PLAYER, A SUITE FOR A NATIONALS HOME GAME WITH THE NEW YORK METS, AND A RFK STADIUM MEMORIAL PACKAGE (including four seats from The Old Ballyard on East Capitol Street).
But nothing beat the performance by Jim Bowden. Standing on stage--Our General Manager raised the level of the entire bidding--with some serious off the cuff auction items. Included--A Complete Team Collection of Baseball Caps signed by The Entire 2008 team. Batting Practice and Dinner with Ryan Zimmerman. Hitting and Batting Practice from a player and coach from Our Washington Nationals. Infielders, outfielders, catchers--you name group--JimBo was offering up not only their autographs--but a chance to meet them too. His best offer--be The General Manager for a day--sit in his GM Box for a couple of innings in an upcoming Home Game of Our Washington Nationals--make trade offers. Watch the brain trust at work--see first hand how they act and react to the action on the field. A wild opportunity. Most of these items sold at auction for well over $4000 apiece.

Honestly--He was good. JimBo was putting on a show and everyone was enjoying his banter. "We asked him to be involved and he (Bowden) took it to a whole new level," exclaimed Mr. Maldon. "He really had people excited. "You got to like that."

Even Neal Liberman--The CEO of Gifford's Ice Cream and Candy Company--was on board handing out his signature Dream Foundation Fundraiser--"The Dinger" as an after dinner treat.

This was enjoyable event. Sohna and I sat with Bullpen Coach Rick Aponte for dinner. But, we mingled all night long. "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" was extremely pleased with his Silent Auction Wins. A Photo of John F. Kennedy after throwing out a First Pitch at RFK Stadium in the early 1960's and an autographed Dick Butkus Chicago Bears Helmet. "I will pick up anything with JFK on it," said Chad Cordero. "My fiance really wanted the Butkus Helmet, So, I just had to pick it up for her. She is going to love it."

"The Chief" was looking good in his tux. And of course--had to pose with The African Queen for a photo. Sohna and I chatted with him for some time after dinner. Our Number 32 is quite the pleasant man to speak with.

Enjoyment which Mr. Bang!! Zoom!! and his partner David Jageler always provide. Charlie Slowes is one funny man. Of course--his spotting of Agent 99 (The African Queen) got us all off on another tangent of stories that filled the entire evening with laughter. Charlie and Dave are as good in person as they are on the radio. A whole lot of fun. We love those guys.

An affection which Sohna also has for her buddy--Don Sutton. The very moment this Hall of Fame Pitcher spotted The African Queen in the Foyer at The Gaylord Resort--he immediately bowed in her direction. "So, are you a Princess yet?" he exclaimed and came over to greet us. Later, Sohna told Mr. Sutton that when we visited The Baseball Hall Of Fame this past January--she had purchased a special HOF Engraved Bat for him to personally sign. "Those Cooperstown Bat Company bats are excellent," said Don. "I would be honored to sign it for you." Of course--when The African Queen mentioned that the very first item she went to view and take a picture with at The Baseball Hall of Fame--was his Enshrinement Plaque--Don Sutton and Sohna exchanged a serious High Five in Celebration. Quite the characters those two when together.

After the dinner--everyone was invited down to The Nationals Pastime Bar in the Atrium of The Gaylord Resort. This Washington Nationals Centric Sports Bar was open for The Post Gala Party. Drinks and desserts were served to anyone wishing to partake. Although far from the last one's to leave--Sohna and I did not return home until nearly 1AM Sunday Morning.
Attending The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Gala was well worth the effort. Their Cause of Helping Children Noble. The atmosphere and enthusiasm surrounding the night--simply enjoyable. We had a great time. So did everyone else.

Other photos from this evening:
With Mark Lerner
With Manny Acta
Jennifer & Dave Jageler with Christina & Charlie Slowes

PS--Yeah--How About that "Guz" this afternoon?! Six RBI on a two run homer, a three run double and one run single. Our Number 15 even perfectly shaded Nate McLouth up the middle to help record the final crucial out to lead Our Washington Nationals over The Pittsburgh Pirates at New Nationals Park 9-8. A never ending game that had the feeling of he who bats lasts--wins. Pitching was not a strong point in this affair. But we enjoyed the salute to The Negro Leagues. The Homestead Grays versus The Homestead Grays. The Pittsburgh Gray Away Retro Uniforms were OK. Our Washington Nationals red trim Grays jerseys--mighty sharp. I loved the two tone socks. In fact, Ronnie Belliard told Sohna and I this evening, at the Gala, he enjoyed wearing this particular outfit today--more than the Cream Color and Navy Blue Grays Uniform the team wore in 2007 during their previous Negro League Tribute Game. And yeah, Sohna and I watched this entire game in person and then high tailed it home to re-dress for The Gala. Sorry, no recap today--only so much time in the day.

Guzman InGame Photo--(AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais
Gala Photos--Nats320, All Rights Reserved

The Night The Lights Went Out

When the lights at New Nationals Park dimmed at 8:56PM this evening--it's too bad they didn't stay off the rest of the night. As from the third inning on--this affair between Our Washington Nationals and Pittsburgh Pirates was awful.

John Lannan threw 85 pitches in just three innings. He got hammered for six runs, five of which were earned.

Even when Washington made a slight comeback to try to get back into this game--our bullpen kept giving runs back to The Pirates.

Mike O'Connor charged with four earned runs.

Joel Hanrahan was all over the place--allowing two inherited runners of O'Connor's to score--and giving up one himself.

Only "The Human Rain Delay" pitched a scoreless outing. Jesus Colome retiring Pittsburgh in order in the 9th.

This final 11-4 drubbing of Our Washington Nationals was not pretty. Even tonight's 25 minute light failure delay could not help The Home Team. A stoppage in play that forced the postponement of the scheduled Friday Night Fireworks after the completion of the ballgame. The surrounding neighborhood of New Nationals Park has a noise curfew of some sort. Fireworks can not be let off--as a show--after 11PM.

On a night the lights went out--most fans Of Our Washington Nationals may well have wished--they never came back on.

Game Notes & Highlights

At least the cancellation of the fireworks lead to a funny moment in the bottom of the ninth. With very few fans remaining in the park--a group behind The Nationals First Base Dugout began chanting--"We Want The Fireworks!!" Clap, Clap, Clap Clap. "We Want The Fireworks!!" The ballpark was so quiet at that time--virtually the entire first base side of New Nationals Park joined in. The chant getting so loud--Odalis Perez turned around to watch from the home team dugout. At least the moment gave a brief period of fun--in an otherwise forgettable baseball game.

The 14 Foot Wall that runs from right field toward center--where the Out Of Town Scoreboard is placed--deflected two sure Home Runs this evening. The Pirates Nate McLouth got ahold of a John Lannan pitch in the top of the third and hammered it over Austin Kearns head in right. The baseball landed just a few feet to the left of Washington's Bullpen--but off the wall. No Home Run--the ball in play. And, Austin actually made a fine toss to almost throw out McLouth at the second base.

Later in the bottom half of the 3rd, FLop drilled a Phil Dumantrait pitch to deep right centerfield. A sure home run until this batted ball also bounced off the wall. A few feet more to the left--it would have been a homer. These were the first times I recall the Outfield Wall actually making a difference in the game.

The Pirates Jose Bautista did slug two home runs this evening. His first--a three run shot off Lannan--landed in the grass being grown under the Batters Eye in Dead Centerfield. The first ball to land in that spot at New Nationals Park. Of course a fan sitting in The Red Porch seats jumped the railing to enter the grassy knoll to retrieve the baseball. He was summarily escorted from the ballpark for being in an unauthorized area. Security was booed while taking the man out of the stadium.

Wil Nieves continued his hot hitting with a two run RBI double down the left field line in the bottom of the fourth inning.

Other than those points--there is really not much more to say about this game.

Tomorrow--Retro Baseball--The Homestead Grays Versus The Homestead Grays. During the height of Negro League Major League Baseball--The Homestead Grays used both Forbes Field (Pittsburgh) and Griffith Stadium (Washington) as home fields--during the same season. Both The Pirates and Our Nationals will wear vintage style uniforms tomorrow--in celebration of The Grays rich history.

Tonight's InGame Photo--(AP) Charles Dharapak

Nothing Like It

And down the stretch Cristian Guzman ran!! Our Number 15 had just rounded third--heading toward home with the potential go ahead run. The Entire Crowd rising in unison--everyone realizing a close play was coming to the plate. Austin Kearns had just RIPPED The Pittsburgh Pirates John Grabow's very first pitch to right field on a line. A drive that Pittsburgh's Xavier Nady quickly picked up--positioning himself for the throw to Ryan Doumit--his catcher.

The score was currently tied at two--Our Washington Nationals and Pittsburgh Pirates were playing a closely fought game. And this was the bottom half of 8th. No time for playing safe. When Our Number 25 sliced this hit into rightfield--there was NO WAY Our Third Base Coach Tim Tolman was holding "The Guz" at third base. Now Was The Time For Winning--NOTHING LESS WOULD DO. The very next few seconds were going to decide this ballgame. THIS WAS GOING TO BE CLOSE!! EVERYONE KNEW IT!! Thankfully--so did "The GUZ".

As the anticipation rose among The Faithful Watching--Nady cleanly fielded Austin's base hit. And as Guzman motored toward home plate--Xavier unloaded a terrific toss. With Wily Mo Pena waving for Cristian to slide to the outside of the plate--the baseball arrived in Ryan Doumit's hand--a split second before Guzman crossed home plate. Fully realizing he was close to being called out--Our Number 15--produced The Perfect Slide--a legs swinging away, lefthanded slap down on home. A Beautiful Piece of Artistry that found The Pirates Catcher MISSING on the tag!! A tremendous effort that Home Plate Umpire--Gary Cederstrom--had no choice--but to call Cristian Guzman SAFE!!

SAFE AT THE PLATE!!

In a mere matter of seconds--Our Washington Nationals now led by one run. An advantage--LATE--that brought the house down at New Nationals Park. It was great to witness Ryan Zimmerman's Walkoff Home Run on Opening Night. And just as exciting to see FLop knock in the winning run in the bottom half of the 12th yesterday. But, there is NOTHING like winning on a close play--in a tight game--to get the juices flowing. Knowing Our Washington Nationals can WIN--Or LOSE--on just this one play--AS THRILLING AS IT GETS!! What a play!! What a moment!!

In fact, it's that anticipation of watching--in person--such an exciting instant--which makes attending each and every game of Our Washington Nationals--must see baseball. You never know what's really going to happen. Watching it all play out in front of you--live and in person--special. No, The African Queen and I NEVER want to miss out on that type of fun.
This evening at New Nationals Park--Our Washington Nationals held on to win a very hard fought battle for Curly "W" Number 12. Two Clutch Hits, Some GREAT BASERUNNING--combining to produce The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! before an enthusiastic Dmitri Young Bobblehead Crowd of 24,723. If you enjoy good pitching, good defense and key hits--for your Baseball Pleasure--tonight was YOUR NIGHT--as well as ours.

Nothing like winning late. Nothing like a game changing moment. And nothing like watching it in person. Nothing like the few seconds that change any game's outcome. No--nothing like it.

For this was--A VERY GOOD GAME.

Game Notes & Highlights

Odalis Perez again pitched well enough to win. But--for the seventh consecutive time in 2008, he went home tonight without a single victory to his credit. Our Number 45 only gave up three hits and walked NO ONE in seven innings. Unfortunately for Perez--two of those Pittsburgh allowed hits were very costly. Two Mistake Pitches resulting in Two Solo Home Runs. The light hitting Freddy Sanchez got to Odalis in the 4th with a poke into The Pirates Leftfield Bullpen. And Ryan Doumit LAUNCHED a Perez toss into The Red Porch Seats in Left Center in the 7th. The Game Tying Run at that time--and the beginning of the end for Odalis this evening.

Luis Ayala continued to be strong out of the bullpen. Fully recovered from his elbow surgery--Our Number 56 was consistently throwing in the mid-90's during the 8th inning tonight. This was Luis Ayala--Vintage 2005 Version. If Our Washington Nationals are going to remain strong out of the bullpen--with Chad Cordero on the sidelines recovering from his injury--This Mexican Native will need to step up-NOW. No time better--but the present--for Luis Ayala to show everyone in the game--HE's BACK and once again--one of the finest set up men in the Baseball. Bring It On!! Luis!! We are counting on you!! Our Number 56 getting the win this evening. His first of 2008.
Austin Kearns' game winning single was his second SMOKED baseball of the night. In the bottom of the second inning--Our Number 25 followed Lastings Milledge's ground ball single to left with a rocket to center. A first and second with no outs situation developing where both runners eventually scored--after moving up one base on an infield ground out by Pena. All thanks to--Yes--Wil Nieves--AGAIN!! OK, Our Number 53 has been a Godsend for Our Washington Nationals. A Seven Game Hitting Streak, Enthusiasm and some fine Defensive Work behind the plate. Unquestionably--Wil Nieves has been a fine edition for Our Washington Nationals.

Like Joe Hardy from "Damn Yankees"--Wil Nieves is turning some heads. But, can he keep it up? And for how long? In the meantime--Our General Manager Jim Bowden looks like a genius for adding this career journeyman to Our Roster.

At one time--Pittsburgh's starter--Zach Duke was an up and coming young talent--wanted by many teams. He's struggled as a Pirate, but tonight showed the stuff so many believe he possesses. Seven strong innings--only the two run single by Nieves ruining an otherwise excellent night on the mound.

Speaking of The Pirates--they wear some of the better Classic Uniforms. I love their sleeveless road jerseys with Pittsburgh in Script. They look GREAT. The same holds true for their sleeveless white home Pirates Uniform. One of these days--this National League Founding Father of a Team--playing in the FINEST BASEBALL PARK in America--PNC PARK--will be good again. It will only be fair for their fans--as This Franchise deserves so much better. They possess everything, but THE PLAYERS.

Big Jon Rauch was sent out to close this one out--which he did--retiring The Pittsburgh Pirates Lineup, in order, in the 9th for his 6th save of 2008. With "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" gone for likely two months--the next eight weeks will tell whether "The Wookie" can hold down this Pressure Cooker of a job.
In the top of the 3rd Inning--Sohna and I were visited by MY BEST FRIEND!! SCREECH!! The layout of New Nationals Park has made it difficult for Screech to come to Section 218 on a consistent basis. So much so--SCREEEECH!! got lost again and went over to Section 217. Of course, I tracked him down and he worked his way back over to see his Girl Friend--The African Queen. We appreciated the visit. As we discussed with former Section 320 Faithfuls, Mike and his daughter Abby, later in the game--the only thing we miss about sitting in Club Level--compared to RFK Stadium's Section 320--was the constant visit from My Best Friend!! and The Nat Pack. Together--they combined to make our every game enjoyment of Washington Nationals Baseball--that much better.

Come on Guys!! and Gals!!--come see us more often. And bring TEDDY WITH YOU!! Maybe even GW, ABE & TOM. We miss you guys. As you know--there is nothing like the "Let Teddy Win!! Chant from Section 320--Now 218.
Finally--what a pleasure it was to see THIS ANNOUNCEMENT ON THE HDTV SCOREBOARD--most every half inning tonight. Yes, Our Washington Nationals are asking that ALL FANS REMAIN IN THEIR SEATS--while the game is being played. And if you are on the concourses--STAY THERE!! That means--no walking up and down the aisles to block others view of the game. Yes, it's going to be hard to enforce at first--but the sooner The Ushers start laying down the law and stopping folks--the better off for everyone. I don't care if you are attending your very first baseball game EVER. It's time to show some manners and respect for others at New Nationals Park.

To their credit--Management of Our Washington Nationals is listening to customers comments and working to find a solution. Good For Them. Excellent For Us.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais

Take Me Out To The Ballgame

As mentioned a few weeks ago--Our Washington Nationals held open tryouts to sing "Take Me Out To The Ballgame" this coming May 19th--during the 7th inning of that night's game against The Philadelphia Phillies. The event being held to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the famous baseball song.

Now, at Nationals.com, you can vote for your favorite to sing that evening. In a little bit of self-promotion--SBF made the final cut. If you feel my rendition is worthy--please vote for me.

Again--here is the link.

So Vote Early and Vote Often for SBF.

The African Queen and I would appreciate your consideration.

Thank you.