9th Inning Implosion

"We're running out of ways to lose games," said this young lady sharing the elevator with us leaving Club Level tonight at Nationals Park. "At least I thought so, until we found a way to advance runners without even throwing a pitch." The African Queen and I just laughed, because the comment was dead on correct. Those "8th Inning Wonders", otherwise known as Our Washington Nationals--Version 5.0--had once again lost a game in the 9th inning. This time an implosion that was started with the dreaded free bases on balls and escalated to a level not seen in 2009. Another late inning collapse much of it thanks to walk, after walk after walk allowed.

And that's a real shame because for the first 8 innings, The St.Louis Cardinals and Our Washington Nationals had put on a fairly good show.


12 Pitches into this game, arguably The Greatest Hitter In The Game, Albert Pujols, gave what most everyone in the still arriving announced crowd of 18,007 probably deep down inside WANTED TO SEE. A missile of a home run off a Daniel Cabrera Fastball into the Visiting Bullpen in left center. A two run-homer swatted so hard that if that flying object did not hit the green painted wall, would have caused some serious pain to anyone it hit. Power and force on display with one wicked swing of the bat from the talented hands of Pujols.


A Short-Lived Advantage for St.Louis as it turned out that lasted, oh--about 11 pitches into the bottom of the 1st--when Ryan Zimmerman returned the favor by hacking a Mitchell Boggs off-speed pitch JUST OVER the right centerfield scoreboard into the front row for a two-run homer of his very own.

Game On!!

An affair that included two come from behind rallies by Washington and the unexpected, maybe--ONCE IN THE LIFETIME SIGHT--of Jesus Flores chugging around the bases, running full steam ahead, moving as fast as his squatty legs will take him--around first base, around second base as the roar of the crowd became louder and louder and finally SLIDING HEAD FIRST into third for a TRIPLE!! Yes, you heard that right--A TRIPLE BY OUR NUMBER 3--after he slugged a two out liner deep and over the head of Cardinals Centerfielder Rick Ankiel in the bottom of the 6th. This was no mistake three bagger due to an outfielder's misplay. Jesus Flores had motored out an honest to God Triple scoring Austin Kearns with the game tying run at that time--and Jesus received the deserved standing ovation. A play that loomed larger when Anderson Hernandez followed with a ripped double down the right field line putting Washington ahead 4-3 heading to the late innings.

Through six innings Our Washington Nationals had battled a hard hitting St. Louis Lineup to even and had finally taken the lead.

Through six innings Our Washington Nationals had battled through the frustrations of Daniel Cabrera on the mound and survived. D-Cab allowing five walks, 4 hits and a truly remarkable 4 wild pitches.

And through six innings Our Washington Nationals had even survived the pickoff of Elijah Dukes at first base by a RIGHTHANDED pitcher for the second time in the last two days. Like in Philadelphia yesterday, Dukes completely lost in the bottom of the 4th--flinching toward second base believing Mitchell Boggs was going to throw home. Instead, Boggs simply stepped off the rubber and threw to Pujols at first base. Eventually, thrown out at second for the 2nd out of the frame. A baserunning blunder by Dukes that killed a potential rally when Austin Kearns immediately followed with a walk before Flores struck out to end the innning.

Through six innings--Our Washington Nationals had stayed in the game--maybe against all odds. But unfortunately, there were three more to play. And that's when the Bewitching Hour Struck.

Walks kill and Mike Hinckley got things rolling for The Cardinals Offense when he relieved Cabrera in the 7th and proceeded to allow a free base on balls to St. Louis Slugger Ryan Ludwick--pinch hitting for Colby Rasmus. The Cardinal Sin that came back to haunt Washington when Our Manager Manny Acta went to his bullpen to call on newly acquired Logan Kensing to face--who else--Albert Pujols. Baptism By Fire was in the works. No easy initial outing for Our New Number 26. Don't worry about just getting your feet wet son--Kensing being thrown into the Birds Nest and his job was to fight his way out.

A test he failed--allowing a broken bat--two strike single to Pujols and follow up four-pitch walk to Chris Duncan loading the bases. A predicament he could no longer control when St. Louis 3rd Sacker, Joe Thurston, absolutely RIPPED a Logan fastball into the gap in right centerfield. A sure bases clearing double that became only the game tying sacrifice fly when Austin Kearns swiftly moved to his right. Running hard all the way to his right, Austin made an excellent catch by reaching across his body with his glove hand, his left hand, for a beautiful snatch of a hard hit baseball. The Defensive Play of This Game and Game Saver for Washington at that time, even though the score was now tied a four.

All even up again and on they played into the 9th--the final frame--that became the final undoing for Our Washington Nationals--despite how well the inning started.

Mr. Enthusiasm himself--Julian Tavarez--was sent to the mound by Manny Acta to face the heart of The St. Louis Cardinals Batting Order. Veteran and Experienced Pitcher to face Veteran and MVP Albert Pujols leading off. Danger averted when Pujols swung at Julian's very first pitch and meekly tapped a grounder to Ryan Zimmerman at third base. That big sigh of relief and little laughter that ensued when Our Number 50 squatted down, and with all the flare that only Tavarez can possibly show on the field of play--pointed directly at Ryan as he scooped up the baseball--then swung his right arm toward first base--directing The Z-Man where to throw the baseball.

Flat out funny to witness--but that moment becoming The Final Moment Of Joy for any Washington Fan this evening. For the hilarity soon to come on the field--was no laughing matter. Tavarez began to fall apart. First, Julian allowed an eight pitch walk to Chris Duncan. Then, the first fielding mistake of the inning occurred. Ankiel followed for The Cardinals and lofted a deep fly down the left field line--in the corner. An average fielder with average speed makes that catch. That baseball had serious hang time. But Adam Dunn was playing left, and shifted slightly over to center for the lefthanded swinging Ankiel. Dunn couldn't reach the baseball and it fell safely to the ground. Duncan scoring easily. Ankiel now on second with an rbi double.

With St. Louis now up 5-4, the groans and moans from Washington's Fans started to rise.

And things got worse.

Julian walks Joe Thurston on seven pitches, hits Cardinals Catcher Jason LaRue to load up the bases. Cardinal Fans cheering their hearts out--now watching Washington's Fans getting up to leave. Realizing what might well be in the works, many did not want to see what was to become The Wackiest Play Of This Game.

One Out, Bases Loaded, and Cardinals Shortstop Tyler Greene slaps a dribbler down the third base line. One of those nearly impossible plays to defend. Remarkable that Ryan Zimmerman even believed he could do so. Rushing hard to barehand the baseball and throw home all in one motion--the baseball skipped off his fingers--past Zimmy--rolling slowing. Ankiel scored The Cardinals 6th run but Joe Thurston had rounded third and was attempting to score as well. Cristian Guzman had overplayed to third base as backup and perfectly fielded the baseball, rushed and threw a perfect strike, around the hard charging Thurston to Jesus Flores at the plate. A sure out at home. Only to see Our Number 3 DROP THE BASEBALL.

No one could believe it--not even The Cardinals Fans.

You talk about a rush out of a stadium--Nationals Park was emptying fast and most everyone left was now a St. Louis Supporter.

And yet, this awful inning got even worse. Joel Hanrahan relieved Tavarez. And before Joel even threw ONE PITCH, First Base Umpire Tim Welke ruled a balk. Jason LaRue, standing on third base awarded home with The Cardinals 8th run which quickly became 9 after Tyler Greene stole 3rd base on Hanrahan and scored the final run of this game when Brian Bardon sacrificed him home on a fly to right field.

What started as a very hopeful inning with Albert Pujols grounding out--ended with The St.Louis Cardinals scoring five runs on two hits, two walks, one hit by pitch, one balk and one sacrifice fly. Our bullpen had faltered again--and Our Defense had let Our Team Down.

Final Score from a nearly deserted Nationals Park when Nick Johnson grounded out to end this game--The St. Louis Cardinals 9 and Our Washington Nationals 4. Yeah, it's hard to find new ways to lose, but Washington found another unique way this evening. This lastest 9th Inning Implosion the deciding factor again tonight.

Game Notes & Highlights

How Daniel Cabrera survived six innings is beyond belief? He was all over the place with his pitches. Cabrera couldn't find the plate. And when he did, he was bouncing the baseball over it, not above it to be ruled a strike. Does anyone with such potential look more timid on the mound than Daniel Cabrera? He is so frustrating to watch that you have to feel sorry for him. What in his makeup hinders his game? Our Number 45's four wild pitches tonight were unbelievable to watch.

As much as the funniest moment of the evening--also courtesy of Cabrera. In the bottom of the 5th inning batting, Daniel was hit by a pitch from Mitchell Boggs. Meeting the Bat Boy halfway between home plate and first base, Cabrera gave his bat to the Bat Boy, proceeded to take off his two batting gloves and gave them to the Bat Boy. Then, in a moment of pure joy for The African Queen and I, he took off his batting helmet and handed it to the Bat Boy, and slowly began to walk the rest of the way to first base with no protection on his head. Then the Bat Boy yelled something at Daniel, handed Cabrera his batting helmet back and he put it on his head. You could see the thoughts racing through Daniel Cabrera's mind for that igni-second: "Oh, Yeah!". Not used to being a baserunner--he had completely forgot about the importance of wearing a helmet. It was funny. And made worse when Cristian Guzman hit a grounder right at Albert Pujols manning first base, just to the left of Cabrera. For a instant, Daniel froze, unsure what to do. When Pujols first thought of tagging Cabrera, Daniel finally realized he needed to run to second base. Only then, was the hustling "Guz" able to make it safely to first on a fielder's choice.

Certainly not jovial was Our Bullpen that replaced Daniel this evening. Cabrera may well have allowed five bases on balls, but four Washington relievers provided six more--giving away extra outs--and ultimately this game. Tavarez simply had nothing in the tank and dejectedly walked off the field to the home dugout upon being replaced by Hanrahan.

Logan Kensing has one different approach to pitching on the mound. Brought in with a runner on first, and allowing subsequently two more in the 7th--Kensing before every pitch would walk to the first base side of the mound, but stand on the grass. He paused there for a moment, before every single pitch. He then proceeded to ALWAYS walk slowly up the mound directly in line with the pitching rubber. Once there. Logan leaned over toward his left knee--bent and placed off-center of home plate. In that position, Logan Kensing took the signal from Jesus Flores. Only then, would Our New Number 26 move to the set position to throw any pitch. He didn't look comfortable, but he did throw hard. He and Jesus Flores were clearly not on the same page. Twice they met to go over signs and signals during Kensing's 2/3rd's inning of work.

Ryan Zimmerman extended his hitting streak to 19 Games this evening with his two run homer in the first. The Longest such streak since baseball returned to Washington in 2005. Nick Johnson two more hits tonight and batting a robust .363 (20 for 55) over his past 14 games. More comfortable in the 8th spot, Anderson Hernandez with his 5th double of the season and 5th RBI when he knocked in Flores in the 6th.

The game was delayed in the bottom of the 7th inning when Home Plate Umpire Jim Reynolds was struck on the head and face mask on a fastball warmup toss thrown by The Cardinals' Blaine Boyer. His catcher Jason LaRue did not catch a sailing pitch as Reynolds was crouched behind him taking in the throws. The fast moving pitch hitting Reynold squarely in the head and mask--knocking him to the ground. Trainers from both teams attended to Reynolds. A short time later, he said he was OK and the game resumed.


Tonight was the second of six scheduled Military Appreciation Nights. Our Washington Nationals wore their alternate Blue "DC" uniforms with "Stars & Waving Bars" logo. Armed Forces personnel were honored throughout the evening--not only during the 3rd Inning Welcome Home Salute to Recovering Men & Women at Walter Reed, but also in Ceremonial First Pitches, The National Anthem and God Bless America.


Before the game, we ran into Yetta Myrick from DC AutismParents.org. April 30th was the final day of Autism Awareness Month at Nationals Park. Along with her colleagues, Yetta was meeting and greeting fans at the new Community Booth located on the Main Concourse near The Left Field Gate and The Escalators leading to The Upper Deck.


Abe came charging back from behind to JUST nip George at the tape for his 5th President's Race Victory of 2009. As Sohna and I were walking out of Nationals Park after the game, we ran into Tom Davis--The Entertainment Coordinator of Our Washington Nationals. Knowing we need some bullpen help, we asked Tom whether Teddy was whipping himself into shape for the 9th inning? Tom laughing that he's trying to stretch Teddy out right now. Not sure if Our Lovable Loser can reach the 60'6" necessary to record any strike though.



The 2nd Issue of the 2009 New Inside Pitch was available for the first time this evening. Randomly inserted in the Elijah Dukes Cover Story Program is The WTOP Baseball Card of Adam Dunn--card number 13. There have been a total of 13 cards produced so far. It appears Dunn has replaced Lastings Milledge in the assortment. Also included in every Inside Pitch now is a brand new "Greetings From NatsTown" PostCard.



Finally, The African Queen and I dined at The Red Porch before tonight's game at Nationals Park. We arrived at 5PM and proceeded to spend most of the next two hours enjoying a nice meal and fun with other fans and staff at The Red Porch. We are going to have much more on this topic tomorrow in a separate post. But in a nutshell, the service is fast and friendly. The food very reasonably priced for any ballpark. And the problems we encountered during our first visit seem to have been rectified. Much, much more coming tomorrow, including a rundown of the menu items and the quality of the food offerings.

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

Baseball Equipment Drive This Weekend

For the 5th consecutive season Our Washington Nationals will host a weekend baseball equipment drive in support of The District Of Columbia Public Schools. In partnership with Major League Baseball's Baseball Tomorrow Fund, Our Team will be collecting new and used baseball equipment (in very good condition) at the entrance gates this weekend at Nationals Park. For Friday's, Saturday's and Sunday's Games against The St. Louis Cardinals, staff will be on hand at The Centerfield Gates to collect all donations. Additionally, as part of the recently announced D.C. Public Schools Initiative, The Baseball Tomorrow Fund will donate $5,000 to the school system's Athletic Departments.

Complete Details In The Press Release:

Washington Nationals Host Fifth Annual Baseball Equipment Drive Benefiting DC Public High School Athletic Departments

WHAT: The Washington Nationals, in partnership with the Baseball Tomorrow Fund, will collect new and gently used baseball and softball equipment -- including bats, gloves, tees, baseballs, softballs and youth helmets -- during their weekend series vs. the St. Louis Cardinals, May 1 through 3. Fans may donate items outside the Center Field Gates, located at Half and N Street, SE, from gate opening through the end of the fourth inning. The 2008 drive collected 10 bins of equipment and over $600 from Nationals fans, and was one of the most successful equipment drives in Major League Baseball. The equipment, along with a $5,000 grant from the Baseball Tomorrow Fund, will be awarded to the

DC Public High School Athletic Departments in honor of Nationals Pitchers Shairon Martis and Scott Olsen, as part of the recently-announced Nationals DC Public High School Initiative. The initiative also includes the opportunity for all DC Public High School Baseball teams to host one two-hour practice at Nationals Park, as well as an invitation to all DC Public High Schools to select one home game from a list of available dates to be billed as their night at the ballpark, which includes complimentary tickets for all students in the school and both a pregame and scoreboard recognition.

WHO: Washington Nationals

Baseball Tomorrow Fund

DC Public High Athletic Departments

WHEN: Washington Nationals vs. St. Louis Cardinals

Day Time CF Gate Open

Friday, May 1 7:05pm 4:30pm

Saturday, May 2 1:05pm 10:30am

Sunday, May 3 1:35pm 11:00am

WHERE: Nationals Park

Center Field Gates

Half & N Street, SE

About Baseball Tomorrow Fund

The Baseball Tomorrow Fund is designed to promote and enhance the growth of baseball throughout the world by funding programs, field improvements and equipment purchases to encourage and maintain youth participation in baseball and softball. Since its inception in 1999, the Baseball Tomorrow Fund has awarded grants totaling more than $10 million benefiting nearly 118,000 youth participating in more than 200 youth baseball and softball programs across the United States, Canada, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. For more information visit www.baseballtomorrowfund.com.

Surprised, Troubled, Enchanted & Humbled

Last night during President Barack Obama's Prime Time Press Conference in the East Room of The White House, The New York Times White House Correspondent, Jeff Zeleny, got off a zinger of a four part question: (Paraphrasing) "Mr. President, in your first 100 Days, what has surprised you the most, troubled you the most, enchanted you and humbled you about being The President Of The United States?"

In his typical relaxed style, The President laughed, chuckled, took the question and made the effort to answer the four parter thoughtfully--to everyone's enjoyment listening carefully inside East Room. While pondering what President Obama's response would be, thoughts entered my mind as to how those four questions would be answered after the first 20 Games of 2009 for Our Washington Nationals.

Having the night to sleep on it, not responding instantly as The President must most always do, these would be our answers to what has surprised us, troubled us, enchanted and humbled us during this first month of regular season baseball in The Nation's Capital.

Surprised to actually realize Our Offense is really potent. At times, Washington hasn't been able to plate runners in scoring position--an issue that has been a consistent problem since baseball returned to Washington, but clearly--when healthy--from the leadoff spot to the seven hitter, Our Manager Manny Acta has players that can get on base, smash the baseball and score some runs. Anderson Hernandez is no leadoff man, but batting 8th--he's a good complimentary fit for the moment. Hernandez also has some speed. It's always worth noting another pleasant surprise--some of our pitchers can actually bunt this year. John Lannan, Scott Olsen and Jordan Zimmermann can square around and let the ball hit their bat. All three have been able to help themselves at the plate. Sacrificing a runner up, because as we have all come to know, every single run counts when Our Washington Nationals are on the field of play.

Troubled to know Our Bullpen has been worse than advertised. The World Baseball Classic may be good for the long term prospects of baseball throughout the world, but when it's played during Spring Training, who really believes Joel Hanrahan and Saul Rivera got in their proper training-preparing for The Major League Season, not a three week exhibition. How can any pitcher, not ready to go full throttle for Opening Day, not expect to hurt themselves in a pressure situation pitching for their country--in March-- knowing all their countrymen WANT THEM TO RECORD THAT OUT. Not a good thing, and Hanrahan's & Rivera's struggles are just the beginning of Washington's early season problems. Except for Joel Beimel and the rubber armed Julian Tavarez, Washington's Bullpen is in shambles. Combined, Our Relievers have played so poorly, their efforts have setback The Curly "W"'s decisively this April. That, and the very fact, some shoddy fielding hasn't helped either.

Both needs are solvable, especially if some of our players show better confidence in their abilities.

Enchanted to know that Ryan Zimmerman can relax, be himself, and maybe become the quality all-around performer so many expect. Humble, Hard Working and just a Decent Young Man-who wouldn't want to see Zimmy truly become The Face Of Our Franchise? Now locked in for Five Guaranteed Years. No going to arbitration where the team needs to knock him down. No misconceptions where The Franchise and Ryan both feel about his self-worth. Already a terrific fielder and clutch hitter, Our Number 11 can take his game to the next level--without fear of a contract looming. Off the field business, getting in the way of his professional play and approach on the diamond. That my friends, is enchanting to know--along with the other Zimmermann--named Jordan--The Unofficial New Mayor Of NatsTown--according to "The Boys Of Summer"--Charlie Slowes & Dave Jageler. Ryan Zimmerman will man third base, barring injuring, until 2013. And Our New Number 27 with "NN" at the end of his name will be throwing his confident stuff alongside him. Enchanting to know, two Zimmy's are even better than one.

Humbled to know that Our Washington Nationals haven't put it all together on the field of play. For the first three years in DC, Washington's Bullpen was Our Strength, now it's Our Biggest Weakness. When we couldn't score runs from 2005 to 2007, Gary Majewski, Luis Ayala, Jon Rauch and Chad Cordero were many times there to shut the door and record that Curly "W" In The Books. The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! that had many a Washingtonian, Virginian and Marylander excited about Major League Baseball in Washington. Now--when we can score runs--we can't hold many leads. And it's humbling to witness a poor 2008 season, followed by an equally unimpressive 2009 start knowing Our Fans are turning away from Our Washington Nationals--disappointed over the current failures.

Yes, that's humbling, but when Our Washington Nationals turn the corner, which may be nearer than some believe, and begin to win more consistently, these rougher times will be looked back on in fondness by The African Queen and I, knowing we have been there every step of the way.

Remember, this is a journey, not a sprint. Adventure filled with twists & turns, mountains to climb and valleys to traverse, highs and lows. In many respects, baseball is soul searching, the only sport were every little aspect is scrutinized, taken so seriously, rehashed to the nth degree. No doubt, baseball is where solutions are found to problems and experience leads to success.

Like life itself--baseball reflects a mirror image of the daily grind. And The President Of The United States understood that during his elongated answer to Mr. Zeleny's four pronged question last night in The White House.

Yes, April 2009 for Our Washington Nationals has been surprising, troubling, enchanting and humbling--frustrating and enlightening might also be included. President Obama believing his first 100 Days in office were just as much the same. But no one should lose sight of the very fact that those varied feelings are similar to what most everyone deals with every single day of our lives.

So Let's Play Ball! Go Nats!!

Photo--Gerald Herbert (AP)

Enthusiasm

Love His Enthusiasm!!

The Fist Pump.

The Right Hand Slamming Into His Glove.

The High Five With Jesus Flores after it was all over.

Julian Tavarez shows his emotions on his sleeves.

I Love That!!

That and The Curly "W" Being Put In The Books!!!

Many thanks to Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler for the descriptions because this was a Radio Only Night listening to baseball involving Our Washington Nationals. You see, there was this 100th Day Thing involving The President Of The United States being on HIS job today. And with President Obama's Prime Time Press Conference from The East Room of The White House this evening--not exactly much free time for baseball. But it didn't keep me from checking in from time to time on WFED 1500 AM.

Good thing I did, because Washington played one of their better games this April. They didn't let a cheap home run off the bat of Shane Victorino in the bottom of the first inning get them down (Even Jags called that round tripper a Citizens Bank Park Special). They didn't let the five walks allowed by their pitching kill them. And they didn't let The Philadelphia Phillies take advantage of any of their miscues.

Our Washington Nationals shut Philly down each and every time the game was on the line. No, it wasn't the prettiest of games as The Boys Of Summer described--but it was effective. Scott Olsen started and pitched well. Garrett Mock came to Olsen's rescue in the 6th--retiring Pedro Felix with two outs and two Phillies on base. Garrett then finishing the 7th as well. Kip Wells struggled in the setup role but survived in the 8th. And was followed by Julian Tavarez--throwing strikes, getting outs and recording his first save of 2009--then celebrating openly on the field with his teammates.

Yeah, just love it when players are into the game.

Considering how rough this latest road trip to New York and Philadelphia was for Washington--ANY VICTORY IS WORTH REJOICING OVER!! And it's enjoyable to know that Tavarez was fired up, ready to play and was laying it all out on the field of play.

Effort which Ryan Zimmerman continues to give--tonight setting a Washington Team Record with his 6th inning leadoff double. A recorded safe hit now in 18 straight games. A High Mark that also became the winning run when Elijah Dukes singled up the middle two batters later with Washington's second run of this game. A night that found DC's offense getting just enough runs, and some insurance, to close out The Defending Champions.

Every single Washington starter reached base tonight via a hit or walk. Anderson Hernandez with three hits. Elijah Dukes with two. Dukes plating his 13 RBI of the season. Zimmerman his 14th--when he walked with the bases loaded in the 3rd scoring Hernandez.

Refreshing to know that "The Guz" is back manning shortstop and giving his usual hustling and steady play. Being on the Disabled List these past 15 days proved Cristian Guzman's worth to Our Washington Nationals. He may not have the best range at shortstop, but he makes the defensive plays on most anything he gets to. Far more comforting than what was on display while Our Number 15 was unable to perform.

In fact, this was a Veteran Night at Citizens Bank Park for Washington. Except for Garrett Mock, every single player put out on the field by Our Manager Manny Acta has been in The Big Leagues for at least two full seasons--most over four. Looking to end the latest skid in the standings--Manny went with experience. Leadership from those who have been there before.

No one played scared and when Shane Victorino was fooled and struck out on Tavarez's last off speed pitch of this game, the subsequent celebration set off by Julian was the culmination of a struggling ball club attempting to find their roots again and realizing they can play baseball--of The Major League Variety--if they just don't beat themselves again and again.

Final Score from Citizens Bank Park, where the hot bats of The Philadelphia Phillies were cooled off by dropping temperatures and a good performance by DC's Team--Our Washington Nationals 4 and Philly 1 in a solidly played game. Curly "W" Number 5 of 2009 finishing the brutal early schedule of 20 straight games against National League East Rivals to begin the season. Four weeks of baseball passed that now finally finds Washington playing someone else. The St. Louis Cardinals and Houston Astros coming to Nationals Park beginning tomorrow night (April 30th) to begin a new six-game homestand.

Hopefully, Julian Tavarez's High Octane Spirit will continue to rub off on all his new teammates. Because, I could go for his Fist Pump, Hand Slamming Into His Glove and High Fiving with Jesus Flores for many games to come. Enthusiasm. There is nothing better than watching players that you just know LOVE TO PLAY THE GAME.

Laying it all out on the line--effort which Our Washington Nationals need to do more of.

Game Notes & Highlights

Scott Olsen became the first non-rookie starter for Washington to earn a victory in 2009. Charlie & Dave mentioned on the broadcast that Our Number 19's pitch selection was excellent. He was throwing strikes, working fast and not messing around. Olsen struck out six and is beginning to look like the decent starter he was for The Florida Marlins. He even picked off the speedy Jimmy Rollins in the first inning.

Except for Victorino's Homer, The Phillies Powerful Lineup got no other extra base hits this evening--just six singles.

Finally, sort of surprised to see that Jason Bergmann was sent down to AAA Syracuse when Our Washington Nationals traded Minor League Pitcher Kyle Gunderson to The Florida Marlins today for Pitcher Logan Kensing. Personally, I don't know much about Kensing, right now he's just another arm in an ever restocking bullpen. But what exactly has Jason Bergmann done to NOT get a chance when Saul Rivera hasn't exactly done any better, probably worse? I understand that Joel Hanrahan is out of options and Washington is not willing to lose him right now. But if Saul was struggling before and was only saved from demotion because Joe Beimel was injured--how does Rivera now stay on the 25-Man Roster, when he hasn't resurrected his pitching game yet?

Yeah, I know--that you know, we are all for Bergmann getting a decent shot. I just find the roster move strange and wonder if something else might be in the works via a trade. By not sending Rivera down, Washington has saved Saul's last option year.

Tonight's InGame Photo--H Rumph Jr. (AP)

Hangover Effect

After surviving last night's "Nearly Speechless" loss, The African Queen and I slept it off and awoke this morning ready to root on Our Washington Nationals again tonight--as always. And we were ready, watching the entire game on MASN, while listening to Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler on WFED 1500AM. Although, we are pretty sure some of our fellow citizens of NatsTown were watching a rousing Game 7 Hockey Playoff Match between The Washington Capitals & New York Rangers from Verizon Center. A series decider that found The Caps coming all the way back from a 3 games to 1 deficit to advance to the next round of The Stanley Cup Playoffs.

But for us, our attention was focused on South Philadelphia where Our Washington Nationals suffered badly last night and then played this evening in a manner that could best be described as The Hangover Effect. Monday's demoralizing defeat, setting the table for a sparkless performance this evening.

Body language means everything and it clearly seemed as if everyone playing for Washington was a little down. Understandably so, our players still appeared a bit stunned and slightly dazed. While we were hoping DC's Team could bounce back with a feel good victory, tonight's 19th game of 2009 turned out to be a very flat affair. Washington never really got untracked and The Philadelphia Phillies continued to bang the baseball all over their puny ballpark while taking advantage of a few key DC miscues.

Again not playing perfect baseball, a five run bottom of the 3rd inning by The Phillies was the microcosm of this entire game.

Our Washington Nationals can not make even the slightest mistake these days and NOT get punished by The Baseball Gods. During this evening's 3rd frame, John Lannan served up an off-speed pitch right over the plate to Chase Utley and the Philadelphia All-Star made Our Number 31 pay for it with a two-run homer to right. Not a decisive blow by any means, but hurtful when Alberto Gonzalez committed his 6th fielding error with two outs moments later. Another misstep that found Lannan flustered. John then walking last night's Philly Hero, Raul Ibanez, on four pitches--only to find Pedro Feliz taking John deep, one hitter later, over the left field wall for a quick 5-0 lead.

Mental mistakes and pitching command issues directly leading to The Phillies taking advantage of John Lannan. As sharp as Lannan was last Thursday Night in that extraordinary 1-0 loss to The Atlanta Braves at Nationals Park, Our Number 31 was merely average tonight--at best. Three total homers allowed (two to Utley), nines base hits, two walks, John wasn't sharp. And when The Defending Champions pounced on Washington's lapses again--this game was over--quickly.

Staggered and unable to mount any serious comeback, Our Washington Nationals played under what looked to be the effects of a hangover. That pounding migraine you just want to go away, but instead lingers and makes you feel even worse for another 24 hour period.

Final Score from Citizens Bank Park, The Philadelphia Phillies 7 and Our Washington Nationals 1. A ball game in which Washington never really had a chance to win.

Game Notes & Highlights

On the bright side, Ryan Zimmerman extended his hitting streak to 17 games with a 1st inning double tonight. And Adam Dunn continues to get on base and slam the baseball. His 6th Home Run this evening to go along with another single and walk, leaving Dunn with a robust .328 Batting Average by the end of this game.

Phillies Starter and 2008 World Series MVP, Coles Hamels, twisted his left ankle in the top of the 5th attempting to field a John Lannan bunt. After first believing he was fine, further warmups showed Hamels was hurting and he left the game, replaced by Chad Durbin. Durbin rewarded The Vulture Win as Cole did not finish the required 5 complete innings. You could tell Hamels was miffed he had to leave the game.

The Bullpen By Committee Approach now in the works for Washington. Joel Hanrahan relieved of the closer duties as of today. Garrett Mock not the 8th inning guy. Joe Beimel expected to become closer when he returns from The DL on May 6th. Assistant GM Mike Rizzo stating tonight that Julian Tavarez, Kip Wells and Beimel will get the load of the late inning work in close games for the time being. Note how all three of those veteran pitchers are his personal roster pickups after taking over for the departed Jim Bowden.

Willie Harris returned to the 25-Man Roster before tonight's game. Justin Maxwell optioned to AAA Syracuse. Cristian Guzman expected to be activated for tomorrow night's series finale against The Phillies. A corresponding roster move will have to be made. Alex Cintron or Alberto Gonzalez on the bubble to be optioned. "The Guz" will bat leadoff for the time being. He doesn't walk much, but he is the best choice for now.

Washington now 4-15 on the 2009 Season, 7.5 games out of first place. Interestingly, if not for playing Washington and winning--The Florida Marlins would be 6-8 over all. The Phillies 8-7, The Braves 6-8 and The Mets 7-10. If Our Washington Nationals had played well enough to win five of the late inning games they blew--they would be in the middle of the pack in a struggling National League East. Instead, they find themselves well at the bottom of the division.

Finally, The African Queen joked tonight--it takes a strong stomach to stay a solid citizen of NatsTown. And we are not wavering.

Tonight's InGame Photo--H. Rumph, Jr. (AP)

The African Queen's Southern Gentleman

The African Queen and I cheer for Our Players. We wish for all of them to do well. But one of the toughest aspects of being a fan is when those players you really like, and enjoy, are released, traded or moved off the roster of Our Washington Nationals--No longer With Our Team. An official changeover that occurred today when Steven Shell elected Free Agency after Washington designated him for assignment 10 days ago.

Since the very first day we met him at Nationals Park, Sohna has always called the soft spoken and well mannered Steven Shell her "Southern Gentleman". Personable and nice, Steven enjoyed the camaraderie of it all. In fact, we laughed along with Steven at Spring Training, this past February, when he mentioned how happy he was when his Mom called him from Texas to tell him how much she enjoyed Our Spring Training Interview with Shell.

That's the part of our fun we most enjoy. It's more than just the games sometimes. It's about people connecting.

So upon hearing that Steven Shell had elected Free Agency this afternoon instead of reporting to AAA Syracuse, The African Queen and I were saddened a little bit. But happy that Steven Shell will get another chance to show whether he is a Major League Quality Pitcher for another Franchise.

Wherever Steven Shell ends up, rest assured, we will be rooting for The African Queen's Southern Gentleman to succeed.

Good Luck--Steven Shell.

Dream Foundation Gala To Be Aired On MASN

The May 2nd Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Gala will be recorded by The Mid-Atlantic Sports Network and turned into a Special 30-Minute Program to air on MASN during the month of May. As well covered here on Nats320, The Dream Foundation has reached out each of the past four years to help those within the very community in which Our Washington Nationals play Major League Baseball. From The Children's National Medical Center--to The Boys & Girls Clubs Of Washington--The D.C. Baseball Academy--to The Earth Conservation Corp--and all the way to Rebuilding Together--The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Neighborhood Initiatives spotlight the many good things a Professional Sports Team can do for their city.

The Popular Yearly Black Tie Event, to be held at The Gaylord National Resort for the second consecutive year, is one of The Dream Foundation's biggest fundraisers. If you are interested in attending The 2009 Gala, here's the link for information.


Scheduled MASN broadcast dates are currently set for May 11th, 15th, 16th & 17th.

Complete Details In The Press Release:

MASN to Televise Network Special on Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Gala

Will air May 11th at 9:00 p.m., prior to the Nationals vs. Giants game

(Washington D.C.) - MASN, the local leader in live sports entertainment and the television home of the Washington Nationals, will televise a network special about the team's annual Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Gala. The special will air a week after the Dream Gala, which takes place on May 2, 2009 at Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center at the National Harbor.

The Gala is an annual black-tie fundraising event for the Foundation, featuring dinner, dancing, special appearances by Washington Nationals players, coaches and executives, as well as a live and silent auction. MASN's coverage will allow fans at home to relive the memorable evening with interviews featuring Principal Owner Mark Lerner, President Stan Kasten, Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Chairwoman, Marla Lerner Tanenbaum and more. Hosted by MASN broadcasters Bob Carpenter, Rob Dibble and Debbi Taylor, the program will give viewers a sense of the important community outreach conducted by the Foundation, while providing an inside look at the sights and sounds from the evening.

"Our annual Gala is an evening in which the entire team participates in the celebration of our community efforts," commented Marla Lerner Tanenbaum, chairwoman of the Foundation. "MASN's special feature will be a great opportunity for our fans to learn more about our work in the Washington Metropolitan area."

MASN will explore the Washington Nationals ongoing partnerships with the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington and the Earth Conservation Corps (ECC), both of whom benefit from funds raised at the charity gala. The Nationals have made a long term commitment to support the Boys & Girls Club branches in the neighborhood of the ballpark. These branches provide athletic, academic and life skills assistance to children who live not far from Nationals Park and the ECC is known particularly for its devotion to the health and improvement of the Anacostia River. Both of these partnerships reflect the Washington Nationals robust commitment to serving the community around the ballpark.

"The Washington Nationals continue to have a powerful positive impact on the communities surrounding Nationals Park because of their outstanding stewardship," said MASN spokesman Todd Webster. "This special will allow MASN to highlight those partnerships that continue to have an immediate affect on the children, families and environment near the ballpark."

MASN's half hour special of the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Gala will debut on May 11th at 9 p.m. prior to Nats Xtra, the network's Nationals pregame show. Three additional replays will air throughout the following week immediately following Nats Xtra.

Dates of MASN Special Coverage of the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Gala

5/11 @ 9p before Nats Xtra
5/15 @ 10:30p following Nats Xtra
5/16 @ 10:30p following Nats Xtra
5/17 @ 5p following Nats Xtra

About MASN:

With every available Nationals game, an All Star talent team, 105 high definition broadcasts and pre and post game shows before and after every game, MASN is maximum access to the Washington Nationals. MASNsports.com provides extensive online coverage of the Washington Nationals with Phil Wood's "Wood on the Ball," a dedicated beat writer, Pete McElroy, talent blogs featuring Debbi Taylor, Bob Carpenter, Johnny Holliday, and Byron Kerr, a Nationals Buzz blog, up to the minute video clips in MASN's Media Lounge, series previews, live game blogs and more. MASN is currently carried on 23 cable and satellite providers throughout a seven-state region.

About the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation:

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.

Nearly Speechless

Wow!!

We still can't believe that loss.

If anyone tells The African Queen again that "It's Joel Hanrahan's Time Now!!"--they better quickly move out of her way.

Because Our Number 38 is no closer--at least not yet.

And who said a mediocre ball club doesn't need a closer?

Well, Our Washington Nationals need one RIGHT NOW!!

Quickly.

Because this stuff is getting way out of hand.

To pitch with the game on the line, you need to be able to handle pressure.

Joel Hanrahan seemingly has not learned that lesson yet.

Someone in our bullpen needs to learn that lesson.

There is no excuse for losing this game tonight to The Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park.

When you slam out five home runs, twice pull ahead by four runs and you still can't win late--there is something wrong.

And to recall, twice Washington left the bases loaded in the 6th and 8th Innings.

But surely, we were going to win.

Maybe the hardest defeat we have ever watched involving Our Washington Nationals.

Shairon Martis is 22-Years Old and still learning how to be a professional player. HIs poor pitch selections in the bottom of the 5th tonight that allowed The Phillies to tie this game up at six apiece can be chalked up to inexperience and poor execution. Ryan Howard taking advantage of a rookie throwing him the exact low breaking ball The Former NL MVP & Home Run Champion can punish. A Grand Slam that got Philadelphia back in this game for the first time.

The Big Blow that again came back to haunt Washington when Hanrahan relieved a struggling Garrett Mock with two outs in the 8th, Washington still up two, Chase Utley on first base. All we needed was one out. ONE OUT--and Our Number 38 couldn't find the plate. Afraid to pitch to Ryan Howard, Hanrahan walked him. Unable to locate his fastball, Joel walked Jayson Werth to load the bases.

Trying just to aim a first pitch fastball over the plate to Raul Ibanez--found the Lefthanded Philadelphia Slugger slamming that juicy pitch over the rigthtfield wall for the second grand slam of the evening.

A No Doubter.

Game Over--Just Like That.

On the heels of Ryan Zimmerman crushing two home runs this evening. Elijah Dukes sending the longest fly we've ever watched set sail at Citizens Bank Park into Ashburn Alley--The Centerfield Plaza of the South Philly Ballpark for his 3rd Home Run Of The Season. A Titanic Second Deck shot to right off the bat of Nick Johnson (his second homer of 2009) and finally Adam Dunn's 5th Tater--YOU HAVE TO WIN THIS GAME!!

Stunning. Simply Stunning Our Washington Nationals DID NOT.

And it's left us Nearly Speechless.

Final Score from that pinball machine known as Citizens Bank Park--Philly 13 and Washington 11--in demoralizing fashion.

Game Notes & Highlights

10 Hits, 10 Runs, 9 RBI from the top five hitters in our lineup tonight. And believing his bullpen would shut the door, Our Manager Manny Acta rightfully replaced Adam Dunn in the bottom of the 8th with the far better fielding Justin Maxwell now playing left. A move that turned against him when The Phillies rallied to take the lead in their six run 8th and Adam Dunn was sitting on the bench as the final out was recorded--a strikeout by his replacement-- Justin Maxwell.

Amazingly, there were no fielding errors charged tonight, even though Austin Kearns, Adam Dunn and The Phillies Shane Victorino all misplayed fly balls off their gloves.

No one really pitched that well tonight for Washington. Martis got hammered. Julian Tavarez allowed an inherited runner to score. Mike Hinckley looked lost again on the mound, but somehow got out of a jam. Kip Wells did pitch a scoreless 7th, but Mock set the fire that became the 8th inning. And Joel Hanrahan added the fuel which exploded this game.

Our Washington Nationals can't trust their bullpen, and it's taking away most every realistic chance to win.

One of those winnable games--thrown away by pitching, pitching and more poor pitching--again.

Finally, If there is one thing to take from this terrible loss--it is the very fact that since Baseball Returned To Washington in 2005, Our Washington Nationals and The Philadelphia Phillies have played some of the most memorable games between each other than with any other team. Win or Lose--noteworthy stuff. Ball Games that are remembered for years to come. This one certainly fits that billing. No question--The Phillies are truly our rival, both on the field and in the stands--and this 13-11 defeat just added to that mystique.

Tonight's InGame Photo--H.Rumph, Jr. (AP)

The Fledgling Mayor Of NatsTown

Our Manager Manny Acta was slowly walking to the mound. Before he got there to replace Our Starting Pitcher this afternoon, Adam Dunn already had his right arm around Jordan Zimmermann--giving his personal vote of confidence and thanks. Our Number 27 touched by the gesture clearly saying "Thank You" to Dunn. Everyone within Our Washington Nationals Organization and Our Fans should all be giving their thanks to J-Z as well. For over five innings this afternoon at New Citi Field in Queens, Zimmermann again showed why his valiant work over the past week is one of our best and brightest hopes for Baseball In Washington, D.C.

There's a New Fledgling Mayor Of NatsTown and he's caught every one's attention.

Although Jordan Zimmermann struggled early this Sunday, he regained his composure and never wavered on the mound.

Confidence repeated throughout this performance--none better than his display to finish off the bottom of the 5th. Already ahead 8-1 against The New York Mets with his Washington teammates providing some serious lumber, Zimmermann was facing the heart of the powerful Mets lineup. Already, Alex Cora had led off with a walk. The speedy Jose Reyes followed with a slapped single to right. You had to figure Manny Acta was considering making a pitching change. It was a hot and humid day in New York. And Jordan was approaching 90 pitches. There was nobody out and Daniel Murphy, Carlos Beltran and Carlos Delgado were all coming to take their whacks for The Mets against a rookie hurler pitching in just his second Major League game.

A Game Changing Moment was possibly at hand. The distinct possibility for A New York Comeback.

Over the course of the next three batters--a few New York Minutes--Jordan Zimmermann showed the muster of a wily veteran. Big League Pitching on display for Washington when after Murphy got ahead in the count 2-0 on Our Number 27, Zimmermann--on a hitter's pitch--jammed a 93 MPH fastball in on the lefthanded swinging New Yorker's fists. A fearless strike zone toss that resulted in Murphy popping up weakly right back to Jordan standing on the back of the mound.

This was no backdoor politician at work. The Fledgling Mayor Of NatsTown was publicly displaying his talent for leadership.

Ahead in the game score, behind in the count, Jordan Zimmermann DID NOT BACK DOWN. He kept going after The Mets Lineup. Steady Nerves on display, when J-Zimm fired away on the always dangerous Carlos Beltran. A hitter that has consistently feasted on Washington pitching. But on this Sunday afternoon, Jordan served a new diet of his own to Beltran--striking him out on five pitches in this important 5th frame. His last toss a wicked tailing away fastball. A 95 MPH heater that had Carlos not even close to hitting while swinging. Unable to put the ball in play--which Carlos Delgado was able to manage but only of the foul variety--when Jordan Zimmermann crossed up the slugging Delgado to end this fabulously pitched inning with a 78 MPH changeup resulting in a weak pop up handled easily by Ryan Zimmmerman at third base.

This inning now over. The votes all in. J-Z wins in a landslide.

Call that performance bold, gutsy, maybe even spunky--call it whatever you want. But Our Washington Nationals haven't seen such indomitable spirit like that on the mound in some time. Jordan Zimmermann made everyone else wearing the Gray Curly "W" Script Away Washington Jerseys today look better because he was pitching his heart out on the mound. And his teammates were punching that winning ticket alongside him to victory.

The weather was hot and humid, but Washington wasn't wilting under such a lionhearted effort shown by their 22 Year Old Starter.

No, Jordan Zimmermann wasn't overly sharp at the start. New York got to him early for a first inning run and Z-J even threw away a pickoff throw for his first fielding error of his Major League Ball Career. But he DIDN'T get rattled. He didn't falter and when Our Manager Manny Acta took the ball from his hand in the top of the 6th inning after striking out David Wright for the third time this Sunday and allowing his final baserunner--a single by My Main Man!! Ryan Church--those 103 pitches he so gallantly tossed lifted the spirits of a fumbling team and their anguished fans looking for any positive outlook after two days of demoralizing baseball played at New Citi Field.

Yes, today was certainly a Team Effort by Our Washington Nationals. Our Offense voted early and often--coming untracked, knocking The Mets Starter Oliver Perez all over and out of the running for the high honors at the New Queens Ballpark. And while Zimmermann was praised for his campaign, Perez was booed right out the park by his own home faithful. But make no mistake about it, D.C.'s team would have never regained their confidence if not for the unflinching performance on the mound by Young Jordan Zimmeramann.

Final Score from blistering hot New Citi Field--Our Washington Nationals 8 and The New York Mets 1. Curly "W" Number 4 of 2009 was the first no doubt victory of this still young season. In fact, the very first road victory since September of 2008--a span covering 17 ball games. A breather from the embarrassment that was called Major League Baseball played yesterday afternoon in New York City by Our Washington Nationals.

A new tone set thanks to Our New Number 27's impressive early run. His youthful exuberance which resonated throughout D.C.'s Team all day. Good pitching, solid hitting and decent defense can go along way to heal the pain of the many losses so far this season. But more importantly, having a Fresh Young Face leading this campaign--someone to rally around--made watching Our Washington Nationals play today more enjoyable than at any moment so far this year.

Yes, when the votes were finally all tallied late this afternoon Jordan Zimmermann could probably be elected 'Mayor Of NatsTown' right now--stated Charlie Slowes on WFED 1500 AM. Charlie might be right. And no, we are not attempting to place too much pressure on such an outstanding young talent just completing his second Big League Start. It's just fun to play with.

But then again--considering how unflappable J-Z has been so far, nothing this fine young man accomplishes would surprise us. The Fledgling Mayor Of NatsTown--Jordan Zimmermann's composure--is absolutely outstanding.

How refreshing is that for any fan of Our Washington Nationals.

Game Notes & Highlights

And for the record, as many of you know nicknames are big here on Nats320. Jordan's Father, Jeff, heard The African Queen last week call his son sometimes "Z-Zimm" and other times "J-Z". Sohna asked Mr. Zimmermann which moniker he would prefer. His response: "I like J-Z, it has a ring to it."

So for The Fledgling Mayor Of NatsTown it's Official: "J-Z".

Zimmermann would finish this day with a solid 2.38 ERA. He allowed six hits, 2 walks and struck out five, including David Wright those three times, The Carlos'--Beltran and Delgado one apiece. He remained steady when Delgado ripped a fastball to right center scoring Beltran in the first. A play that Justin Maxwell, starting in centerfield for Elijah Dukes, made an excellent attempt to grab. Diving to his left, the ball glanced off his glove. A resultant triple that if caught would have been The Highlight Reel Defensive Play of This Game. J-Z holding his own after he threw a pickoff toss away to Adam Dunn at first base in the second trying to hold Ryan Church who had walked. His first error that found Zimmermann bearing down again with a runner in scoring position with one out. Luis Castillo subsequently grounding out to first base and finally retiring the pesky Jose Reyes on a fly ball to Austin Kearns in right after a Oliver Perez bunt single. One thing clear about Jordan Zimmermann, he battles every step of the way. He challenges hitters and that alone is very impressive.

Jordan now 2-0 in his Major League Career. All four Curly "W"s in 2009 earned by Rookie Pitchers. Shairon Martis has the other two wins.

When Zimmermann left this game up 7 runs, Mike Hinckley, Garrett Mock and Kip Wells finished the final 3.2 innings of work to get the Curly "W"--allowing no hits and just one walk--charged to Mock. The New York Mets powerful offense was neutralized this day.

Austin Kearns is hot at the plate. Jesus Flores is on fire. Both slamming home runs this Sunday. "Bluegrass" a blast to the deepest reaches of centerfield at Citi Field in the 5th--just to the right of the Red Mets Big Apple that comes up after New York Home Runs. Flores a two run shot in the top of the second off Perez as well that got Washington on the board for the first time today. Kearns scoring three runs, knocking in one (11 RBI so far) and raising his average to .256. Flores, he of the terrible slump during most of the recent homestand, breaking out in a big way with a 3 for 4 performance, one walk, three RBI (10 overall), two runs scored and now batting a robust .327. What a night and day difference in Our Number 3 at the plate than he was less than one week ago. No longer looking lost at the plate.

Justin Maxwell played very well batting leadoff. Two hits, one walk, one run scored, one rbi, two stolen bases and a gazelle with speed, makes this fine young man always easy to root for. Everyone seemingly wants to see J-Max play and do well. Can Our Washington Nationals find a solid role for him? He is so deserving the legitimate shot. Only injuries have curtailed his career.

Alberto Gonzalez breaking out of a terrible slump over the past homestand. Garnering two hits filling in for the injured Cristian Guzman today, scoring one, knocking in one and playing the solid defense he is known for--not the erratic play witnessed by Our Number 12 last week.

Adam Dunn the only everyday player not either scoring a run or knocking a run in this Sunday afternoon. The Mets Starter, Oliver Perez, wasn't too good. Neither was his first replacement--Casey Fossum.

Finally, very sorry to see Shawn Hill go down again last night in San Diego with more forearm and elbow soreness. Another trip to The Disabled List for our one time starter. Some guys never catch a good break and it's sad to see such a very talented young man continue to not reach HIS potential.

Today's InGame Photos--Seth Wenig (AP)

Tough Love

Don't want to hear any excuses.

No.

Not--Our Pitchers need to throw more strikes.

Not--Our Fielders need to concentrate more and make less errors.

Not--Our Hitters need to be more focused at the plate.

You guys are professional. You should know what each of you is capable of doing.

This Is Major League Baseball after all. You should know what is expected of you.

And we don't care whether any player for Our Washington Nationals has been in the Big Leagues for 10 Days or 10 Years, each should also be responsible enough to play the game on the biggest stage.

Act And Play Like You Belong There.

After today's 16th game of 2009--you really had to wonder. Our Washington Nationals now find themselves in a big hole--10 games down in the loss column. 3-13 Overall, already 8 Games out of First Place. A position not wanted on many levels. But bearable if you believe everyone is working hard--and not giving up.

What Our Washington Nationals are doing right now is giving games away. They are taking away virtually all their chances to win. Remember, most every team loses 1/3rd of all their games every year--54 Total. Most every team wins 54 games each season. And what every team does in those final 54 games to fill out the 162 Game Schedule decides whether you are Good, Bad or Ugly. At this point in April, Our Washington Nationals are losing each of those other 54 games. They are playing some ugly baseball and they need to get ahold of themselves on that issue.

Like right now!!

You can't continuously throw balls off the plate from the mound.

You can't continuously drop ground balls or fly balls hit in your direction.

You can't hope Someone Else gets that key base hit.

You have to be responsible for yourself, your work and your performance.

Come On Guys!! We Are Better Than This.

You all, collectively, need to do a better job.

It's time for everyone of you, Our Players for Our Washington Nationals, to pull yourselves together and understand you have to perform on a higher level than shown so far in 2009. None of you made The Major Leagues without having talent. And none of you are less responsible than another for this early season slump. Stepping up and competing at the skill level everyone knows you are capable--is your number one goal this Saturday Evening.

No. Please, no more excuses.

Time to Play Ball!! Major League Baseball on the skills level considered acceptable.

The African Queen and I can put up with the losses. We can suffer through the rebuilding of Our Franchise with the very best of those out there. We Care and We Love Our Team. And we want to see Our Washington Nationals do better--eventually win consistently. We've always been there for you and always will.

The winning is coming. That fact Sohna and I have no doubt.

But whether Our Washington Nationals are Good, Bad Or Ugly-- we want to watch Professional Major League Baseball in Washington, DC--knowing every single one of you is giving their very best effort out there on the field of play--each and every day.

Nothing else is acceptable.

We know, that's some Tough Love. But it's how The African Queen and I feel this evening.

Don't Give Up. LIKE EVER!! No matter how bad it seems.

You know, Sohna and I will always be there for you--ALWAYS.

Today's InGame Photo--Julie Jacobson (AP)

Alex Cintron?

Jesus Flores has just cranked out a homer in the top of the 9th inning off Francisco Rodriguez. A two run shot with nobody out that puts Our Washington Nationals within striking distance of tying this game up against The New York Mets. K-Rod is in trouble ahead now only 4-3. But after Alberto Gonzalez lines out to center, Our Manager Manny Acta sends Alex Cintron to pinch hit for Pitcher Kip Wells.

Alex Cintron?

This is the 9th Inning.

At this point in the game, it's important to make every effort to get even. In a game where there is no clock, time was running out.

Score One Run. Because if you don't--GAME OVER.

Anderson Hernandez is the scheduled hitter after Cintron. Not a power hitter, an infielder also slumping at the plate.

So unless you get lucky, the worst hitter on your team--Cintron--is not the man to have come to the plate under this circumstance.

Veteran Experience in Ronnie Belliard is sitting on the bench.

Youthful and powerful Justin Maxwell is sitting on the bench.

Both, better choices to pinch hit with one out in the 9th, down one run.

Not Alex Cintron.

Why? Really Why?

We don't understand that move. We really don't.

And it's a shame this game ended in such a poor way, because Scott Olsen fought, and fought and fought his way through six tough innings. Tonight at New Citi Field, Our Number 19 showed some of that bulldog spirit which he portrayed during his Florida Marlin years. He was impressive. Far from perfect, in trouble every inning, yet he battled the entire way. Olsen earned some deserved respect in Queens from The Mets lineup. Appreciation which Our Batters will never earn until they more consistently plate runners in scoring position. Like the same old story, told over and over again--Our Washington Nationals spoiling their winning chances when they again left runners in scoring position.

Case in point.

Facing arguably the best pitcher in the game, Johan Santana came out of the gate throwing hard tonight, firing strike after strike, looking sharp and mowing down 10 Washington hitters before he tired in the 6th. The very inning when DC's team had their opportunity to get back into this affair and BEAT HIM. Johan was faltering--ripe for the taking.

And Our Washington Nationals COULD NOT get the big hit.

The 2-3-4 hitters were doing their jobs. The 5-6-7 hitters could barely even get their bats on the ball.

Despite a terrific Nick Johnson lined opposite field homer directly down the left field line for his first Round Tripper since May, 2008--a Ryan Zimmerman walk and Adam Dunn single--all with no outs in this important 6th frame--the next three hitters in our lineup could not get them home. Elijah Dukes flailing at everything Santana threw him--striking out for the 3rd time this evening. Austin Kearns going down swinging for his second time this evening. And Jesus Flores barely getting his bat on Santana's last of 104 pitches thrown in this game--meekly popping to end the threat.

All three looked overmatched.

Understanding Johan Santana is an exceptional talent, he was still in trouble. Yet Number 57 wearing White/Blue & Orange was able to reach back and find that extra effort to survive. Looking to wreak havoc, Our Washington Nationals couldn't muster even a simple base hit. The game changing moment was at hand.

And Washington Failed Again.

Which brings this post back full circle to the top of the 9th when Alex Cintron was sent to the plate to pinch hit for Kip Wells. That's not stepping up, or even close to wreaking havoc. But what's very true was, like Johan Santana in the 6th, Francisco Rodriguez was also ripe for the taking in the 9th. Our Washington Nationals didn't fully take advantage of that opportunity as well.

Alex Cintron? He's not even going to be on the 25 Man Roster in two weeks when Cristian Guzman and Willie Harris are activated from The Disabled List. He's Our 25th Man. That decision to bat him still makes no sense. None whatsover.

Final Score from New Citi Field where that new ballpark is downright weird (especially the location of the visiting bullpen)--The New York Mets 4 and Our Washington Nationals 3. Of course it didn't help that for the second consecutive game the eventual winning run was scored on a base loaded walk. A major infraction committed again by a Washington Pitcher. This time by Kip Wells.

Game Notes & Highlights

You have to respect Scott Olsen's effort tonight. He single handedly kept Our Washington Nationals in this game for six innings. And he wasn't helped when Elijah Dukes couldn't get to/maybe misplayed a liner to center off the bat of Carlos Beltran in the 3rd that scored the first run of the evening. He wasn't helped when Austin Kearns had to dive twice in the same 6th inning for flies hit by Fernando Tatis and Daniel Murphy. The first belly flop and resultant triple by Fernando Tatis was a good effort by Kearns in which he simply could not reach. But he could have just cut it off and let Fernando get a single. Then Murphy's RBI single a few moments later deflected off Austin's glove. It was a difficult catch, but Our Number 25 should have had it. Olsen dodged trouble all night long. He really pitched well with his back against the wall.

Never heard of The Mets reliever Bobby Parnell who replaced Johan Santana tonight in the 7th inning. But that young man throws smoke--reaching 96 MPH on his fastball--with some great late action. He was sharp. One rising fastball thrown past Josh Willingham was UNHITTABLE. No one was going to get a bat around on that pitch. No one.

Austin Kearns did make a nice running over the shoulder catch to this new deeper area of right field at Citi Field. An extra 20 feet or more of outfield that runs between the home run wall down the right field line and right centerfield. A cutout that allowed Kearns to track an absolute blast off the bat of David Wright in the bottom of the 7th that saved Jason Bergmann from an even worse outing than he eventually had. A home run in most any Major League Park, this opposite field shot was merely a fly out. I don't like it when these new stadiums put in gimmicks just to be different. The Short Leftfield Crawford Boxes in Houston are another good example--too many cheap home runs allowed at Minute Maid Park. Just let the players play ball--don't give anyone an added advantage just to be cute. Corners in the walls--fine--but not stupid stuff like this right field extended outfield.

Bergmann walking the bases loaded in his first appearance since his recall from AAA Syracuse. He looked uncomfortable and downright pissed when Manny came to take him out of the game. The same emotions Kip Wells showed after he saved Bergmann from any damage, but then fell apart in the 8th, giving up the bases loaded walk. A GIFT RUN that proved to be The Winning Run.

Finally, Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler mentioned on WFED tonight they had some serious issues with how Citi Field is set up for broadcasting. Their booth, located slightly down the first base line (same as Shea Stadium was), is situated so fans now sitting in front of them can stand up and block their view of the game. Additionally, as also shown on MASN, The Visiting Bullpen is placed behind The Mets Bullpen in rightfield. It's virtually impossible to see who is warming up for the visiting team--whether on TV or from The Radio Booth. The Mets Bullpen blocks it. The Visiting Bullpen is set up so The Visitors, in this case Washington's Players, have to look through two sets of fences to even watch the game. When Manny came out to bring in Kip Wells in the 7th, no one knew exactly which pitcher he was summoning to the mound.

At one point, not knowing who was warming up for Washington, Charlie and Dave joked they needed a spy in the rightfield stands at Citi Field to let them know. A volunteer position that included Charlie pondering if Agent 99 should be dispatched for duty. She could call him on the shoe phone!! Watching and listening in our home, Agent 99 chuckled at their reference, and proclaimed she was ready for the assignment.

As Charlie mentioned tonight: Like who exactly made these final decisions for placements at New Citi Field? Anyone that has ever been involved in the game of baseball?

Tonight's InGame Photo--Julie Jacobson (AP)

Day-Night Doubleheader May 16th

The April 15th Rainout between Our Washington Nationals and The Defending Champion Philadelphia Phillies has been rescheduled when The Phillies return to The Nation's Capital in Mid-May. On Saturday, May 16th, the make up game will be played beginning at 1:05PM. Season Ticket and partial plan holders can use their original April 15th game tickets for entry to the afternoon game. Individually purchased tickets for Game 2 of the 2009 Home Schedule can be used for that game also, or exchanged for another home game in 2009--except The Boston Red Sox Series.

The 7:05PM regularly scheduled game will also be The Jackie Robinson Tribute Night. For the evening game, both teams will wear Jackie's now retired Number 42 on every uniform. Separate admission is required to attend both games.Complete details in the press release below. Although not mentioned is pre-paid parking. Last year, fans were allowed to use their parking pass for the rainout game for the rescheduled date. I will make an inquiry to find out for sure.

NATIONALS RESCHEDULE APRIL 15 RAINOUT AGAINST PHILLIES FOR 1:05 P.M. ON SATURDAY, MAY 16

Afternoon Game Will Kick Off First Weekend Day-Night Doubleheader at Nationals Park

The Washington Nationals today announced that their postponed April 15 contest vs. the Philadelphia Phillies has been rescheduled as a 1:05 p.m. afternoon contest on Saturday, May 16 at Nationals Park.

The rescheduled game coupled with the regularly-scheduled 7:05 p.m. contest that night gives baseball fans access to the first weekend version of a day-night doubleheader at Nationals Park, which opened in 2008.

The two games against the World Champion Phillies on May 16 require separate admission.

Fans purchasing tickets to the 1:05 p.m. afternoon contest on May 16 vs. Philadelphia can take advantage of Value Game pricing, as most tickets are reduced up to $5. Tickets for this game will be available at the Nationals Park Main Box Office starting on Thursday, April 23 at 10:00 a.m.

Jackie Robinson Day, originally scheduled for April 15, will now be celebrated prior to and during the 7:05 p.m. contest on May 16 vs. Philadelphia. Both the Nationals and Phillies will don No. 42 jerseys that evening to honor the legacy and spirit of the man responsible for breaking baseball’s color barrier in 1947. The first 10,000 fans at this game will receive a commemorative No. 42 Jackie Robinson button.

Season ticket and mini-plan holders, whose ticket plan includes tickets for the postponed April 15 contest, should retain their tickets for use during the 1:05 p.m. afternoon contest on May 16.

Those with individual-game tickets (all non-season and non-mini-plan tickets) to the postponed April 15 contest may use those tickets for the same seats to the 1:05 p.m. contest on May 16 or may exchange their tickets for any other future 2009 Nationals regular season home game, excluding the three-game series against the Boston Red Sox on June 23, 24 and 25. All rain check exchanges are subject to availability.

Renewable Resources

The Zero's started to mount from the very first pitch of this game. For seven consecutive innings a pitching match up not seen at Nationals Park was in the works. Two young and talented starters throwing shutout ball. One, the lefty from Long Island, New York, more the command and control pitcher. His opponent, from Willemstad, Netherlands Antilles, the righthanded possessor of challenging speed and hard breaking stuff. Preferred Weapons of a 24-Year Old American and a 23-Year Old Dutchman. This evening on South Capitol Street, both doing it their way and each receiving the same result--until their replacements decided this game.

Inning after inning passed this Earth Day and John Lannan and Jair Jurrjens planted zero after zero up on the scoreboard. Locked up in a pitchers duel, these saavy young hurlers displayed a renewable resource of their very own--their talented throwing arms. Quickly, this shaped up to be one of those well thrown affairs that baseball purists can appreciate--old fashion hardball. Step to the plate, take your cuts, and mostly, then sit down. Throughout this cold and chilly night, the batters for both Our Washington Nationals and The Atlanta Braves had their shots to score. But every time a runner made their way into scoring position, either Lannan or Jurrjens found the right seed and harvested another out in the record books.

Recharging their energy each frame, John and Jair threw like 10-Year Veterans. Neither looked green tonight. Yet each is coming off their 2008 Rookie Campaigns. This was good stuff and enjoyable to watch. At a time that so many hurlers in the game feel throwing five innings and giving up three runs--acceptable, Lannan and Jurrjens certainly did not tonight. Proudly, each fought their way through this scoreless affair. And only the very fact that Our Manager Manny Acta sent Austin Kearns to the plate to bat for Lannan in the bottom of the 7th with Josh Willingham standing on third base--the only reason Our Number 31 was taken out of this game so soon. 95 Pitches into his night, John was still in control and The Brav-Os weren't hitting a lick off Lannan. But Washington needed a run--desperately. John was pinch hit for and, of course, Washington failed for score.

Because unfortunately for DC's Team, Jurrjens was even more so impressive and nearly made it through the 8th inning--leaving with his shutout in hand after Power Lefty Mike Gonzalez replaced him, Fresh replenishment giving Gonzalez the duty to retire The Powerful Bat of Adam Dunn back to the bench. With Ryan Zimmerman standing on first base, Gonzalez fanned Dunn looking to end Washington's last, and ultimately, final threat in this affair.

On and on they played, fine defense, great pitching and no scoring. At least until Garrett Mock began to lose control in his second inning of his relief stint. A predicament set up when Mock snared a hard grounder right back to the box in the top of the 9th off the bat of Casey Kotchman. A sure inning ending double play with Matt Diaz running to second base. Garrett turned and threw to Our Shortstop for this evening, Alex Cintron. With Diaz barreling down on him at the bag, Cintron took the toss from Mock while cutting across the base--recording the out--then proceeded to throw his relay well off the bag. Kotchman would have been out by 10 feet. But Cintron winged the ball, fearing Diaz was going to hit him and the Atlanta First Baseman was safe at the bag on a fielder's choice.

The turning point of this game had finally arrived.

After 8 innings of solid baseball, a simple errant throw would change everything. Pounding the strike zone for 1.2 innings, Garrett Mock all of sudden got soft with a runner on first with two outs and didn't challenge The Braves' Centerfielder Jordan Schafer. A resultant frustrating full count walk putting Kotchman in scoring position. A problem made worse when Our Manager Manny Acta made the right decision to send Mike Hinckley to the mound to force Atlanta's Manager Bobby Cox to waste lefthanded pinch hitter Greg Norton for the righthanded swinging Martin Prado. A move that backfired--badly.

As crisp and well played the pitching had been from both starters this evening, Mike Hinckley would perform just the opposite. Even while warming up on the mound once summoned, Hinckley tossed three wild pitches past his batterymate Jesus Flores while Home Plate Umpire Brian O'Nora stared in almost disbelief. The harbinger of things to come when Our Number 58 looked downright uncomfortable and afraid to throw his best stuff when the game restarted. Unable to find the plate, Hinckley got no help from the home plate umpire. And when he repeatedly threw pitch after pitch off the plate or in the dirt, The Atlanta Braves were GIFTED the eventual winning run--Free Of Charge. Martin Prado walking on seven pitches to load the bases. Kelly Johnson on five to win this game.

On Earth Day, The Atlanta Braves Omar Infante (running for Kotchman) expended no energy to score the only run of this game.

After watching a sparkling performance of command and control by Our Starter John Lannan, those remaining among the announced crowd of 15,567 witnessed a total lack of composure by Mike Hinckley. Called on to record ONE FINAL OUT. He could not do so. He could not throw strikes. He could not plant that last seed across the plate. His renewable resource, his talented arm had failed him. On "Get Your Green On" Night, Mike Hinckley looked pretty green himself.

And Our Washington Nationals would not win this game.

The always tough Rafael Soriano using the natural heat from his high powered right throwing arm to close this one out for The Atlanta Braves.

Final score from Nationals Park were you can't win if you don't score any runs--The Atlanta Braves 1 and Our Washington Nationals Zero. Loss Number 11 of 2009 given away when Our Bullpen couldn't throw a baseball over the plate, when the game counted the most. Sadly, a defeat that took away from an excellent performance from the southpaw throwing arm of John Lannan. Pitching with poise and confidence, Our Number 31 battled his way through a terrific match up. Only to see his counterpart throw equally as well. Jair Jurrjens--He's pretty good too.

If Earth Day is suppose to make one reflect on what's important about the natural environment we all live in daily, then John Lannan proved tonight he's one renewable energy source Our Washington Nationals should cherish for years to come.

Game Notes & Highlights

Seven innings of shutout ball thrown by Lannan. While giving up five hits and two walks, he lowered his ERA down to 4.43. Jurrjens allowing 6 hits and 2 walks during his 7.2 innings of work. Neither strikeout pitchers, a combined six between them. Lannan and Jurrjens fully dependent on their fielders behind them.

Defensive work which there was plenty to recall tonight. In the top of the 8th, Atlanta's Yunel Escobar sharply grounded a one hopper directly to the left of Ryan Zimmerman. Reacting only to the play developing in front of him, Our Number 11 quickly moved in, slightly to his left, only to see the baseball rapidly rise just to the side of his left ear. With his usual catlike reflexes, Ryan moved his fielding glove to the side of his face, while still charging in and easily threw out Escobar at first base. A defensive gem that received a nice ovation from the crowd, but was bettered thanks to Elijah Dukes.

With Two Outs in the top of the 7th, Atlanta Leadoff Hitter Kelly Johnson lofted a soft dropping looper into short centerfield. Running hard from the crack of the bat, Dukes charged in quickly. And realizing the baseball still was farther from his reach, slid at the last second, feet first, but still had the wherewithal to reach with his left hand, his glove hand, across his body, turn his glove's pocket sky upward and JUST SNARE the baseball a good few inches before it hit the ground. This was a tremendous defensive effort. Athletic ability, baseball skill and excellent timing allowed Elijah Dukes to make The Defensive Play Of This Game. A sweet one that resulted in a standing ovation from the home faithful. Really nice play.

Zimmerman and Josh Willingham both doubled tonight. Nick Johnson had two singles among Washington's six hits. Continuing a trend, Washington had Zimmerman on second base with a double and no outs in the 4th--didn't score. Runners on first and second, one out--didn't score--when Alex Cintron hit into a double play in the 5th. Willingham on second with his double in the 7th, no outs. No score. Atlanta's Jair Jurrjens made the right pitch every single time he was in trouble.

This was the very first game all season that Adam Dunn had not reached base. Heading into the game with a .502 On Base Percentage, Our Number 44 neither stroked a hit or walked against Atlanta's pitching.

When Kearns pinch hit for Lannan with Willingham on third base in the bottom of the 7th, Austin showed no patience and swung at Jurrjens very first offering. A changeup he believed was a fastball. A resultant popup to end the short lived rally.

Cintron, filling in for the slumping Alberto Gonzalez, who was filling in for the injured Cristian Guzman--did not help tonight. A weak hitter, it was surprising to see Alex batting leadoff. But then again, Manny really didn't have anyone else available for the role. Willie Harris also still on the DL. Everybody else in our lineup slowfooted, except for maybe Dukes and Zimmerman. Cintron's days numbered once everyone comes back healthy. Harris played in a rehab game yesterday for Syracuse. Anderson Hernandez was given the night off.

Ronnie Belliard and John Lannan both executed nice bunts. Mentioned only because that is a skill Our Washington Nationals have routinely been poor at since baseball returned to Washington in 2005. Adding the fact that Jordan Zimmermann executed a nice bunt himself during his first game on Monday night and things are looking up in the sacrifice department for Washington.

Funny moment in tonight's game. Julian Tavarez fired a pitch to Yunel Escobar in the top of the 9th. The hard swinging Atlanta Shortstop fouled the ball off directly in front of Jesus Flores and Home Plate Umpire O'Nora. On the backswing, Escobar perfectly lined the bouncing ball into Washington's home dugout on the fly. For a good 30 seconds, Umpire O'Nora kept looking around trying to find the ball. I don't think Flores even realized what had happened. Like two men lost, they finally were told what happened by someone in Washington's Dugout. Funny.



Teddy came barreling out of the centerfield gate during tonight's 4th inning Presidents Race. Leading all the way to the turn at the rightfield corner, Teddy then stopped to throw what appeared to be Green Curly "W" Baseball Caps to the crowd. Distracted once again, Abe took advantage, passed Teddy and George to take the checkered flag.



The Green Curly "W" Caps were apart of tonight's Earth Day 2009 Promotion at Nationals Park. These Green Caps the same ones given out last September during the "Halfway to St. Patricks Day" Promotion. Services members honored after the third inning of each home game were donning the caps during their salute. Throughout the evening, Get Your Green On messages were displayed on the HDTV Scoreboard concerning recycling and renewable resources.

As it turned out, honoring Earth Day, The African Queen and I wore the same Green Curly "W" Caps to the ballpark for tonight's game.

PS--In one of those freak incidents that occur in baseball. Josh Willingham was nailed while standing in the on deck circle waiting to hit--by a baseball fouled off the bat of Elijah Dukes in the 9th inning. A hard hit liner that struck him in the left leg. That had to hurt. Williingam's going to have a nice bruise. He did eventually bat and flied out to left, but you had to wonder whether he was more seriously hurt.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Alex Brandon (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Fireman

When Jason Bergmann started warming up in the bullpen, Joel Hanrahan had already set the fire. The Question: would Our Number 38 be able to extinguish his very own flames? Staked to a slim one run lead and called on for the second consecutive day to close a victory out, "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game--The Next Generation" was now in deep trouble--again. A leadoff walk allowed to Matt Diaz, a double to Jordan Schafer. The flames had been stoked in the top of the 9th. Those left in the announced crowd of 15,439 were rightfully worried about the outcome. Atlanta Braves' runners were on 2nd and 3rd, nobody was out. Our Fireman just needed to perform his duty--whether it was self-inflicted or not.

Could he?

You had to believe the faithful still on hand at Nationals Park were praying that the earlier rains this evening in D.C. would return. The downpours which delayed tonight's affair for the second consecutive day. A 61 Minute later than expected start, this time, which soaked the playing field. A drenching which Joel Hanrahan needed to find and put out The Atlanta Braves Offense.

For the over three years that Hanrahan's Predecessor, Chad Cordero, held the job as Closer for Our Washington Nationals, The Atlanta Braves were his nemesis. "The Chief Cardiologist" suffered setback after setback at the hands of The Tomahawk Choppers. It didn't matter who Atlanta sent to the plate against Our Former Number 32, The Braves Lineup more times than not--fired away on "The Chief". Andruw Jones, Chipper Jones, Brian McCann and Jeff Francouer--Whomever. Atlanta seemingly had Chad Cordero's number.

Hanrahan now found himself in a similar situation and with a new cast of characters to face. He was in serious trouble and The Atlanta Braves were again taking advantage of Our New Closer. As the crowd murmured, a few yelled their insults and as Jason Bergmann quickly tried to get ready--Joel attempted to regain his composure. Not wanting to blow another save, he slowly walked to the back of the pitching mound to compose himself as Atlanta's Manager Bobby Cox sent lefthanded pinch hitter Greg Norton to the plate. Hanrahan knowing--he had no margin for error anymore. The score was only 4-3 Washington and even a simple single might score the tying and go ahead runs.

Realizing this crucial moment in time in his still young closing career was at hand, Hanrahan seemed to grasp that importance. Another blown save would again demoralize Our Team, Our Coaches and especially Our Fan Base. No one wanted to see the 4th 9th inning turnaround of the current homestand. What everybody wanted to see was A STOPPER. A Fireman that can put out all flames and relish in the role.

Mostly staying away from his fastball, Joel used his slider and got Norton to ground out meekly back to the box. Hanrahan to Nick Johnson for out number one. A nervous sigh of relief from those still remaining on South Capitol Street. Damage control now fully in the works when Joel then proceeded to get Kelly Johnson to pop softly to Elijah Dukes in centerfield for out number two. On the verge of burning down the house, Our Number 38 had smoldered the fire. Could he finally put out the burning embers?

Hanrahan was up to the task.

With not a single drop of rain falling at Nationals Park, Joel Hanrahan now found himself needing to hose down the young and very dangerous Yunel Escobar. The promising young Atlanta Shortstop who hits with power and who consistently has beaten Our Washington Nationals over the past two seasons. No, it's never easier in The Big Leagues. And it's should never be. But if you want to be a closer, you better handle pressure well. And if you can harness that tension to your advantage, you are going to pitch with confidence.

Not messing around, Joel Hanrahan looked in for the sign from his catcher Jesus Flores. This time there would be no slider. Our Number 38 was going with heat. Fire, to put out a fire. A winning combination when Yunel Escobar swung at Hanrahan's very first 94MPH offering. A fastball that extinguished the final opportunity for The Atlanta Braves tonight. A resultant simple ground out to Anderson Hernandez at second.

Game Over.

A retiring of the side that immediately saw Joel Hanrahan pump his right fist up in jubilation, followed by a slapping of his right hand into his left glove hand. As his catcher, Jesus Flores, met him halfway between home plate and the pitching mound in celebration, Joel must have realized that you can survive a fire, if you keep your wits about you and your emotions in check. Far more than extinguishing a late rally this evening by The Atlanta Braves, Joel Hanrahan had fought back fear. And he didn't waver when the pressure was truly on.

For the first time all season, Our Number 38 Really Looked Like A Closer.

Final score from Nationals Park where The Home Squad won their second consecutive game of 2009, Our Washington Nationals 4 and The Atlanta Braves 3. The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! signaling, yes--you can save a burning house, if you learn to keep your heartbeat under control. Yes, there was far more to this game than the 9th inning, including a terrific comeback from a three run deficit by Washington. But none of that would be remembered if Joel Hanrahan had not finally played Fireman.

Game Notes & Highlights

Thanks to a another throwing error by Alberto Gonzalez in the very first inning, Shairon Martis' rough first inning got even worse. All with two outs, Martis walked Chipper Jones and Brian McCann then allowed an rbi double to Casey Kotchman. But just when you thought The Braves would only score one run in the first, Gonzalez threw away an infield single off the bat of Jeff Francouer which allowed both McCann and Kotchman to score. Down three runs early, Shairon was in big trouble, but he settled down nicely and walked off the mound as the winning pitcher of record after six innings of work. Martis tends to nibble a little too much, allowed four walks and six hits this evening. But he really wasn't hit that hard. This was one of those hanging in there sort of games. Martis wasn't great, but he did pitch well enough to get his 2nd victory of 2009.

Mike Hinckley pitched an effective 1.2 innings and was relieved by Julian Tavarez who retired Francouer on a fielder's choice to end the 8th, before Hanrahan was sent to finish this game out.

If you took Atlanta Starter Kenshin Kawakami put a Boston Red Sox Uniform on him, you would believe he was his Japanese Countryman Daisuke Matzsusaka. Same body type, same pitching mechanics. Almost frightening, until you realize Kawakami is no Daisuke. No, not by a long shot.

Down 3-1 in the bottom of the 6th, Washington staged a serious comeback jump started by another launched rocket off the bat of Adam Dunn. The man who continues to lead The National League in On Base Percentage, deposited a Kawakami Fastball well over the centerfield fence for his 4th Home Run of 2009. A Crowd Pleaser that had the faithful up and roaring some more when Elijah Dukes followed with a screaming liner to the left of Chipper Jones at third base. A hot potato he couldn't handle and was charged an error. A mistake that was also not ruled an error when Matt Diaz butchered a line drive off the bat of Austin Kearns in left. A short hopped baseball on wet grass that skimmed under Diaz's glove and all the way to wall. Just like that this game was tied at three and Austin Kearns was standing on 3rd base with a ruled rbi triple. A new ball game that got even better when Josh Willingham, sent to the plate by Our Manager Manny Acta to pinch hit for Martis, smashed a Jeff Bennett fastball through the hole between 2nd and 3rd for, what turned out to be, the game winning rbi single. Do you think we can find a way to get Willingham some more At-Bats? He really does swing a nice stick at the plate.

It was nice watching a comeback win. For a while it looked like the offense would never get untracked. But what Washington has proven in the first 13 games of 2009 is that they can score some runs.

When Washington scored their first run of the evening in the 2nd inning, Elijah Dukes ran them out of scoring two. With nobody out, Dukes on second base after a hustling double stroked to right center and Austin Kearns at the plate--Elijah inexplicably took off trying to steal third. He was out by a mile. Like why? There were no outs? And his poor judgment on the basepaths hurt Washington when Kearns subsequently walked and scored on a ripped double to left off the bat of Jesus Flores. Dukes would have scored easily, but he had taken that opportunity away--unnecessarily.

Later in the 8th, when Washington was looking to score an insurance run, Alberto Gonzalez was on third base with one out. With the Atlanta infield drawn in, pinch hitter Ronnie Belliard smoked a one hopper right at The Braves shortstop Yunel Escobar. For whatever reason, Alberto ran home and was also out by a mile. Again--like why? It's little mistakes, running yourself into outs that consistently prove costly in close games. Fortunately, Our Washington Nationals were able to overcome these errors in judgment.

In the top of the 5th, Anderson Hernandez absolutely drilled a deep liner to right center. The Braves Centerfielder, Jordan Schafer ran hard, to his left into the gap. Reaching out his glove at the last second, crossing his right hand, his glove hand over his body--Schafer made a stunningly beautiful catch. Easily, The Defensive Play Of This Game. It was really nice. In fact, in the first few weeks of 2009, Schafer has proven to be a quality outfielder.



April 21st was the first Tee-Shirt Tuesday of 2009, handed out to the first 10,000 fans a very nice red NatsTown Tee. Pretty good quality too with "Get Your Red On" emblazoned across the back. Of course catching Usher Charles actually working (we're kidding) worth the moment to capture this photo of him carrying a box of NatsTown Tees.



And on the main concourse near home plate and The Washington Suites this evening, Exxon Mobil was on hand partnering with The PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative (funded by The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation) to accelerate the development of malaria vaccines in African Counties. Being from West Africa--The African Queen took a special interest in this community outreach program and visited with those on hand for a while--discussing the work.



In the 4th inning Geico Presidents Race, The Washington Capitals Mascot, Slapshot, was on hand to participate. And in his honor, The Rushmores all raced with Hockey Sticks. Of course that didn't help Teddy, he didn't win again. George taking the honors easily.




Finally, an employee who works at Nationals Park informed us before the game that someone wanted to meet us and say hello. A little while later we were introduced to Jeff Zimmermann (Jordan Zimmermann's Father) and his first cousin--Bryan. Stunned, The African Queen and I were to find out that Jeff and his Mom (Jordan's GrandMother) were regular readers of Nats320. For the entire game this evening at Nationals Park, Jeff and Bryan sat with us in Section 218. And later we introduced them to Hall Of Famer Don Sutton after the game. Mr. Zimmermann mighty proud that Don Sutton personally told him how impressed he was with Jordan Zimmermann's performance on Monday Night at Nationals Park. They talked for a while. Don Sutton telling Jeff Zimmermann the great skill and ability he witnessed in his son's work. It was a very nice moment. Don very happy to meet Mr. Zimmermann and vice versa.

Sohna very happy to see her buddy, Don Sutton. Upon seeing her, Don exclaims: "Hey, Queen I still follow you two on the blog." Don also chatting with Sohna and I for a bit. It was nice seeing him again.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Alex Brandon (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Earth Day Wednesday At Nationals Park

In celebration of Earth Day and The Most Greenest Ballpark In America, Our Washington Nationals are offering $3 Discount Seats to Wednesday's Opening Home Series Finale against The Atlanta Braves. All seats priced $10 or more can be purchased for the reduced amount by simply showing a Metro Fare Card or Metro Smart Trip Card.

Complete Details In The Press Release:

Washington Nationals Announce Earth Day Ticket Promotion For Fans Who Ride Metro to the Ballpark For Wednesday’s Game Against the Braves


WHAT: The Washington Nationals today announced a special Earth Day Ticket Promotion for their game against the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday, April 22. All fans who present their metro farecard or SmarTrip card at the Nationals Park Box Offices will receive $3 off any ticket priced at $10 or more.

Transactions are limited to one ticket per person with a farecard. Nationals Park is the only LEED-certified outdoor sports arena in the country. The park has a 6,300 square-foot green roof over the left-field concession stand, high efficiency field lights, recycling bins throughout all concourse, over 250 bike racks and a bike valet program which operates out of Parking Lot C.

WHO: Washington Nationals Fans Riding Metro to Nationals Park

WHEN: Wednesday, April 22, 2009

4:30pm – Center Field Gates Open

7:05pm – First Pitch, Washington Nationals vs. Atlanta Braves

WHERE: Nationals Park

All Box Offices

1500 South Capitol Street, SE

Washington, DC

Can't Catch A Break

Joe Beimel makes a nice play, diving and slipping on the wet turf last night at Nationals Park, and injuries himself.

Result: 15 Days On The Disabled List for our most effective reliever.

Saul Rivera with the immediate return to DC.

Washington just can't catch a break.

Here is the official press release:

RIVERA RECALLED FROM TRIPLE-A SYRACUSE, BEIMEL PLACED ON 15-DAY DL

The Washington Nationals today recalled right-handed pitcher Saul Rivera from Syracuse of the Triple-A International League
and placed left-handed pitcher Joe Beimel on the 15-Day Disabled List with a left hip flexor strain. Nationals Assistant General
Manager and Vice President of Baseball Operations Mike Rizzo made the announcement.

Rivera, 31, has pitched in six games this season with the Nationals and has been a workhorse in the team’s bullpen since
his big-league debut in 2006. His 221 career relief appearances and 45 holds rank third in club annals (2005-current). Rivera signedwith Washington as a minor-league free agent on November 18, 2005.

Beimel suffered his injury while making an exceptional defensive play during the eighth inning of Monday’s game against
Atlanta. In eight relief appearances this season, he owns four holds and a 1.23 ERA. The 32-year-old signed with the Nationals as a free agent on March 18.



Photo--Alex Brandon (AP)

With Two NN's

Let it be recorded that at 9:15PM Eastern Time on April 20th, 2009--a new era began in Washington, DC. The Atlanta Braves' Kelly Johnson took a called first strike. A fastball from a young man named Jordan Zimmermann--with two NN's. The much anticipated debut of Our Washington Nationals most appealing young pitching prospect. For six full innings, he was nothing short of spectacular.

It didn't matter that this particular game was delayed at the start for 2 hours and 10 minutes.

It didn't matter that this particular game would not end before a new day had begun.

And it didn't matter that very few were on hand to witness the final three outs of this game.

What mattered was that Jordan Zimmermann pitched as crisp and as sharp of a Major League Debut as anyone realistically could have expected. He threw strikes, didn't work from behind. All night long, he challenged The Atlanta Braves hitters. And only made one truly bad pitch. A two strike fastball right down the middle of the plate to Matt Diaz in the top of the 4th inning. A mistake pitch that any veteran hitter is not going miss.

Called up to help resurrect a struggling pitching staff, Our New Number 27 left no lingering doubts that he has the talent to be a quality starter. Not many pitch their very first game in The Major Leagues displaying such confidence. When Zimmermann did give up a hit here or that two run homer there--he didn't change his style. Unfazed, Jordan stuck with his game. And in doing so earned some early respect from his new teammates, those few fans on hand watching at Nationals Park--and certainly The Atlanta Braves.

Impressive also describes this performance.

Pounding the strike zone with his fastball, Jordan used that 95MPH pitch to set up an 88 MPH Slider and one wicked slower curve clocking in the low 80's all night. And when The Atlanta Hitters began to sit on his high speed fastball--Zimmermann went with his off-speed stuff. Getting to J-Zimm at times, The Braves challenged Jordan. But like a veteran of many years on the mound, Zimmermann remained calm--never showing much emotion--not even on Diaz's home run in the top of the 4th.

Fortunately for Jordan, his Washington teammates responded to his high energy effort with arguably their finest all-around game of this young season. A few clutch hits, some solid fielding and a bullpen that was able to hold a lead. Yes, Joel Hanrahan closed this one out to record his first save of 2009--before what could not have been more than 100 people when this game, thankfully, ended at 12:12AM on April 21st.

Final Score from rainy and dreary Nationals Park--Our Washington Nationals 3 and The Atlanta Braves 2. Curly "W" Number Two scintillating to watch. Jordan Zimmermann had brought a fresh new outlook with him down from Syracuse this day. And The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! signaled a new day had truly dawned. Washington's fresh young stud pitcher--that from outset of Spring Training has NEVER BEEN AFRAID to pitch to Big League Hitters--had garnered his very first Major League Win.

Not even The Weather Gods could put a damper on the latest Curly "W" Put In The Books. A solid victory that lifted the spirits and helped to wash away the sour taste of the past three final inning losses to The Florida Marlins.

No, not many were on hand to witness, officially 12,473 (although realistically just a few hundred), but the diehard fans that lasted throughout this long evening well know, they all saw something special tonight, up close and personal. And his name is Jordan Zimmermann.

With Two NN's

Hopefully those initials will also stand for No-No's, No Hitters Thrown.

Game Notes & Highlights

Jordan Zimmermann would finish his six strong innings by throwing 51 of his 72 pitches for strikes. He allowed six hits, mostly on fastballs, a few were bloop hits, and he walked only one batter of the 22 he faced. Zimmermann learned a hard lesson on his home run pitch allowed to Diaz. He should have never gone back to his fastball on two consecutive pitches against a dead fastball hitter. Matt Diaz can crush the ball. And he did when Jordan didn't throw his slider or curve--and it cost him--but not the game. J-Zimm becoming the second Nationals Rookie Pitcher to win his debut. Collin Balester also won his last year at Florida. Jeff Francouer becoming Jordan's first strikeout in The Big Leagues.

Kip Wells, wearing Number 32, made his Washington Nationals debut this evening as well. The Journeyman pitcher throwing a scoreless 7th inning and then watched as Our Manager Manny Acta sent the right hander out to the mound for the top of the 8th, only to get Atlanta's Manager Bobby Cox to announce left handed pinch hitter Greg Norton into the game. Once that became fact, Manny simply walked out to mound, called on Joe Beimel, his lefthander of choice and proceeded to get The Braves Manager to waste Norton and replace him with the right handed hitting Martin Prado. It was good baseball by Manny. Especially when Beimel retired both hitters he faced before the rain storms returned. After the latest delay concluded, Garrett Mock, now wearing Number 49, retired the only batter he faced to complete the 8th inning.

Joel Hanrahan trotted out for the 9th, looking strong and finished off The Braves in four hitters. His first save of 2009 that completely and finally shut up a small group of Tomahawk Chopping Fans standing behind Atlanta's 3rd Base Dugout.

I don't think Derek Lowe has ever struggled so much facing Washington since Baseball returned to DC. On most any given night, Lowe is one of the best sinker ball pitchers in the game. This damp night, he battled the elements all night long. A heroic seven inning 115 pitch performance, but it wasn't vintage Derek Lowe and that allowed Our Washington Nationals to get just enough runs off of him to win this affair for Jordan Zimmermann.

Jesus Flores, struggling at the plate over his past six games, broke out with a fine game this evening. If it was not for wet and heavy air knocking the ball down, Our Number 3 would have poked a Grand Slam in the bottom of the 4th. What looked like a SURE THING, but fell just short of The Braves Bullpen--caught by Atlanta's Leftfielder, Diaz--to the absolute surprise of everybody in the park--including The Braves. That stroked ball had Grand Slam written all over it. Flores settled for a sacrifice fly. And eventually knocked the game winning run in the bottom of the 6th on a clean single to left scoring Elijah Dukes who had singled with one out and advanced to 3rd on another single by Josh Willingham.

Elijah Dukes would knock in Washington's first run of the evening in the 4th, when he singled on a line drive to Jeff Francouer in right. An rbi hit that plated Nick Johnson who had walked, advanced to second on a Ryan Zimmerman single and advanced to third on a deep fly to left center by Adam Dunn.

Eight hits total by Washington this evening--two apiece for Flores and Dukes. Adam Dunn reached base for the 12th straight game this season--that's every single game played in 2009 folks. Our Number 44 leads The National League in On Base Percentage.

In the top of the 8th, moments before the final rain delay began--Joe Beimel fielded a bunt for a base hit on the wet turf off the bat of Atlanta's Kelly Johnson. Beimel fell to his knees, but was able to recover and throw Kelly Johnson out at first. An excellent play that was staged up by one wild Defensive Play Of The Game in the top of the 5th. With Atlanta Catcher David Ross on first base via a leadoff walk, Derek Lowe attempted to sacrifice his teammate to second base. Lowe popped up his bunt attempt and Nick Johnson charging in--deked catching the ball and let it hit the grass. Immediately, he turned and tossed the fielded ball to Anderson Hernandez covering first base--retiring Lowe. Hernandez then proceed to get into a rundown with Ross now stuck between first and second bases. But Anderson waited too long to throw the ball to an awaiting Alberto Gonzalez standing on second base--as Ross ran toward his bag. Knowing now that he was in trouble, Hernandez threw the baseball to Gonzalez and promptly hit Ross right in the back of the head, the baseball bouncing off Ross' helmet and over Alberto's outstretched arms and into short left field. Ross, stunned to be hit, over slid the base, and fell toward third. Josh Willingham backing up the play, picked up the errant baseball and hard tossed it to Gonzalez still over second base. Alberto tagging out the surprised David Ross for The Defensive Play Of This Game. It was funny to watch and the entire scenario received a standing ovation from many of those on hand--for the hilarity of it all.


Teddy came out totting an umbrella during the 4th inning Presidents Race. To say the least, he didn't win. Abe did, pulling away from George.

They fixed the HDTV Scoreboard player positions on the information given for each batter at the plate. Since the first home game, under the name of the player hitting, it read Ryan Zimmerman Third (not base), Elijah Dukes center (not centerfield) or Alberto Gonzalez short. Beginning this evening, the HDTV Scoreboard says Third Base, First Base, Rightfield. Thank you.


When the game was delayed for over two hours due to rain, many in The Stars & Stripes Club were lounging while watching The Washington Capitals take on The New York Rangers in New York on Comcast SportsNet. When the game eventually started, not many remained.


Finally, after the last rain delay, The African Queen and I had entire sections all to ourselves. Sections 218, 219, 220 and 221 became Prime Time Foul Ball Retrieving Zones. Of course, not a single baseball was sent our way. Too bad, because there was no competition. There were so few people on hand at the end, there is no doubt, every single player in the infield and in the dugout could hear Sohna cheering--probably even the outfielders.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Alex Brandon (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Ryan Zimmerman Contract Extension Press Conference

Tuning in late on MASN, Principal Owner Mark Lerner was finishing his opening remarks at this afternoon's Press Conference at Nationals Park. Along with Team President Stan Kasten, both were on hand along with Ryan Zimmerman to announce that Zimmerman had signed a five year contract extension through 2013--estimated at $45 Million Dollars--although no full terms where announced.

Here is the transcript picking up with Mark Lerner, followed by Mr. Kasten and Ryan Zimmerman. Then questions and answers from the assembled media.

With that, here we go:

Mark Lerner

This signing today is the best commitment we can make to help The Washington Nationals become champions. Our family and The Nationals would like to thank Ryan for making that commitment to us today as well. I would also like to welcome and congratulate Ryan’s Mom and Dad (Cheryl & Keith) and we’ve said this before—’you have raised a fine young man.’ This is a great day for The Nationals and a great day for The National Pastime in The Nation’s Capital. And we couldn’t be more delighted to having this young man here with us for a very long time to come.”

Stan Kasten

“Thank you, Mark. I want to say how excited and proud I am today. First of all, I want to publicly thank The Lerner Family, all of them, for their support. This was a complicated, lengthy procedure, but we had the full support of ownership to do these types of things. You’ve heard from Mark, Marla Tanenbaum is here today. Ed Cohen is here, somewhere. Ted is out of town today, but I can assure you he was involved in this every step of the way—deeply involved with this. I want to thank them. I think they should be commended. Let’s remember, at a time when our economy is going through tough times. Our customers are going through tough times. We have been stepping up and doing the right things in the last few months. And continuing to do one right thing after the other—hopefully to complete the puzzle.”

“This is a big thing today, I think. We demonstrate our commitment to building this team the right way. Everyone in this room knows Ryan. I imagine all of you feel about him the same way I do, in terms of the kind of person he is—not just on the field—but off the field. I want to say also, that over the course of negotiations, this was simply not about years and dollars. There is more in this contract that I think deserves to be recognized. There is also a charitable element in it. Every year, Ryan will be making a charitable donation to The Nationals Dream Foundation. Every year, Ryan will be hosting at least one, perhaps more, charitable events in this building (Nationals Park) to represent both The ZIMS Foundation and The Dream Foundation. Ryan has committed to me additional appearances in the community during the season, off-season, to help continue to build our brand and to build the franchise. And we couldn’t be prouder of those types of things.”

“But off the money issues, he and I have also had long talks about what this means in terms of his stability, his role here on the team, and in the city, now since the longevity is no longer in question. And I do think it is time for him to assume the role that we all knew he would grow into someday—that of more of a leader in the clubhouse and on the field—than he even has before. And I think he is ready to do that. A lot of you have referred to him as Face Of The Franchise. And that is something I am uneasy with because it is not fair to a 24 Year Old to call him that. It is also not fair to the other 24 guys in the locker room. I feel strongly we have 25 Faces Of The Franchise. But there is no question that his profile is higher—at least it has been so far—than any other player. He is a kid that wears that designation well. We are proud to have him in that position and I couldn’t be happier to have gotten this done today. So with that, I will turn it over to Ryan Zimmerman.”

Ryan Zimmerman

“I think this is an exciting day. It kind of a culmination of about three or four years of conversation and to finally have it done, I think, speaks volumes of The Lerner’s and the entire ownership group. We’ve come a long ways to kind of make this happen. There is no other place I would rather be. And I think that’s the part of it, the biggest decision to do this is that this is where I want to be for a long time. What they have done is start an organization that is going in the right direction. They’ve put together some of the key pieces now and can start to build around that—kind of want to have that sense of accomplishment. I started here at Ground Zero when they first came in and they have sort of built a team. Hopefully, in the near future we will be one of those teams that are in the playoff picture every year. I really think that is the way we are going. To have me, Adam (Dunn), The Kid starting today that is, I guess—The Zimmermann!!—You could call him (Jordan—Stan Kasten busting out laughing) now if you want. I guess I am the Other Guy now. But they have done a great job of getting young talent. They have drafted well. They are not only getting great players but also great people, and I think that speaks to the kind of people The Lerner’s are. It’s a family atmosphere and there is nowhere else I would like to be.”

“My family has done a great job. I don’t think I would be where I am without them. They couldn’t make it today, but they are here all the time. Like I said, I think they have done a pretty good job—some people might disagree—but they raised a pretty good guy—I think. This is not only a great accomplishment for me, but them as well. I couldn’t be happier. I am excited to get this thing going and turnaround this season and get out there and play. It’s exciting that this is all done with and we can just concentrate on baseball.”

Question: You had put this deadline of April 6th about stopping negotiations. Why did you decide to keep going?

Ryan: “For the most part, I think it was not done, but we had pretty completed all the hard stuff. So, it was just a matter of doing some things—which I didn’t think would distract the team or myself—playing.”

Stan: “For the record, let me get him off the hook. (Thank you!!—Ryan) we basically did have the deal done before Opening Day. In fact, there was a whole 15 minutes before the first pitch. So, the last two weeks have been about paperwork and physicals and things like that. But we basically did get it done in time. Besides, he had a deadline but Brodie (Van Wagenen—his agent) didn’t. So we were just fine.”

Question: Ryan: this signing was not something you were ever worried about were you?

Ryan: “No, I worry about playing baseball. Like I said the whole time, I don’t think its fair for me to worry about my own situation when there are 24 other guys in there that want to win and want to be apart of something great like I do. It’s kind of selfish for me to talk to you guys about this all the time. And that was the whole reason for getting it done, as I don’t see it as being fair to those guys. I am glad we could do it and I am glad it is done. We don’t have to worry about it anymore.”

Question: Stan--Jim Bowden’s departure changed the person who was talking to Brodie all the time. Describe the transition there and what was it like to pick things up at the very beginning of March?

Stan: “Well, I don’t know if that was of any great significance. We’ve been talking off and on for two years. As the landscape changed, obviously numbers and positions evolved as well. I have certainly been up to date on most things—not everything but most things up until that point. And when there was this brief gap after the change came, I started talking to Brodie. It just seemed to me that with enough effort we could get it done. So there wasn’t any particular, no loss of time, and there wasn’t any particular learning curve. It kind of happened organically. It just happened. It was just moving in the right direction.”

Question: Ryan—some of the things that Stan alluded to in recent months, going after Teixeira, getting Dunn, Beimel—the Florida Guys that got added—to what degree did that convince you or change your mind, or however you would phrase it—to do?

Ryan: “I have been convinced they have been on the right path for a long time. This is where I was drafted. It’s where I want to play. It’s obviously a great city for me growing up and going to school close to here. It’s great for my family. I think it would be pretty cool if you get drafted by a team and get to play there your entire career. You don’t see that throughout many peoples careers anymore. I really enjoy playing in this city and for the people of this city. So I have faith in The Lerner’s and the ownership group that they are going to continue to bring people in and get this team to where it needs to be. I think this off-season was a huge success. They kind of went out and showed what they are willing to do. That gave a lot of people confidence. Adam comes here. Beimel comes here. Nobody that can choose where they want to go just decides to go there just because they can go. Obviously, they have the same feelings as us and it’s exciting.”

Question: How comfortable are you with being a leader in the clubhouse. Is that something you will have to change in your personality?

Ryan: “Well, I am getting a lot older (laughing). No, as Stan said before, it wasn’t unfair. I never felt pressure from it. To have that type of tag put on you at a rather young age—it’s easy to go out and play, I don’t mind that—but in a Big League Locker Room, a Big League Clubhouse, when you are 21 Years Old, it’s hard to go up to or say something to a guy at first that has six or seven years in the league and is 8 or 9 years older than you. It’s a little intimidating at first. But as I have played and got the respect of all my teammates-and that’s the biggest thing—it doesn’t really matter how old you are as long as you can get the respect of your teammates and everyone around you. You can then say whatever you want.”

Question: Ryan—do you thing this contract can help inspire some of the other local talent?

Ryan: “Yeah. This is obviously something that I have worked on very hard for. And they don’t come easy. I am very lucky to be where I am, and at the same time, I have worked my whole life for this. Hopefully, it will inspire kids to do the right things and good things—not just baseball—in the community—and ultimately be good people.”

Question: Ryan—Baseball is filled with a million different types of pressure. Does this take one kind of pressure off?

Ryan: “If you want to look at it that way, like you said baseball has pressure on the field. It is a job, obviously, so there is pressure there—money related. But for me, I have never really thought about it—the money kind of way. I have just enjoyed playing the game. I love playing baseball and hopefully that will inspire others more just money and dollar signs—or anything like that.”

Question: Ryan, do you thing this will inspire other Major League Free Agents, like Adam Dunn this year, to make a statement that The Lerner’s are going to make a big statement here in DC?

Ryan: “Yes, and just having good people on your team helps out a lot too. Nobody wants to go out and play on a team that full of people nobody wants to hang around. Or wants to show up on the field an ignore people. Adam knew me. He knew Austin and he knew a couple of other guys. He knew this would be an enjoyable two years or however long he is going to be here. I think that is more important than anything is getting these good people that are good teammates. And us being able to talk to a free agent. And that’s a tribute to The Lerner Family and how they pick and who they want to be around.”

Question: For Stan—is there any reason that you can point to as to why this didn’t get done before arbitration?

Stan: “Unlike a lot of people, I don’t think Ryan or we ever felt a crushing time frame pressure. I think we always assumed, even if it didn’t get done this year, it was going to get done next year or the year after. I think we always felt that. For whatever reason, it didn’t get done then. I can’t tell you that and I can’t tell you why it did get done the day it did. But I never felt he wasn’t going to be here long term. And he and I have talked and I don’t think he ever felt that either. So, I don’t have a real scientific answer for you.”

Question: Any significance to five years?

Stan: “I will say this about the negotiations. It didn’t end up where it started. There were about 1000 permutations that crossed the table over the last three years. And this was the final combination that did it. No, there was not any magic. In fact, the very last permutation happened quite at the end. A day before we finally agreed, I couldn’t tell you for sure that’s what the final result would have been. Negotiations have a momentum and they go until both sides finally feel comfortable—feel it’s right—and that’s all.”

With that final answer, the press conference concluded.

Autism Awareness Day

Courtesy Of The Washington Nationals
As Screech awaited the toss at home plate, Noah stood on the mound--smiling. His father, Dwayne Herndon, happily taking in the moment. Before Sunday afternoon's game at Nationals Park, a special Starting Nine took the field with Our Washington Nationals. And Noah--whose first name is well known throughout The South Capitol Street Ballpark thanks to Noah's Pretzels--was given the honor of throwing The Ceremonial First Pitch.


April is Autism Awareness Month and in their continuing efforts to reach out and serve those within their very own community, Our Washington Nationals have been hosting a series of events during the first month of the regular season. As mentioned previously, all nine April Home Games have been designated as ticket fundraising events for three local autism organizations. The Community Services for Austic Adults and Children (CSAAC), DC Autism Parents and Sport Plus will man a Community Table in Centerfield Plaza at Nationals Park to reach out and help those families in need. And to help raise needed funding money, Our Washington Nationals are providing discounted tickets to all April Games for anyone wanting to help at nationals.com/group events and clicking on the Autism Awareness Month link. The donation portion of each purchased ticket on the website is included in the convenience fee for each ticket.

Courtesy Of The Washington Nationals


On April 19th--these local autism efforts were honored. Noah's Pretzels began operations by Mr. Herndon as a fundraiser for his Noah--who is autistic. A portion of profits from all Noah's Pretzel purchases at Nationals Park, Verizon Center, Camden Yards, Lake Forest Mall (Gaithersburg) and even online at Noah's Pretzels.com are donated to local autism organizations. While Noah was granted the honor of throwing out the first pitch, SCAAC, DC Autism Parents and Sports Plus rounded out the starting nine by jogging out on the field before yesterday's game to meet and greet a player for Our Washington Nationals.


If you are attending any of the final three home games at Nationals Park this April and wish to donate, be involved or find out more information, you can stop by The Community Table set up in Centerfield Plaza. You can also make a donation, at any time, at both Noah's Pretzels Stands--the main store located behind Section 106 near Centerfield Gate or behind Section 318 Gallery Level.

Washington's Willie Harris is scheduled to make a personal appearance to help raise awareness on Wednesday, April 22nd at Mill Town Creek Elementary School in Derwood, Maryland. Some of you may have also heard on the radio, Willie's Commercial speaking on the fundraising efforts of Noah's Pretzels. It airs on every radio broadcast of Our Washington Nationals.

Noah's First Pitch Photos--Courtesy Of The Washington Nationals
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

The Right Stuff

Dispensing tonight with the gamer from today's latest loss because there is something more important to discuss. Thanks to John R. for really hitting home with Sohna & I in his commentary this evening on the post-game roster moves.

John R. mentioning how many so-called experts out there thought Chad Cordero was worthless? Look at Our Washington Nationals now. "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" was certainly "The Chief Cardiologist", he made the 9th inning far more spectacular at times than needed. But Cordero succeeded far more times than he lost. He was a deserved All-Star playing for a mediocre team. And he was pretty darn good at his job. It's disappointing that only because he got injured, attempting to be THE GUY again, he was unceremoniously and publicly dumped. And when Chad Cordero signed with The Seattle Mariners this spring, many others cheered the move. They didn't want Our Former Number 32 a National any more.

They were wrong.

Look at Our Bullpen and Closer Situation now. We can't finish off ANY ball game. Sure, Chad Cordero will not be ready until late May, early June. But who wouldn't want to take that chance six weeks from now that "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" would be far more successful than anything that has been witnessed so far in 2009 in Washington?

When Chad Cordero was sent to the mound, there was a belief--he knew what was needed to get the job done. You just didn't know whether he would always be successful.

The same with Shawn Hill. Granted he was injured, continuously for year after year after year. But when your Starting Pitching Staff is not composed of Greg Maddux, John Smoltz and Tommy Glavine you should hang on to what you got--not send them packing for nothing in return. Many applauded the release of Shawn Hill during Spring Training. It's an issue that has bothered The African Queen and I since the very day Our Washington Nationals made the waiver move. Now Our Former Number 41 is pitching some pretty decent ball for The San Diego Padres. Two respectable starts, a 3.60 ERA, no lingering after-effects of pain. The only pain suffered being that of Our Very Own Team (and fans watching them) struggle in the pitching department.

You don't give up on talented individuals to make due with journeymen. Players that are just complimentary parts--not your Go To Guys.

Truly, sometimes you really don't know what you had until it is gone.

John Lannan, Shairon Martis and now Jordan Zimmermann all deserve to be in Our 2009 Starting Rotation. We are all for the youth movement when talent is there. All three earned it. You could argue Scott Olsen and Daniel Cabrera as well--depending on their individual days on the mound--but their consistency is lacking.

Wouldn't you want to see Shawn Hill back in our rotation right now? He's certainly more talented than Kip Wells as long man and emergency starter. And Shawn would be that solid veteran presence this rotation needs to excel. Hill walks, talks and handles himself very professionally. Tim Redding might not have been the greatest starter in The National League for Washington. But look at what good he did nurturing John Lannan last year. John Lannan will tell you that Redding was a big influence in his 2008 Rookie Campaign. A person to confide in and trust your deepest thoughts.

Hill should be playing the same role at Nationals Park. But he's not. Sadly.

It's worth repeating once again (maybe for the 100th time here), it's far better to win with your own players, than trying to win with some one elses.

Who doesn't believe that Chad Cordero and Shawn Hill could still be the veterans and reliable young anchors for Washington's Pitching Staff? They both have The Right Stuff, but weren't allowed to resurrect their careers in The Nation's Capital. Together Cordero and Hill wouldn't have combined to make Our 2009 Version Washington Nationals even a .500 club so far in April, 2009--but they sure would have made us, as fans, feel a whole lot better about our near and long term chances in The Curly "W" Column.

Realistically, Our Washington Nationals are nowhere near as bad as they have played through the first eleven games of 2009. Although, these 10 losses have been pretty depressing. What we do have is a rather solid starting lineup. A team that can hit and smash the ball. Nick Johnson, Cristian Guzman, Ryan Zimmerman, Elijah Dukes and Adam Dunn (who is actually been very impressive at the plate) we would take on our team at any time. They hustle, make the effort, never give up. Austin Kearns is the same way, but hasn't been as consistent. We have a starting rotation that is better than advertised. But that 25-Man Roster is too incomplete. Our Bullpen horrendous. To win consistently, Our Manager Manny Acta must be able to trust EVERY SINGLE PERSON on his active roster to be there when he calls on them.

He can't.

Duty, that has fallen short, well before Our Washington Nationals have played their first dozen games of the new campaign.

No, you can't cry over spilled milk--both Chad Cordero and Shawn Hill are gone--maybe forever. But we can certainly believe Our Washington Nationals would be a better franchise today, if we had taken care of two of our very own--when they needed our support the most. Not trash them when they were down. We miss those two guys, because they made us A BETTER TEAM.

More worth cheering for.

They really did.

And we miss that.

We really do.

Because They Have The Right Stuff.

PS--Just give Jason Bergmann the ball and let him close out a few games. There is no doubt he has also the right stuff to be a legitimate closer. If Jason is allowed to throw the ball and not think about it--for one or two innings at a time, Our Number 57 could be OUTSTANDING in that pressure role.

PPS--And when Our Washington Nationals have Ryan Zimmerman on second base with two outs and only maintaining a slim one run lead (4-3)--let's have Josh Willingham at the plate pinch hitting in the 8th, not Alex Cintron. Why are we saving Josh when Our Bullpen can't hold a lead? I don't care about lefty/righty matchups. I don't care about what THE BOOK says. I care about having the best hitter available being at the plate with the game on the line. A journeyman like Alex Cintron is not the guy. Josh Willingham is. Today, that exact scenario played out in the 8th inning when Our Manager Manny Acta decided that Cintron, a left handed batter, was his guy against the hard throwing righthander pitcher Leo Nunez of The Florida Marlins. It was the wrong call. Sorry Manny.

PPPPS--And not to jump on Manny. It's fair to question some of his managerial moves, but you can't fault Our Number 14 for not having the horses to run with every single day. Manny's playing short-handed and that's not all of his own doing.

Finally--and like long time Nats320 reader Tom (who made the kind effort to come by to meet The African Queen and I in Section 218 this Sunday) mentioned tonight to in the commentary on the roster moves: "(Mike Rizzo) is not indecisive." Tom's right. You or I may not always agree with all of his decisions, but he makes his moves without hesitation. Mike Rizzo is not wishy-washy. I can appreciate that too. Mike Rizzo knows what he wants and makes his decisions--without hesitation. You know where Mike Rizzo stands--and that's a good thing.

"Major Changes Coming Tomorrow, Guaranteed!"

While leaving Club Level late this afternoon, Sohna and I run into Assistant GM Mike Rizzo walking to the elevator lobby. To say he and his Baseball Operations Staff were looking shellshocked, might be putting it mildly. Briefly, we spoke--the money quote: "Major changes coming tomorrow, guaranteed!"

Mike Rizzo wasn't kidding. 8 roster moves since the completion of this afternoon's latest loss to The Florida Marlins. Jason Bergmann, Garrett Mock recalled. Jordan Zimmermann and Kip Wells selected--all from AAA Syracuse. Saul Rivera and Josh Bard optioned to Syracuse. Steven Shell and Wil Ledezma designated for assignment. None of the moves surprising. Our Bullpen has been horrible and again cost Washington another victory today. Although personally we like Steven Shell a lot. But I doubt he will clear waivers and return to Washington's Minor League Camp.

And Bill Ladson now reporting Ryan Zimmerman has been locked up to a long term deal--no details yet.

Here is the complete press release:

BARD AND RIVERA OPTIONED TO SYRACUSE & LEDEZMA AND SHELL DESIGNATED FOR ASSIGNMENT

Nationals to select Zimmermann and Wells & recall Mock and Bergmann tomorrow

Following today’s game, the Washington Nationals optioned right-handed pitcher Saul Rivera and catcher Josh Bard to Syracuse of the Triple-A International League and designated right-handed pitcher Steven Shell and left-handed pitcher Wil Ledezma for assignment. Tomorrow, the Nationals will select right-handed pitchers Jordan Zimmermann and Kip Wells from Syracuse and will recall right-handed pitchers Garrett Mock and Jason Bergmann from Syracuse. Nationals Assistant General Manager and Vice President of Baseball Operations Mike Rizzo made the announcements.

Zimmermann was named Washington’s fifth starter during Spring Training with the understanding he would pitch with Syracuse until his services were needed 11 games into the Nationals’ schedule. He made one start with the Chiefs, tossing 5.1 innings on April 9 vs. Rochester. The 22-year-old went 1-1 with a 3.14 ERA in five games (three starts) this spring, and he held opponents scoreless in four of his five outings.

Zimmermann entered this season rated the Nationals’ No. 1 prospect by Baseball America. After 39 minor-league games (36 starts), he owns a 15-5 career record with a 2.81 ERA. Zimmermann was the Nationals’ 2008 Minor League Player of the Year, after going a combined 10-3 with a 2.89 ERA in 25 games (24 starts) with Potomac of the Single-A Carolina League and Harrisburg of the Double-A Eastern League. He was selected by Washington in the second round of the 2007 First-Year Player Draft with the second of two compensation picks awarded to the organization after Alfonso Soriano signed with Chicago-NL in November 2006.

Wells, 31, has compiled 65 wins during his 10 seasons (1999-2008) in the big leagues with Chicago-AL, Pittsburgh, Texas, St. Louis, Colorado and Kansas City. In 51 career relief appearances, he owns a 6-3 record with a 3.43 ERA. He went 1-0 with a 2.45 ERA in two starts with Syracuse, after earning a win in his lone Spring Training relief appearance. Wells signed with the Nationals as a minor-league free agent on March 11.

Mock made five relief appearances with Syracuse, after an impressive Spring Training in which he compiled a 3.94 ERA (7 ER/ 16.0 IP) in 14 relief outings. The 25-year-old made his big-league debut with the Nationals last season, going 1-3 with a 4.17 ERA in 26 games (three starts). He was acquired from Arizona with left-handed pitcher Matt Chico in exchange for right-handed pitcher Livan Hernandez on August 7, 2006.

Bergmann tallied a 3.00 ERA and one save in four relief outings with Syracuse. The 27-year-old went 1-0 and allowed no earned runs in nine relief appearances (11.1 IP) this spring. Bergmann appeared in 30 games (22 starts) last season with Washington and has pitched in 95 games (50 starts) with the Nationals over the last four seasons (2005-08), after the organization selected him in the 11th round of the 2002 First-Year Player Draft.

This Loss Really Hurts

The very moment the baseball JUST cleared the tall wall in right centerfield, the boos began to cascade down from all portions of Nationals Park. "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game"--officially now given the added moniker "The Next Generation" had just given up a game tying home run in the top of the ninth for the second consecutive day. With two outs, one strike and The Curly "W" about to be put In The Books, Joel Hanrahan had served up a two run homer to Jeremy Hermida. Just like that--a once three run lead at the beginning of the 9th, now deadlocked at six.

Except for Nook Logan's incredible base running gaffe game against The Cleveland Indians at RFK Stadium in 2007 which cost Washington a win dearly, I don't recall The African Queen and I ever having left any baseball game involving Our Team so universally depressed along with just about everyone else attending among the 19,864 in the announced crowd. Any loss hurts, but losing in such a bad manner--is downright embarrassing. This loss should have never reached this pinnacle moment.

Called to close out this game, all Our Number 38 really did was open up a fresh wound. Doubling the unpleasantness of last night's top of the 9th homer allowed by Hanrahan to Cody Ross--a game breaker that eventually led to The Marlins winning in 10 innings 3-2. This two run shot by Hermida, which at first looked like it would bounce off the green wall for an rbi double, set the faithful watching--off in their own rights--in a rather distressing way. The Home Crowd Was Mighty Upset and they should be. Knowing your team has struggled through most of it's first 10 games, and then seeing them play a good, hard fought 8 innings and then throw it all away in the 9th--hard to take--for two days in a row.

As The African Queen said upon watching The Marlins celebrate their game tying homer in the 9th: "It's Joel Hanrahan's time now--no one can blame The Chief anymore." And that's very true. But despite all his theatrics, Chad Cordero understood his role. He didn't worry about last night's failure. Our Former Number 32 was always concerned with the present game at hand. Taking nothing away from Joel Hanrahan personally--he is a wonderfully nice young man--but from our vantage point today in Section 218 he looked mighty uncomfortable on the mound from the get go. Unsure, wavering, not wanting to make the same mistake again--as last night. And when that Marlins Pest, better known as Alfredo Amezaga, slapped a one out single off Joel in the top of the 9th--you could see the worry spread across Hanrahan's body movements. He was unsure, not confident and in being in such a frame of mind, destined for failure.

Cheering our hearts out that Joel Hanrahan would find a way to dig down deep and pull through his latest travail--solemn is the only description to best visualize Sohna and my looks once Hermida's game tying homer reached the seats. Later, a friend of ours called to tell us he witnessed both of us at the ballpark leaning forward on the glass partition in front of us. Me, with my hat off, Sohna by my side--her head leaning on my right shoulder, both looking dejected. Yeah, it was that bad.

Because that was what this afternoon became--a miserable finish to what just a few moments earlier was going to be a heart raising and enjoyable Curly "W" Number 2. After Hermida tied this game up unexpectedly, and understanding how poorly Washington has played this season, it seemingly was only a matter of time before The Florida Marlins would come all the way back to finish off Our Washington Nationals. Which did come, not surprisingly off the bat of Hermida again. This time an absolute blast of a three run homer to DEEP RIGHT CENTER off the southpaw relief effort of Wil Ledezma in 11th. The final game breaker that led to The Marlins winning once again at Nationals Park and taking 21 of the last 24 games played between these two National League East Rivals.

A heartbreaking loss that wasted a solid 7 inning starting effort by Scott Olsen. A defeat that soiled Austin Kearns' Grand Slam in the bottom of the very 1st inning. A collapse that spoiled one of the most beautiful and nicest days you would EVER want to spend at a ballpark. The weather was absolutely delightful. An unexpected beating that was made even worse when Roger Bernadina hustled back to the deepest reaches of centerfield at Nationals Park to make a spectacular catch and throw on a drive hit by Florida's Dan Uggla. The Defensive Play Of This Game and resultant subsequent hard fall when his foot got caught between the dirt and wall--resulting in a broken ankle. A major injury that will find Bernadina missing at least four months to rehab.

Yeah, talk about adding to the pain all you want--but Roger going down playing the game THE RIGHT WAY--far worse than losing two straight games in such a depressing manner.

Final score from Nationals Park, where Our Washington Nationals need to pick themselves up and right this listing ship--The Florida Marlins 9 and Our Washington Nationals 6 in 11 stunning innings. No team can be successful if they continually beat themselves. Hanrahan & Ledezma played key roles in today's defeat, but so did some sloppy fielding and the inability to put away The Marlins early, when Washington's batters had the chance. Too many strikeouts, too much free swinging, with runners in scoring position.

No Doubt About It. This Loss Really Hurts.

Game Notes & Highlights

Staked to an early 5 run led thanks to Austin Kearns' Grand Slam and a Ryan Zimmerman RBI Single, Scott Olsen wasn't sharp and quickly gave back two runs by allowing a Two Run Homer to The Marlins' Catcher Ronny Paulino that was hammered to dead center. One of those here we go again shots that actually found Olsen regrouping, settling down, and eventually pitching with confidence. Knowing he was ahead, Our Number 19 began to challenge the Florida hitters. Rarely hitting 90MPH on his pitches, Olsen effectively mixed up his fastball, change up and slider. And even helped his own cause when he walked to lead off the bottom of the second, advanced to second on Anderson Hernandez's grounder to first base and scored a few pitches later on a Nick Johnson single to left. A hit that found Florida's shortstop Hanley Ramirez inexplicably moving toward the second base bag on the pitch by Josh Johnson. Believing a pick off move might be on--Ramirez saw Nick Johnson's stroked hit go through the location he had just moved from.

Scott Olsen struck out five and gave up six hits in seven innings. And was the recipient of an unearned run in the top of the 5th when Nick Johnson lost a blooper in the sun off the bat of Jorge Cantu. An error which led to today's Florida Hero, Jeremy Hermida, scoring The Marlins third run.

Joe Beimel and Joel Hanrahan each pitched for the third consecutive day. Beimel not as sharp as well. When Washington was up three in the 9th and knowing both these guys had gone over the past few games--would it be more advisable NOT to bring Hanrahan into the game at this point? Instead have someone like Steven Shell begin the inning and only bring in your closer if Shell or that reliever got into trouble. Frank Robinson used to pitch Chad Cordero in such a manner when "The Chief" had pitched each of the previous two days. For whatever reason, Our Manager Manny Acta did not, or does not. But it makes more sense under the circumstances--especially when your bullpen is being taxed.

Washington had Florida's hard throwing right handed starter Josh Johnson on the ropes early--striking for six quick runs. But after the second inning--they could do no further damage as Johnson regained some of his lost form. The Marlins Bullpen combining with Josh Johnson to throw nine complete scoreless innings in this 11 frame affair. Washington couldn't finish Johnson or The Marlins off. What Washington did do was keep Emilio Bonifacio off the bases. Since his first week red hot start, The Dominican Speedster has fallen back to earth--striking out a lot and not getting on base. Once again, the scouts have found his weaknesses and contained his effectiveness.

After praising Alberto Gonzalez for his fine play not only yesterday, but also since Washington acquired him last summer, Our Number 12 must have wanted to prove me wrong this Saturday. Two throwing errors by Gonzalez during this game. The second in the decisive 11th inning when Alberto air mailed a routine throw to first base on a grounder by Wes Helms. Not the speediest of runners, Gonzalez had all afternoon to throw out Helms. Instead he rushed and sidearmed the ball--nearly out of play. Only a fine leap by Nick Johnson prevented that from happening.

Being the fiery competitor he has always been, when Gonzalez made that crucial 11th inning throwing error--the pitcher then of record was Julian Tavarez. Our Number 50 stared down Alberto Gonzalez something awful. Wes Helms was a good 30 feet from the 1st base bag when Alberto threw the ball away. Tavarez knew there was no excuse for that mental and physical mistake. Gonzalez knew Tavarez was pissed. Of course, was Tavarez also pissed at himself for allowing the lead off walk and wild pitch right before that error?

Ryan Zimmerman and Nick Johnson continue to see the ball well at the plate--both with two more hits apiece this afternoon. Adam Dunn didn't get a hit, but he walked twice, showing patience again at the plate. Austin Kearns' Grand Slam in the bottom of the first off Josh Johnson was absolutely CRUSHED into Section 106 down the left field line. For a moment there were thoughts that homer would reach the Centerfield Plaza walkway--it fell six rows short of that destination. Can't wait for the first one that does--and it better be A Washington National.

The Florida Marlins are a pretty good team. They have excellent pitching, good sluggers and decent fielders. What they don't have is a nice uniform. Those Black Jersey Tops they always wear might be the most uninspiring uniforms in the game. As Sohna always says: "Being from South Florida, could they be a little more colorful?" It's true--even if they go back to their original teal being placed more prominently in the get ups.

As for Washington, they wore their new Red Curly "W" alternates today for the first time. Not a crimson or cardinal red as the former "DC" Version, more cherry red. I still like the old "DC" Alternate Reds Better.

Roger Bernadina was a late addition to The Starting Lineup. Elijah Dukes was scratched after showing up late for work today. Come on guys--be professional--no matter how difficult the final scores may be. It's safe to say Roger would not be in the hospital tonight with a broken ankle if Dukes had been on time. A sad break of the game. Justin Maxwell now called up to replace Bernadina on the 25-Man Roster. You have to figure Roger will be moved to The 60-Day Disabled List, allowing Washington to call up Jordan Zimmermann for Monday's start--and not lose a player off The 40-Man Roster.


It was such a beautiful day at the ballpark, that I spent a few innings walking around and taking pictures. Nothing more stunning than the view from Gallery Level Section 313/314. Standing behind the last row of seats, you can not only see The Capitol, The Ballpark and everything North & East of Nationals Park, but you can clearly hear Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler on the Radio Broadcast played on the Gallery Level Concourse. Two fans nearby telling me that's one of the best things about their seats: "Those guys are funny and we can hear them while watching the game. What more can you ask for?" (Except for maybe a win?)

And while up on Gallery Level, I purchased a soda and popcorn from a NatsDog Stand. 10 People in line, three registers open--virtually no waiting. In and out in two minutes. An All Time Record for any multiple item purchase on South Capitol Street. When I passed that along to Sohna she smiled and we high fived.




This afternoon was the first of the monthly Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Auctions. At their Centerfield Plaza location, fans could bid on an Autographed Nick Johnson Jersey, Opening Day Base signed by Anderson Hernandez, Bats signed by Adam Dunn, Elijah Dukes and Ronnie Belliard--as well as--Daniel Cabrera, Scott Olsen and Collin Balester Baseballs. Total amount raised this Saturday for The Dream Foundation and their initiatives--$1590.

Abe won the 4th Inning Presidents Race. Teddy came out and was distracted by a "Clown" undressing in centerfield. Go figure.

Sunday is Family Fun Day--included will be the continuing pre-game autograph sessions with a handful of Washington's Players at approximately 12:15 or 12:30PM (No exact times were given today). Last season, 4 to 5 players were stationed on the field at the bottom of the lower bowl. Fans could line up in the corresponding aisle to receive one autograph per person--no pictures.

Finally, while coming back from The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Booth to Club Level, I ran across a good friend of mine in television news. Steve and I worked alongside each other for nearly 9 years here in Washington, DC. We caught up for old times sake while watching the game from the open balcony just outside Club Level between Sections 221 & 223.

Today's InGame Photos--Alex Brandon (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Faltering Down The Stretch

Up until there were only two outs remaining in this affair, tonight's game between Our Washington Nationals and The Florida Marlins had that feeling of a satisfying win. At least until Florida's Cody Ross deposited a two strike, one out off-speed pitch from Joel Hanrahan just over the left field wall in the top of the 9th inning this Friday. A deflating turnaround which made you feel for Washington's Starter John Lannan.

Pitching into the 7th inning, Lannan was on top of his game this evening. On display was the John Lannan of 2008 every fan had come to know--in control, throwing strikes--getting batters out. In fact, Lannan was perfect through 3.1 innings, had struck out five of his last six batters faced when he offered up his only real mistake of the night--a fastball delivered to Florida's John Baker--which was drilled over the right field wall into the second tier of the pavilion seats--Section 236.

Another Marlins Home Run that put Washington behind early 1-0, but not for long. As has been the case most of this young season, DC's hitters quickly mounted a comeback and Lannan had something to do with that as well. After Jesus Flores singled and Alberto Gonzalez had scored him on a double with one out in the bottom of the 4th, Lannan worked The Marlins Starter Ricky Nolasco for a terrific 10-pitch At-Bat. A subsequent ground out to shortstop that tired Nolasco, just enough to allow Anderson Hernandez to sharply stroke a single to left scoring Alberto with the go ahead run.

A Washington 2-1 lead which they maintained for four more innings. Only to see Joel Hanrahan falter with one out in the top of the 9th. A blown save that would find many on hand quickly turning their eyre towards Home Plate Umpire Tim Timmons when this game went to an extra frame. Earlier, Timmons had ejected Our Manager Manny Acta at the end of the bottom of the 3rd for arguing a called strike out of Elijah Dukes. Now--with Saul Rivera on the mound in the 10th, two outs and Jorge Cantu on first base via a single--nearly everyone watching felt Rivera had struck out Dan Uggla to end the frame. Rivera thought he's K'd Uggla, so did Flores. Each took steps toward Washington's Dugout. Uggla, frozen over Rivera's wicked slider delivered--thought so too.

Everyone seemingly except Home Plate Umpire Timmons who called ball three. A decision that angered the home crowd, baffled Our Washington Nationals and stunned Rivera. Shocked by the aribiter's decision, Saul lost control and proceeded to give up a crucial two out single to Uggla as a result. A now tougher 1st & 3rd situation at hand that got worse when Jeremy Hermida followed with a slow rolling grounder deep into the hole that Alberto Gonzalez made every effort to hustle over, pick up and throw out Hermida at first. Only to see Jeremy beat the throw while Cantu beat his was home with what would become the eventual winning run.

All night long Our Washington Nationals played a close, hard fought game. And just when you expected a solid victory, that 2nd Curly "W" In The Books was taken away. Elijah Dukes would unload on a Matt Lindstrom fastball in the bottom of the 10th for what looked like a sure Home Run to left--only to see the baseball get stuck in the green outfield wall for a double. The leadoff man on base but stranded when the very hard throwing Lindstrom (clocking up to 98MPH on the radar gun) retired Josh Willingham on a fly ball and then proceeded to strikeout both Flores & Gonzalez to end this game.

Final Score from Nationals Park where The Florida Marlins finished strong while Our Washington Nationals faltered down the stretch--Fish 3, Washington 2. John Lannan really deserved better--his first victory of 2009, but it was not to be. Strange game, with a very odd last two innings played. Despite the loss this game perfectly sums up baseball. You just never know how the game is going to turn out--until the final outs are recorded.

Game Notes & Highlights

Lannan would finish his 6.1 innings of work with 8 strikeouts, allowing just three hits and one walk. Really, Our Number 31 pitched a very fine game. Julian Tavarez and Mike Hinckley finished off the 7th frame for Lannan. Joe Beimel pitched another solid 8th inning. Hanrahan's blown save in the 9th proved costly--as did Rivera's allowing of the game winning run in the 10th. Although, you could argue Saul had a legitimate beef with Home Plate Umpire Tim Timmons.

No one can say Washington didn't have their chances, 12 hits total including two apiece from Nick Johnson and Ryan Zimmerman. And Alberto Gonzalez, who has been nothing short of excellent both in the field and at the plate since he came over from The New York Yankees last summer--slapped out three more hits, knocking in one run and scoring another. Now batting .500 in the early season. Having never seen Gonzalez play before he donned a DC Uniform, I can't see what The Yankees missed by giving him up--other the fact that Derek Jeter played in front of him in The Bronx. He's really a good player.

Talented, which Ryan Zimmerman has always been. With the rumors of a possible contract extension in the works, Zimmerman has been stepping up his game too, but what he needs to work on is his inability at times to make the routine toss across the diamond to first base. Again tonight The Z-Man had too much time to toss out Jorge Cantu on a grounder hit his way in the 6th. Looking at the ball before throwing--Ryan threw the ball away. Nick Johnson couldn't make a play to stop it. Later, in the 9th, Zimmerman would nearly do the same thing on a grounder hit by Cameron Maybin. But Johnson saved Zimmerman from his 4th error of 2009 by picking the ball out of the dirt for the final out of the frame.

With Dukes on second base with his leadoff double in the bottom of the 10th and one out--Jesus Flores took a called 3rd Strike on a Lindstrom fastball right down the middle of the plate. Surely, Matt's high velocity is intimidating, but Jesus needs to get his bat off his shoulders for that pitch. With the game on the line, you better be swinging. Lindstrom was throwing nothing but heat and Jesus Flores never swung his bat during six pitches--not even once.

Speaking of Maybin--in the bottom of the 1st inning--The Marlins' Centerfielder laid out rushing to his right for a slicing liner off the bat of Zimmerman. A dive that Cameron stretched out all the way across the grass, running in for The Defensive Play of This Game. The very talented and young Maybin made a very nice play.

When Manny Acta got ejected from the game for arguing balls and strikes with Timmons, it became the second time he's been ejected while Manager of Our Washington Nationals.


Sohna and I didn't noticed the misspelled "NATINALS" jerseys worn by Adam Dunn and Zimmerman tonight until we got home from the game and saw pictures. It's pretty funny, but how can you miss that?

19.026 was the announced crowd on hand at Nationals Park, quite a few of whom seemed to be Marlin Fans--which was sort of surprising. I didn't realize their fan base travelled so well.

And immediately after the game, Washington announced Cristian Guzman was being placed on the 15-Day Disabled list. His hamstring injury not healing as quickly as originally thought. The team expected to recall and place Alex Cintron on the 40-Man Roster as his replacement.

Finally--Tom won tonight's Presidents Race in the 4th inning.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Charles Dharapak

Yes!!

Really, there is not much more to say if true. Signing Our Own Deserving Boys is far better than trying to always win with someone elses. Just ask The Washington Redskins about that. The African Queen and I couldn't be happier to read this report.

Yes!!

Raising The Flag Of Victory

As Austin Kearns settled under the weakly hit fly ball off the bat of Pedro Feliz with two outs in the top of 9th, those remaining on hand watching were already cheering. A long awaited moment was about to occur. Curly "W" Number 1 was being Put In The Books!!

About Time.

Force 3 Military Opening Night was the appropriate backdrop as Our Washington Nationals provided a trifecta of force of their very own. A winning combination displayed tonight of Power, Pitching and Defense. Maybe there's something after all to those Alternate Blue with Stars & Bars "DC" Logo Jerseys--used tonight for the very first time. Worn with white pants, The Military & Patriotic Specials looked pretty sharp--like our famous Red, White & Blue Flag waving proudly throughout the evening's breeze over the leftfield wall in Centerfield Plaza.


But not as nice as Adam Dunn's cannon shot three run homer launched into Section 238, eight rows from the ScoreBoard Walk in the bottom of the first inning. One of those--'Can you believe what I just saw shots?" that had the announced crowd of 20,484 buzzing!! And well they should have as Our Number 44 absolutely crushed that fastball sent his way off the right hand of The Philadelphia Phillies Joe Blanton.

A Sonic Boom!!

An early three lead before the sun even set over the 3rd base stands that allowed Our Starter, the young Shairon Martis, to pitch from ahead, be comfortable and settle into a very nice rhythm. A Washington Starter for the first time this season going deep into any game was witnessed. Martis pitching into 7th and finding the defensive alignment behind him perfect in formation. A march to victory thanks to our troops--getting known more each passing day as that ever growing potent offense--which Washington let loose on The Phillies bullpen in the 7th & 8th Frames.

Precision, a military standard, practiced by Our Washington Nationals this evening. Whether it was Josh Willingham's Pinch Hit Home Run, or Elijah Dukes round tripper, or Alberto Gonzalez (yes, The Attorney General) homering down the left field line--4 Home Runs total--Our Manager Manny Acta was pushing the right buttons. Stellar relief efforts provided by Mike Hinkley, Joe Beimel and Joel Hanrahan--2.2 scoreless innings pitched. And no defensive shortcomings. After a winless week of baseball, Instead of circling the wagons and just hoping for the best, Washington regrouped, came out swinging with a new lineup and a fresh outlook.

Fighting, attacking and being the aggressor--DC's team played competitively all night long.

Real Baseball Was Played At Nationals Park Tonight--almost perfect.

How Refreshing.


Final Score from Nationals Park were The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! were heard for the first time in 2009, Our Washington Nationals 8 and The Philadelphia Phillies 2 in nine enjoyable innings. Curly "W" Number One this cool night providing a sense of relief from the disappointment of the past eleven days. Beating any team after an 0-7 start would be nice, but beating The Defending Champions--even sweeter. That and the very fact that on Military Appreciation Night, Our Washington Nationals didn't surrender. They didn't raise the white flag. No not this time. In Game Number 8 of 2009, Washington raised The Flag Of Victory. The Red, White & Blue waving across their "DC" Logo Jerseys--proudly.

Game Notes & Highlights

Shairon Martis really looked good. He was aggressive, not nibbling around the corners. Martis went after The Phillies. Only one time, did he appear to waver and that was when while holding a slim 3-2 lead in the top of the 6th and falling behind in the count to the powerful Ryan Howard--he pitched around Howard--walking him. Then proceeded to retire Philadelphia successfully--getting Jayson Werth and Feliz sandwiched between a Raul Ibanez single. Shairon Martis pitched SMART BASEBALL tonight. He didn't beat himself. He wasn't intimidated and garnered the deserved First Victory of 2009.

Impressive performance which was also true of Joe Beimel. When Beimel was summoned into the game to pitch the top of 8th by Our Manager Manny Acta, Washington was still only up by two runs (4-2). Facing the heart of Philadelphia's order--Joe was rock solid. This lefthander, with the hitch at the top of his delivery, actually shows the ball to each batter moments before he lets go of the baseball. Never changing his motion mechanics on any of his pitches--Our Number 97 fooled Shane Victorino, Chase Utley and Ryan Howard all in order. Utley doing nothing put swing at air. At times, one of Beimel's off-speed pitches only registered 70MPH on the speed gun. The ball thrown so slowly, you would believe the batter would have the chance to re-coil and swing again. But they couldn't help themselves. Shades of Livan Hernandez on the mound. Like Livo when he's hot--every facing batter is off-balance.

Beimel was totally in control, which are Our Washington Nationals were throughout this entire night. 13 hits tonight by a re-juggled lineup. The top four hitters--Anderson Hernandez, Nick Johnson, Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Dunn combining to provide 8 hits, 4 runs scored and 5 runs batted in. Production seen both at the plate and in the field. An errorless ball game played tonight by Washington. Elijah Dukes looking comfortable in centerfield. Hernandez solid at second base. Alberto Gonzalez maybe one of best fielding shortstops in the game--filling in for the injured Cristian Guzman. Depth shown tonight, especially when Gonzalez floored everyone with his solo homer just inside the foul pole in the bottom of the 8th inning.

Everything Our Washington Nationals did tonight--they performed well. They looked like a team and they played like one. Nick Johnson with 3 hits and a walk batting in the two hole. From top to bottom--tonight's Washington Lineup had some spark.

In the top of the 9th inning, Jayson Werth popped up an offering from Joel Hanrahan--like way up--one of those Major League Popups. Ryan Zimmerman charged from 3rd base. Nick Johnson from 1st, even Hanrahan from the mound. But Jesus Flores WANTED IT. Turning around halfway between home plate and the pitcher's mound--Our Number 3 waved everyone off and then SET SAIL his protective helmet and mask--HE FLUNG IT HARD!!--right at Ryan Zimmerman's legs. As Flores caught the baseball to record out number one--Zimmerman swiftly reached down and caught Jesus' helmet and mask before it took him out. The Defensive Play Of The Game that would have hurt something awful if Z-Man had been struck. And found our friend Jim, visiting us in Section 218 tonight mentioning--"Maybe Zimmerman should at least get an assist on the play?" Ryan deserved something because his reflexes certainly saved him from potential pain. What a play and it will never be recorded in the scorebook--only here for posterity.


For Force 3 Military Appreciation Opening Night--Our Washington Nationals honored some of those who serve our country. There will be five additional Military Nights throughout 2009. Not only were The Blue Jerseys with Stars/Bars "DC" Logo and Cap worn, but two veterans recovering from injuries were given the honor of throwing and catching tonight's first pitch. Sergeant Rafael Delgado threw the pitch after which Our Manager Manny Acta and some of Our Ballplayers thanked these two gentlemen on the field before the game.


When The HDTV Scoreboard shows one of those "Know Your Nats" features. Is there any chance the video can be subtitled? Just like last year, for whatever reason, it's really hard to understand what the players are saying. Tonight's bit with Austin Kearns and Adam Dunn was not understandable. You can not hear them. The same with a feature involving John Lannan. Don't know why, but it just is, and has always been that way.

Staying with the scoreboard--why do the player's position say: Alberto Gonzalez "Short", not "Shortstop". Nick Johnson "1st", not "First Base" Really, it looks odd.

And as frequent Nats320 commenter SenatorNat mentioned the other day, flying high above The HDTV Scoreboard, three new white pennants honoring Washington's Three World Series Teams--1924, 1925 & 1933. Larger and easier to read than the one red 1924 flag that flew just above the scoreboard all of last season.


Teddy came charging out of the centerfield gate during the 4th Inning Presidents Race. Facing his usual stiff competition--Our Lovable Loser faded again. Only to see Tom and Abe put on a face-to-face sprint to the finish line. Just as the two Presidents reached the tape, Tom fell and Abe was originally declared The Winner. But one-half inning later, after further review, Tom was given The Victory--by a fallen hair.


Screech made his first appearance of 2009 in Section 218 during the 1st inning. Playing with the kids in attendance and stopping by to say hello to The African Queen and I.

Every Friday Night Home Game in 2009 is Miller Lite Party Night. $20 ($22 for Premium Games) gets anyone a Pavilion Seat and your choice of one drink (Water/Soda/Beer) to enjoy a baseball game at Nationals Park. The first Party Night this Friday Night when The Florida Marlins come to Natstown.

Before tonight's game a video tribute was given to the late Phillies Broadcaster Harry Kalas who died this past Monday at Nationals Park. The Phillies will wear a black patch with Harry's initials over their left breast uniform jersey for the remainder of the season.



Finally--before tonight's game, Sohna and I decided we were going to check out The Red Porch Restaurant and eat dinner there. Arriving around 5:40PM, we noticed about a dozen or so people waiting in line outside to get in. Fine, we waited for our turn--only to find out that line was--To GET INTO ANOTHER LINE and the second line was to be seated at a table. And of course that would be at least one hour before we were seated? Really? The Park wasn't that crowded, but there were a good many folks in The Red Porch. So Sohna asked if we could sit at the bar? Sure, go right ahead said the lady at the door. Finding seats at the bar, we were then told no food is available at the bar--only drinks. Not being beer drinkers, we ordered two glasses of wine. The Bartender serves up two plastic cups with about 3 sips in each. And then proceeds to tell us that will cost $20. When we question the charge (The Stars & Stripes Homestead Grays Bar sells a cup with actual wine in it for $8 each), The Bartender responds that's the price. She then gives us a bill that reads we ordered Brandy Shots. We question that and are told--the registers are not working right--that's the price though--which it isn't. But what made matters worse was seeing others order beers and cocktails and see the bartender just throw out some price--always way too high than what anyone was expecting. We just paid our bill and left, but something's just not right there.

Of course since we didn't eat at The Red Porch, we decided to get something in The Stars & Stripes Club--but since the line was too long and wasn't moving at The Anacostia Grill--we passed. Later in the game, one guy sitting behind us mentioned he spent 15 minutes in line to buy a soda and hot dog, then had to wait because no hot dogs were ready. And another fan told us there were no peanuts for sale at The Anacostia Grill--even though it's listed on their menu.

This couple purchased The Crab Louie Sandwich for $18. Take a look at how long that cardboard serving boat is. They were laughing over the fact they were hitting each other with the ends of the holder--very large serving and they had two.

InGame Photos--Charles Dharapak (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Lot 7 At RFK This Friday Night--Nats Express

The Nats Express Drop-Off Point: For the exhibition game on April 4th against The Baltimore Orioles, The Nats Express Shuttle dropped off patrons at 1st & N Street, SE. As has been confirmed today by Our Washington Nationals--for all regular season games in 2009--The Free Shuttle Service will drop off at 3rd & M Streets SE. The original spot used for all of 2008.
DC United is scheduled to play a home game at RFK Stadium on Friday night, April 17th. This means The Free Nats Express will operate out of RFK's Lot 7. The NE Parking Lot that is reachable via The East Capitol Street Bridge (Whitney Young Bridge) or Oklahoma Ave NE via Benning Road and I-295.

Click to expand the map above which shows the roads that lead into and out of Lot 7.

Plan accordingly.

Here is the team's press release:

Nats Express to Operate Out of RFK Lot 7 on Friday, April 17, 2009

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 Friday, April 17. Due to a 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 90 minutes prior to each home game and runs through 90 minutes after the final out.

WHO: Washington Nationals Fans choosing to take the free Nats Express
WHEN: Friday, April 17, 2009
WHERE: RFK Memorial Stadium

Lot 7

Oklahoma Ave & East Capitol Streets, SE

Easter Egg Roll/Autism Month/Military Appreciation Nights

UPDATE--Tonight's April 15th Game Versus The Phillies At Nationals Park--Postponed--No Make-Up Date Yet
While waiting for the rain to end and see if Our Washington Nationals will play The Philadelphia Phillies tonight at Nationals--here a few little things to pass along.


Our Racing Presidents made their second consecutive appearance at The White House Easter Egg Roll on Easter Monday. George, Abe, Tom & Teddy even appeared with Al Roker on NBC's Today Show Broadcast. It never ceases to amaze me how popular "The Rushmores" are and continue to be--everywhere they go.

April is Autism Awareness Month and Our Washington Nationals are participating throughout the month at all nine home games scheduled for Nationals Park with awareness and fundraiser programs. Not only will three local groups be on hand to distribute literature and reach out to the community for those in need--but on April 19th, Dwayne Herndon, our good friend from Noah's Pretzels (The Maker Of The Curly "W" Pretzel), will be on hand with his son, Noah, to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Noah, who is autistic, is the inspiration for his father's Noah's Pretzels. A portion of profits from Noah's Pretzels go directly to local Autism Programs.

Also that day, children from Sports Plus Camps and DC Autism Parents will take the field as "The Starting Nine"

Here is the complete Press Release from the team:

WASHINGTON NATIONALS HOST AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH AT NATIONALS PARK

Ballclub Will Help To Raise Awareness & Funds for Autism Research During April Home Games

The Washington Nationals will host Autism Awareness Month at Nationals Park in April, the first of their 2009 Monthly Health Initiatives. The team will work with local organizations CSAAC (Community Services for Autistic Adults & Children), DC Autism Parents and Sports Plus to raise awareness and funds for this disease which afflicts one in every 150 individuals in the United States.

The Nationals aim to increase awareness for their monthly health initiatives through tabling opportunities at the ballpark, Public Service Announcements (PSA’s), player appearances and pregame recognition ceremonies. CSAAC, DC Autism Parents and Sports Plus will have representatives at the Nationals Community Table, located in the Center Field Plaza, during each of the nine Nationals home games in April. They will distribute information on autism and on how their organizations can assist those diagnosed with the disorder. PSA’s from the organizations will run on the Nationals Park scoreboard prior to each game. Additionally, Nationals player Willie Harris recorded a PSA that will run on WFED-1500AM, the Nationals radio partner, during each Nationals game broadcast in April, both home and away.

Prior to the Nationals game on Sunday, April 19 vs. the Florida Marlins at 1:35pm, Dwayne Herndon, owner of Noah’s Pretzels, and his son Noah, who is autistic, will deliver the ceremonial first pitch. Noah’s Pretzels was founded in 2007 to increase awareness and help raise funds for Autism. Also during the pregame ceremony, children from Sports Plus camps and DC Autism Parents will take the field together as the “Starting 9”. On Wednesday, April 22 at 11:00am, Willie Harris will visit Mill Creek Towne Elementary School in Montgomery County and spend time with the autistic students enrolled in their special education learning center.

The Nationals have provided the partner organizations with a ticket sales fundraising opportunity for all April home games. Fans may purchase discounted tickets through the nationals.com/groupevents page by clicking on the link for Autism Awareness Month. Tickets for this program are offered in the RF/LF Reserved Seats (Sections 101 & 102 and 138 through 143), RF/LF Mezzanine Seats (Sections 223 through 235), and Upper RF Terrace Seats (Sections 222 through 236). The donation to the partner organizations is included in the convenience fee added to the ticket. The Nationals will also provide the organizations with the opportunity to host a silent auction, featuring Nationals memorabilia, at the Community Table during one home game. All funds raised through these avenues will be distributed equally among the three organizations.


Finally, Force 3 Military Opening Night will take place on Thursday, April 16th when Our Washington Nationals take on The Phillies in the final game of 2009's Opening Home Series. This will be the first of six special nights to honor those who serve our country. A special ceremony will take place before each Military Night at Nationals Park. Discount tickets are available at nationals.com/military

Complete Details In The Press Release Below:

Washington Nationals Host Force 3 Military Opening Night on Thursday, April 16

WHAT: The Washington Nationals will host Force 3 Military Opening Night on Thursday, April 16 when they face the Philadelphia Phillies at 7:05pm. The first of six military nights this season, the team will honor the Nation’s Armed Forces during a pregame ceremony and offer military personnel the opportunity to purchase discounted tickets for that evening’s game.

The Ashley Ridge High School Air Force Junior ROTC will present the colors, followed by the performance of the National Anthem by Musician First Class Daryl Duff, U.S. Navy.

Discounted tickets will be available for military personnel through nationals.com/military; select military ITT (information, tickets and travel) and MWR (morale, welfare and recreation) offices; and the Nationals Park Main Box Office. Through the internet, Left/Right Field Reserve Seats (Sections 101 & 102 and 138 through 143), normally priced at $24, are available for $18. Upper Infield Gallery Tickets (Sections 406 through 409 and 416 through 420), normally priced at $18 are available for $13. Through the participating military ITT and MWR offices, military personnel may receive $5.00 off select seat locations.

The Nationals Park Main Box Office will offer $3.00 off any ticket priced at $10.00 or more to those with a valid military identification. This discount is our standing military discount offered Monday through Thursday for all non-premium home games.

WHO: Washington Nationals

Force 3

Air Force Junior ROTC

MU1 Daryl Duff, U.S. Navy Sea Chanters
WHEN: Thursday, April 16, 2009

Washington Nationals vs. Philadelphia Phillies

6:55pm – Pregame Ceremonies

7:05pm – First Pitch

WHERE: Nationals Park

1500 South Capitol Street, SE
About Force 3

Since 1991, Force 3, a Cisco Gold Partner, has been dedicated to offering innovative technology solutions that contribute to the readiness and effectiveness of the war fighter. With only the top engineers and support personnel on staff, clients are ensured a dynamic and effective solution to their needs, including system design, deployment and management, hardware procurement, professional services and project management.

Performance, Attitude & Responsibility Count

A Good Move.

A Professional Move.

A Move That Sends A Message.

When Our Washington Nationals announced this afternoon that Lastings Milledge had been optioned to AAA Syracuse--the first reaction--"Yes, about time." Acting GM Mike Rizzo determining that Ocho-Cinco is not developing into a complete ballplayer.

Lastings Milledge has tremendous athletic ability. What he is not is a tremendously skilled baseball player. In fact, his skills are lacking and need developing--something that doesn't outwardly seem to have worried or bothered Milledge in the time he's played for Washington. But how many times can anyone witness the same player take the same circuitous routes tracking fly balls? How many times can you watch the same player step to the plate and have a limited idea of what he should do once the pitch is thrown. How many times do you have to throw up your hands in disbelief saying: "What in the world is he doing out there?"

And what makes these matters far worse is his attitude.

By his own remarks, Lastings Milledge says everything will always work out. He's never at fault--not even for nearly skipping a mandatory team meeting on Sunday April 5th in South Florida. A "I am celebrating my birthday decision" that found Lastings fined, but not suspended. In real life--still responsible for their jobs, most everyone else works on their birthday. Yet, Milledge felt he could blow that Team Meeting Off only because it was "His Birthday".

That's immaturity. Lastings Milledge was not ready for the responsibilities that Our Manager Manny Acta gave him when Manny named Lastings Leadoff Man.

A cold hard lesson was hopefully learned today by Lastings Milledge when Our Washington Nationals sent him to Upper State New York for seasoning. He's still only 24 Years Old, many other talented players have suffered the same consequences and rebounded--improved and played out successful Major League Careers. But what's really important here is if Milledge UNDERSTANDS THE REASON WHY?

Does he get it?

Radio Broadcasters Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler haven't been criticizing his play over the first week of the season for nothing. Tom Boswell didn't write his blistering column today about Lastings shortcomings after just watching him for one game. And most every internet board, fan forum and Nationals Blog hasn't debated the Pros & Cons of Milledge's play just because they have nothing else to gab about.

There was legitimate concern.

The signal today sent by Our Washington Nationals is that enough is enough. You need to play The Great Game the right way, not just your way. Individuality is welcome, but not when you are underperforming and you see nothing wrong in your duties. Lastings Milledge needs to make some serious adjustments. His optioning to AAA Syracuse is a solid move because this sets an example: No longer can you get by on perceived talent alone.

Performance, Attitude & Responsibility Count.

Bravo!!

PS--What this move also does is free up the logjam in the outfield for Our Washington Nationals. And immediately improves Washington's defensive capabilities in the field. With Elijah Dukes now GIVEN the centerfield starting position--you can bet that his skill set will assist the shortcomings of Adam Dunn stationed in left. Our Number 34's role will change. Every single baseball he can get to shadowing over toward Dunn--he will take. Austin Kearns will now be starting in right. This addition by subtraction makes for a far better outfield alignment. This move also gets stronger hitters in our batting order. If Adam moves to first, Josh Willingham now has a more important role in Washington's Lineup. No longer the 5th outfielder, Willingham's powerful bat will get more opportunities to prove why he was originally traded for in the first place. Josh has been wasting on the bench most of these first seven games.

No corresponding roster move as this post is written. With Willie Harris already on the DL, Cristian Guzman possibly heading there and Ronnie Belliard still recovering from a back issue--Washington needs some middle infield depth. Whether that is Alex Cintron, Pete Orr or someone else--Acting GM Mike Rizzo will need to make that decision and have a new player in place by 7:05PM Wednesday Night. If "The Guz" heads to the DL, possibly there would be the opportunity for a 5th outfielder--someone like Ryan Langerhans, Justin Maxwell or Corey Patterson to play that strictly backup role/pinch hitter. Maxwell the only player mentioned whose recall would not affect The 40-Man Roster.

At the same time, another decision will have to be made on carrying three catchers. Wil Nieves or Josh Bard need to be moved for Jordan Zimmermann on April 19th. Wil Nieves must have the upper hand. He's a far better catcher. Besides, Bard wears Cursed Number 7. The Jersey Number that has befallen so many Nationals Players before him.

8 Is Not Enough

Ryan Zimmerman thrust his right fist into the air in the bottom of the 9th inning as he rounded 1st Base. What was left of the largest crowd in Nationals Park History was on it's feet stomping in delight. For the third time in this Opening Game of 2009 at Nationals Park, Our Washington Nationals had fought back offensively--countering their pitching and defensive woes. And with Adam Dunn and Elijah Dukes waiting on deck, The Perfect Closer of 2008 for The Philadelphia Phillies--Brad Lidge--looked mighty vulnerable--in fact, human. The Z-Man's blistering two run homer to the deepest reaches of centerfield at The South Capitol Street Ballpark had brought Washington's latest deficit back to one. On most night's 8 Is Enough, but today it was not. The Phillies had already plated nine.

But who cared at that moment whether DC's team had yet to win a game this season?

Dunn and Dukes had already slammed out Home Run Blows in their own rights earlier this dramatic day. Really, there was hope. Our Number 44 with a majestic two run shot to centerfield in the 7th off Philadelphia's Clay Condrey. And Our Number 34's in the bottom of the 5th off the Ancient Jamie Moyer. A solo shot ripped to the leftfield bullpen. I am telling you, no one swings a bat harder than Elijah Dukes. All power--combustible high octane only. What a threat that young man is.

And everyone on hand knew that too.

Not many of those continuing to stand on their feet roaring at Nationals Park would believe any other outcome was possible. Our Washington Nationals were going to come all the way back. You could just feel it. All game long, Washington had remained close, losing an early one run lead and then clawing back to tie The Defending Champions Twice. Yes, winless on the season--but in position to rebound mightily. Two Powerful Washington Bats making The Phillies sweat this one out.

And so were their fans. This was good stuff.

At least until Brad Lidge regained his momentary lost form and proceeded to throw slider after slider into the dirt, just off the plate. Dunn lasted five pitches before striking out. Dukes just four. Over anxious and wanting to succeed--both had over swung and had gotten themselves out. A deflating turnaround sitting the dejected masses back in their seats. What once was promising would end rather routinely moments later when Nick Johnson swung at the very first fastball The Phillies Closer had thrown since Our Number 11's Titanic Blast earlier in the 9th. A first swing chopper right to first base that Philadelphia's Ryan Howard fielded cleanly to end what would have been a momentus comeback.

RallyTime!! which was necessary due to some very poor fielding, pitching and an interesting decision by Our Manager Manny Acta to let Saul Rivera face the always dangerous Ryan Howard in the top of the 7th. Daniel Cabrera, wearing Number 45 (now I thought he was Number 40? before) got the Home Opener start. He was his usual frustrating self. On top of his game one moment, then not finding the strike zone the next. But what made matters far worse were three brutal errors committed by two fielders behind him. Surprisingly, Anderson Hernandez (just off the Disabled List to replace the injured Willie Harris) couldn't find his glove on two consecutive ground balls. Cristian Guzman made a bad throw on a fielding play deep into the hole at short (but wasn't charged an error). And Adam Dunn displayed his short fallings in left, when he completely missed a one-hopper off the bat of Pedro Feliz in the 4th that set up The Phillies 4th run.

You can score all the runs in the world, and Our Washington Nationals surely seem capable of doing just that at times--but if your defense can't make the routine play and your pitchers can't hit their locations--you are not going to win.

Another case in point--the crucial moment of this game.

Saul Rivera trotted out to pitch the top of the 7th for Washington. Game tied at four--the top of Philadelphia's powerful lineup
stepping to the plate. On consecutive pitches, Our Number 52 plunks both Shane Victorino and Chase Utley. Rivera clearly had no command. So why leave him in the game with the powerful Ryan Howard stepping to the plate? Two potential situational lefties where still available in our bullpen. Rivera had not pitched well the other night and he wasn't doing so again this afternoon. As everyone knows, Howard can slug with the best in the game, but he's proven to be vulnerable to lefties--especially those that get him out swinging high and inside. Wil Ledezma and Joe Beimel were available out of the bullpen--and can do just that. But Our Manager Manny Acta chose to stay with Saul.

Big Mistake.

Three Batters and five pitches into his latest appearance, Our Number 52 had given up the decisive blow of the game. Ryan Howard launching an away fastball over the left centerfield wall and into the Red Porch Seats for what turned out to be the final turning point. The Former National League MVP and Philadelphia Single Season Home Run Champion had done his damage in The Nation's Capital once again. A tie ball game that quickly became a three run deficit and subsequently pushed to four when Raul Ibanez also homered off Rivera. The Phillies scored an important insurance run in the 8th on a Eric Brunlett double, Jimmy Rollins grounder to advance Bruntlett to third--and eventual sacrifice fly stroked by Victorino.

Yes, Our Washington Nationals fought back.

Yes, Our Washington Nationals can slam the ball with the best of them.

But on this Home Opening Day at Nationals Park they found out that 8 Is Not Enough--they needed more--especially when their pitching and defense let them down.



Final Score from a packed house of 40,386 on South Capitol Street--mostly Nationals Fans too. We didn't witness any bad behavior on part of The Phillies Infamous Legions. And we are here to tell you--that ballpark was jammed with people--The Philadelphia Phillies 9 and Our Washington Nationals 8. A winless week of baseball in early April 2009 for Washington has continued at the hands of our ball club simply working with mismatched parts. Every time they do something right, something else go wrong. Today was a very exciting day to be at Nationals Park, but frustrating to see Our Washington Nationals really beat themselves in a game if played routinely--they should have won.

Game Notes & Highlights

After striking out Ryan Howard to begin the top of the 2nd, Cabrera just sort of lost it after a single by Jayson Werth when Anderson Hernandez booted a sure inning ending double play grounder slapped by Raul Ibanez. An all safe call that found Daniel proceeding to walk both Pedro Feliz and Chris Coste to plate Philadelphia's first run. The losing of control that cost him one additional run when the weak hitting Phillies Pitcher Jamie Moyer slapped a routine fly ball to medium/short leftfield for out number two. One of those--no way the tall and slow Ibanez is going to attempt to score from third on a sacrifice fly. At least until you realize every third base coach in The National League is going to test Adam Dunn's throwing arm. He is what he is--Dunn. A prolific offensive threat with a defensive downside. Ibanez scored Philadelphia's second run rather easily. It wasn't as close as it seemed.

Daniel Cabrera completed five full innings and was only charged one earned run in the four he allowed--thanks to the defensive mishaps behind him. He threw 94 pitches, 55 for strikes. He was Daniel Cabrera--all over the place--but he deserved better this day. It was also odd that when Julian Tavarez replaced Cabrera for the 6th--Manny Acta replaced Tavarez with Mike Hinckley after Julian had recorded the first two outs in that frame. Jimmy Rollins was coming up. The Former NL MVP is a switch hitter. Whether they turned Rollins around or not to hit--it wouldn't matter. So why that change at that point? The switch seemed sort of pointless--unless Rollins has a good history facing Julian Tavarez. Just odd.

Until he hurt himself swinging and charging out of the batters box in the bottom of the 9th, "The Guz" was having a career day at the plate. 5 hits in 5 plate appearances, including a terrific hustling infield single slapped to Jimmy Rollins playing short for The Phillies. No one runs harder on the bases than Cristian Guzman. Our Number 15 is a competitor. He never gives up and hopefully his leg injury is not as bad as it looked. Guzman limping off the field, replaced by Alberto Gonzalez moments before Ryan Zimmerman hit his fabulous homer to centerfield. Cristian scoring two runs and knocking in two--finishing the day batting a robust early season average of .515.

The Heart of Washington's Lineup--Zimmerman, Dunn and Dukes with two RBI's apiece, combining for five hits (three of which were home runs).

In the top of the 5th, Raul Ibanez got ahold of a Cabrera changeup and rocket launched the baseball to dead centerfield. Lofted so high, the wind took control and it carried deep to the wall near the 402 mark. Lastings Milledge drifted back, then drifted back some more, then finally realized the baseball was going to hit the Green Wall. Jumping up and smacking the unforgiving wall hard--Milledge made a nice leaping catch to retire Ibanez and The Phillies in the 5th. But as nice as that effort was, it was nothing compared to Elijah Dukes defensive gem one out earlier. Ryan Howard ripped a Cabrera changeup down the right field line--near Washington's Bullpen. With virtually no time to react and the ball fast approaching--Dukes swiftly moved to his left, stucked out his left hand, his glove hand and SNOWCONED the baseball in the webbing of his glove. The Defensive Play of This Game that found, not only Washington's Fans Cheering, but his bullpen mates applauding robustly from behind the protective screen. It was a very nice defensive gem. Only catlike reflexes catch that screaming baseball.
(Do Notice The Cherry Trees Are About to Bloom In The Picture Above)

Team President Stan Kasten informed The African Queen and I that the attendance total of 40,386 is an actual sellout, because Our Washington Nationals DO NOT count the freebies handed out to family, friends, groups, etc. Also, we were approached by a few fans concerned over the fact that The NatsExpress was not operating at 12:30PM from RFK Stadium's Lot 8 this day. A fact that found some patrons walking over to the Stadium-Armory Metro to get to Nationals Park. Mr. Kasten reminded us that NatsExpress only operates beginning 90 Minutes before every home game. Today, that meant the free shuttle service started at approximately 1:30PM. Just passing along the information.


Also, there will be a change to The Topps Starting Lineup Baseball Card display on the side of Garage B in Centerfield Plaza. Currently, those players depicted on the wall--are shown by position--not really by batting order. Soon, Washington's Actual Starting Batting Order will represented.


Of course--what would Opening Day be without seeing our friends again.




And "The Usual Suspects" were handing out Today's Opening Day Giveaway. A very nice faded Red Curly "W" Cap sponsored by MASN.



Love The Expanded Inside Pitch Free Program--back again for a second year at Nationals Park. A few more articles, player stats and Two Free Baseball Cards inside. Today's First Edition carrying WTOP Cards of Austin Kearns and Ronnie Belliard--complete with career stats on the back. Nice touch. We noticed a few kids already taking them out of The Inside Pitch Program to look at and enjoy.

Also we liked the slightly changed graphics on The HDTV Screen when Our Players stepped to the plate. This year, the script Curly "W" Washington Logo flying in the background of all pictures & stats of each batter. Different and well done.



No The President Of The United States DID NOT post up for The Home Opener. Instead Five Service Members of Our Armed Forces were given the honor of throwing out simultaneous first pitches. For the record--Daniel Cabrera's first pitch of 2009 at Nationals Park--was a ball.



The First Official Presidents Race of 2009 featured Tom heading out of the centerfield gate alone. Eventually, Abe & George joined the race. But Teddy distracted Tom near the home stretch and eventually that weird cat from last year returned to Nationals Park and tackled Tom--allowing Abe to garner Victory Number One.

Finally--there was a very sad moment at Nationals Park today. The Philadelphia Phillies Great Broadcaster, Harry Kalas fell ill while working in the visiting broadcast booth at The South Capitol Street Ballpark. Subsequently, he passed away at George Washington University Hospital. At one point, Our Washington Nationals nearly cancelled today's game. Apparently, The Phillies wanted to play in Harry Kalas' honor. There was a moment of silence for Harry Kalas before today's game--as well as for Nick Adenhart--The Los Angeles Angels young pitcher so tragically killed in Fullerton, California last week along with two other friends. The deaths, the result of a hit and run driver.

Today's InGame Photos--Evan Vucci & Alex Brandon (AP)
All Other Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Disappointed

This is our issue with The New Statues at Nationals Park.

They are too confusing to look at.

The very fact that The D.C. Commission on The Arts & Humanities followed through on a tremendous tribute to three of Washington's greatest baseball players should not be taken for granted. This is a well deserved honor. Walter Johnson, Josh Gibson, Frank Howard and their respective families are worthy of the tribute. The Big Train is arguably the greatest pitcher of all-time. Josh Gibson the greatest slugger. And Hondo--the finest player to ever call DC/RFK Stadium his career home. He was an American League Home Run Champion and Feared Slugger. Beloved, even today.

Deserving are all three--no question about it.

But no one viewing these pieces of art deserves to stand before these three monuments and ponder what exactly they are viewing. The multiple arms depicting Walter Johnson's pitching motion takes away the sole reason for taking a gander in the first place--to appreciate Johnson's greatness, learn more and pass that word on to others--educate about history. Just as over powering is the effect of Frank Howard's five bats following through on his swing. It's too distracting. Fortunately, Josh Gibson's multiple batted follow-through is well below and behind his representation--making his final product far more appealing.

Sohna and I found our focus placed so much on the extended limbs on each statue--it took away from LOVING THEM.

What makes matters worse for us is that Frank Howard has factual mistakes in his depiction. Artist Omri Amrany has chosen to bronze Hondo in The Expansion Senators Pinstripe Jersey with Script "Senators" emblazoned across the front. Fine, that's a legitimate jersey worn by My Favorite Player Of All Time!! in Washington in the 1960's. What's not correct is Big Frank wearing Number 33 with that uniform. Howard wore Number 9 during the Pinstripe Era of The Expansion Washington Senators. He switched to Number 33 in 1969 when he gave that jersey number to The Great Ted Williams. The year "Teddy Ballgame" became Manager for the only year in over 50 past seasons that a Washington Major League Team finished above .500. In that famous '69 campaign, The Senators wore basic off-white (Cream Color) home jerseys and gray aways--no pinstripes. And in 1969 ONLY--The 100th Anniversary Patch of Major League Baseball was worn on every jersey in the Big Leagues that season. The 100th Anniversary Patch is depicted on Frank Howard's Uniform Statue.

To make matters a little worse, and The African Queen and I mentioned this to MASN Broadcaster and Washington Baseball Historian Phil Wood after the ceremony on Wednesday and Phil's ran with this info ever since on his critiques--Hondo's bat depicted on his monument is a Genuine Louisville Slugger--Ernie Banks signature model. Yes, Ernie Banks--not Frank Oliver Howard. Artist Omri Amrany produced an Ernie Banks Statue for Wrigley Field. For whatever reason, he didn't feel it necessary to permanently change Frank's bat to one of his own brand.

That really bothers us. Whether or not we appreciate the artistry of the statues, the factual representation should always be accurate. No need to mess with history as well.

If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, then The African Queen and I are not enamored with the statues of Walter Johnson, Josh Gibson and Frank Howard. They may well grow on us, just like the multiple extensions existing on these monuments currently on display at Nationals Park. But for now--we are disappointed with these representations of our Washington Baseball Icons.

Photo Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Melancholy Day

That melancholy feeling had already set in when Austin Kearns lost a routine fly in the sun during the bottom of the 8th Inning at Turner Field against The Atlanta Braves this afternoon. A subsequent errorless triple lofted by Jeff Francouer that was the final nail in the coffin of this winless opening week of baseball for Our Washington Nationals.

Nothing seemed to stop this Easter Sunday's Sixth Consecutive Loss to begin the season. The See-Saw swinging up and down in their play on the field wouldn't allow for a turnaround--no matter how hard they tried.

While Washington's pitching again kept our team down early, our hitters fought to get them back in the game.

And when our pitchers finally settled down, our batters couldn't stroke the decisive blow.

Then, this week's theme started all over again.

Even when both were in sync, a fielding mishap proved costly.

Back and forth, up and down, that pendulum swing of uncertainty that has played out for Washington since Rickey Nolasco threw the very first pitch of 2009 to Lastings Milledge on April 6th at Dolphin Stadium for The Florida Marlins.

That Tetter Tottering which has kept Our Washington Nationals off balance, unsteady and unable to garner even one victory. Today's sweep by The Atlanta Braves was no less uncomfortable to watch. Totally out of sync Our Washington Nationals were. One hand not jibing with the other. Any rhythm lost--because on the field of play--all is not in concert.

Although not all from their own faults.

The Atlanta Braves are a pretty good club. And when they needed that clutch hit or defensive stop, Atlanta stepped up their game. The Brav-os may well appear ugly in those hideous red Sunday Alternate Jerseys, but they sure looked sweet with the game on the line all weekend long. I believe they were a combined 7 for 7 with runners in scoring position today--Perfect.

Unlike Our Washington Nationals.

Even Elijah Dukes' tremendous batting eye got taken by Atlanta's Defense this afternoon. Our Number 34 looks for pitches to slam. But when the see-saw for Washington was swinging to the downward side--he got flat out robbed of a mighty blow with a fine defensive play on the behalf Jordan Schafer. The Braves centerfielder making a tremendous running catch on Dukes, swooping in from center taking a liner to his backhand side (Schafer's lefthanded) with DC runners on 1st and 2nd in the top of 8th. We were only down three at the time. A game changing moment for the taking--missed. Of course, as fate would have it this week--the opposition--in this case The Braves today were in control--riding high on the tetter-totter. Unsurprisingly, Schaefer made that catch and again did so one inning later--in the 9th-- with a fabulous run to wall in dead center to take away a sure extra base hit off the bat of Josh Willingham.

Every time Our Washington Nationals mounted a comeback today, they were thwarted. The same result occurring over the previous five games as well.

Yes, today was a Melancholy Day to be a fan of Our Washington Nationals. Saddened to find them limping home with an 0-6 Mark to begin the 2009 Championship Campaign. A talented roster that hasn't found a way to work together during this young season.

Final Score from Turner Field, where The Atlanta Braves put it to DC's team for a third consecutive day, The Brav-os 8 and Our Washington Nationals 5. The Home Opener tomorrow a possibility for a fresh start. Maybe going up against The Defending Champion Philadelphia Phillies and Their Awful Fans will ignite just the spark to finally get our team back on the right track again. I am sure Washington's Fans will be ready for action, both on and off the field of play.

Will Our Washington Nationals be up for the fight as well?

At 3:05PM Eastern, Easter Monday--we will begin to find out.

Game Notes & Highlights


Scott Olsen looked like a completely different pitcher for the first few innings compared to his start at Florida for Game Two. In control, throwing strikes, then just like that he lost it in the 4th-- all with two outs. A walk to Brian McCann, double by Matt Diaz, triple by Jeff Francouer and a single allowed to Martin Prado plated three Atlanta runs. And then with Omar Infante on first via a walk and two outs in the 5th--Olsen again lost command and gave up consecutive singles to Chipper Jones (Jones advancing to second on the throw home) and McCann to give Atlanta two more runs. Throwing in the low 90's early, Scott effectively used his slider and changeup. But lost that advantage, beginning in the 4th when every one of his pitches appeared to look the same. Gone after five innings allowing 6 hits, 3 walks and five earned runs.

In his second inning of relief work, Steven Shell also got hit hard allowing one run on back to back doubles by Infante and Yunel Escobar (he's a really good young player--I really like Escobar). Then Our Manager Manny Acta going to his bullpen for Saul Rivera. Our Number 52 allowing the inherited runner Escobar to score on Chipper's second RBI of the day. Will Ledezma would be the victim of Kearn's lost in the sunlight loft off the bat of Francouer in the 8th. The subsequent triple, and when Washington played the infield-in only down two runs at the time, The Braves Casey Kotchman took advantage and poked a sharp grounder past Cristian Guzman at short for Atlanta's 8th and final run of the game.

If Elijah Dukes hasn't somehow earned the right to start for his play over the past few days, then something is wrong? He had two more hits and three RBI this afternoon. Every swing--hard. Our Number 34 has been the game changer. No one else has so consistently stepped up to the plate and put fear in the opponent, so far, like Dukes. And to Adam Dunn's great credit--he doesn't get himself out too often--knowing pitchers fear his powerful bat. He's patient at the plate and willing to take walks. Our Number 44 did go down swinging in the top of the 8th with two runners on after Schafer had made that fine running catch on Elijah and Ryan Zimmerman followed with an RBI Single. But you can't fault Dunn for that effort. Atlanta's Pitcher Buddy Carlyle challenged him with a fastball duel. And heaved a tremendous rising fastball at 90 MPH to send Dunn down on strikes swinging. More times than not, I am betting Dunn wins that match up. That strikeout was the only time today The Braves retired Dunn. He had two hits and two walks in five at-bats.

"The Guz" continues his hot early bat. Leading off, Cristian Guzman singled twice, now batting .429 in the early season. The Tale of two Joshs'. Bard and Willingham both getting starts today, combining to go 1-9 and a walk with a bat in their hands. Willingham retired during all five of his plate appearances. Bard was charged with two passed balls catching today.

Willie Harris strained an oblique muscle swinging at the plate today. He just might go on The Disabled List. Anderson Hernandez is already there with an injury. Ronnie Belliard is day-to-day as well.

No continuity in our bullpen yet. Early season deficits have given Joe Beimel and Joel Hanrahan little work. They are so rusty, both have been hit in their latest infrequent appearances during this weekend series.

And it's very necessary to give credit to Nick Johnson for his fine defensive efforts last night during Washington's 5-3 loss to Atlanta. A diving stop on a Brian McCann slashed grounder. Then, an equally impressive leap, stab and foot retrieval to the first base bag on a high throw by Guzman. A subsequent foot collision with Matt Diaz that Johnson was able to hang on, record the out--AND NOT GET INJURED. Who didn't think watching that play that Nick might be sent to the DL again? (Sohna and I were out last night and could only catch glimpses of that ball game).

Finally, Our Washington Nationals have put out a press release asking all fans to show up EARLY for Monday's Home Opener against those Phillies. Gates will open at 12:30PM at Nationals Park. Despite The White House Officially saying and The Washington Post also reporting, The President Of The United States will not be attending tomorrow--Team President Stan Kasten told the beat writers in Atlanta today that nothing is set in stone. Interesting.

Today's InGame Photos--John Amis (AP)

Charlie & Dave Taking Your Questions Each Sunday

Every Sunday during the upcoming 2009 Baseball Season Radio Broadcasters Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler will be taking your email questions during the their pre-game show on WFED 1500AM. That includes this afternoon when Our Washington Nationals take on The Atlanta Braves from Turner Field. The final road game of the first week of the season.

Send your questions to nationalsradio@aol.com

The Boys Of Summer would appreciate your thoughts and comments.

Good For Shawn Hill

His teammates helped him out, especially reliever Luke Gregerson and centerfielder Scott Hairston, but what really mattered was that Shawn Hill garnered his first victory of 2009 late last night against The San Francisco Giants. Pitching into the sixth inning at Petco Park, the now jersey number 34 wearing former Washington Pitcher got into some serious trouble during that frame, allowing his second run of the evening while loading up the bases with no outs.

Relieved by Padres Manager Bud Black, Gregerson trotted out to induce a key 3-6-3 double play and strike out to end the rally. Later Hairston would help seal the victory for Hill when he leaped onto the centerfield wall to rob The Giants Bengie Molina of a sure rbi extra base hit in the top of the 8th and followed that up with a three run homer in the bottom half.

Until he tired in the 6th, Shawn Hill looked good. His sinker was working and he was effectively moving through The San Francisco Giants lineup--something not seen by Our Washington Nationals starters during the first four games of 2009. Who would have believed that Shawn Hill would receive the first win in The Major Leagues during the regular season of any pitcher in Nationals Spring Training Camp?

And he doesn't play for us anymore.

Good For Shawn Hill. We are very happy for him. Sohna and I watched portions of his game on DirecTV's MLB Extra Innings Package.

InGame Photo--Larry Ignelzi (AP)

Delay Of Game

Tonight's two hour rain delay in Atlanta perfectly embodied the first four games of 2009 for Our Washington Nationals.

Just when you think Washington is going to pull ahead, something goes wrong.

A rally dies. A defensive stop take place. Our Pitcher gives up a home run.

14 hits are stroked but 16 runners are left on base.

4 bases loaded situations and only one run scored.

Too many strikeouts--12 in this 10 inning affair. Some of our batters need to cut down on their swings.

Atlanta's pitchers throw a mistake pitch and Washington doesn't capitalize.

Washington's starter Shairon Martis throws a mistake pitch and Yunel Escobar slams a three run homer out of the park.

The twists of fate when things are not going well.

Chance after chance to pull ahead and win--but rarely following through on opportunity given.

Our starting pitching continues to get DC's team behind early and ultimately playing catchup all night long. You can't play from behind every night and expect to win.

But when Lastings Milledge slammed his two strike, two out game tying single off the glove of The Braves Closer Mike Gonzalez with the bases loaded in the top of the 9th, I really believed that was the lucky blow that was finally going to turn things around for Washington in this early season.

Unfortunately, all it really did was delay this eventual loss one additional disappointing inning.

Not firing on all cylinders, Our Washington Nationals have yet to put a complete ballgame together in this young season. A Delay Of Their Own Game that now finds Washington 0-4 after the first five days of the 2009 Championship Season. But at least in baseball, there is always tomorrow. Final Score from Wet, Soggy and Rain Delayed Turner Field--The Atlanta Braves 6 and Our Washington Nationals 5 in 10 frustrating innings and six hours of real time.

When tonight's game went deep into night, I thought it was going to be one of those special affairs. Those battles in which something spectacular happens that leads to a heart pumping win for Our Nats--those thrillers that have happened countless times since baseball returned to Washington. One of those when hardly anyone is left watching because of the time of day and lateness of the hour--but you need to stay awake and pay attention--because almost always, something unusual occurs. Rain, a long delay, a close game, most everyone on both teams already in the game. The strangeness of what's developing. It's the very reason why I couldn't take my eyes off the TV. But sadly in the long run, all that really did was delay the night's sleep and this post from beginning.

Game Notes & Highlights

Ryan Zimmerman, Elijah Dukes, Cristian Guzman, Adam Dunn and even Lastings Milledge had decent nights at the plate. All but Dunn recording at least two hits. Adam walking three times.

But Milledge probably cost Washington a run in the top of the second when while on second base with one out, he decided to tag up on a deep fly to the right field wall hit by Zimmerman. A stroked hit that Atlanta's usually quality outfielder Jeff Francouer misplayed--almost fearing to run into the scoreboard wall. A resultant bouncing ball that Lastings did not score upon--while "The Guz" (Shairon Martis actually--late hour writing) running in front of him did. Lastings should have played it halfway instead of tagging. There is no real extra incentive to advance to third with what he believed might be the second out of the inning--when he could have scored on the play. And when Washington subsequently failed to score even with the bases loaded later during that frame--that lost run proved costly in the final tally. But to be fair, Nick Johnson and Elijah Dukes also both struckout to kill that rally.

Defensively, Ryan Zimmerman looked like his old self. Twice swiftly charging in to scoop up barehanded rolling baseballs and throwing out fast moving runners at first. No 3rd baseman in the game consistently charges and tosses out hitters in such a fashion quite like Our Number 11.

Due to the rain storms, Shairon Martis only pitched three innings. And his one mistake, the three run shot given up to Yunel Escobar in bottom of the second proved costly. Our Number 39 was OK, but he's definitely a work in progress--doesn't seem confident out there on the mound. Our bullpen pitched OK going 6.1 innings and giving up three runs--including the game winner allowed by Joe Beimel in his second inning of work. Saul Rivera again effective for his first inning, but his usual struggles in his second frame of action. Tonight, giving up the go ahead run in the bottom of the 8th before Lastings Milledge was able to tie things up in the 9th with two outs and the bases loaded.

Our Manager Manny Acta had to use virtually his entire bench. Except for the hobbling Ronnie Belliard and Joel Hanrahan in the bullpen, all other players minus starters John Lannan, Scott Olsen and Daniel Cabrera saw action.

Finally, with Kelly Johnson on second base in the bottom of the 8th for Atlanta, Yunel Escobar slices a liner to right field. Elijah Dukes scoops up the baseball and comes up throwing. Looking to score an insurance run for Atlanta, Johnson thought he was going to plate a run. Instead, Our Number 34 had other ideas and flat out delivered a knock out punch with The Defensive Play Of This Game. A perfect throw to plate. Jesus Flores tagging Kelly out well short of scoring. Home Plate Umpire Mike Reilly with the emphatic OUT CALL!! It was a terrific throw.

That powerful ability which Dukes also displayed on the last play of the game. Clearly, Elijah had no chance to throw the speedy Jordan Schafer out on Kelly Johnson's game winning single in the bottom of the 10th to rightfield off Joe Beimel. But Dukes, never one to give up, made an honest effort to try and unfurled a BB GUN throw on the fly to Flores. Schafer still scored, but Elijah wasn't afraid to try. What A THROW!! And unfortunately, Dukes apparently hurt himself trying. Limping off the field, favoring his right groin.

Medical report to come.

OK--it's nearly 3AM, I am getting some sleep now.

Well Worth The Read

In heartfelt sorrow due to the tragic death of Los Angeles Angels young pitcher Nick Adenhart and two others in the Hit & Run Accident from two nights ago, one of the best friends of one of the other persons who died on the scene in Fullerton, California Wednesday Night/early Thursday Morning in the same vehicle--has written a touching goodbye to his lifelong buddy.

Well Worth The Read. Warning--It's Sad.

Here

Definitely Not Coming

The White House Press Office confirmed today to me that The President Of The United States WILL NOT be attending Monday's Home Opener at Nationals Park and subsequently throw out The Presidential First Pitch. He simply can't make it with everything else going on within his Administration, Our Country and throughout the world.

Also--there are two Easter Egg Roll Sessions on Monday. The first in the morning, the second in the afternoon on the South Lawn. The President and First Lady usually show up at both.

Danny Espinosa

Considered by some scouts to already have a Major League Glove and Arm, Danny Espinosa finds himself being groomed as an heir apparent shortstop for Our Washington Nationals. Drafted in the 3rd Round, 87th Overall, in the 2008 entry draft, Danny quickly found his way to playing short season ball for the Short Season Vermont Lake Monsters. A 19 Game appearance were Espinosa fared extremely well in his first professional campaign hitting .328 in 64 At-Bats with limited power. And don't be put off by the five errors. Remember in 1991, Chipper Jones (Hall Of Fame Possibility) committed 51 errors in 144 Games for The Sally League (Low A Ball) Macon Braves Team. And 32 more the next season. It's called getting your feet wet.

A product of College Baseball Powerhouse Long Beach State, Danny Espinosa won a silver medal at the 2007 Pan American Games where he was the starting shortstop for Team USA as a 19-Year Old. A two-time Big West Conference honoree, this 21-Year Old now wearing number 3 for The Potomac Nationals begins his first full season of professional ball tonight in Lynchburg, Virginia. Yesterday, during Media Day for The Potomac Nationals at Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge, Virginia--Danny Espinosa took some time to answer many of my questions about his future role with Our Washington Nationals.

With that, here is my conversation with Danny Espinosa.

You seem to be on the fast track within this organization, how have things gone for you since you were drafted last summer? (SBF)

“Things are actually going quite well for me. I am enjoying it. I get to play every single day. And that’s not something I did beforehand. If I have bad day, I can go out the very next day, continue to try to progress and do better. In college, you just went back to practice, which kept everything on your mind. You just fretted about it and that wasn’t good. Here, you just play the next day and move on, that’s the really good mental part of playing professionally.”

Does that make it more of job and less fun? (SBF)

“Well, it is more of a job, but I don’t look at it that way. It’s still fun. It’s always been fun and I expect playing baseball to always be fun. If you looked at this as a job, you would press too much. If you are having fun, things will fall into place and wherever you go, you go.”

How valuable was playing for Team USA in The Pan American Games two years ago? (SBF)

“Invaluable. It gave me the opportunity to play internationally and see other talented players from outside this country. It was a great honor to represent our country in competition. And the feeling to wear that Team USA is indescribable. That experience really helped me in my development and my understanding the game.”

You are known for your glove and arm—where does your bat stand right now in the development stage? (SBF)

“I felt I had a pretty good spring training. Last year in Vermont, I had really good season for the short stint that I was there. I am really not worried about my bat. Thanks to the hitting instructors, I’ve come along way with my bat. They have worked a lot with me. I am very comfortable hitting and I have no questions about what I am suppose to do at the plate.”

Has the adjustment from aluminum bats in college to wooden bats here been a difficult one for you? (SBF)

“No, not at all. I’ve played in the Cape Cod League after my freshman year at Long Beach. You can only use wooden bats in that league. I was able to make the adjustment. In fact, did well enough that it gave me the confidence that I would be alright.”

What are some of the other differences playing professional ball than college or Cape Cod League, etc?

“The atmosphere is completely different. In non-professional baseball the game in not known well among the players. There are a lot of young guys in college where the game is slowed down for them. They can’t make adjustments. Up here, you are playing at a higher level. Everyone you are playing with or against were stars at some point in their young career. At spring training (2009 in Viera), I was at an even higher level (Danny played one game for The Major League Nationals). The games moved much quicker and the guys all understand the game better. That’s actually made everything a lot more fun at this level.”

Growing up in Southern California (Santa Ana), I would be curious to know WHEN did you believe as a teenager you were going to be drafted. Did you think all along you were heading to professional ball? What was the progression? (SBF)

“I always thought I would be drafted all along. It was really just a matter of how high I would go. Even though I had a little bit of a down year in college that final year, the scouts were still coming to watch. But I am now really excited to be with The Nationals. I just want to go out and play. And if I get the opportunity I can’t complain about anything.”

So what then have you learned that you didn’t know over your past 10 months as a professional player? (SBF)

“My hitting, just my hitting. That is the biggest thing I need to work on. I am not worried about it. I am confident going into this season, but I am capable of better.”

What then exactly are you working on that needs to improve? (SBF)

“Staying short on the ball (no long swings for the fences). That’s it. Short (swing) to the ball and use my legs. I never used to use my legs. I always swung with my arms. They (the coaches) got me using my legs in instructional league and it’s given me a lot more power. The ability to be more aggressive at the plate. They had me repeat my bat path over and over again and getting my legs in the exact same position. If I can be short to the ball, I will be fine.”

“I’ve worked hard on my bat. I went down to Florida during the off-season to work with Rick Eckstein (Nationals Major League Hitting Instructor) along with Michael Burgess, Chris Marrero and Stephen King (all current P-Nats Teammates). We all went down there and worked hard. And my swing feels a lot better. Like I said, I am very confident in pro ball. I think it’s just being able to go out there everyday. It helps my bat.”

In the short time I’ve seen Rick Eckstein work with others this spring, he just doesn’t give up. (SBF)

“He doesn’t care who you are. If you want to put the time in, he will work with you as long as you want. He will be there early. He will be there late. But that’s the way it’s been in our entire organization with any of the hitting instructors. As long as you want to put in the good, quality work, and you want to get better, and they see that you want to get better—they will be there to work with you at any time.”

We’ve talked about your hitting alot, how about your fielding? (SBF)

“My fielding is fine. I need to be more consistent. I was tending to rush the ball (when it was hit) or my throw. My glove and my arm are going to be there. I just need to slow things down sometimes. Basically, field the ball and throw it.”

This is a very young franchise looking for talent all over the field of play—did that very fact give you high hopes when The Nationals drafted you last summer? (SBF)

“Yes, and exciting at the same time. If I play well, there is a good chance I could move quickly. It’s not guaranteed, but I know in the back of my head that if I do well I have the possibility to move up. So I have always been excited about that. Hopefully, I can have a good season and move up.”

Since the very day Washington drafted you they have been very high on you—but does the organization actually talk to you about your potential and how they see you fitting within their system? (SBF)

“No. They haven’t said anything. They haven’t put any pressure on me.”

Not Dana Brown (Scouting Director) or Bobby Williams (Director of Player Development)? (SBF)

“I have talked to them a couple of times, not a whole lot. They’ve told me they liked me in college. They had heard good things out of me. They are excited to see me move up, but they are not trying to put pressure on me. They are not telling me they need me up there (Major League Roster) quick. I think that as long as I play well they will when I am ready.”

But the very fact of it all is that this franchise is short of middle infielders in their system. So I would imagine when they drafted you you were smiling? (SBF)

“Yeah, in retrospect, but I had no idea they were going to draft me. They (The Nationals) had not talked with me much. I had talked to them in college with an interview through a local scout and didn’t hear back from them. And when they drafted me I was surprised and excited at the same time. I knew Mike Rizzo. I knew Dana Brown. They are good guys. I knew their reputations before and I was just thrilled to get myself into the organization and playing as soon as possible.”

Final question—expectations for 2009? (SBF)

“If I do well, I expect to move up. If I didn’t (move up), there is nothing I can do about it. But I am looking forward to having a good season and moving up within the organization.”

With that final answer my conversation with Shortstop Danny Espinosa of The Potomac Nationals concluded. First impressions--relaxed, confident, but knows he must never quit working. A good sign.

This past winter at The P-Nats Hot Stove Luncheon, The Director of Player Development for Our Washington Nationals--Bobby Williams, mentioned to me that Danny Espinosa has all the tools to be a quality Big League infielder. And if he can improve his impact with the bat, even better. Yesterday, during fielding practice for The Potomac Nationals, it was clear that Danny Espinosa is one smooth fielder defensively. It will interesting to see how quickly he advances through our farm system. No question, he's the first real impact middle infielder to come through Washington's Farm System since Baseball returned to D.C.

Danny Espinosa is worth watching very closely.

Smooth As Glass

Between real work, the statue unveiling and heading down to Woodbridge, Virginia for yesterday's Media Day for The Potomac Nationals, there was no time to watch Game 3 of the 2009 Season for Our Washington Nationals. But while shuttling back and forth in the car listening to Charlie Slowes & Dave Jageler on WFED, not mentioning the fine effort Elijah Dukes performed starting in centerfield yesterday in South Florida would not be right.

More than once our radio broadcast team commented on how deftly Our Number 34 tracked many hit balls his way at cavernous Dolphin Stadium. At one point, I believe Dave (as it turns out it was Charlie after playing back the radio broadcast on mlb.com) said this about Dukes defensive play: "He's as smooth as glass out there." Later, when I was watching some of the game highlights on mlb.com, Dukes made a nice sliding stop and instant recovery on Dan Uggla's game breaking double to deep right centerfield in the 5th inning.

With the stroked ball already past Elijah, he used all his athletic ability to cut the ball off at the pass--the same god given athletic skills which Lastings Milledge also possesses. But here is the difference in the two. Once Dukes got to the rolling baseball he used his baseball instincts to slide his glove to the ball, while conducting a perfect pop-up slide to quickly get to his feet. Immediately, Elijah Dukes was firing the baseball back into the infield with his powerful arm.

Not only was Elijah smooth as glass, he performed as if he was sliding on ice and was able to stop on a dime.

That was a very nice play on Duke's behalf, probably lost on many due to the very fact it was the decisive turnaround moment in yesterday's third consecutive loss to begin 2009. In the past, others have told me their concern with Elijah Dukes playing centerfield has been the worry that his tightly wound body and muscles (physical makeup, not mental makeup here folks) may be a disadvantage to his long-term ability to man the middle of the outfield. And in fact, Nationals Farm Authority's Brian Oliver and I had the same discussion at Pftizner Stadium yesterday during The Potomac Nationals Workout.

The concern has merit, but its worth the worry to send Elijah Dukes out there every single day until he proves otherwise. Our Washington Nationals were apprehensive over his recurring knee issues in 2008, always placing Dukes in rightfield last season to protect his body--less physical strain. For 2009, Dukes looks healthy and rearing to go--chomping at the bit. Clearly, he's the best centerfielder we got. Only Austin Kearns can possibly be considered a better gloveman among the outfielders currently on Our 25-Man Roster.

When it comes to patrolling centerfield--Elijah Dukes Is Smooth As Glass. Pencil him out there every single day until he proves otherwise. Our Number 34 is the best choice we have right now to win.

The Josh Gibson Foundation

After-school tutoring for inner-city youths, college scholarships, little league baseball and field renovation programs, some of the enlightening work being carried out by The Josh Gibson Foundation. A non-profit community organization based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania dedicated to helping families and youngsters in and around Hall Of Fame and Negro League Star Josh Gibson's former community of Homestead. Yes, that very famous town of baseball lore always followed by the moniker Grays. Since 1994, Josh Gibson's Great Grandson, Sean, has dedicated his work to increasing the awareness of not only his famous Great Grandfather but also those other Negro League Players that forged the path eventually leading to the integration of The Great Game in 1947 by Jackie Robinson.

And today's unveiling at Nationals Park of The Josh Gibson Statue was just another step in Sean's efforts to keep history alive and increase awareness of those African-Americans that played baseball professionally before they were ever given the chance to compete on a even level.

“For Josh to have never played Major League Baseball and now knowing that when kids come in here and see this statue and wonder who is Josh Gibson—they will now know who he is," proudly stated Sean Gibson. "I tell kids all the time. They asked me about The Negro Leagues or Josh Gibson. I say look at Josh Gibson and you see him at PNC Park (in Pittsburgh). And now I can say--look at Josh Gibson and you see him at Nationals Park. He’s in the Hall of Fame. Look at some of the other accolades he’s received. He must have been a great baseball player. You just don’t get those accolades for nothing. The good thing about all this is that a lot of kids can be educated from this statue when they come into this park. They can learn more about the Negro Leagues.”

Over the past 15 years, The Josh Gibson Foundation has provided more the $15,000 in college scholarships and is currently upgrading the neighborhood baseball field where Josh Gibson played in Pittsburgh with a $300,000 donation. A project that will directly allow 300 children to participate in The Josh Gibson Little League Program. Always looking to increase awareness, Sean believes today's honor at National Park will also assist his community outreach.

“This unveiling today is great for our Foundation. It’s huge for us because anything that puts Josh in the public eye and being recognized brings a lot of credit to the Foundation. It brings awareness to the Foundation and that’s the goal. This is the way we keep Josh’s legacy alive through our Foundation. And the kids in our Foundation are going to get the chance to see this. We are probably going to bring the kids in our Foundation down here for a game. They will have that chance to come in, view the statue in person.”

History becoming alive--another opportunity for The Josh Gibson Foundation to not only help others, but educate. Interestingly, while The Josh Gibson Statue was being produced for Nationals Park, Duquense University Students in Pittsburgh have been producing an educational documentary with Sean on the life of Josh Gibson. In fact today--Principal Owner of Our Washington Nationals Mark Lerner was filmed along with Washington Baseball Historian Phil Wood for segments in the upcoming educational documentary. George Will is also expected to participate. And the students have requested an interview with The President Of The United States--Barack Obama.

Sean Gibson: "This statue helps out the documentary because as the documentary gets played this spring and summer, people can see the timeline of Josh’s accomplishments. And this event in 2009, will be one of the biggest honors he has received so far. As a Foundation and Family, we can be very appreciative and very proud of that.”

This is the second statue of Josh Gibson to be placed inside a Major League Ballpark. At PNC Park, The Home of The Pittsburgh Pirates features a series of Negro League Stars immortalized in Legacy Square--just inside the third base gate of Pittsburgh's fabulous ballpark. "Of course, you have seen the one at PNC Park (in Pittsburgh)," said Sean Gibson to Sohna and I this afternoon. "it’s nothing like you’ve seen here. This one in DC is huge and big and can be seen by anyone who comes into the ballpark here. Everyone can see it—it’s a very proud moment for us. And we are going to suck this time up and enjoy it because who knows if it ever happens again.”

"When you get Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, “Cool Papa” Bell or Buck Leonard still being recognized at a Major League Ballpark—it helps bring the awareness to the public so they will know more, understand more and appreciate all these pioneers went through in The Negro Leagues. When you hold a press conference, you unveil a statue, you get it in The Washington Post—you can see what’s transforming. Just look at the turnout today—if there was somebody in the audience who knew nothing about Josh Gibson, they know about him today. They know about him today (beaming proudly).

And that educational process is what The Josh Gibson Foundation is all about.

Each year, The Josh Gibson Foundation holds a Special Foundation Night to raise funds for the organization. For 2009, Remembering The History Night will take place on July 31st in Pittsburgh. If you are interested in participating or donating, you can click on this link for complete information.

All Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Nationals Park Artworks Unveiled

“I am flattered to be honored in such a way but this guy made be look like a pea shooter," said Washington Senators Great Frank Howard--staring at the newly unveiled statues of himself and Negro League Great Josh Gibson. He (Gibson) hit them further than me!!" Hondo was on site in Centerfield Plaza at Nationals Park for the long awaited Bronze Statues of himself, Gibson and arguably the greatest baseball pitcher of all-time, Walter Johnson. The artwork commissioned by The D.C. Commission for The Arts & Humanities and produced by Omri Amrany. At 11AM this cold and windy Wednesday Morning, a few hundred friends, family and fans gathered to take their first peeks at the new artwork positioned just inside the Centerfield Gates of Nationals Park.


“This is a great honor for us, for the Gibson Family and just for The Negro Leagues in general," proclaimed The Great-Grandson of Josh Gibson--Sean. "Because this statue just doesn’t represent Josh, it represents the history of The Negro Leagues. Anytime that any baseball player from The Negro Leagues can be awarded something of this magnitude, it’s not just for them, it’s for everyone. It's for all of us."



Washington D.C. Baseball Historian and MASN Broadcaster Phil Wood emceed the proceedings and noted some of very reasons why these three D.C. Baseball Greats were being honored in such a long-lasting way.



“This is a way to remind people that baseball once thrived here in Washington, D.C. Great players played here," said Wood. "The whole issue of ‘First in war, First in peace and Last in the League' certainly that wasn’t true when Josh Gibson was playing. The (Homestead) Grays were the absolute powerhouse. They were The New York Yankees. They were the best team in The Negro Leagues year after year. Johnson pitched on some great clubs in Washington. He pitched on some bad one’s too. But his numbers usually reflected how much better he was than the rest of the club. And the fact that Frank Howard can be honored in his lifetime, I think is remarkable. He’s humble, he’s very self-deprecating about what he's accomplished as a player. And even though of the three, he is the only one not in The Hall Of Fame, I think it’s absolutely appropriate he’s the one dead center (placement in Centerfield Plaza at Nationals Park).”

During the ceremonies Phil mentioned some of Gibson's, Hondo's & Johnson's feats.

Did you know?

For every 500 At Bats in the Negro Leagues Josh Gibson averaged 51 Home Runs. He Won 12 Home Run Titles. As Phil so smartly stated, Josh is many times called The Black Babe Ruth, but maybe The Babe was The White Josh Gibson. Gibson passed away at 35 years of age—three months before Jackie Robinson signed with The Brooklyn Dodgers.

Moving to Hondo:


"It fair to say that Frank Howard is still the biggest name in Washington Baseball. If you attended the off-season luncheon The Nationals held for Season Ticket Holders you would have seen what I was talking about. This is Frank’s 50th year in baseball and he’s still a commanding presence. From 1967 to 1970 he lead The Majors in total home runs—including 48 in 1969, that fabulous season where Washington went 86-76 under Ted Williams as manager and we were all dancing in the streets over the joy of it all." Hondo cranked out 237 Homers wearing The Curly "W".

And Phil Wood finished off talking about Walter Johnson:


"Sometimes baseball does the wrong thing. Take the award that baseball hands out to the best pitcher in each league. For some reason they call it The Cy Young Award. But anyone with knowledge of baseball knows that it should be called The Walter Johnson Award…..in arguably the greatest pitcher who ever lived. He was fast. We all know that. But he was also the complete package—command, control—whatever you want to call it."

And added this incredible stat to help convince everyone: "2588 games were started by pitchers in The National League in 2008. There were 61 complete games in The National League last season in total. In 1910 and 1911 Walter Johnson started 79 games and completed 74 of them. He threw a total of 692 innings over those two seasons. He pitched 110 shutouts during his career. The All-Time Record. Number two on the list is 20 shutouts behind him (Grover Cleveland Alexander)."



Not lost in today's unveiling was the bridging of that 33 year long gap Washington, D.C. went without a Major League Team (1972-2005). "This certainly helps," believes The Co-Chair of The D.C. Sports & Entertainment Commission, Bill Hall. "What we are looking to do is narrow that gap so people can start forgetting there even was a gap—while re-introducing baseball to a couple of generations that went without a home team in The Nation’s Capital. Washingtonians that have missed it completely.” Bill Hall negotiated the contract with Major League Baseball on behalf of The District Of Columbia to transfer The Montreal Expos to D.C.



"These artworks add another element to the fan experience of this magnificent ballpark—appealing to baseball historians, fans of art and children alike," concluded Mark Lerner--Principal Owner for Our Washington Nationals. "Josh Gibson, Walter Johnson and my childhood baseball hero—Mr. Frank Howard—were each fantastic ballplayers in their own rights. They (the players) illustrated (on the field) the energy, skill and intelligence of the game and exemplified the excellence which today’s Washington Nationals aspire to achieve."



Also unveiled officially late this morning "The Ballgame" mobile on the main concourse--first base side--of Nationals Park. Located just inside The Grand Staircase Entrance, Walter Kravitz's rotating piece will continually play "Take Me Out To The Ballgame".

Of course no appearance by Hondo can left behind without Big Frank getting off one of his usual self-deprecating one liners. While standing in front of his statue posing for the photographers, Howard proudly stated: "You know, I never graduated from College. I guess I can call this my diploma!!" Frank smiling from ear to ear--happy and content over the attention given this happy day for himself, Sean Gibson's Family and Walter Johnson's (who did not attend).

After the official ceremonies and picture taking concluded--all participants, family and friends were invited inside The PNC Diamond Club for a special luncheon.

All Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Deja Vu All Over Again

"We can't influence the outcome from here--can we?" pondered Radio Broadcaster Dave Jageler to his broadcast partner.

"Well, tell that to our listeners!!" replied Charlie Slowes on WFED 1500AM.

On consecutive nights at Dolphin Stadium--Dave Jageler had inadvertently jinxed the outcome of the play on the field. And considering how poorly Our Washington Nationals have performed to begin 2009, it's time to consider all possible causes!! Now, I am just kidding and playing with Charlie & Dave, but how strange that yesterday, when Hanley Ramirez stepped to the plate with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 6th for The Florida Marlins--Dave mentioned "Hanley Ramirez has never hit a Grand Slam in his career."

Less than 60 seconds later, Ramirez was trotting across home plate to a standing ovation from his home fans. The recipient of that first 4 RBI Home Run. The decisive blow in yesterday's 12-6 loss to The Fish.

Then, this evening--with Washington already down 3-0 again to Florida and Scott Olsen struggling on the mound in his return debut against his former team--Dave mentions that "at least Dan Uggla hasn't done anything so far in this series."

Less than 60 seconds later--it's Deja Vu All Over Again--Dan Uggla belts out a two run homer that pretty much seals the deal on Game 2 of 2009. Jags had done it again and Our Washington Nationals were headed to their second consecutive loss to begin the season.

Later as Charlie and Dave reflected on the irony of those two called plays, Jageler wonders whether his radio calls might have any "collateral damage" on Charlie's Play-By-Play?

Charlie responds: "I am here in the bunker with you Dave. I am pulling the pin out of the grenade and you get to throw it!!"

Both of The Boys Of Summer laughing at themselves.

Which is exactly what Our Washington Nationals have to do when it comes to the first two games of The 2009 Championship Season. They are going to have to forget about these two miserable losses, pull themselves back together, laugh it off and come back with a fresh and even more determined attitude.

And in doing so--some players are going to have to take a hard look at themselves.

Scott Olsen barely reached 89MPH on his fastball tonight. At times, he was throwing the same pitch over and over--consecutively. And bouncing many of them in front of and off the plate. That tough, determined fighting spirit that many had witnessed when Our Number 19 was a Marlin--was not on display tonight. Losing the velocity off your fastball is never a good sign--especially when you've lost your mental edge as well.

Thinking about what you need to do--which Lastings Milledge again flailed at when he muffed another liner headed directly over his head, on the second consecutive night, by none other than Emilio Bonifacio after Uggla's two run homer. Playing slightly farther back than last night, Milledge found himself chasing down Bonifacio's drive in the bottom of the 3rd under similar duress. A DeJa Vu Moment of his own. And this time the ball ended up glancing off his glove--sending Emilio on another tear around the basepaths. Another sure Inside-The-Park Home Run, until his 3rd Base Coach Bo Porter inexplicably stopped Bonifacio at 3rd. Too late though--as the final damage had already been done and Our Washington Nationals were down 8-Zip.

A good outfielder catches that baseball slapped by Emilio most every single time. Lastings MIlledge takes poor tracks to hit baseballs. He is not an instinctive fielder. He's an athlete and very much a work in progress. On the other hand, Elijah Dukes may well be struggling with his bat over the past few weeks leading up to Opening Day. But Our Number 34 would be a much better centefielder than Lastings Milledge. That--I have no doubt. Elijah's presence in Our Lineup would also help solidify Our Batting Order.

Dukes could bat later in the lineup, especially if Our Manager Manny Acta permits Willie Harris to play second base--he's the perfect leadoff guy for a team struggling out of the gate--in need of an infusion of excitement.

Thrills, which Ryan Zimmerman usually provides but the first 18 innings of 2009 have found him pressing. He needs to relax. A second throwing error in consecutive games seemed to effect the rest of Zimmerman's game tonight. Like early last year, Ryan appeared at the plate and was swinging at everything thrown his way. Outside, inside, and any rising fastball sent over the plate--Our Number 11 was just swinging and getting himself out. Ryan, you have Cristian Guzman hustling in front of you. Adam Dunn & Nick Johnson behind your back. Just--relax.

Be comfortable just like what "The Guz", NJ, Austin Kearns, Jesus Flores and Julian Tavarez all showed tonight.

Guzman continuing to get on base, score runs, drive in one and play some solid defensive shortstop.

Nick Johnson--three solid singles tonight. The power will come later, but it's important to see his batting eye and hitting stroke coming back.

Austin Kearns flat out CLUBBED a blast into the 4th deck of Dolphin Stadium in the top of the 8th off Leo Nunez of Florida. A two run shot that had the Wow!! Factor to it. That was a shot. An RBI Double and Two RBI Homer in two games so far this young season for Our Number 25. And Jesus Flores with four hits in 8 At-Bats.

That was all the good stuff, along with Tavarez being sent out to the mound by Manny when Olsen failed after three poorly thrown frames and proceeded to stretch the game and our bullpen with three terrific innings of work. Mr. Rubber Arm performed the exact role Our Washington Nationals brought him onto the active roster to do--save everyone's else pitching arms early when Our Starters falter. Tavarez struck out four and had his sinker really working well. And made a very nice hustling run from the mound to cover first base on a dribbler hit by Bonifacio in the bottom of the 6th. Knowing there was no time to lose--Julian ran hard, with his head down, all the way to the bag and trapped the toss from Nick Johnson to record the out--by a whisker--of the gazelle speed of Emilio. Easily, the Defensive Play Of This Game.

But unfortunately, that was about it.

Final Score from South Florida where the good stuff came way to late to turnaround another large early deficit for the second consecutive game--The Florida Marlins 8 and Our Washington Nationals 3. Tonight's Deja Vu All Over Again moments stirring up an eerie start to the 2009 Championship Campaign. Time to laugh it off and move forward. Are Our Washington Nationals Listening?

So Dave--any chance of keeping some of those thoughts on the opposing team's players non-accomplishments to yourself?

Like Off-Air?

Just Kidding.

You know The African Queen and I love ya. But those play-by-play calls were ironically funny.

Game Notes & Highlights

Is there noting better than watching Nick Johnson attempt a slide? He's not afraid to get down and dirty, but its just he can't do it well. And you've got to love watching him try. Tonight, running to second base attempting to take out Dan Uggla on a ground ball hit by Ronnie Belliard--NJ slides as Uggla comes across the bag in an attempt to relay a double play. His throw is late to get Belliard at first--but the very sight of Nick Johnson sliding feet first and STOPPING easily 10 feet from the bag--downright hilarious. Our Number 24 is the ultimate professional--he always give his best. He just can't slide. Tonight it appeared as it his spikes got caught in the dirt. Too funny.

The Marlins' Johnson--starting pitcher Josh--throws SMOKE!! He was reaching the high 90's all night. Johnson didn't walk anyone, struck out 8 and gave up 7 hits in 6.2 shutout innings. Washington was getting on base against him--they just weren't doing any damage. Daniel Cabrera has similar capabilities. The difference--Josh has control. Daniel consistently does not. If Cabrera can give the same performance tomorrow as Johnson did this evening--Daniel Cabrera would be life saver for Our Washington Nationals.

The Quote Of The Night: Leo Nunez is on the mound for The Marlins in the 8th inning. Charlie & Dave are discussing how Nunez's pitching motion is very similar to K-Rod, Francisco Rodriguez. Dave Jageler mentions that Nunez's "delivery is so violent, he caught Milledge swinging at his motion." I nearly feel out of my seat laughing. But it was an accurate statement.

And Oh Yeah--Where's Josh Willingham? Alberto Gonzalez might be the 25th Man. But Josh Willingham?

11,124 the attendance tonight in South Florida. When Florida becomes The Miami Marlins in 2012 and plays in their first game in Little Havana at the Old Orange Bowl site--their fans better start coming out and supporting what has consistently been a pretty exciting and talented club operating on a shoestring budget. It's quite remarkable what Florida's President Larry Beinfest has accomplished on virtually no budget. They have traded so well and so consistently it's scary. They've got some good talent. The Marlins just kill us--much like The Mets.

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

Mesmerizing

Our one time 2nd Baseman Of The Future and Leadoff Batter in the Starting Lineup for Our Washington Nationals had a career day today. In fact, he was nothing short of MESMERIZING. Sadly, that effort was wasted because Emilio Bonifacio scampered around the bases for The Florida Marlins on Opening Day--manning 3rd base--in a manner not seen in some time from our opponent on Opening Day. Was he ever a pest this afternoon in South Florida.

Bonifacio though wasn't the whole story, but he was pretty tantalizing.

What made these matters even worse--was first the very fact that Washington's New Leadoff Hitter for 2009 was directly responsible for Bonifacio's First EVER CAREER HOME RUN. One of those rare Inside-The-Park varieties, when Emilio launched a rather routine liner over the head of the playing in-close centerfielder Lastings Milledge. A catchable ball by Lastings that simply wasn't. A dive by Ocho-Cinco that resulted in Emilio Bonifacio--jogging out of the box believing his stroked ball would be caught--instead now finding himself ever so quickly turning on his after-burners and screaming around the basepaths in that exhilarating manner so many fans of Our Washington Nationals came to appreciate in late 2008.

Emilio was impressive. The relay throw from Ronnie Belliard on his two run homer wasn't even close at the plate. Bonifacio can fly. He would finish today with four hits, four runs scored, three stolen bases and two runs batted in.

Now, one great game does not make a career--it's a small sample size--but Emilio Bonifacio certainly turned some heads today as an impact player so many scouts have long raved about.


That game changing effect important to winning that Washington struggled this day to harness. Thanks not only to Bonifacio's Career Day, but also some seriously poor pitching out of the block by DC's Team. Washington's Starter, John Lannan, couldn't throw strikes, was always behind in the count and he paid dearly for his control when The Florida Marlins just sat back on their heels and slammed pitch after pitch all over the park at Dolphin Stadium. A bad three inning, six runs allowed performance that had Washington down early and nearly out-- until our revamped batting lineup launched two nice come backs--mostly on the back of Adam Dunn.

The Big Burly Leftfielder cost Lannan his first run allowed of the season when he misplayed a slicing liner off the bat of Florida's John Baker in the bottom of first--scoring Bonifacio, but Adam came back strong with an opposite field double off the leftfield wall to score "The Guz" with Washington's first run of 2009 in the 4th, and eventually seriously back into this game down 8-5 in the 6th when Adam Dunn absolutely HAMMERED a Ricky Nolasco fastball DEEP AND LONG GONE down the right field line at Dolphin Stadium. A three run homer that now found Washington down only three. Our New Power Offense that can mount comebacks and stay close in any game--even late.

That is--if your pitching holds together--which certainly didn't happen today.

Each time Our Washington Nationals fought gallently back into this Opening Day Matchup--their pitching failed. Scoring two in the top of 4th and Julian Tavarez gives them right back in the bottom half of the 4th. Dunn slams his three run homer in the top of the 6th--and Wil Ledezma and Steven Shell (thanks to an error and assist from Ryan Zimmerman) give back four in the bottom half. Shell coming in with the bases loaded and nobody out and allowing a full count Grand Slam, on a hanging slider, to Hanley Ramirez. That Nat's Killer again launching the game deciding blow to the upper reaches of the left field pavilion in South Florida. Ramirez never ceases to amaze me with his talent. That young man is MVP Material.

A once precarious three run lead for The Fish, now advanced to seven, and the final blow to Our Washington Nationals hopes on this Opening Day--2009. When RallyTime!! began off the powerful bat of Adam Dunn, it certainly appeared as if Washington might just make that remarkable and memorable of comebacks. Unfortunately, our pitching let us down. Lannan, Tavarez, Ledezma and Shell--all hurlers given jobs on Washington's staff thanks to their Spring Training efforts--did not live up to Real GameDay Performances.

That needed positive achievement which Emilio Bonifacio and the always dangerous Hanley Ramirez capitilized on this very day. Yes, one game does not make the season or even anyone's career, but it certainly leaves a sour taste in your mouth when one of your former highly touted players--jacks you all over the ballpark and makes you wonder whether, even if for the slightest of moments, trading Bonifacio in the first place was a smart move after all. The African Queen has been asking me all night long--"Why did we trade him away in the first place?"

Emilio Bonifacio was pretty mesmerizing.

Final score from South Florida--where no matter how good The Florida Marlins are they can never draw a decent crowd--34,323 on Opening Day--The Fish 12 and Our Washington Nationals 6. An afternoon were Washington showed they may never be quite out of any game as long as Adam Dunn is penciled into the lineup. But nobody can win if your pitching can't consistently throw strikes and keep the opposing batters off the bases. Even the fasted human alive can't score--if you simply get him out--more times than not. 18 Fish reaching base isn't getting the job done.

Game Notes & Highlights

I actually believe the Bonifacio for Josh Willingham/Scott Olsen trade was a good one at the time. As I explained to The African Queen this evening, JimBo picked up a starting pitcher and starting leftfielder for a switch hitting leadoff hitter. A positive move that has been hindered by the eventual signing of Adam Dunn. Willingham is a pretty good player now without a position. And hopefully Our Washington Nationals can find a positive role for him--or trade him to get that leadoff hitter Washington most definitely needs.

Because Lastings Milledge really bothered me when he swung at the very first pitch of 2009 offered today by Rickey Nolasco. Show some patience Lastings--this isn't a sprint--it's a marathon. And if Our Washington Nationals are going to be as effective as possible--you need to be a baserunner--not a free swinger trying to launch every pitch out of the park.

How interesting that John Lannan, Julian Tavarez, Wil Ledezma and Steven Shell all allowed their first batters faced to reach base? Did you also notice that Tavarez has taken over Garrett Mock's Number 50 and Ledezma as taken over Shawn Hill's former Number 41? Mike Hinkley the only Washington pitcher, of five today, to not give up a run.


Washington pitching allowing four gopher balls today. Besides Bonifacio's Inside The Parker and Ramirez, Jorge Cantu and Jeremy Hermida launched baseballs out of Dolphin Stadium.

Former Marlin Josh Willingham didn't get into this game. His teammate and also former Florida Starter, Scott Olsen, gets the ball tomorrow in Game Two.

Dunn wasn't the only positive note in this first game--"The Guz" rapped out two hits, scored two runs and played some nice shortstop--including two nice picks into the hole--backhanding both grounders and throwing the runners out at first. Cristian Guzman picking up where he left off in 2008.

It was also nice to see Austin Kearns rip an inside pitch down the leftfield line for a double in the top of 4th. Our Number 25 also making two very nice catches at the wall in right. Austin Kearns has always been deft at fielding hit baseballs.

Great ability which Ryan Zimmerman always has defensively--but once again lost concentration on during a routine ground ball hit by Brett Carroll of The Fish in the 6th. One of those TOO MUCH TIME throwing errors by Our Number 11 that was the harbinger of the things to come when Carroll was ruled safe on Zimmerman's bad throw. Bonifacio followed with a bunt base hit right under Ryan's Glove. A now no out--two runners on situation where Wil Ledezma lost control on the mound and promptly walked the very next hitter--The Marlins John Baker--to load things up. Only to witness Our Manager Manny Acta relieve Ledezma for Shell and who immediately was greeted by Hanley Ramirez with his full count Grand Slam--the deciding moment of today's game.


Having been used to seeing Our Washington Nationals play in their Gray Block "WASHINGTON" road jerseys for the past four years, it was odd watching Washington play in their new Script "Washington" Away Uniforms. They are OK, but it seems strange that the uniform trim is red with some gold and the hat is Navy Blue. I know The St.Louis Cardinals wear a similar combination--but it doesn't seem just right. Sort of odd to me--for some reason. Could not the Road Jersey have Navy Blue Trim also if the Navy Blue Cap is a keeper?

And how about Lasting Milledge wearing the double earflap batting helmet? I don't recall seeing that particular protective gear being worn in any Major League Game in recent times.

Early in the game, Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler were in mid-season form on WFED--1500 AM. When Charlie and Dave were talking about an upcoming T-Shirt Tuesday at Nationals Park. Charlie reeled off: "Those free tee-shirts are good. When was the last time Jack Hicks paid for any shirt?" The Jack Of All Things is Charlie & Dave's Radio Engineer on site.

Finally--watching the Los Angeles Dodgers play The San Diego Padres at Petco Park on DirecTV's MLB Extra Innings, The Padres are commemorating their 40th Season as a Major League Franchise. For all of 2009, San Diego will wear a special patch on the right sleeve of their uniform. Interestingly, Our Washington Nationals entered The Major Leagues at the same time as The Padres, but as The Montreal Expos in 1969--along with American League Expansion Teams: The Kansas City Royals and Seattle Pilots (now Milwaukee Brewers). The Royals are also celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2009. The Brewers are waiting until 2010. 1970 was Milwaukees's first year in The Major Leagues after The Pilots went bankrupt.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Alan Diaz--Associated Press

Milledge, Dunn & Zimmerman Batting photos--taken off MASN's Broadcast.

The New Yankee Stadium Menu

The Today Show on NBC aired this terrific segment this morning on some of the new upscale food items at New Yankee Stadium. Wow!! There are some terrific offerings. Knowing premium ticket prices are extremely pricey at the new Bronx Ballpark, many of the these food choices are part of the premium ticket packages at New Yankee Stadium. Beginning for 2009, The New York Yankees took total control of their food services in their own new ballpark. They are themselves the concessionaire. The Yankees hire everyone involved personally--no Aramark, Centerplate, Levy, etc. Considering how successful The Yankees owned YES NETWORK has been, you can bet their Food Concessions efforts will be just as good.

This is the video from Today. Very Entertaining.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Duly Noted

Just before the beginning of yesterday's D.C. Public School Initiative Press Conference, Team President Stan Kasten informed The African Queen and I about the final roster moves to set The 25-Man Roster for Opening Day. When Mr. Kasten told us that both Garrett Mock and Jason Bergmann got optioned to AAA Syracuse, we were pretty shocked and I immediately questioned one of the moves.

"But you full well know that Bergmann did not give up an earned run all spring?--I said. "He did everything asked in his new role out of the bullpen."

Our Team President responded: "That's has merit and has been duly noted (shaking his head up and down in agreement). That very fact has not been lost on anyone, including Mike (Rizzo--Interim GM). Look, it really came down to the numbers game. Julian Tavarez has a rubber arm. He can pitch virtually every single day. Early in the season that's key because we need to protect our starters. Jason Bergmann has a role with this team and nothing he has done this spring has taken away from his effectiveness or our desire to keep him. He had an option. The same with Mock. This was roster decision for now, the immediate future."

Which tells me that Interim General Manager Mike Rizzo wants to build a team that can win Right Now on The Major League Level with more veteran experience--while not wasting valuable resources for when Washington, hopefully soon, turns the corner on winning. How interesting to also note how Our Washington Nationals have changed in the short five weeks since Our Former General Manager Jim Bowen resigned.

Three new pitchers added to The 40-Man Roster: Joe Beimel, Julian Tavarez and Wil Ledezma and a switch hitting catcher with power (Josh Bard). All veterans--not youngsters. And you would have to figure that Beimel and Bard would not be in Washington Uniform's today if JimBo was still picking the roster--at least according to a few reports which have been written over the past month. The only downside move out of all this for us, is the seemingly quick trigger of releasing Shawn Hill, well before he had the chance to actually make the 2009 Roster or not. A preemptive waive of a quality, but often injured, sinker ball specialist that two weeks later has been named to the 5th starter spot for The San Diego Padres. Honestly, we still don't understand that money move over less than $750,000. One of these days, we are going to get someone with Our Washington Nationals to explain that decision to us. In our mind's eyes, it's been duly noted that that decision still doesn't make much sense for the near or long term future of our ballclub--even today.

But nevertheless--Our Washington Nationals open the 2009 Season in South Florida tomorrow with a roster whose age will creep up to an average of 28.6 years over the course of this upcoming year. And a projected starting lineup tomorrow of 28.1 average years of age. Ronnie Belliard (34 Years Old) replacing the injured Anderson Hernandez (26 years old) has added one additional year to Washington's Starting 8's average age.

So it should be also duly noted that Version 5.0 of DC's Team has more veteran presence than youth. Jesus Flores, Anderson Hernandez, Lastings Milledge and Elijah Dukes the only everyday players with less than three full years of Major League Experience. John Lannon, Shairon Martis, Mike Hinckley and Steven Shell the only pitchers with less than two full-years of Major League Experience. This is a team that is built more to win today, not completely biding time--waiting for our future to eventually all arrive at some unknown date.

While The Youth Is Always Our Future--it should not be lost on anyone that Our Washington Nationals are putting the makings of a competitive team out on the field for 2009. Barring major injury or something totally unexpected that hinders or transforms Our Team--expect an exciting and hustling product to compete on the field of play this season in DC. And Game One at Dolphin Stadium against The Florida Marlins on Monday is just the start of 161 more interesting outings to come. Maybe for the first time since The Nation's Capital returned to The Major Leagues in 2005, Washington's starting nine might just be greater than the sum of their collective parts. A good mix of veteran leadership is on board. There is some depth at all fielding positions. The bullpen has been shored up for the short term. Add in some youthful vigor and anyone can go a long way toward building a winning attitude.

While Still Team Building.

And that should be Duly Noted--as well.

PS--I guess Josh Bard didn't get the message about the horrors of wearing Jersey Number 7 for Our Washington Nationals. The Bermuda Triangle of Washington Numbers that has found all takers quickly moving on in their Major League Careers. All expect Roger Bernadina--who was sharp enough to trade his original number 7 to number 2 before the full effects languished and hindered his baseball career. Pete Orr took that number in Spring Training in 2009. All it got him was an early exit from The WBC with Team Canada and a quick ticket to Syracuse for AAA Ball. Brad Wilkerson, Wiki Gonzalez, Felipe Lopez, Nook Logan, Roger Bernadina, Emilio Bonifacio and Orr all have suffered similar fates here wearing that dreaded number. Josh--unless you have luck on your side--take any available number but SEVEN--Please!!

D.C. Public High School Initiative

“I want to say at the outset that as we kick-off this 2009 Season," stated D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, "how great it has been for the city to partner with The Nationals, with The Lerner Family on so many different things over the past year here at the new stadium—and even before that as we were preparing to come (to Nationals Park). This new initiative may be one of the most long-lasting initiatives that we are partnering on."

Mayor Fenty was standing in The Media Room at Nationals Park late yesterday afternoon. He was on hand--along with some of The District Of Columbia's Council Members, Nationals Owner Ted Lerner, his wife Annette, his son Mark and a host of teenagers from nine different D.C. Public High Schools. Team President Stan Kasten had just announced Our Washington Nationals 2009 Public High School Initiative. A three-step ground breaking program that will allow all 12 public high schools in The Nation's Capital to book one scheduled practice per season at Nationals Park for their baseball programs. Additionally, every single school will have their very own day at The South Capitol Street Ballpark where every single student (that's the entire school, not just the baseball players) will be given a free ticket to an upcoming game during the 2009 Regular Season--all at no expense to The D.C. Public Schools. Additionally, Our Washington Nationals will conduct a baseball equipment drive in May--all donations to be distributed among the participating high schools.

“We are going to work our schedule (The Nationals), said Team President Stan Kasten. "Each is going to have a day where they just come and have their own team practice on the field. They will be using the field. They will be using the cages, our screens out on the field. They will use our indoor batting cages. They will have a regular practice just like the Big Leaguers have.”

Already, Cardozo and Roosevelt Senior Highs and Dunbar have booked their practice dates.


"I think what this will have the opportunity to do is to rejuvenate baseball in The District of Columbia," believes D.C. Council Chair Vincent Gray. "We have a few teams that are very good. We have a lot of teams that aren’t very good. And I think the opportunity to see a Big League Team, to be around Big League Players, to be involved with the highest level of baseball—will have a catalytic effect on our young people. You know, a few days ago, we had Maury Wills (former Major League Great) at the Wilson Building (DC Government) because the city was renaming Banneker Field in his honor and he told a story there that was absolutely unforgettable. He (Maury Wills) talked about how he grew up in Kenilworth (Section of DC) in some very difficult circumstances. And one day a member of The Washington Senators—he called him Jerry Priddy—showed up to do a brief clinic. And two hours later this guy was still there working with the kids. And he (Wills) said this man told him: ‘that if I really appli