Away For The Weekend

We are away on a weekend trip and will be back Monday Morning.

Just

Just off Adam Dunn's Glove in right.

Just over Josh Willingham's head in left.

Just missed by Justin Maxwell in center (which was a tough play).

And just out of the reach of Cristian Guzman's dive as well (Although why he AND Anderson Hernandez were both covering second base on a steal attempt by Raul Ibanez/Hit & Run by Jayson Werth still needs to be answered).

Every time this evening Our Washington Nationals needed a key defensive stop--they just couldn't do it against The Philadelphia Phillies.

In fact, Ross Detwiler couldn't find the right stuff tonight just to keep from getting hammered at Citizens Bank Park.

And just when Our Washington Nationals rallied down from a four run deficit to pull within one at 5-4 in the 6th inning, they just couldn't push across the tying run with Anderson Hernandez standing on second base. Justin Maxwell striking out and Ronnie Belliard lining out to 3rd to end the rally.

Really, just when you believed The Defending Champions were there for the taking this evening, Washington couldn't make the key play.

All on the very night just when you thought Jesus Flores would return and bolster our starting lineup from his rehab assignment for a hurt shoulder, a setback occurs and that most famous of doctors--Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Alabama--now has on his docket a meeting with Our Number 3 this Monday. Officially, it's just Tendinitis. Just can't wait to find the real answer.

Much less the outcome of the latest saga involving JUSTice and Elijah Dukes. Seemingly trying to get his life back together, Elijah's past has again come back to haunt him. More legal fees to pay, another $40,000 sum by next Friday, June 5th or face 90 Days in Jail. Our Number 34 just needs to get these legal issues out of the way. And he better find a way soon, because if he doesn't--it's just going to ruin his burgeoning career--and sadly so.

Just an all-around bummer of a day--to be a fan of Our Washington Nationals.

Final Score from Citizens Bank Park, where virtually nothing went right for the visitors. The Philadelphia Phillies 5 and Our Washington Nationals 4. Just a little bit extra effort here, or just a little bit more hustle there and DC's Team might have made a better game out of this one. But that's just the story of Our Season so far.

Washington heading into the weekend losers of four straight, 12 of 14 and 15 of 18. Just spinning around--searching to find their balance. And The African Queen and I just personally hoping Manny isn't the scapegoat for a team assembled mostly by someone no longer a part of Our Franchise.

Game Notes & Highlights

Ross Detwiler really got hit hard. The Phillies were socking his served baseballs all over their bandbox park. Blistering shots that continually where JUST OUT OF REACH of Our Fielders. It was frustrating because a couple nice defensive plays might have saved Our Number 48. Instead every shot mostly found the grass and that meant baserunners and plated runs scored for Philadelphia. Ross going just four complete innings, giving up five runs on 10 hits and one walk. Although clearly, a better defensive team might have given Detwiler more of a fighting chance on a night he wasn't his best.

Joe Beimel was exceptional tonight in the bottom of the 7th.. Called on with the bases loaded and just one out, Our Number 97 got John Mayberry, Jr. to strike out and Former MVP Jimmy Rollins to pop to third. With Washington down just one run at the time, it was a crucial series and it kept Our Washington Nationals in the game.

Josh Willingham with his 7th home run of the season in the 2nd off J.A. Happ. Willingham with two hits and two runs scored this evening. Ryan Zimmerman broke out of a Zero for 10 slump with a single in the 6th which began Washington's only rally tonight. And "The Guz" hitting a serious cold streak--now down to .329 after a Zero for Five night at the plate--falling quickly after being at .373 just last week. Just six hits total for Washington tonight. 15 for Philadelphia.

And finally--in The NCAA Baseball Tournament this evening in Irvine, California--presumptive Number One Draft Pick Stephen Strasburg looked more human. And there is nothing wrong with that--he's probably pitched too much already this year and JUST needs to be shutdown. Just like Interim GM Mike Rizzo stated two Sunday's ago at The Smithsonian Associates Meeting at Nationals Park.

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

Picture Of The Day--August 23, 1942

Long after their playing careers ended both Walter Johnson and Babe Ruth could still pack a crowd into a ballpark. With World War II in full swing, the rationing of supplies in The United States and night time curfews in effect, arguably Baseball's Greatest Pitcher and Slugger got together once last time on the baseball diamond at Yankee Stadium. On August 23, 1942, in an effort to raise needed donations for The Army Navy Relief Fund, these two Original Members Of The Baseball Hall Of Fame & Museum squared off in The Bronx before a scheduled doubleheader between The Washington Senators and The New York Yankees.

Walter Johnson was 55 Years Old. Babe Ruth was 48. Each would sadly pass away within six years.

But on this hot summer's New York City afternoon, 69,136 baseball aficionados showed up to watch the spectacle. The second largest home crowd all season for The Yanks, one of only six turnouts above 50,000 at the venerable ballyard that year.

"The Big Train" hurled 21 of what was left of his famous fastballs right down the middle of the plate to "The Bambino". And as everyone on hand watched with rapt attention--The Babe launched Johnson's third pitch into the rightfield bleachers at Yankee Stadium for a home run. Mostly though, Ruth struggled with his swings--Walter's rusty arm getting the best of Ruth's rusty swing. But never one to lose his flair for the dramatic, on Johnson's final pitch--Babe Ruth flat out HAMMERED "The Big Train's" offering HIGH, DEEP & INTO THE THIRD DECK of Yankee Stadium. A colossal blast, JUST FOUL, but good enough for "The Bambino" to trot around the bases to great applause--feeling the love of so many faithful that had adored him those many years.

Walter Johnson meeting "The Babe" at home plate, congratulating him on his effort--letting his friend live in the moment.

Walter Johnson's and Babe Ruth's Final Face-Off, August 23, 1942. The Picture Of The Day.

The Video NewsReel Of The Event

A Little More Intensity Please!!

Our Washington Nationals need to play with a little more fire. That intensity which puts everyone on the edge. Sharp and ready for action--at a moment's notice.

Over the past two weeks, DC's team seems to have lost some of that passion. Spirit that binds teams together.

The "Go Get 'EM!!' necessary to be competitive.

Consistent losing hurts every one's enthusiasm-but it shouldn't hinder being a professional on the field.

Our Team that calls Nationals Park it's very home appeared to be walking through the paces last night in the series finale at "Obstructed View Field", defeated long before the game ended. And the latest controversial home run only deflected the real issue. For quite a few games now, the mental as well as physical errors have taken their toll on our ballplayers. We are not playing anywhere up to our capabilities.

You can't tell us that a lineup with Cristian Guzman, Nick Johnson, Ryan Zimmerman, Adam Dunn and the healthy Elijah Dukes and Jesus Flores is terrible? Offensively, none of those six guys have been problems.

You can't tell us not to get excited about John Lannan, Jordan Zimmermann, Shairon Martis, Ross Detwiler and Craig Stammen (all under 25 Years of Age) being in our starting rotation? As written before, that's Forward Progress in building from within.

And you can't tell us a defensively fielding team with Ryan Zimmerman, Nick Johnson, Anderson Hernandez, "The Guz", Elijah Dukes, Justin Maxwell and Austin Kearns is awful?

Are they world beaters? No, not by a long shot.

But collectively Our Washington Nationals are just not putting it all together. The early season power surge offensively has recently seen an outage. Our Baby Starters are having their expected growing pains. And even Gold Glove Caliber fielders are stumbling a bit in the field. And Our Bullpen--well that's been a mess all season.

Consistent losing hurts one's pride, but The African Queen and I don't want to see anybody lose faith in their abilities on the field of play.

The Average of 20,000 Fans at Nationals Park have yet to give up on you. So please don't give up on us now. The Long 162 Game Season is barely past the quarter pole. The Dog Days Of DC's Sweltering Summer Looms Large. Time to get back on track, revive hope and give Our Fans positive momentum for when summer eventually turns to fall.

A Little More Intensity Please!! The Philadelphia Phillies are next up at Citizens Bank Park starting Friday Night. If that doesn't get you fired back up--nothing will.

100% effort at all times during these growing pains. Only then can these mounting losses be more tolerable.

And Manny--you don't have act like Earl Weaver (Classic Earl) or Lou Piniella (inciting a riot) or Carlos Zambrano (just being stupid) yesterday--that's all pretty embarrassing stuff they've all performed arguing with umpires. But it sure would be nice if at times you got out there on the field and protected Our Players on some close and controversial calls. Josh Bard being thrown out at the plate on Wednesday night and Jesus Colome's Phantom Balk last night well worth stopping the action and getting your two cents in.

Photo--Kathy Willens (AP)

Troubling

I thought Daniel Murphy's blast was a home run.

The baseball changed trajectory upon hitting The Subway Sandwich Sign at Citi Field.

Adam Dunn completely stopped chasing the ball as it flew over his head.

The Mid-Atlantic Sports Network showed a replay from a left field camera that depicted the baseball bouncing back off the yellow & white sign. But only once was that angle shown.

As bad as this Umpiring Crew butchered Gary Sheffield's Non-Home Run on Tuesday Night--their reverse call tonight was correct. They got it right at the end and that's all you can really ask for--no complaints about the reversal.

But it still doesn't excuse First Base Umpire Adrian Johnson (3rd Base Umpire on Tuesday Night) for not hustling out as far as he can humanly get to track the deep flies. It's the umpire's job to anticipate any situation--not react after it happens. Never before do I recall hearing Adrian Johnson's name as an arbiter in any Major League Baseball game, so we won't judge him on these two controversial home runs--but we'll be watching closely from here on out whether Johnson's just had a bad day or two.

One of those Off-Days in which Our Washington Nationals have had too many of--of late. Once Murphy's drive was ruled a home run. The two go ahead runs plated by The New York Mets took the final wind out of DC's Team. You could clearly see it on the field in the demeanor shown by Our Players. For the remainder of this affair--from the bottom of the 6th on--virtually no inspired play. It was almost like as if Washington was just playing out the string--getting it over with.

That's troubling.

And as much we love Manny Acta, it really bothered us when Our Manager didn't go to protect a terrible balk call on Jesus Colome in the bottom of the 7th inning. A phantom balk call on "The Human Rain Delay" for stepping his hind leg off the rubber, while not even being in the set position. It was a bad call and Manny should have been out there protecting his players from this Umpiring Crew. If not, anyone will continue to pull junk like that again and again. Advancing both inherited runners to second and third on the balk--both New Yorkers eventually scored to extend The Mets lead to 7-3 and really put this uninspiring game out of reach.

When your team is struggling, and in the dumps, everybody else is going to take advantage of you. The Umpire's showed no mercy, neither tonight or in any of the just completed three games played in Queens. Nor did The New York Mets in sweeping Our Washington Nationals again. The sixth time in 2009 Washington has been swept by an opponent.

Yet DC's team wasn't helping themselves as well. Ronnie Belliard failed to cover first base on a sacrifice bunt. Cristian Guzman missed a fly over his left shoulder in short left field that bounced off the pocket of his glove. Josh Willingham overran a fly into the leftfield corner at Citi Field that resulted in a double. Wil Nieves dropped a infield popup--but Ron Villone recovered and got the out. None errors, but all three extending innings, making pitch counts higher and giving New York additional Free At-Bats to score more runs.

Just some very bad baseball tonight played in what is clearly becoming a poorly designed new ballpark in Queens. Citi Field's dimensions are too quirky, gimmickry and don't allow for a clean baseball game to be played. The walls are too short in some areas and too far from home plate in others. There is no rhyme or reason for its dimensions. As Charlie Slowes so aptly put it on WFED Tonight--"It's like someone designed the outfield walls using an Etch-A-Sketch." Funny, but true. New York City's New National League Ballpark has too many issues that affect play--including overhangs not in play. The Mets & The City of New York need to seriously make some corrections.

Maybe an off-day in Philadelphia tomorrow will do Our Washington Nationals some good. They looked lethargic tonight. The very first time all year where we felt they had ZERO chance of winning--especially after Murphy's controversial home run. They didn't look good. They showed little emotion and it appeared Our Washington Nationals were sleepwalking through the final three innings of this game.

That's got to change.

Final Score from Citi Field where Our Washington Nationals are probably glad they don't have to return to Queens until September--The New York Mets 7 and Our Washington Nationals 4 in a troubling baseball game. Except for Adam Dunn's TOWERING two run homer of Johan Santana in the top of the 4th--there was little to get excited about tonight. And DC's team didn't put on the field an effort worthy of a Major League Team.

Washington now 20 Games below .500 at 13 & 33. Even if they go 54-54 the rest of the way--their final record would only be 67-87.

Game Notes & Highlights

Jordan Zimmerman looked shaky again off the bat in the 1st inning. Again allowing two early runs, but settling down nicely, was able to quell deeper damage and actually made it to the bottom of the 6th in a tie ballgame. He was pitching well until he walked Gary Sheffield in the bottom of the 6th--moments before Daniel Murphy's reviewed home run off that Subway Sign. Our Number 27 struck out 8, allowed 8 hits and walked two--finishing the night with an ERA now at 6.07

Johan Santana may well have pitched his worst game in a few years, walking six over six innings, giving up three earned runs and striking out 11 Nats Hitters. And somehow got the win--when Murphy's Homer gave him the lead after being taken out of the game for a pinch hitter.

Adam Dunn's two run homer in the 4th off Santana was an absolute MONSTER. Over the bullpens in right, past the right field stands and into a walkway that houses a facsimile bridge of New York City. That was a BLAST!!

Major League Baseball needs to review their Instant Replay procedure. Either get it right with the proper camera angle views or scrap it entirely. It's not working smoothly at all.

Finally, "The Boys Of Summer" have dubbed the new Queen Ballpark "Obstructed View Field". Fans and Vendors alike can stand and block their view of the play-by-play. They are placed slightly down the first base line--behind a row of seats in the main seating bowl. Not ideal, and at least three times tonight, both Charlie Slowes & Dave Jageler had to pause, watch what happened on the television replay provided in the booth--to make the call. A play they could not watch in person. No, that's not good.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Kathy Willens (AP)

Youth Baseball Clinic Presented By Smithfield

This past Saturday, May 23, Our Washington Nationals hosted the first of five youth clinics at Nationals Park. Sponsored by Smithfield, this is the second consecutive year the Virginia based Food Company has partnered with DC's Major League Baseball Team. The goal to expose more youths to baseball, enhance their skills while teaching proper training techniques.

Nationals Hitting Instructor Rick Eckstein, Pitching Coach Randy St.Claire, Third Base Coach Pat Listach, First Base Coach Marquis Grissom and Bullpen Coach Randy Knorr were all on hand to assist the nearly 100 kids from The District's DC RBI Program (Reviving Baseball In Inner Cities).

During the two hour session, the children rotated through six different work stations to receive instruction on hitting, fielding and throwing. Every single youth was given the opportunity to swing a bat in Washington's Indoor Batting Cages. And Assistant Trainer, Mike McGowan was on hand to provide tips on staying healthy.

After the instruction concluded--lunch was served for all participants in The Nats Family Picnic Area on the main concourse near The Exxon Strike Zone. Each child receiving a Nationals/Smithfield Gear Bag and two tickets to an upcoming Nats Baseball Game at Nationals Park.

The next Washington Nationals Youth Clinic presented by Smithfield will be June 20. Other scheduled dates are July 25, August 22 and September 5. Online registration at Nationals.com will be available soon.

All Photos--Courtesy of The Washington Nationals

Yesterday's Past/Cabrera Gone

Breaking News--Daniel Cabrera Designated For Assignment tonight after the game--not a surprise. Got to love Mike Rizzo's Comment: "I was tired of watching him."


The sight of Vintage Livan Hernandez, circa early 2005, pitching for The New York Mets tonight at Citi Field brought back many a fond memories this evening for The African Queen and I. There was no player more larger than life during The Inaugural Season of Our Washington Nationals than Livo. He threw the first pitch in team history at Citizens Bank Park on April 4th, 2005. Old Number 61 then tossed the first pitch in the very first Regular Season Major League Game in over 33 years played in The Nation's Capital on April 14th, 2005 ("And here's the kick and the pitch and it's In There for strike one!!"--Charlie Slowes on the radio that night).

Livan Hernandez was one of DC's first All-Stars, along with Chad Cordero, representing Our New Nats in Detroit that summer for The Mid-Summer Classic. He helped lead Washington to the top of the standings at that All-Star Break. The Greatest three months in Our Washington Nationals Short History. The Feeling Of Joy!! which resonated throughout DC that magical first half season of 2005 not to be forgotten. EVERYBODY WAS TALKING ABOUT OUR TEAM.

You know that to be true. Night after night, Our Washington Nationals played before packed houses at RFK Stadium in 2005. The Old Ballyard on East Capitol Street became a SPECIAL PLACE AGAIN!! Rejuvenated, alive for a little while longer--a renewed venue for Major League Baseball. The Jumping Seats along the 3rd Base line. The Crowds. The Excitement--it didn't get much better than that.

A Fan Base Was Born. So was The VERY LOUD AND ALWAYS CHEERING Section 320--where this blog began.

And Livan Hernandez had alot to do with all that passion.

Confident and relaxed--with the ability to go so deep into games--Livo was always willing to throw 150 pitches any time out on the mound attempting to go the distance. He was so fun to watch. It didn't hurt that The Burly Cuban could hit too.

For all those reasons, and I am sure many more--we can never root against Livan Hernandez--or say anything bad about him. If baseball is entertainment--Old Number 61 stands on Center Stage. Hernandez is attractive and fascinating even if he is on the downside of one very interesting professional career. Forever, Sohna and I will fondly remember him for his work as a National. We've always believed, no one enjoys playing baseball more than Livo.

Tonight--Livan Hernandez shut down Our Washington Nationals for his 46th Career Complete Game. He was spotting all his junk, including that 60 MPH Whoop-DI-Doo Curve. His slop, when on, can have most any hitter lunging and falling all over the plate. Effective enough to toss in a mid-80's fastball to create even more confusion.

Vintage Livan Hernandez on display this evening for The New York Mets--and Our Washington Nationals really didn't have a chance.

Livo was just too good.

Nick Johnson 0 for 4 (the ending of his 9 game hitting streak).

Ryan Zimmerman 0 for 4 (the ending of his 43 consecutive games reaching base streak).

Only Adam Dunn touched Livo for his 15th Home Run of 2009--an opposite field shot to left in the 7th.

Livan gave up his usual large amount of hits (9), but he walked only one. And like the '05 Hernandez of Our Inaugural Season--when runners got on base against him--Livan was able to make just the right pitch to get out of trouble. Nothing worries Old Number 61 and Our Washington Nationals subsequently opposed little threat to him this evening in Queens.

Final Score from Citi Field where one of The Original Faces of Our Franchise re-emerged on baseball's Biggest Stage--The Big Apple--and shutdown one of his former teams and teammates. The New York Mets 6 and Our Washington Nationals 1 in nine special innings. Like on nearby Broadway after a command performance, Livan Hernandez walked off the field tonight to a standing ovation. And watching from our home in Alexandria, Virginia--deep down in Our Hearts--we were sort of cheering for him too.

That Wonderful First Season Of Washington Nationals Baseball Flashbacked To Life Tonight in Our Mind's Eyes. Thoughts Of Yesterday's Past--the very reason so many Washingtonians, Virginians and Marylanders were so THRILLED in the first place upon Baseball's Return To DC. Wonderfully Remembered This Evening--All Thanks To Livan Hernandez.

We Can't Wait for Those Happy Days To Return Again.

Game Notes & Highlights

Craig Stammen got roughed up a little bit in his second Major League Start. Facing a injury depleted Mets Lineup, he allowed seven hits and 2 walks over 5 complete innings. Stammen was OK, but Livo was far better. Craig's first Away Game In The Big Leagues was a learning experience--nothing more. He could have also been helped in the bottom of third on a grounder to Cristian Guzman hit by Fernando Tatis. Moving to his left, it appeared "The Guz' could make a play and possibly turn two with Mets runners on first and second base. Instead, the baseball scooted past Our Number 15's glove, between his outstretched hand and body for a run scoring single. The resultant non-defensive play quickly led to two New York Runs.

Jason Bergmann pitched a solid 6th, then got torched by Gary Sheffield on a screamer of a three run homer in the bottom of the 7th. Sheffield's second home run in as many nights, put this game out of reach. But unlike last night's controversial round tripper--this one had no doubt.


But that didn't mean The Umpire Crew got away without a little controversy again tonight. Josh Bard was attempting to score from second base on a two out single by Craig Stammen in the top of the 5th. With Stammen's bat lying in the baseline and Angel Pagan's throw from centerfield beating him to the plate--Bard attempted to deke his way around the rear end of home plate. New York's Catcher Omir Santos originally missed the tag. As Josh dove for the plate a second time--Santos snuck down his glove on Bard's fingers as he touched home. Home Plate Umpire Dan Iassonga appeared as if he was going to call safe--then gave the out sign instead. Josh Bard argued. Our Manager Manny Acta didn't come out to question. One replay from up high behind home plate--showed Bard's fingers on the plate an instant before Santos' glove touched him. But it's still not clear because another angle showed the catching mitt shoving Josh's finger from the plate.

Our Washington Nationals hit into three rally killing double plays tonight.

Cristian Guzman, Adam Dunn and Josh Willingham all had two hits apiece.

13 Wins & 32 Losses after 45 Games. We don't think anybody expected such a poor record.

Catcher Luke Montz being recalled as an emergency replacement for Josh Bard--who is leaving the team temporarily to be with his wife having induced labor in Denver. Jesus Flores caught seven innings tonight for AA Harrisburg, scheduled to play nine more tomorrow. He is expected to be activated on Friday in Philadelphia, Saturday the latest. No corresponding roster move for a pitcher expected--Washington will go with their now current 12--five starters and 7 relievers.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Kathy Willens (AP)

Baseball's "Savior"

The very moment the name Sonia Sotomayor popped up as a serious candidate to replace retiring Supreme Court Judge David Souter--I knew that name. There was something special about this lady and sports that I just couldn't quite remember, but I knew it was big.

Didn't take long to refresh the old noggin and find out.

In 1995, as a U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District of New York, Ms. Sotomayor issued an injunction against Major League Baseball's Owners effectively ending the longest work stoppage in professional sports history. The lockout that decimated the 1994 Season, cancelled The World Series--and without anyone really understanding at that time--put in motion all the issues and subsequent problems for baseball in Montreal.

The Expos were Baseball's Best Team in 1994, drawing consistently over 2 million fans per season--and Canadian's never forgot what Major League Baseball did to them. The long drawn out saga of The Montreal Expos was just beginning. A climax that resulted in relocation and resurgence of Baseball, across an international border, In The Nation's Capital of The United States.

Judge Sonia Sotomayor was nominated by President Barack Obama this morning to become the first person of Hispanic decent and third woman to sit on The Highest Court In This Land. She's a fan of baseball, some publication's called her Baseball's "Savior" back in 1995. But even her attempts to save The Great Game back then, couldn't help the Franchise now known as Our Washington Nationals.

AP Photo--Pablo Martinez Monsivais

The Integrity Of The Game

What's the use in having video replay if a fan CLEARLY leans over and obstructs play to one team's advantage and the umpires don't overrule?

I just don't get that.

The integrity of the game was on the line tonight in the bottom of the 6th inning in Queens. The New York Mets Gary Sheffield launched a John Lannan Fastball to left centerfield with two runners on base--near the top of the wall at Citi Field. A fan leans over the fence by about two to three feet and--without a doubt--obstructs the action by touching the baseball with his glove. The ball WAS NOT going OVER the wall. The baseball was heading downward.

One run would have definitely scored on a ground rule double for interference. Instead, 3rd Base Umpire Adrian Johnson ruled a three run Home Run. After an argument by Our Manager Manny Acta--The Umpiring Crews went to the video replay. A decision that took nearly 10 minutes to inexplicably make.

And the call was NOT reversed.

Sorry, but that decision was incorrect.

It was the wrong call and that feeling has nothing to do with the fact that The African Queen and I are cheering for Our Washington Nationals. No matter the circumstance, The Umpires should have made the right decision and reversed the home run and let the game continue with The Mets now ahead 2-1. The Men In Blue had all the necessary tools available to make the proper decision.

They blew it.

And there is NO EXCUSE for that error in judgement. This group failure changing the complexity of the game and giving The New York Mets a undeserved 4-1 lead.

No question, Our Washington Nationals had multiple chances to come back and win this game in the subsequent 7th, 8th & 9th innings tonight at Citi Field. They eventually left 13 runners on base; were 1 for 10 with runners in scoring position. A little clutch hitting by Washington could have helped to take away the sour taste of a poor ruling by The Umpires.

But whether Our Washington Nationals win or Lose any battle--The Integrity Of The Game should be maintained at all times. A fan interfered with play tonight in Queens and the arbiters of judgment--The Rulers Of Every Game--chose to ignore what everyone clearly saw with their own eyes--not only on the field of play--but while watching multiple television replays after.

Home Plate Umpire Larry Vanover and his crew have some explaining to do. And if Major League Baseball has the guts to officially say the ruling was incorrect--MLB should fine the umpires for losing control of the game--although I doubt their union would stand for that, much less a suspension.

Final Score from Citi Field where Fan Interference changed the outcome of tonight's game--The New York Mets 5 and Our Washington Nationals 2. The 31st Loss of 2009 will be remembered for one disappointing ruling on the field. And recalled for it's frustration--because Washington had bases loaded with one out in the 7th and scored just one run. Had runners on 1st and 2nd with no outs in the 8th--and didn't score again. Finally, DC's Team had runners on 1st & 2nd and one out in the 9th--and couldn't push anyone across the plate. Multiple chances were still there for the taking, but Our Washington Nationals could not find the strength to overturn that bad umpiring decision and win despite all odds.

An all around bad night of baseball involving Our Washington Nationals.

Game Notes & Highlights

John Lannan had a poor outing this evening. Although tagged for Sheffield's So-Called three run homer, Our Number 31 gave up 8 hits, four walks and struck out no one. He wasn't sharp and didn't look comfortable all night long.

As far as Daniel Cabrera is concerned, can we please just Designate Him For Assignment? Please, just eat the salary. He's not helping. Tonight, called on to pitch the 8th inning, Cabrera again couldn't find the strike zone, walked three New York Batters and threw one more wild pitch and multiple more pitches in the dirt--thankfully blocked by Wil Nieves. Jason Bergmann was eventually called on to save him on the mound. But Daniel is clearly not an answer, for now or later. He has no confidence and is throwing his fastball 10 MPH slower than just two years ago. Something is wrong with him. Let him figure it out--elsewhere but here.

Ryan Zimmerman extended his consecutive games reaching base streak via hit, walk or hit-by-pitch to 43 games tonight with a single and walk--tying the single season franchise record of Tim Raines (of The Montreal Expos). Rusty Staub (an original Expo) holds the Franchise Total Consecutive Games Reaching Base Streak (tallied over two seasons) at 46 games.

Wil Nieves continues to swing a hot stick. Two more hits this evening, one rbi and one run scored. He's playing well and really is a fine backup catcher--dependable.

Finally, although he did not do well with runners in scoring position tonight for Washington, Austin Kearns again displayed his defensive prowess. When Gary Sheffield sliced a liner to right field in the bottom of the 1st inning with two outs, Carlos Beltran took off from 2nd base, rounded 3rd and headed home--looking to score. Like he always does, Our Number 25 deftly moved in on the fast approaching baseball, scooped it up and UNLEASHED A PERFECT ON THE FLY STRIKE to Wil Nieves standing on home plate. Beltran was out by a mile. The Defensive Play of This Game proved again that Austin has value--even when not getting the clutch hits at the plate.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Paul J. Bereswill (AP)

Anchors Away

That listing ship maybe better known as "D.C. Nats" has been treading water over the past 11 days of what sadly has come to be known as a bad homestand. Losers of nine out of their last 10 games at Nationals Park, Our Washington Nationals now found themselves weighted down, sinking slowly, attempting to let loose of that anchor around their necks sending them deeper and deeper into the bottom of the league standings.

Almost at the point of drowning.

No question, despite the fine efforts of Our Baby Starters, it's not been pretty in NatsTown.

Make no mistake about it, DC's Team has struggled, unable to put together even an modest winning streak these past 11 days. A predicament now faced with The New York Mets & Philadelphia Phillies up next--on the road--in two of the most challenging cities to play any baseball game.

But for this Sunday--Baltimore was on the schedule. The final game of the opening Battle Of The Beltway Series. The first of two meetings between these two struggling teams in 2009--Home & Away. Engagements that had fallen The Orioles Way these past two nights. Now, with Our Washington Nationals on the precipice of being swept by Our Closest Rival--with bragging rights on the line--something, like anything, had to give.

The African Queen and I can't go to Camden Yards in June knowing Our Team has been swept by Baltimore's in our very back yard. Pride was on the line today, and that ship known as "D.C. Nats" needed to straighten itself out. Pull themselves out of the muck and find any way to move forward--full steam ahead. This was no joke. Our Washington Nationals needed a win.

Of course that Curly "W" seemed out of the question when The Orioles built a three run lead by the end of the top of the 5th inning. A 3-0 advantage that certainly looked like more of the same ole--played out over the past few days. Not even treading water any longer, Our Washington Nationals were sinking ever so deeply into the abyss. Until, when you least expected it, the working men, those sailors on board, mounted the first response.

No one could have predicted that some of those sailors on board--Austin Kearns, Wil Nieves and even Pitcher Shairon Martis would stroke back to back to back doubles off Baltimore's Brad Bergeson in the bottom of the 5th frame--scoring two runs for Washington. An attempt to not just man the life rafts and raise the white flag, but buoy the ship, get "D.C. Nats" head back above water--make a course correction--and push ahead.

A surprising series of events that had the announced crowd of 30,880 back into this ball game. Cheering, awake again and looking for more--wanting the complete comeback--the expected lead. The raising of that weighted anchor that has kept Washington down for so long on this extended home trip. Adam Dunn would raise hope and put Our Washington Nationals back into the lead in the bottom of the 6th with a two run homer to dead centerfield--with Ryan Zimmerman on board.

Playing Captain today, Our Number 44 decided he wasn't going down with the ship. And neither were his crewmates. This game was back on--and would teeter back and forth again before Big Adam decided to take matters into his very own hands.

Yes, that fabulous young centerfielder of The Baltimore Orioles--Adam Jones--countermanded Captain Dunn's latest orders with a blistering message of his very own. A two run homer off Shairon Martis in the top of the 7th inning that stalled "D.C. Nats", put The Vistors back in front 5-4 and again found Washington's engines sputtering--for what turned out to be--thankfully--the last time this Sunday Afternoon. (By the way, love those Gray Away "Baltimore" Script jerseys with City Flag Logo on their sleeves--very nice).

Amazing as it may seem, and despite a dislocated right pinky finger, Anderson Hernandez was back on deck, manning his regular position of second base--after he pinch hit for Ron Villone in the bottom of the 7th. And Anderson led off the most important frame of this game with a seeing eye single to right field off Baltimore's Chris Ray. A repeat performance carried out by Willie Harris when he also slapped a seeing eye single to right, putting runners on 1st and 2nd with nobody out and the very possibility of Our Chief Engineer--Ryan Zimmerman--that so called Franchise Player--up next--to hopefully slam home the tying and go ahead runs.

A moment that had everyone at Nationals Park interested.

Yet with today's boat Captain, Adam Dunn, on deck to follow The Z-Man--who actually believed The Orioles Ship Captain, Dave Trembley, would intentionally walk Ryan? Manager Trembley's thoughts of letting his lefthanded reliever, Jamie Walker, play his own on-deck fireman, would change the very course of the "D.C. Nats" ship this day. Baltimore's skipper believing--The Big & Heavy Fire Power of Dunn was an easier out than getting the always solid stroke of Zimmerman.

Floating on water, each listing ship looking to right itself--the final battle was coming to a head.

Who would sink whom? Did it ever end in grand style!!

What's always been surprising about Adam Dunn is his innate ability to seemingly launch a nothing pitch--a rocket--deeper and deeper into the blue sky. And on this Sunday Afternoon, Our Number 44, The Captain Of "D.C. Nats" this Memorial Day Weekend--arguably one of the most powerful hitters in the game--let it be known. Don't mess with Our Chief Engineer--Zimmy--when Our Captain has his back. Dunn would get ahold of Walker's sixth pitch of this At-Bat and launch it deep to left field, the opposite way for him, and into the visitors bullpen at Nationals Park. Dunn's second home run of this game, 14th of the season--A Grand Slam--which lifted Washington Fans out of their seats. Lifted Our Washington Nationals out of the ever deepening waters--and set this once sinking ship on a new course. All hands were now on deck and it's sailors greeted Our Number 44 in the wheelhouse (the dugout)--thanking him for his course correcting blast. The final salvo that lifted this ship known as "D.C. Nats" out of threatening waters and sailing forward again.

The Anchors Away!! signal was finally sounded. Our Number 44 had personally set off the alarm. And Our Washington Nationals were again moving full steam ahead--bearing down on victory--and realizing all is not lost when teamwork gets you back into the game, levels the ship and pushes everyone ahead, together, as only a real team can.

Pitchers Joe Beimel and Joel Hanrahan would close The O's out over the last two innings of play.

Final Score from Nationals Park where that ship known at "D.C. Nats" set sail to New York City tonight prepared to take on The Mets from Citi Field on Memorial Day Evening--Our Washington Nationals 8 and The Baltimore Orioles 5--in nine satisfying innings. Curly "W" Number 13 of 2009 a much needed grasping of the life ring. The salvation from a crew needing to pull together under tough times and proving, once again, all is not lost. The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! letting everyone know no team should mess with the top of Our Lineup--nor should they take the bottom half for granted. Washington's is too powerful. You might be able to fool one or two hitters--but when it counts the most--don't mess with Our Engineer, Ryan Zimmerman. That will only upset Our Captain, Adam Dunn--who signed up today to be an anchor himself--depended on when times gets tough.

In manning up, he help lift that heavy anchor weighing down Our Washington Nationals--that collar around Our Necks. With solid starting pitching continuing and a bullpen that has been decent over the past four games, all Washington needs is the re-emergence of their powerful offensive threats again. The final Red Alert that opposing teams must respect, because DC's team is an emerging power, if they can only run a very tight ship.

"D.C. Nats" sailed away from their abyss this afternoon at Nationals Park. Looking to continue this latest successful voyage in Queens and South Philadelphia. Locations where not only must all those heavy anchors be put away, but all hands must again be on deck. But at least for one afternoon--Our Washington Nationals provided the necessary firepower to dislodge themselves from the malaise of a just finished 2-9 homestand at Nationals Park.

Any win is good, but defeating The Orioles and not being swept at home a mark of pride that should leave anyone that roots for Washington proud. And makes it far more easier for The African Queen and I to travel to Baltimore next month for the continuation of this ever intriguing series.

Game Notes & Highlights

Until Our Manager Manny Acta decided to test Shairon Martis for one more inning--the 7th--you could say he had a pretty solid outing. But with no one warming up and Martis allowing a leadoff single to Brian Roberts and a liner of a blast home run to Adam Jones two pitches later--Our Number 39 had lost his lead, his quality start and fortunately settled for a no decision--thanks to Adam Dunn. Martis is very interesting to watch. He never seems overpowering, but he does get outs--consistently so. And when he's in trouble, Shairon tends to bear down and actually perform better. One of the most interesting young players currently on our roster--this 22 Year Old is a solid hitter at the plate, good baserunner--and always make us wonder--how good could he actually be? Fascinating, because no one really knows much about him--everyone learning day by day.

Ron Villone picked up the vulture win when he held The Orioles in the top of the 7th after Martis gave up his Two Run Shot to Jones. And Washington came back to take the lead, thanks to Dunn's Grand Slam. Villone has yet to allow an earned run. He hasn't been perfect, but Ron's been a solid pickup for a beleaguered bullpen.

Joe Beimel pitch a 1-2-3 8th and Joel Hanrahan picked up his 5th save of 2009 when he again came out firing strikes--getting two Orioles to whiff and ended this affair when Aubrey Huff grounded out to Anderson Hernandez at second base.

Speaking of Hernandez, in the top of the 8th, Baltimore's Brian Roberts slashed a liner toward the hole between first and second base. Anderson, in the game as a late inning substitute for Ronnie Belliard, quickly ranged to his left, eventually dove and SNARED the baseball while diving--a split moment before it hit the ground. A terrific play in any game, but nothing compared to the work of Austin Kearns, who made every attempt to outdo himself. Just before Hernandez made his fine play, Robert Andino skied a fly down the right field line--near where the stands jut out toward the field. Our Number 25 ran hard, saw the baseball all the way, and ran hard into the padding--while getting his left foot CAUGHT on top of the barrier. Loosing his balance and falling over--Austin Kearns STILL MADE THE CATCH for the out. An outstanding defensive play, worthy of The Defensive Play of This Game--if not for "Bluegrass'" effort in the very first inning of play.

Nick Markakis would unload on a Shairon Martis pitch to the right field scoreboard wall. A liner that was over Austin's head, but not out of reach. The only problem--the electronic wall and it's chicken coop fencing was nearing. Without fear, Kearns' tracked the baseball all the way--and while crashing into the wall headfirst--MADE THE CATCH!!--then fell down after colliding with the screened fence. Austin Kearns was OK, but that catch was Fabulous. One of three excellent defensive plays this day at Nationals Park worth seeing in person.

Our Offense returned today scorching 12 hits. Willie Harris, Adam Dunn, Austin Kearns and Wil Nieves with two apiece. Dunn with a career high 6 RBI this afternoon. Ryan Zimmerman extended his consecutive games reaching base streak to 42 with a single moments before Dunn's first home run of this game. Dunn now has 39 RBI--that's pretty good folks--getting back on track a little bit at the end of a personally disappointing homestand at the plate for him.

Nick Johnson was pulled from the starting lineup moments before the game start due to what was called stomach discomfort. OK now, NJ is with the team as they head to New York for Monday's Memorial Day Game against The New York Mets.






This Sunday was Kid's Jersey Day at Nationals Park. Each child 12 Years Of Age or younger received a Ryan Zimmerman Jersey or a voucher for a jersey along with a Zimmerman Tee-Shirt from Exxon Mobil. Nothing like watching parents dress their kids in the new outfits right there in Centerfield Plaza.



Cleveland Indians Hall Of Famer, Bob Feller, threw out The Ceremonial First Pitch Today.



In the 4th Inning Presidents Race, Teddy was seeking revenge on The Oriole Bird for taking him out while leading in Saturday Night's Race. With The Bird on the Warning Track in right field--Our Lovable Loser crushed The Bird into the outfield wall, knocked him down, then continuing the race as GW, Tom & Abe ran past. Teddy would finish second, but George would win the race.



Later as part of Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Day at Nationals Park there was a special Dance Off by fans in two different sections to see who would win one of the new Eco-Friendly Curly "W" Totes. The Male Contestant won over the Female, but their efforts were nothing compared to the "Dancing With The Stars" segment which played out high and above the South Capitol Street Ballpark moments later. With Wil Nieves heading to the plate to bat, his salsa batting music again set The "Boys Of Summer" into high spirits. Anyone watching The WFED Radio Broadcast Booth witnessed Charlie Slowes, Dave Jageler and "The Jack Of All Things" swaying to the beat. It's very funny, and I think we now have a large group of regulars in Section 218 looking in anticipation of their act each time Nieves steps to the plate. Funny stuff.



Finally, there may not have been a more thrilling National Anthem nor God Bless America renditions sung at Nationals Park since the ballpark opened in 2008. Five Year Old Kaitlyn Maher sung a wonderful Anthem, then stunned the crowd and nearly every single player on the field with one of the most beautiful God Bless America tributes in some time. The very sight of this very petite young girl singing while every single person on the field craned their necks to personally witness and experience the moment--maybe worth more than the game itself today. She was terrific and I don't think anyone was not smiling at the conclusion of God Bless America. Really touching and a highlight that should be remembered for some time. She was so tiny, yet could bellow out the words. What a moment!!

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

Text "DC" To 90999

It's not too late to make your $5 donation.


Sunday was Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Day at Nationals Park. Our Team's Charitable Arm was recognized for its ongoing support provided throughout Washington, DC and the surrounding communities. The Foundation's three cornerstone projects were presented on a video played on The HDTV Scoreboard--providing details of the many efforts put forth by The Dream Foundation.


Additionally, all volunteers from this past Friday Morning's NatsTown GreenUp wishing to attend this afternoon's game against The Baltimore Orioles were publicly thanked on the field before the start. The entire contingent taking a group photo while receiving a nice ovation from those on hand at Nationals Park.

Throughout today's games, fans were encouraged to donate $5 toward The Dream Foundation through a specially set up Dream Foundation text message number. By just placing a "DC" to 90999 text from any one's cell phone, a $5 donation would be accepted by the charitable arm of Our Washington Nationals Baseball Club. Sohna and I did so this afternoon.



Finally, The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation Kiosk in Centerfield Plaza this afternoon started selling their specially designed reusable totes. The Eco-Friendly Green with Blue Curly "W" Bags are available for $5 and will be on sale for every single home game for the remainder of 2009--until they sell out. The African Queen and I picked up two this afternoon before the start of this 11 game homestand's final game.

Text "DC" to 90999 is still a good number and you can help the ongoing work of The Dream Foundation by sending your $5 donation today. The creation of The DC Baseball Academy; the construction of The Washington Nationals Pediatric Diabetes Care Complex at the Children's National Medical Center; and The Neighborhood Initiatives Projects--which include partnerships with The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, The Earth Conservation Corps and other local non-profits await your support.

And remember, the $5 Eco-Friendly Curly "W" Totes will be available at every single home game at The Dream Foundation Kiosk in Centerfield Plaza until they sellout. Reminder--it's all for a good cause to help others in need. Yes, you too can go green at Nationals Park!!

All Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

That Organ Is Real

According to Baseball Tours.com the very first organ ever used in a Major League Baseball Stadium was heard on April 26th, 1941 when The Chicago Cubs brought this wonderful musical instrument into Wrigley Field. A reported one time event that proved so popular organs quickly turned into a staple at many Big League Ballparks. But over the past decade those harmonic sounds have mostly disappeared from The Modern Game--computers have taken over, canned music the popular choice--tradition lost.

Well, if you paid attention at Nationals Park over this past homestand, at times, organ music returned to The South Capitol Street Ballpark. Those beautiful tones that generations of baseball fans grew up appreciating. A very nice reminder for me of watching The Washington Senators at DC/RFK Stadium in the late 1960' & early 1970's. The Good Baseball Organists always played little tunes during games, between play, that added to the action on the field. Whether joyful, dour, or to enhance the tension of the moment--organ music at baseball parks has always been welcomed relief.

Upon first hearing Organ Music at Nationals Park, we wondered whether these new sounds were from a real organ, with a real organist? Or canned?

We really like the organ music and want to hear it continue. There is just something special about live organ music at a baseball park.

So, we went looking for answers.

Sure enough, that organ is real. Team President Stan Kasten telling us Our Washington Nationals are "experimenting" with the idea and are testing fan response to see if organ music will become a staple at Nationals Park.

Sohna and I welcome The Live Organ Music to Nationals Park--keep it going and please use it even more. A witty organist can add to the pleasure of being at any ballpark and the very fact Washington's is attempting to bring a long, lost tradition back--is another welcome sign for Baseball In The Nation's Capital.

What If?

What if Willie Harris had covered second base on a run scoring infield hit by Nick Markakis in the top of the 3rd inning?

What if Josh Bard and Austin Kearns had not hit into key rally ending double plays for the second consecutive night?

What if Our Offense had not found itself in a rut after flying high all these weeks.

And What if Our Washington Nationals could put it all together to string together even a modest winning streak?

Even when Washington gets good starting pitching over the last week that so many fans have only dreamed about--they mostly still can't win a baseball game.

Again tonight--a near instant replay of Friday Night's Opener of the 2009 Battle Of The Beltways. In his second Big League Start, Ross Detwiler was outstanding. For six innings, he only allowed one hit and only got in trouble in the 3rd thanks to his own problems--the issuing of three straight walks. A now bases loaded situation with one out that found Our Number 48 battling back against Baltimore's two best hitters. When you strike out Adam Jones and get Nick Markakis to hit a slow dribbler between 3rd and shortstop you have done your job well. Fought back from adversity--which Detwiler did--deserving of praise. Only that when Markakis smacked that slow roller--Ryan Zimmerman picked it up WANTING to fire the baseball to second base for the easy inning ending out--not throw across the diamond. Instead, The Z-Man had to eat the baseball. For some reason Willie Harris, playing 2nd base tonight, ran to 1st base to back up Nick Johnson. A confusing decision that cost Detwiler an earned run and in this close game--loomed large over the course of nine innings.

What was Harris thinking? Zimmy and "The Guz" were both trying to pick up Markakis' slow roller. Brian Roberts was running hard from first base for Baltimore. Nick Johnson was already on 1st covering the bag. No One was on 2nd. It was Willie's job to be there. He wasn't and it cost Our Washington Nationals dearly tonight.

Because every run counted this evening. Every mistake loomed large. And when Our Manager Manny Acta replaced Righthander Julian Tavarez with Lefthander Ron Villone to face Baltimore's Pinch Hitter, Lefty Slugger Aubrey Huff, in the top of the 7th--it was the right move--executed badly--when Villone allowed a drilled shot to centerfield that bounced off the top of the green wall near The Red Porch Seats and came back into play. A resultant triple for Huff that scored The Orioles 2nd Run of the night--the eventual game winner.

So what if Justin Maxwell had caught that Aubrey Huff drive in dramatic fashion--much like the one he stole from Adam Jones in the first?

What if Adam Dunn wasn't in such a prolific slump during this current homestand? He's striking out much more than earlier this season--and not providing much power. He had two hits tonight, but he's not driving the ball well.

And what if "The Guz" hadn't cooled off over the past two games. Have you noticed that when Cristian Guzman doesn't get on base, Washington's Offense grinds to a screeching halt? Our Number 15 homered tonight for Washington's only run--his 400th career rbi, but he was hitless the rest of the way. Guzzie might not walk much--just once this year--but when he reaches, things happen and Our Washington Nationals Offense comes to bat with a cleaner mind.

The not worrying or pressing--which seems to be the case over the past few games when it comes to Our Hitters. Take Ryan Zimmerman, who remains hot at the plate--but has consistently also driven well stroked hits--RIGHT AT A DEFENDER FOR OUTS. It happened again tonight--when Our Number 11 drilled a shot right to Baltimore's Shortstop Cesar Izturis. A recorded out that saw Zimmy flinging his batting helmet in disgust. That's the third such smacked ball stroked by him over the past few games that only resulted in an out.

What if Our Washington Nationals received just a little more luck? A bit more help from The Baseball Gods--who seem to be looking over them with downcast eyes?

It's not like Washington has played terrible of late. Our starting pitching has been outstanding. Our defense more solid. And even our bullpen over the past few games--mostly dependable. Carrying the load, much like the precision at which Our Batting Lineup was performing at over the first seven weeks of 2009.

What if Our Washington Nationals could find a way to put a complete effort out on the field for a series of games?

What if they could just find that way to win the close games?

After watching Our Bullpen blow game after game after game in April & May--Washington can't buy a run when finally Our Pitching has settled down. Much like The Wheel Of Fortune Television Game Show--even buying a vowel--letting Baltimore's Fans yell out "O" during The National Anthem, hasn't solved their latest riddle.

Just another loss in NatsTown tonight.



Final Score from Nationals Park were 31,833 showed up to watch the local rivalry. An attendance number that is the second highest crowd total this season, but sure seems low if you were on hand tonight. That Ballpark WAS Packed!!--especially in the Upper Deck. The Baltimore Orioles 2 and Our Washington Nationals 1 in a well pitched game where Washington could not come out on top thanks to too many What If Moments.

Now what if Our Washington Nationals played more complete games? Those in which our hitting, pitching and fielding were all on the same plane. And somehow salvaged a struggling year and current season record. 42 Games into 2009, just 12 Curly "W's" and 30 Defeats.

What if Washington had started this season with their current bumper crop of youthful starting pitchers in their rotation? Would Our Washington Nationals Record be any better?

Game Notes & Highlights

Has Ross Detwiler figured it out? Seemingly out of nowhere he's rebounded from a year of struggles, including Spring Training 2009, to show a commanding presence on the mound. Now throwing his fastball in the mid-90's, topping out at 95 MPH this evening. Except for his brief loss of control in the 3rd when he walked three Oriole Batters, he was again exceptional and now deserving of a third start in a ever re-blossoming young career. No doubt, it's fun to watch these young hurlers representing DC pitching well, showing promise and bringing hope that fate might actually be turning around for Our Washington Nationals.

Just seven total hits for Washington tonight and except for Guzzie's homer, the only other extra base hit was a mistake/fielding error by Baltimore. Neither Adam Jones in centerfield or Cesar Izturis at shortstop called for Nick Johnson's blooper to short centerfield in the 5th. But The Orioles didn't pay for the miscue--when Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Dunn struck out swinging against Brian Bass. Starting in centerfield for Washington, Justin Maxwell struggled at the plate--striking out three times. He certainly has problems with the off-speed pitches.

Although defensively, J-Max may well be one of the most gifted fielders in the game. Now, if you know Justin Maxwell and have seen him play baseball--you know his skill level, defensively, is off the charts. Gazelle like speed, terrific arm and the aptitude to track down any baseball hit near him. Tonight, less than five minutes after this game began at 7:05PM, Our Number 30 made The GREATEST CATCH IN THE SHORT HISTORY OF NATIONALS PARK. Baltimore's Adam Jones lashed a liner directly over Maxwell's head in dead centerfield. Justin, without hesitation, took off for the warning track, THEN THE WALL, eventually he SKIED THE GREEN PADDED BARRIER and gently placed his fielding glove OVER THE WALL--where Justin Maxwell made The Defensive Play of The Game, possibly the year--with an AMAZING CATCH. He didn't hesitate. He didn't stop. J-Max simply went for the ball and caught it in dramatic fashion. Even Baltimore's Fans were appreciating that play. A WEB GEM never before seen at Nationals Park. Wow!!



The Oriole Bird again messed up a Presidents Race tonight--now for two years in a row. Maybe looking to revenge his loss to Teddy last year in their well publicized grudge match--The Baltimore Bird Mascot ran out from the right field stands and tackled Teddy as Our Lovable Loser was sprinting toward the finish line well ahead of the pack. A series of boos coming from the crowd as GW then kicked The Oriole Bird to the ground while Abe and Tom completed the race. Tom winning by a hair.

Of course we got a kick out of The Oriole Bird stopping upon passing The African Queen and I before the game near The Exxon Kids Zone. Some fine banter followed including Sohna saying "Don't mess with Screech and Screech's Best Friend!!" The Bird whistling while posing for the customary photo. But we could tell, he had an idea about our relationship with My Best Friend!!



MASN was set up in nearly the same location we saw The Oriole Bird. Two tents providing the setting for live auditions for Part Two of The Mid-Atlantic Sports Networks "Defining Moments" Television Ads. Those who passed the first round were invited to head up to The Conference Rooms on Club Level to continue with their tryouts.



Exxon Mobil provided Navy Blue Washed Denim Curly "W" Caps to the first 20,000 who walked into Nationals Park this evening. It's funny how when these two teams play each other, the giveaways are directly targeted to interest fans of each opposing team. Sunday will find 10,000 Kids receiving Ryan Zimmerman Replica Nationals Jerseys. You have to figure many Baltimore children will also receive one. When Washington plays in Baltimore next month--The Orioles will provide O's Cap and Nick Markakis Batting Practice Jerseys to fans attending two games at Camden Yards. Reverse soliciting--go for the other team's fans. Gotta love it.




Arriving at Nationals Park around 6:10PM, Sohna and I headed over to The Red Porch for a bite to eat. The place was packed, but we were seated in less than 10 minutes. The African Queen ordered Spicy Buffalo Wings ($9), me The Sizzling Ancho-Chicken Salad ($11) Both good sized portions--each arrived within five minutes of ordering. Still having a good 30 minutes to take our time and enjoy the meal--we made it to our seats in Section 218 by the time Our Washington Nationals ran out onto the field for the start this game. Red Porch continues to be a good value in our book.




In the 5th inning I went upstairs to Gallery Level to take some pictures. Just like in Club Level, the concession lines were packed deep with patrons wanting to order. Seeing the lines so long and not wanting to miss much of the game, I actually passed on a soda I was going to order. But while standing behind Section 313, Clint began to speak with Antwaan Randle El and Mike Sellers from The Washington Redskins on the HDTV Scoreboard. I am telling you--it was impossible to hear that conversation--as if watching with the television sound muted. The only speaker sounds anyone was hearing were the commercials playing over the WFED Radio Broadcast of tonight's game on The Upper Concourse. No one up there behind home plate could possibly hear Clint and the two Redskins Players speak.

Finally, we hadn't noticed this before, and maybe it's a direct result of Washington Nationals Photographer Mitchell Layton breaking the fingers on his right hand earlier this week on a foul ball in the dugout photographers well--but MASN's cameraman stationed in those home plate side positions--now sport regulation batting helmets while manning their TV Cameras. Smart Move by MASN. It's not exactly safe there.

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

The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation NatsTown GreenUp

“If not for The Nationals, all of these people would not be here today, on our boats, helping out, giving their free time for our cause," proclaimed Bob Nixon Founder and Chairman of The Earth Conservation Corps. "This is all because of Marla (Lerner Tanenbaum) and The Nationals Dream Foundation."




Mr. Nixon was standing in Anacostia Park in Washington, DC, having just help ferry approximately 60 volunteers by boat from ECC's SW Half Street location, just a stones throw away from Nationals Park. Friday May 22, 2009 was The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation's Inaugural NatsTown GreenUp. The "Rally Around The River" get together to help restore one of America's most polluted waterways--The Anacostia River. Close to 100 volunteers from the Washington Nationals front office, Alion Science & Technology, Capitol Riverfront BID, Capital Rowing Club, HNTB Corporation, and Sidwell Friends gathered at 8:30AM this past Friday Morning--the usual Memorial Day Weekend Getaway Day--to again help serve those in need. A trademark of The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation.



“This is really a no brainer," believes Marla Lerner Tanenbaum--Chair of The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation. "We are in this community and will be here for a long time. It's clear the Earth Conservation Corps has programs that are worth supporting. I believe we’ve helped to put these issues of the surrounding area and The Anacostia River more on the map. And we are using that influence as a Major League Team to get changes done."





The volunteers were divided into three groups. The first of which headed off to The South Capitol Street Heliport to clean up trash and debris on The Anacostia just SW of Nationals Park--on the opposite side of the South Capitol Street Bridge. The remaining two groups were assigned to watercraft and were ferried down The Anacostia to Anacostia Park were they unloaded and spent three hours methodically working through the river's edge and underbrush to clean up the many, many plastic bottles, cans, trash and even a rusted Pellet Gun and worn out pocket knife. Work that couldn't be close to finishing in the short time allocated--but is a first step into making a dent into repairing the long lost waterway. A smaller sub group headed off in one of the boats to pick up trash floating in the river itself.



“The proximity of the (Nationals) stadium to the river and our community organization at our very front door—is really a perfect fit," continued Mr. Nixon. "We have folks here helping out, not just from The Nationals, but our other neighbors that have never been out on the river—never even cared before--participating today. All that’s because of The Nationals. This relationship is moving forward just fabulously.”





The Volunteer Group representing Our Washington Nationals included not only Dream Foundation Staff, but also many Ushers, Maintenance, Communication and Front Office Employees from Nationals Park--approximately 25 in all. Each helper was given a nice Green Curly "W" GreenUp Tee-Shirt as a thanks for coming out.

“This is an important partnership," say Pete Cooper, Usher Captain & Supervisor at Nationals Park's Presidents Club. "You have to realize that half the people who work in the park and are on our staff actually live in this neighborhood. This gives them the opportunity to see that others want to help them to rebuild their neighborhoods and be a part of something special in the future.”





For three hours the volunteers diligently worked The Anacostia River between Nationals Park and Anacostia Park. And when finished--headed back to The Earth Conservation Corps' Headquarters at 2000 Half Street, SW to hear the final numbers of the trash haul. 50 Full Black Bags of debris, two tires, one lawn chair, the pellet gun and knife. A final tally that barely scrapes the surface, but sets the tone for better things to come on The Anacostia River.





"When we first started as owners of The Washington Nationals, I didn’t really understand how much change we could possibly affect," now understands Ms. Tanenbaum. "But the past few years have proven that we can have a huge impact on the area surrounding Nationals Park. And our leadership is helping to get things done while involving the entire community. I can't tell you how happy that makes me feel.”

"And when I first met Marla," added Bob Nixon, she said to me, "I guess we are going to be partners forever!! (chuckling--fondly remembering the moment). "I think she's right because this is all for the right reasons."



After the GreenUp concluded all volunteers and ECC Staff were invited to The Picnic Area of Nationals Park on the Main Concourse near The Exxon Kids Zone for a free lunch. Hard Times Cafe provided Chili Dogs, Giffords Ice Cream & Candy Company Dessert and Levy Restaurants Water, Soft Drinks and Refreshments. Each participant also given two free tickets to this Sunday's Game at Nationals Park between Our Washington Nationals and The Baltimore Orioles.

Forward Progress

When Jordan Zimmermann struck out Baltimore's Matt Albers in the top of the 7th inning, he was pitching as well as he had performed all night. In fact, as the twilight loomed over Nationals Park, JZ got better and better. The Orioles touched him up early with a solo shot homer off the bat of Nolan Remold in the 2nd inning. And "Perennial" All-Star Brian Roberts got to Our Number 27 in the third with a double followed by a sharp single off the bat of "Soon To Be Perennial All-Star" Adam Jones--scoring Baltimore's second run of the night. There could not be many more exciting young players in the game today than The Orioles Centerfielder Jones. That young man is a player--worthy of all his accolades and now developing into a really fine ballplayer. Unfortunately for Washington Rooters, later this evening, Adam would be the deciding factor tonight.

But well before this 12 inning affair ended thanks to a two out, two run double by Jones in a very quick 3 Hours & 6 Minutes--Jordan Zimmermann again showed the stuff that gets Baseball Management Folks excited. Still learning The Big League Game, J-Zimm controlled the early self-inflicted damage, remained in control while not throwing his best through the first few innings of this start and was picked up thanks to a key Two Run Homer off the bat of Ryan Zimmerman in the 4th. Then with this game now tied at two apiece--settled into a very nice rhythm.

What has been especially pleasing to watch over the past 10 days is Our Young & Fresh Rotation working quickly, not overthinking, throwing strikes. And if they get beat on a pitch--so be it--All five come right back to battle the very next hitter. Poise they have, maybe a little youthful exuberance also. Too inexperienced to know any better. But it sure is nice to see Zimmermann---as well as Craig Stammen, Shairon Martis, John Lannan and Ross Detwiler all work swiftly between pitches. Look in for the sign, shake your head in agreement and Fire Away!! A few times tonight, the Baltimore Batter had barely settled into the box and JZ was firing the next pitch--not letting the opposing hitter get comfortable.

Not reflected in the Win Column yet, each of our baby starters have found success in their own way. For a building team looking to make significant steps to solidify a starting rotation--it really doesn't get much more fun than to watch these guys learn on the job. No, JZ and his young comrades are not going to be perfect. They are certainly going to make their mistakes and lose some ballgames--frustratingly so at times. BUT THEY ARE ALL MAKING STRIDES. Tell me, which of these five hasn't shown the promise of being everything any one scout originally expected of them--if not more--these past two weeks.

No--Our Washington Nationals aren't winning many baseball games. Only one Curly "W" being put in the books during this now 9 of 11 Game Homestand. Apart from that fact, help is clearly on the way. Forward progress is standing right there on the mound for all to see. Building from within is what Washington's Baseball Management has always said will come first. Well here are the first results--growing pains and all.

And it's pretty exciting to watch.

Currently, Our Washington Nationals maintain a starting rotation built from within. A better than average offense--among the league leaders--filled with veteran leadership and one very fine young Franchise Player in Ryan Zimmerman. A roster that if not for all our bullpen woes--would certainly be .500 or better and a real contender in the struggling National League East.

Advancing ahead whether it's reflected in the current standings or not.

Final Score from Nationals Park in Game One of this weekend's Battle Of The Beltways at Nationals Park--The Baltimore Orioles 4 and Our Washington Nationals 2 in 12 mostly quiet innings. Yeah, Washington lost their 29th game of 2009 compared to 12 Curly "W's" but in doing so they provided the promise that all is not lost. When any team becomes successful, that achievement usually comes on the heels of solid starting pitching. For the first time since Baseball Returned to Washington DC--Our Starting Rotation has serious potential.

That's Forward Progress In Anyone's League.

Game Notes & Highlights

As it turned out Our Manager Manny Acta took Jordan Zimmermann out tonight after seven innings. And J-Zimm's replacements were equally as sharp until the top of the 12th when Kip Wells allowed two, two out scores. Ron Villone, Jason Bergmann and Joe Beimel were all effective. Only Wells faltered after allowing Baltimore's Pitcher Danny Baez to reach on an infield chopper that was simply unplayable for Kip and Ryan Zimmerman. A game changer as it turned out when Roberts followed with a looping double down the left field line that bounced into the stands for a ground rule double and Adam Jones immediately followed with a ripped double down the same line into the corner for what turned out to be the game winning scores.

Zimmermann--seven innings pitched, six hits and one walk allowed. He struck out 7. Villone, Bergmann and Beimel--three combined innings pitched, two hits, two walks and zero runs allowed. It was interesting to watch Baltimore Starter Rich Hill pitch. Looking to get extra UMPH!! on the ball on certain pitches--the lefthander would kick is left leg forward after he made his stride to the plate after releasing the ball. So in essence, his hind leg used to push himself off the pitching plate--would leave the mound and fly toward home too--along with his right leg. It was odd, but seems to work for him. Watch a replay of Zimmerman's home run off Hill and you will see what I mean.

The Z-Man slugged his 11th round tripper of 2009 in the bottom of the fourth. An opposite field two run homer following a Nick Johnson single to tie this game up at two apiece. Other than that blast, quiet bats tonight for Washington, just four hits and not really many opportunities to create much on the bases. Twice this evening, double plays killed potential rallies. Justin Maxwell walked in the bottom of the 9th and Austin Kearns stepped to the plate to pinch hit. Sohna and I were expecting him to attempt to steal--considering Austin's pension for hitting into DP's. J-Max didn't go and sure enough Kearns grounded into a double play.

Just before Baez slapped his game changing dribbler in the 12th--The Orioles Cesar Izturis stroked a hard hit grounder up the middle. "The Guz" ranged all the way over to his left and scooped the baseball when it was actually past him almost in short centerfield. Cristian Guzman than twirled from right to left--first putting his back to first base--and finally fired a perfect strike to Nick Johnson at first base to retire the speedy Izturis for The Defensive Play Of This Game. A very nice play--probably not remembered after what was to come with the next three Baltimore hitters that decided the outcome of this game.


Tom and George ran side by side all the way to the finish in tonight's 4th Inning Presidents Race. George winning by a nose--and we mean that literally. GW tilted his head to get his rather large nose across the finish line to beat TJ.

Sohna and I wore our "Corre!!, Teddy, Corre!! Tee Shirts tonight in Teddy's Honor. Our Lovable Loser was thrilled to see them.

The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation is now selling Eco-Friendly Totes at their Kiosk in Centerfield Plaza. $5 each, all proceeds going to The Dream Foundation's many charitable efforts throughout Washington, DC.

And finally--as it turns out--all three statues of Walter Johnson, Frank Howard and Josh Gibson have cracks in their pedestals. The weight of the statues is too great for their stands. All three pedestals will be replaced over time.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Manuel Balce Ceneta (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Ron Villone's First Day As A National

Chatting with Ron Villone this afternoon at Nationals Park during the Thank You!! Luncheon for all those volunteers that gave their free time this morning for The First Washington Nationals Dream Foundation NatsTown GreenUp, Our New Lefthanded Reliever told me a funny and terrific story about his very first day as a member of Our Washington Nationals.



A complete write with interviews coming this weekend on the GreenUp, but first it's worth telling Ron Villone's nice tale.

"We (The Syracuse Chiefs) are in Gwinnett County (Georgia) playing The Braves (Atlanta's AAA Affiliate). I get the call that I am being called up and need to meet the team in Los Angeles at Dodger Stadium. So I quickly pick up my things but I can't find a taxi!! Not one. And I am going to miss my flight. So, I just wave down some guy passing and ask him to take me to Hartsfield (Atlanta's) Airport. 'I'll pay ya.' He agrees. (Lawrenceville, Georgia is approximately 40 Miles away for Hartsfield). Thankfully."

"I finally get to the airport, it's packed as usual but I check in and the flight is slightly delayed. I am going to miss the start of that night's game against The Dodgers. Eventually, we land at LAX and I hightail it for a taxi. It's LA, every hour is Rush Hour. When we finally get to Dodger Stadium--it's already the 3rd inning. By the time I get dressed--it's the 4th--and I head out to the bullpen a bit later."

I remember seeing you on TV walk out to the bullpen and you are talking with Kip Wells for a bit. (SBF)

"Yeah, we've known each for a few years. But I really haven't even settled in, not even stretched and Randy Knorr (Bullpen Coach) comes over and says 'GET READY' you are going in!!"

"OK--so I warm up and they put me in--in the top of the 7th. The team ends up coming back to tie and take the lead against The Dodgers while I am on the mound. I end up getting a win in my very first game with Washington. The thanks? Two hours later I am on a bus heading back to LAX, taking another flight to Phoenix for a series against The Diamondbacks. By the end of a very long day--probably 3500 miles traveled, four cities, one win and a good night's sleep."

Typical Day In The Major Leagues, huh? (SBF)

"Yeah, I LOVE IT!! It's a part of the game and you better get use to it. And I've had plenty of experience with that!! (Ron has played Major League Baseball for 12 different franchises)"

Both of us busting out laughing--it's a good tale. Some of the volunteers listening intently at the picnic tables on the main concourse near The Kids Zone enjoying the give and take.

"But I support and play for the team who's jersey I am wearing (pinching The Nationals Logo on the front of his jersey). I come to win and I always give my best."

This was a terrific off the cuff conversation. Ron Villone is very personable and remembered my name from the very first introduction until he said goodbye at the end. His other best lines: "I love this ballpark!! (Nationals Park) I really do. Not just because it plays fair, but it's different, unique--has a completely different feel than any other ballpark in The Major Leagues. And I've played in most all of them. I really like that about this place--it's really well done. And of course--anything beats RFK!! (Ron played for both The Seattle Mariners in 2005 and The New York Yankees in 2006 at RFK Stadium when both his former teams visited The Nation's Capital to play Our Washington Nationals.

Good stuff and well worth repeating here.

Five Minutes With Jordan Zimmermann

Coming out of the gate strong pitching in his first two starts for Our Washington Nationals, the learning curve that is called Major League Baseball has been schooling Jordan Zimmermann on the mound in his last four starts. First inning troubles have led to early deficits. Adversity that still finds this 22 Year Old Righthander confident, moving forward and soaking in all that is Big League Baseball for a rookie.

After the conclusion of this past Monday's "Meet & Greet" with Jordan Zimmermann at The ESPN Zone in Downtown Washington, DC--Jordan was kind enough to give me some time to chat about his rookie campaign donning a Nationals Uniform. Five minutes to hash some thoughts out--giving a better idea into what JZ is thinking out there on the mound.

With that, here we go with Five Minutes With Jordan Zimmermann

Let’s start with your adjustment from The Minors to The Majors? (SBF)

“It really hasn’t been too much of an adjustment. It’s just realizing it’s a bigger stadium with more people watching. That’s really been the biggest thing. The game is still the same. It’s still 60’6” away (Pitcher’s Plate to Home Plate). Everything still feels the same to me. I still have to go out there and execute my pitches and hope for the best.”

You mentioned here in the ESPN Zone chat that you didn’t realize the coaching staff wanted you to walk Albert Pujols that day you gave up a 3-1 Home Run to him at Nationals Park. There’s an adjustment you have to make on the Major League Level right there. (SBF)

“I just have to watch more video and work down in the zone—don’t leave any pitches up in the zone. Otherwise, presume they are going to hit them. I need to know who is hot and who is not. Then, I can pitch around hitters—know who to go after and those to walk and be careful with.”

You have probably had confidence in all your pitches, but now you are facing Major League Batters, like Pujols and others who can hit your locations more consistently than any batters you have ever faced before? (SBF)

“Yeah, that is true. I’ve thrown balls that are three or four inches off the plate and they are fouling them off. He (Pujols) is one of the best hitters in baseball right now and I just have to be careful—try not to over pitch. When you are throwing a curveball, not make it curve more than what it’s capable of doing. You just have to be yourself and not try to be someone you are not.”

Are you finding now that you’ve always been confident before that you could always throw your fastball past most hitters, but are not fooling them as much anymore? (SBF)

“No. I just try to go out there and throw strikes and not try to do too much. All of my previous coaches told me don’t go out there and be someone you are not. Just go be yourself and really don’t do too much out there.”

Have you figured out the first inning struggles? (SBF)

“No, I haven’t. I have never had to deal with anything like this before. Hopefully, in the next outing, it will be in the back of my mind a little. But hopefully, I can get out there, get out of the first inning and be fine.”

In Los Angeles, when you looked back at the tape, did you see anything wrong in your delivery or release point? (SBF)

“I was just throwing too many fastballs in LA. All I had to do is mix in a few breaking balls and I am sure I would do just fine. But I was throwing fastball after fastball after fastball and they (Dodger Hitters) knew a fastball was coming. That’s what really hurt me in LA. (When Jordan and I spoke he had yet to watch the video from Sunday, May 17th against The Phillies at Nationals Park).”

You mentioned (in the ESPN Q & A) Scott Olsen talking to you at one time. Is there a certain pitcher that has taken you under their wings—to give you an assist here and there? (SBF)

“I don’t really talk to many of the relievers. It’s just Olsen and John Lannan and (Shairon) Martis and (Daniel) Cabrera. The starting pitchers I talk to. Lannan and I are really close. Olsen and I as well, but the one pitcher I hang out with and talk about things the most would be Lannan.”

What’s been the most fun about playing in The Major Leagues? (SBF)

“Coming to the ballpark everyday and being with these guys—the whole Big League experience has been enjoyable. Big stadiums, a lot of people—just about everything about it has been fun.”

And the most difficult part so far? (SBF)

“Definitely, my struggling in pitching so far. I would say it’s difficult, but I am just in a little bit of a funk right now and hopefully I snap out of it next start.”

I am curious to know when you walk off the field after the completion of an inning, you many times put your glove up to your face—what are you saying to yourself—if anything? (SBF)

“I am not really saying anything. It’s just that I am frustrated with myself that I didn’t make the pitches I wanted to make. And I just tell myself let’s go figure it out and get out there for the next inning.”

Being able to come back after a bad inning shows a lot of composure. Have you been nervous out there on the mound? (SBF)

“No, not at all. The only time I was nervous was warming up my first start—before my debut. I was a little nervous, but once I got the first strike out of the way, I wasn’t nervous anymore. It’s not nerves or anything—but I really don’t know what it is (first inning struggles).”

Looking forward, past that first inning—pitching wise—what do you need to improve? (SBF)

“Just keep working on my changeup. Every time I throw it, I need to slow it down. I am throwing it way too hard and I need to be able to slow it down so it feels comfortable in my hand. Once I do that, I will have four quality pitches (fastball, curve, slider and changeup).”

But you are not having any problems throwing all your pitches from the same slot? (SBF)

“Yes, I just don’t have the complete feel of the changeup yet. It’s a little more difficult to catch on to.”

With that final answer--Five Minutes With Jordan Zimmermann concluded.

Piecing The Puzzle Together

Swing And A Miss!! And He Struck Him Out!! And The Game Is Over!!

Joel Hanrahan had just shut the door on The Pittsburgh Pirates--ending a seven game winless streak. Throwing mostly fastballs, pitching from ahead--not from behind. Maybe Our Number 38 is finally getting the BIG picture--IF YOU ARE GOING TO GET BEAT--you better get beat with your best stuff.

And those left among the 17,816 faithful at Nationals Park were enjoying the moment. In fact, when Hanrahan struck out Delwyn Young to end this game--Asst. GM Mike Rizzo--standing about 20 feet away from us--softly clinched his fist "Yes!" That's what EVERYBODY has wanted to see from Our Closer all year long. A reliever not afraid to challenge opposing hitters.

What a revelation for Joel--hopefully realizing he can command an inning--if only he trusts his stuff.

Major League ability which Rookie Pitcher Craig Stammen showed this evening in his Big League Debut at Nationals Park. Replacing Daniel Cabrera in Our Starting Rotation and wearing Jersey Number 35, the big righthander mowed through The Pirates over the first few innings of play. Perfect in fact through four complete. And even after being touched for a double off the bat of Adam LaRoche--who eventually scored Pittsburgh's first run in the 5th--Stammen had only faced one hitter above the minimum after six innings and was cruising with a 3-1 lead.

"We taught him a Two-Seam Fastball over the winter," said Mike Rizzo in a brief conversation this evening. "It's been the big difference in his rise to The Big Leagues. Previously, he was more a Fly Out to Ground Out Pitcher. That has all now changed."

You like the ground ball pitchers don't you? (SBF)

"Oh yes!! I started that way with Brandon Webb in Arizona," replied Rizzo. "I believe in it and I am not stopping now."

Nor should he.

What was really thrilling to watch and understand tonight is that Our Washington Nationals currently have an entirely Home Grown Starting Rotation. John Lannan, Jordan Zimmermann, Shairon Martis, Ross Detwiler and now Craig Stammen. All young, none above 25 years old, maybe not a tremendous amount of experience--but talented enough to possibly let Washington ride them out over the course of this long season. Fresh Hurlers, hungry to succeed. Not castoffs from other teams--filling out our rotation.

"That's the way it should be," concluded Rizzo. "I like that."

So do I.

It really didn't matter that Craig Stammen eventually faltered in the 7th when Adam LaRoche flat out HAMMERED one of those majestic home runs to the upper reaches of Section 239--near the Scoreboard Walk in right field. A Home Run that was so long gone that Adam Dunn playing right field never moved his feet--only looked up as the baseball sailed well above his head and over the wall. Nor that Stammen would subsequently leave the game a few batters later having lost the lead--now down 4-3. What was important was that This Rookie made a statement. Craig Stammen worked fast, threw strikes and he let his fielders help him out. Only three strikeouts, but 11 ground ball outs of the 16 he was ultimately responsible for.

When Our New Number 35 walked off the field to the home dugout with one out in the top of the 7th inning--he received a well deserved standing ovation. Appreciation for giving his all, battling for six solid frames--giving a performance worthy of another chance to start. Stammen wasn't involved in the final decision--but he has now entered himself into the equation as a possible building block in the near term future of Our Washington Nationals.

A surprise scenario that not even Washington's Baseball Operations was probably seriously considering heading into Spring Training 2009. Craig Stammen had listened to his coaches, re-adjusted his pitching arsenal and has come out as a possible integral part of the puzzle for Our Starting Rotation.

A Potential Winner, which Our Washington Nationals became late this evening when their ever potent offense re-ignited after two off-games. Down by one entering the bottom of the 8th--the top of DC's Lineup decided enough was enough. "The Guz", Nick Johnson, Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Dunn stroking back to back to back to back singles off The Pirates' Tom Gorzelanny. Four consecutive base hits with one out that over took Pittsburgh's one run lead and put Washington back in front 5-4 and sent Washington's Faithful watching intently from the stands into a frenzy. Cristian Guzman scoring the tying run on The Z-Man's RBI single and Dunn knocking in the go ahead score in NJ on a clean single to centerfield. The first come from behind in their last At-Bat win in the makings of 2009-- if Joel Hanrahan could simply close this one out.

Which Our Number 38 accomplished in the 9th to the great relief of probably every single person with a Washington rooting interest in sight.

"They needed that," said WTOP's Craig Heist speaking to The African Queen after the game. "I needed it more," replied Sohna. Yeah, and so did Our Fans.

Final Score from Nationals Park on the most beautiful weather night of the year so far--balmy and 80 degrees at game time. Our Washington Nationals 5 and The Pittsburgh Pirates 4. Curly "W" Number 12 an exercise in straightening out a struggling team. Lining up the more correct pieces to the jigsaw puzzle and maybe finding out those square pieces--never perfect in the first place--don't fit into that round hole after all. The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! highlighting an aggressive rookie pitcher named Craig Stammen, who tested fresh water and wasn't afraid to get his feet wet. A far cry from the many frustrating outings performed by Daniel Cabrera over the first seven weeks of 2009.

And on the very night Our Potent Offense fought back again to take the lead--this time Our Closer Of The Moment--Joel Hanrahan--fought off his own puzzling thoughts. Overcame his nemesis--himself--and finished an enlightening and enjoyable come from behind victory over The Buccos.

How refreshing to walk out of Nationals Park with a victory in the books after seven straight losses and having a pitching staff, that at least for one night--looked improved, fresh and worth seeing again.

Game Notes & Highlights

Stammen's numbers--6.1 innings pitched, four hits--including one long home run allowed--one walk and four earned runs. His first pitch a strike. And Craig needs to thank Mr. Enthusiasm who threw a solid 1.2 innings himself. Called on to relieve Stammen in the 7th--Julian Tavarez walked his very first batter faced--Pittsburgh's Jason Jaramillo--but was lights out the rest of the way--retiring the last five Pirate Hitters and walking away with his first victory of 2009 when Washington rallied in the bottom of the 8th to win.

Joel Hanrahan's 19 Pitch 9th Inning included only 2 Sliders--everything else fastballs. He wasn't messing around tonight and Our Number 38 picked up his deserved 4th Save for a job well done. If only Joel could be this consistent more often. Of course when every hitter in the game realizes he's throwing all heat--Hanrahan better improve that slider--and not grip it so hard as to have no feel. The control necessary to be a good closer.

Starting at catcher tonight--Josh Bard was a contributor at the plate. Knocking home Josh Willingham twice with a ground out RBI in the 2nd inning and a single up the middle in the 4th. Two of the first three runs plated by Washington. Anderson Hernandez would get Willie Harris home on a sacrifice fly--also in the second inning--for Washington's second score. Hernandez would leave the game before the start of the 5th inning when he sprained his little finger on his right hand. Listed as Day-To-Day, Ronnie Belliard replaced him.

Nick Johnson two more hits tonight now batting .338. "The Guz" still tearing it up at .373. Zimmy close behind at .353. Ryan extending his consecutive games reaching base via hit, walk or hit-by-pitch streak to 39 with his 8th inning rbi single. We've stated this before, but we love the batting lineup--very competitive--with just about any team in The National League.

This evening's come from behind victory was Washington's first in their last At-Bat since September 7, 2008 at Atlanta.



The Pittsburgh Pirate Racing Pierogies ran a real race against Our Racing Presidents tonight at Nationals Park during the 4th inning intermission. Maybe it's their size in comparison to Our Rushmores, but one of the pierogies actually won!! Really? In Our Very Own Park? I don't think anybody expected that result. In fact when the race ended--there was silence over the outcome. Stunning--might be the correct word. Well, The Orioles Bird better not be winning anything when Baltimore and their fans invade Nationals Park this coming weekend.

Tonight Sohna and I were treated to the company of Troy--original Section 320 Member from RFK Stadium--whom we haven't seen all season. Celebrating the occasion in Presidents Club--we all had a very enjoyable time catching up.





At The Nats Bar in The Stars & Stripes Club--Maker's Mark Whiskey was on hand giving out free samples. But even better was their trademark waxing of miniature Curly "W" Baseball Bats and Authentic Major League Baseball Batting Practice Balls. Right in front of anyone wanting--The Maker's Mark representative dipped bats and balls into the 400 Degree Nearby Hot Bin to seal the red wax on the memorabilia. Great Idea and played well off our visit two years back with Frank Howard at the Pearson Wines Maker's Mark Appearance on Wisconsin Avenue in Washington, DC.

By the time you read this on Friday morning, May 22--The Team Photographer of Our Washington Nationals--Mitchell Layton will be in surgery. On Wednesday Night, while shooting pictures from the photographer's well in the Visitor's Dugout near home plate--Mitchell was slammed by a baseball off the bat of Pirates' Pitcher Paul Maholm. The impact breaking his fingers on his right hand. Like a trooper he is, Mitchell was at the park tonight still doing his job. Good Luck Mitchell!!


And finally, we had heard this news the other day, but this evening went over to check out it's authenticity before the game. The Walter Johnson Statue in Centerfield Plaza does have a major crack in its base. Located just under Johnson's left foot on the pedestal and carrying all the way over to the left front edge. It's pretty major and surprising for a piece of artwork just two months old.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Manuel Balce (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

It's A Girl!!

"The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" is now a proud Papa. His wife, Jamie, gave birth to their 8 lbs. 1 .oz daughter on Tuesday, May 19th in Southern California. Riley Mae Cordero (Little Miss Chief)--all 20 and 1/2 inches--is the newlywed couple's first child. Chad Cordero was given time off from his rehab assignment with The Seattle Mariners in Arizona to be with Jamie for the birth.

Congratulations Jamie & Chad!!

Nats & O's To Visit Walter Reed

There is one moment in every single baseball game that has ever been played at Nationals Park when everyone in attendance on South Capitol Street is cheering for the same team. Those members of The United States Military Forces rehabbing at Walter Reed Medical Center. The "Welcome Home" appreciation in the 3rd inning of each game is a telling reminder that baseball is in many respects a diversion and there are far more important matters to understand. Unquestionably, when Our Servicemen and Women are recognized--the very sight of both teams clapping in appreciation--as well as fans--always brings a chill down our spines. It's always important to remember those serving Our Country allowing all of us to live a healthy and free lifestyle.

Tomorrow, May 22nd, when The Baltimore Orioles begin their three game set at Nationals Park, both Our Washington Nationals and The Orioles will send players and staff directly to Walter Reed beforehand to visit those many servicemen and woman recuperating at The DC Medical Facility. A worthy effort that needs to be be mentioned.

Very Thoughtful.

Here is the complete Press Release from Our Washington Nationals.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS VISIT WALTER REED ARMY MEDICAL CENTER ON FRIDAY, MAY 22

Nationals and Orioles Players Visit Military Hospital Before Battle of the Beltways Begins

The Washington Nationals will visit Walter Reed Army Medical Center on Friday, May 22, along with members of the Baltimore Orioles, before the start of the 2009 Battle of the Beltways series. This is the Nationals first visit to Walter Reed this season, though they have hosted many of the wounded soldiers at the ballpark this year. Nationals players and coaches, including Austin Kearns and Marquis Grissom, along with members of the Nationals radio & television broadcast teams will meet with the soldiers, sign autographs and pose for pictures. The team will distribute hats, game programs and t-shirts during the appearance. They will also donate complimentary Lexus Presidents Club tickets to soldiers at the hospital for Friday evening’s game vs. the Orioles. The guests will also be invited onto the field to watch batting practice. The appearance is not open to the media.

“The Washington Nationals appreciation the dedication to our country our military heroes have demonstrated,” said Chartese Burnett, Nationals Vice President of Communications & Community Relations. “It is important that we recognize and honor them and their commitment at Nationals Park.”

The Nationals military program is a season-long initiative that includes ticket donations, hospital visits, dedicated military nights and a standing discount for active members of the military. The Nationals donate Lexus Presidents Club tickets for each home game to members of the military and their families through Walter Reed and Naval National Medical Center. The tickets include complimentary food and beverages for the duration of the game. The soldiers are honored on the scoreboard in the “Salute Your Troops” feature that runs during an inning break. Military theme nights are hosted throughout the season, with four remaining in 2009: Friday, May 22 vs. the Orioles, Thursday, June 11 vs. the Cincinnati Reds, Sunday, August 9 vs. the Arizona Diamondbacks and Friday, September 25 vs. the Atlanta Braves. Discounted tickets are available for these games through nationals.com/military or participating ITT offices throughout the National Capitol Region. These games feature military participation in pregame ceremonies, including color guards and anthem singers. Additionally, the Nationals offer a standing military discount of $3 off any ticket priced at $10 or more for all Monday through Thursday non-premium, non-holiday games at the Nationals Park Box Office.

Why?

Even the collective exhales of every single Nats Fan remaining among the 17,854 in NatsTown couldn't push that well stroked baseball over the centerfield wall. Josh Willingham had just driven what everyone inside Nationals Park thought was going over the fence. A two strike, two out, down to their last out homer which The Pittsburgh Pirates Nate McLouth tracked all the way to the warning track--to the wall--until McLouth had to leap up the nine foot padded barrier.

AND MADE THE CATCH!! TO END THIS GAME!! The high flying baseball settling into The Pirate Centerfielder's Glove.

The Final Out that had nearly the entire ballpark sighing: "Oh No!!"

Another rally failed.

Another game lost by Our Washington Nationals--like seven in a row.

Another bullpen failure which had gotten everyone to this final point in the first place.

Question--With Jason Bergmann standing on Washington's bullpen mound in the top of the 9th watching--why was Our Number 57 left there while Joel Hanrahan imploded again on the field? In fact, Bergmann warmed up three different times tonight--beginning in the 6th inning and never got in the game. How many pitches did he possibly throw--for sitting this one out?

Why didn't Our Manager Manny Acta trust the fresh arm--instead of the same old, same old that has played out all season long?

When Joel Hanrahan got himself in trouble again BIG TIME in the 9th--during a tie 1-1 affair--why was he left in the game?

And why exactly with two outs and the bases loaded and two strikes on Adam LaRoche--did Our Number 38 continue to throw his slider? The very same pitch he can't control well right now. The very same toss he continually throws in the dirt--short of the plate. The very same one that has lost games for him before? The very same wild pitch that eventually went through Wil Nieves' legs allowing for the game winning run to score?

Joel--why not throw your heater? You can reach 97 MPH on your fastball. Why don't you trust it? Why don't you have the confidence to blow your best stuff past any hitter? Adam LaRoche is no Albert Pujols, nor is he even Adam Dunn. You should be able to get LaRoche for the final out.

Instead, you settled for second best--and were beaten--by yourself.

But you weren't the only one to question why this evening?

How about you Adam Dunn?

Playing leftfield tonight--when The Pirates Jack Wilson scorched a hard grounder down the left field line past Ryan Zimmerman with Andy LaRoche on first base and two outs--why did you JOG TO THE BALL? Why when everyone clearly saw the baseball bounce off the 3rd baseline stands and ricochet back onto the field--why did you not feel it necessary to RUN HARD while LaRoche speeded around the bases? And once you did pick up the ball and Andy was being waved home by Pittsburgh's 3rd Base Coach Tony Beasley--why did you give a half-hearted sidearm sling to your throw home? A poor toss from barely 30 feet behind the infield that scooted past Cristian Guzman--slipped by Ryan Zimmerman and allowed LaRoche to score easily. It wasn't a long throw--but you didn't seem to give it your best effort. Why?

Every run counted tonight because this turned out to be a good pitchers duel. Both Washington's John Lannan and Pittsburgh's Paul Maholm started and threw well all night long. Lannan going seven complete, Maholm six--both leaving having allowed one run apiece.

But once this game ended sadly again for Our Washington Nationals--the only question left to ponder is really Why?

Why did DC's Team give away two scores to The Pittsburgh Pirates?

Why did Our Leftfielder not hustle all the way in an attempt to keep the first run off the board in the 4th?

Why was Jason Bergmann again the Yo-Yo tonight, up and down, up and down--throwing all night and never pitching?

Why was Our Number 57--with the game on the line and Joel Hanrahan again losing this ball game in the 9th--left on the sidelines?

Why did Washington call up Bergmann--if not to use him in this very situation?

Everyone has seen what Hanrahan and Our Bullpen CAN DO? Some would say CAN'T?

It's not been good.

So why not use Jason? What do we have to lose?

It just makes no sense.

Final score from Nationals Park where the baseball played out on the field left many questions to ask--The Pittsburgh Pirates 2 and Our Washington Nationals 1 in yet another ball game that shouldn't have ended in the loss column. Why O Why did The African Queen and I and just about everyone left on South Capitol Street have to PRAY for Josh Willingham's Pinch Hit slam off Matt Capps in the bottom of the 9th to go over the wall--when better execution and better game management might well have led to a more positive ending?

Game Notes & Highlights

John Lannan was really quite excellent tonight. He looked strong, pitched well and was deserving of a better outcome. Instead he received a no-decision. Our Number 31 threw 104 pitches, 72 of which were for strikes. He was in command--to bad his teammates couldn't score enough runs for him.

In his one inning of work--Joel Hanrahan threw 35 pitches, allowed three hits, one walk and the crucial wild pitch scoring Freddy Sanchez with the winning run with the bases loaded.

"The Guz" scored Washington's only run tonight when he hustled on a liner stroked down the leftfield line in the bottom of the 5th. One of those bouncers into the corner at Nationals Park that tends to be hard to recover. As Pittsburgh's Leftfielder Nyjer Morgan scurried to pick up the basball, Cristian Guzman saw the entire play developing in front of him and motored all the way to third base for a rather easy triple. NO ONE runs the bases as well as Guzman. He may not be the fastest man out there, but he cuts corners well and quickly moves from base to base. Once he gets moving--he's terrific on the basepaths. Nick Johnson followed with a single to left to score Cristian with what turned out to be Washington's only run this evening.

"The Guz" with two more hits--now batting .377 for the year. And Nick Johnson stole his first base since August 18th, 2006 right after knocking Our Number 15 home. The 26th of his career. Sohna and I chuckled over watching NJ stealing and actually being safe. Good for him.

And Ryan Zimmerman with a single tonight extending his consecutive games of reaching via hit, walk or hit-by-pitch to 38 games. Although the Z-Man did commit his 5th error of 2009 when he got handcuffed on a hard hit grounder directly at him in the second inning off the bat of Robinson Diaz.

Also, by our count, Sohna and I believe six times Washington Batters laced a line drive--right at a Pittsburgh Fielder. Four times, Nyjer Morgan hardly moved to record four outs. Our Lineup was getting good wood on the ball. But seemingly every time--the baseball went right into a Pirates' Glove.

Wil Nieves should have also gotten a sacrifice bunt down in the bottom of the 9th to advance Willie Harris who had singled before him--but he didn't and ended up slapping into a double play--bringing up Willingham to attempt his heroics.

With Diaz on second base and Andy LaRoche on first with no outs in the top of the 6th--Justin Maxwell made his presence known. The Pirates Jack Wilson lofted a fairly deep fly ball to centerfield. Pittsburgh believed they could run on Justin's strong arm. After Maxwell got the baseball--both Diaz and LaRoche took off--looking to move up one base apiece. Justin UNLOADED a strong throw right on the money to Guzman playing cutoff in the infield. Seeing Diaz run past him, but LaRoche still not near second base--"The Guz" took Maxwell's toss, caught it and immediately threw to Ronnie Belliard covering second to retire LaRoche for The Defensive Play of This Game. A perfectly executed Double Play on a fly out and the use of sharp instincts to throw behind the lead runner. Well done and setup wonderfully by Justin Maxwell. The man can play outfield--no question about that.

Daniel Cabrera has been moved to the bullpen as Craig Stammen is called up from AAA Syracuse to start thursday night. Garret Mock was optioned to Syracuse after tonight's game to make room for Stammen on the 25-Man Roster. Mock DID NOT take the news well--upset over the demotion.

Rushing late to the ballpark tonight--I actually forgot to bring our digital camera. So no extra photos of the off the field stuff tonight--sorry.

But we got a kick out of the Three-Legged Presidents/Pierogies Race. Teddy, Tom, GW & Abe were all tied together with one of their Pittsburgh Racing Counterparts. Teddy's Team was winning all the way. Of course, they did trip each other up and finished last. Abe's team taking the checkered flag.

Finally--when Jason Bergmann was warming up in The Nats Bullpen in the top of the 6th--the electronic billboard directly above his head said "Bergman" warming up. One "N", not the needed "NN". What is with this last names with "NN" that so many can't seem to figure out. Jordan Zimmeramann has the same issue. By the 9th--when Bergmann warmed up for the last time--the electronic billboard was corrected.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Evan Vucci (AP)

The Big Tease

LATE BREAKING NEWS--Sohna and I were saddened to hear that Dmitri and Delmon Young's Mother--Bonnie--died monday from pancreatic and liver cancer. We offer our condolences to The Young Family for their loss.


Since the very moment Nick Johnson had tripled off the centerfield wall in the bottom of the 9th inning, virtually the entire contingent of those fans remaining at Nationals Park were standing. Watching in disbelief as The Pittsburgh Pirates Bullpen was now imploding--in virtually the same manner witnessed by fans of Our Team during the first seven weeks of 2009. Another blown save--another lead lost--but this time by The Bucs. Down early, 5-0, Our Washington Nationals had slowly, methodically plugged away at that deficit. Now, thanks to NJ's three bagger and a subsequent WILD PITCH by Lefthander Sean Burnett--this game was tied.

And the winning run, in the name of Ryan Zimmerman was standing on second base with one out. The powerful Adam Dunn standing at the plate. Already, Our Number 44 had hammered out his 12th Home Run of 2009 earlier and the partisan Nats Crowd was whopping it up--wanting a Curly "W". Wishing to see the ending of a five game losing streak. A turnaround that now found everyone into this game.

Not many on hand in the announced crowd of 18,579 didn't believe victory for Washington was surely at hand.

A top offense was sending their biggest slugger to the plate. But Pittsburgh was not backing down. Burnett would not intentionally walk Dunn. Instead a battle ensued--one in which during each successive pitch--the tension grew.

Called strike one, followed by ball one and then ball two. The hitters pitch now--the 2-1 count--the opportunity for Adam to swing away at something good to hit. And just when you thought Our Washington Nationals could possibly end it all--Burnett fooled Dunn with a fastball for called strike two. The Pirates Reliever had challenged him and Our Number 44 wasn't expecting it. A twist of fate that got even more interesting when Dunn reached a full count taking a slider away for ball three. Neither the pitcher or the hitter were backing down with the game on the line. And when Adam fouled off Sean's 6th pitch of this crucial At-Bat--those watching exhaled in wonder over the excitement building.

This was edge of your seat stuff. Drama built by two teams each looking to hang on. Win now, understanding any failure at this point might cost you the ball game.

As Burnett looked in for the sign for this 7th pitch of this excellent At-Bat, Dunn stood ready, standing tall in the batter's box. Each looking to defeat the other. Finally Burnett set, reared back and threw exactly what Adam WAS NOT LOOKING FOR. Instead of the heater to possibly crush--Sean Burnett struck Dunn out on a slow off-speed pitch. A curveball that Our Number 44's Mighty Bat could not slow down for.

Swinging weakly--the called second out of the bottom of this 9th frame brought sighs of disbelief and concern from Our Fans on hand at Nationals Park. The Park noise muted. Could Washington now fail again in the clutch when only one key hit would bring them victory? One big chance now wasted--but fortunately this game still not over--especially when Josh Willingham walked on five pitches to extend the crucial inning at bit longer.

There was still anticipation and with Elijah Dukes unable to play (and placed on the Disabled List immediately after this game), Our Manager Manny Acta had no choice but to send the left handed hitting Willie Harris to the plate against The Pirates latest reliever--the lefthanded Tom Gorzelanny. No other outfielders remained on the bench for Washington's use and only Josh Bard and Alex Cintron had still yet to play. Remnants of what was left when you play a close game--one man short on the availability list. Going with Our Number 22 to hit was the right decision. But clearly from the Get-Go this latest match up was decidedly in Pittsburgh's Favor. Gorzelanny came out firing strikes--got Willie down early 0-2 in the count--and just played with him from there. You could feel the excitement rushing out of Nationals Park with the prevailing winds. Wasting two pitches first--Tom Gorzelanny finally got Willie Harris to look at called strike three to end this game changing frame.

For the very first time since Nick Johnson had tripled to begin RallyTime!! in the 9th--everyone watching now sat down--stunned over Our Washington Nationals failure to win with the game on the line. Teased that victory was certainly at hand. Beleaguered again over not being able to plate the game winning run.

The wind had now been taken out of Washington's Sails with no one wanting to depend on our bedeviled bullpen to hold this game in check. Continuing Torment which happened again immediately in the 10th when Joe Beimel--pitching in his second inning of work--gave up three Pittsburgh runs--all with two outs to put Our Washington Nationals down for the count. How fitting that Alex Cintron--pinch hitting for Beimel--popped into the final out of this game in the bottom of the 10th and was Designated for Assignment immediately afterward. Gone from our team.

Final Score from Nationals Park where victory was certainly at hand, only to see a power failure at the most inopportune time shut down any chance of a Curly "W"--The Pittsburgh Pirates 8 and Our Washington Nationals 5 in 10 vexing innings. They nearly turned the tables on Pittsburgh. Washington almost harried The Pirates enough to win in the exact same manner in which DC's team has lost so many games in 2009. This Big Tease had EVERYONE UP AND YELLING at Nationals Park. A good sign that many still care even when Our Team has now lost six straight games.

For Nine Full Innings Our Washington Nationals tantalized their fan base. Gave hope when none seemed possible early tonight. And just when you thought all was better--they reverted to form--didn't get the winning run home with the game on the line and then surrendered the victory when their bullpen let this affair get out of hand--again.

Washington left standing with an 11 and 27 record after 38 Games--on pace to lose nearly 110 games right now. That's virtually hard to believe with how good our offense is. But not so if you consider our bullpen and defensive failures.

Game Notes & Highlights

Shairon Martis looked downright uncomfortable in his first inning tonight on the mound. He couldn't find the plate and when he did he had no zip on the ball. Looking frustrated and lost for a bit--Our Number 39 gave up three first frame runs. And later was torched for a two run homer to left off the bat of Andy LaRoche in the top of the 3rd--giving Pittsburgh the early 5-0 advantage. Somehow, Shairon made it through six complete and was not involved in the decision but it was his worst outing since that bad one at Citizens Bank Park on April 27th.

Ron Villone pitched two more solid innings of scoreless relief. In eight innings of work since joining Washington in Los Angeles a few weeks back--Ron has allowed just three hits and two walks--nothing else--nothing. Unlike Joe Beimel, who since coming back from The Disabled List has been anything but effectively good. Maybe that hip flexor injury isn't 100% yet, but whatever is the issue--Our Number 97 is not getting the job done. His 10th inning tonight was typical for our bullpen--allowing the leadoff hitter to get on, setting the table for the opposition and putting a full inning of run around the bases on display when The Pirates scored the game winning three runs off of Joe.

Adam Dunn got Washington on the scoreboard when he took a Jeff Karstens pitch the opposite way over the left field fence. A liner in the bottom of the 4th that slammed against the back bullpen wall where The Pirates Relievers were sitting. Scattering their players and coming back for more in the 6th when back to back to back hits by Willie Harris, Anderson Hernandez and Wil Nieves plated three crucial runs--all with two outs. The key blow a run scoring two out triple slapped down the right field line by Hernandez. A rally that actually got started when Ryan Zimmerman--leading off the frame--bunted for a base hit. Down four at the time, The Z-Man understood that baserunners were more important. Alone, he only represented one possible run--but if he could lead by example and get on base--more good could come--which is exactly what happened when Harris, Hernandez and Nieves all delivered.

Washington also had key opportunities to win in the 7th and 8th. Three walks given up by Pittsburgh Reliever Evan Meek were sandwich around a double play grounder stroked by Nick Johnson in the 7th. And in the 8th--Austin Kearns, pinch hitting for Ron Villone--skied a two out fly ball with Willie Harris on third base--to the leftfield wall for the final out of the inning. If the wind was blowing a little more out--that stroked ball might have gone over the fence for a two run homer.

Both Anderson Hernandez and Wil Nieves are swinging their bats well. Both with two more hits tonight and getting key hits with runners in scoring position. Since Jesus Flores went on the DL, Nieves had batted .363 (12-33) with one double and four rbi. Zimmerman has now reached base via hit, walk or hit by pitch in 37 straight games. Dunn's 12th homer ties him with Albert Pujols for The National League Lead.

Throughout the night, most every time Wil Nieves came to the plate to hit--his Salsa Batting Music was played--which immediately got Radio Broadcasters Charlie Slowes & Dave Jageler up and dancing in their booth high above Nationals Park. Even the sight of "The Jack Of All Things" swaying his hands back and forth in his engineer's perch slightly above Charlie & Dave funny to watch. The African Queen and I just started laughing--eventually getting a few folks sitting around us interested in watching "Dancing With The Stars" playing out every few innings from our vantage point in Section 218. Good stuff.

Immediately after the conclusion of tonight's game--Our Washington Nationals announced that Alex Cintron had been Designated for Assignment, Elijah Dukes was placed on the 15-Day Disabled List and Justin Maxwell and Jason Bergmann have been recalled from AAA Syracuse. Maxwell will immediately be placed in the starting lineup in centerfield. Bergmann will be one of 8 relievers now in our bullpen. Willie Harris will now also be an infield reserve player--if needed there.


This evening was Tee-Shirt Tuesday. Tonight's White Tee emblazoned with a "Weathered Look" Script Washington Logo.


The Pittsburgh Pierogies were back for a second time in two days at Nationals Park during the 4th Inning Presidents Race. Tonight a relay race was attempted. Rushmores Versus Pierogies. George teaming with Tom--took the honors--just beating one of the Pittsburgh Teams.

Of course after the race, I headed over to The Rushmore Picture Station hoping to find the Pierogies there for pictures. But Abe, George, Teddy and Tom said they wouldn't allow The Pittsburgh Racers inside their personal domicile. Too bad--that would have been cool with all eight racers together.

There was this Diehard Pirates Fan sitting to the right of us in Section 217. The Entire Game she mostly stood and NEVER stopped screaming "Let's Go Bucs!!" She was annoying and funny at the same time. At one point, since she wouldn't stop, The Ushers moved her to the last row of Section 217 so not to block others view--which she happily did. But when she continued saying: "Let's Go Bucs!!" nearly every single other person on that side of the first base club level started shouting "Nats" every time this lady said "Let's Go..." Hilarious how everybody tried to drown her out--to no avail. Then when Washington rallied in the bottom of the 9th to tie the game, she disappeared quickly--never to be heard from again. We are not going miss that lady for some time.


Sohna and I got a kick out of the latest Know Your Nats Down On The Farm Segment. Not only was the Q & A with Justin Maxwell and Chris Marrero interesting--but we were immediately pleased to not only be able to HEAR the commentary clearly, but also see subtitles on the HDTV Scoreboard to follow along. This particular change for the better is something that was needed for some time. We are very glad Our Washington Nationals listened and made a great adjustment.

Finally--we were thrilled to see a good friend--Jeannette--win Designated Driver of the Game. Some of you might remember Jennette and her husband Barry. Big Nats Fans and Potomac Nationals Fans. During Spring Training they appeared in a post from Space Coast Stadium were they spent the entire six weeks in Viera--watching practice and games--while working part-time for Our Washington Nationals.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Evan Vucci (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Jordan Zimmermann--ESPN ZONE APPEARANCE

Monday afternoon--May 18th brought The Fledgling Mayor Of NatsTown to The ESPN Zone in Downtown, Washington DC. Stepping in as an emergency replacement for Scott Olsen undergoing rehab for shoulder tendinitis--Jordan Zimmermann was at the DC Restaurant to answer Questions & Answers from Radio Broadcaster Charlie Slowes and about 30 Fans in attendance.

This was the first of the monthly "MEET & GREETS" that have been scheduled IN-SEASON since Baseball returned to The Nation's Capital in 2005.

With that here we go with the entire transcript from yesterday's appearances by Jordan Zimmermann and Charlie Slowes at The ESPN ZONE. As usual--it's long but complete and accurate.

Charlie: Welcome Jordan Zimmermann who is doing some pinch hitting duties here. I am sure Jordan was in the plans to do one of these Q & A’s, but with Scott Olsen coming up with an shoulder injury the other day, he’s scheduled for his first rehab session today, so Jordan wasn’t very far away. In fact, they are only one or two lockers away in the clubhouse. Of course Jordan Zimmermann knew he was going to make the club during spring training. When did you find out?

JZ: “I think it was a week or two before spring training was over. (Randy) St.Claire took me to the dugout and said ‘you are the 5th starter but we are going to send you up to Syracuse for two weeks because we don’t need but four pitchers for the first two weeks.’ So, I went up to Syracuse and pitched one game up there and the second game I was supposed to pitch got rained out. I ended up throwing a simulated game and then I came to DC.”

Charlie: What was your reaction when he told you had made the club? You certainly pitched well enough. You only had the one sub par outing during spring training when you faced The Cardinals and I know you were sick going into that one. And you didn’t want to use that as an excuse. The point was you were terrific but you weren’t on the 40-Man Roster so the (The Nationals) had the luxury of starting you a little bit later so they could make other roster moves and bring you in when they needed the 5th spot. And I guess maybe control the total amount of innings and pitches you will throw for the year. Even if you were going to pitch at Syracuse it wouldn’t be the same as a Big League Game.

JZ: “Yeah, he (St.Claire) pulled me aside and said: ‘come with me.’ I didn’t really know what to expect I might be sent down or I was getting good news. He told me the good news and I was really excited. My heart dropped a little bit. I started to get on the phone and call all my family.”

Charlie: Most guys when they get the call to the Big Leagues it’s pretty sudden. They started the season in the Minor Leagues. They are having their year and somebody gets hurt. And they are now a last minute call up—trying to get from one place to another—on the same day maybe. More so for a position player to be able to play that night. Or a starter if he is scheduled to pitch. A reliever is like an everyday player. He needs to get there because he might be used in a game that night. You situation was different. They counted the days out. They told you when you were going to pitch. So you can call everybody, everybody can buy their plane tickets, book their hotels and it’s all paid for and done. And then The Nationals get the rainout against The Philadelphia Phillies. So you had everyone coming into town to visit you and see you pitch and they are all scheduled to be there one day early and leave.

JZ: “Yeah, I was supposed to pitch on the 19th, it was a Sunday. I had a lot of people who were coming in. And they were going to leave Monday Morning. Then we got the rainout and we got pushed back to the 20th on that Monday, so I had a handful of people who had to fly back Monday morning that couldn’t see me pitch but I still had a good crowd of 20 to 25 people that were able to stick around.”

Charlie: Not only did he have to wait all that time and other folks had to wait to see him pitch, but then as many of you who were there can attest—it rained again that night. We had a long rain delay and the game didn’t start until 9:15PM. For two hours and 10 minutes you were all geared up, your days’ prepped, you eat on schedule, and you are ready to go for 7:05. Now what was that like having to wait another two hours to wait it out and maybe thinking we might not play at all?

JZ: “I was ready to go and they said there was this big rain cloud coming. It started raining and it got pushed back a few hours. I just sat around in the locker room and tried to stay as calm as possible. I kept on thinking the whole time that it was going to get canceled and be pushed back another day. Then I would only have four our five people watching me. It was a good thing we got it in and good we got a win.”

Charlie: And if you think he was pumped up once the game started—a cold wet, rainy and nasty night—pretty much like a lot of the nights we’ve had so far this season. And if you think he was a little revved up by the time he threw that first pitch? Boom!! 95 MPH. Second Pitch Vroom!! 95MPH. third Pitch 96MPH!! You told us you had a little bit of adrenaline rush when you finally got out there to start that game?

JZ: “Definitely. I had never thrown that hard in my life. I didn’t really know where it was coming from. Yeah, my adrenaline was pumping. I was just happy to be out there on the mound and get that first pitch across for a strike.”

Question: I was at spring training and I saw your performance at Jupiter (Florida)—that was really amazing against The Marlins. My question is you hear a lot about catchers calling pitches and I was wondering to the catcher’s influence over your performance. And have you ever had a start either here or in college, wherever—that you felt like the catcher may have adversely affected your day—if he had only called a different pitch. Or conversely—the catcher calling the game has actually helped you?

JZ: “We go over the game plan before the game starts with St.Claire and with whoever is catching that night. We go over the game plan and then go out to the field and try to be on the same page. If I don’t like something he’s putting down, I will shake him off and go with what I want to throw. Usually, we are on the same page. If we are a little off the page, he will come out and talk to me and ask me what I am thinking. I tell him what I like to throw and what I am feeling comfortable with. When it comes down to it, I am the one throwing the balls, so I think I should be the one who takes responsibility for the pitch.”

Charlie: How much of game plan before the game might change during play depending on what is working for you? And do you look at the hitter’s swings? If someone is swinging late on the fastball, are you still going to come back with the hard stuff?

JZ: “We definitely watch the hitters during the game. St.Claire watches them. If he sees something between innings, he will tell me. This hitter is doing this so many we should try this instead. It always switches during the game and that when we change the game plan a little bit and go with something else.”

Charlie: So all that information beforehand is how they did against someone else. Or, if you have faced them before, which in this case probably has not happened yet?

JZ: “St.Claire showed me how to watch video. This is the first time I have watched video or done any stuff like that. He told me about some pitchers that pitch like me and I need to watch how they pitch to these other teams. That has been what I have been doing lately.”

Charlie: They have even a little room around the dugout so you can go watch the other team’s at-bats, if you need to see something from a previous inning or last at-bat for a hitter.

JZ: “We have a couple of computers that you can use between innings to see if the pitches were on the corner for a strike or a ball. Or if the hitter is showing something we just didn’t see and we can go in there and take a look at it.”

Question: As a kid growing up, who was your favorite player?

JZ: “I really don’t have a favorite player. I just really liked watching The Brewers. I was a big Brewers Fan growing up. I liked watching The Braves too with (John) Smoltz and (Tommy) Glavine and those types of guys. But my favorite team was The Brewers, not a favorite player. I really liked watching The Brewers as much as possible.”

Charlie: Are you the most famous person to come out of Wisconsin-Stevens Point? I know Terry Porter (former NBA Player) played for The Portland Trailblazers for most of his career. Most recently, was a coach in the NBA.

JZ: “Terry Porter came out of there. A couple of football players that went to the NFL. And there are only three baseball players that have ever got drafted out of Stevens Point—none of them ever made it to The Major Leagues.”

Charlie: You played high school football and were a wide receiver?

JZ “Yes, I played football and basketball.”

Charlie: I am told your basketball team was pretty good. You guys won a state championship?

JZ: “We went to state by junior and senior year and took second and fourth place—something like that.”

Charlie: When you talked about The Brewers you ended up watching growing up, who were the key players at that time?

JZ: “(Paul) Molitor, (Robin) Yount, I remember watching (Pat) Listach play. (Rookie of The Year in 1992—Charlie). Yup. I remember watching a lot of the good Brewer Teams.”

Charlie: So meeting Pat Listach in spring training was probably a big thrill for you?

JZ: “Yes, it was nice to meet him. (Marquis) Grissom was there for a little while. It was very nice to meet those guys.”

Charlie: That was a pretty good Brewers team. Hall of Famers when you are talking about Yount and Molitor.

JZ: “They were all unbelievable players and it was really fun to watch them.”

Charlie: Did you know which was your sport when you were playing three of them growing up?

JZ: “I thought it was going to be basketball. My buddies and me got connected in the 5th or 6th grade playing basketball every weekend and during the summer. We were in tournaments and stuff like that. I thought basketball would be my main sport, but I started playing baseball and I was pretty good at playing baseball. I went to college at Stevens Point playing baseball and football. I decided not to play football at the last second and go with baseball. That all worked out, I guess.”

Charlie: Basketball, what position?

JZ: “I really didn’t have a position. We had three or four guys that could bring the ball up and everyone could shoot it. So, I really didn’t have a position.”

Question: In the extra inning game the other day when Manny emptied the bench, did Manny come down to you and say get ready you might be going to right field?

JZ: “No, I think that might be (Shairon) Martis before me. He’s a little better. We both had our cleats on ready to go. I was guessing that Martis was going to get the call before I was.”

Question: So are you admitting Martis is a better hitter than you?

JZ: “Right now he is a little better. But I hope to be able to come around.”

Charlie: You did DH in college when you didn’t pitch?

JZ: “Yes I did.”

Charlie: Martis is off to a good start with the bat and he can run a little bit too.

JZ: “Yes, he is pretty fast. I’ve never raced him but I am sure it would be a pretty good race.”

Question: At what points did scouts start showing up at Steven-Point?

JZ: “I would have to say during my first year. There were a couple of area scouts that came during the year. And then I played in the Northwoods League over in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. They have teams in Madison, Wausau and a couple of teams in Minnesota. I played over there and did really, really well. There were scouts that came to those games. The word got out. By my junior year there had to be 10 scouts at every game.”

Charlie: Was there interest in you in High School?

JZ: “I got one letter from The University Of Minnesota and that was it. I tapped out at 85 MPH in high school, so I guess I was a late bloomer.”

Charlie: Did you do anything to physically change or was it just a matter of growing up?

JZ: “I think it was just getting into the weight room was the biggest thing. I didn’t really lift weights in high school. I really didn’t have time between baseball, football and basketball practice every night—so there wasn’t much time to lift. Then I went to college and started to lift and the miles per hour on my fastball increased.”

Charlie: “Was that more thinking football with the weights to get bigger and stronger than for baseball?

JZ: “I decided not to play football as soon as I got to college. So I really didn’t go to the very first practice or anything. When I got the weight program for baseball it was really intense and I really got after it—that really helped (me).”

Question: What has been your big ‘Oh Wow!’ Big League Ballplayer moment?

JZ: “I guess going to the stadium and seeing 30 or 40,000 people cheering and going crazy. With that I’ve come to realize I am in the Big Leagues and these are the biggest crowds I have ever seen in my life. When I see the crowds and all the people that’s when I know and that’s when I think that I am.”

Charlie: When you faced The Cardinals I don’t know if I put the whammy on you when (Albert) Pujols was coming up—this is probably a moment with Pujols a lock Hall Of Famer—you see him coming into the box—do you think outside of what you have to do—Wow It’s Albert Pujols.

JZ: “He stepped in there and I was thinking I just need to make a good pitch—make good pitches here and hope I can get him out. I fell behind in the count. (Jesus) Flores was set up in the other batters box and I thought What In The World Is He Doing Over There? (Laughter) I am thinking to myself, I am not going to throw there and walk him. There is no one on base. So I decided to throw him a fastball on the corner. And Flores comes to tell me the next inning—the coaches wanted me to walk Pujols. (More Laughter) He should have come out and told me that—just walk him here—be careful instead of trying to go after him.”

Charlie: You and I were talking earlier before we began—the first inning has been a rough spot for you in your starts. You’ve either missed over the plate or been behind in counts. During that first inning you have not been able to locate exactly where you want to. And I asked you if you find that at this level, as compared to The Minor Leagues, if you make a mistake near the plate do they often swing and miss it and you said no they don’t.”

JZ: You can’t make many mistakes up here. If you do and leave stuff up in the zone, it’s going to get crushed. That’s what has been happening in the first inning most of the time. I just made a couple of not very smart pitches and left it up in the zone—base hits and home runs—and all of a sudden you look up on the scoreboard and you are getting beat 3-0 or 5-0 and you have to battle the rest of the game.”

Charlie: Randy Knorr (Bullpen Coach) told me a story about when he played and was catching a rookie pitcher. It was one of his first starts in the Big Leagues, maybe his first start. And the umpire squeezed him to death. Balls right down the middle to established players that didn’t swing—it was a ball. He (Randy) would ask the umpire and the umpire wouldn’t say anything. And when the pitcher was taken out of the game, he was walking off the mound—and the umpire yells: “Why to go rookie—it will get better!!”
So I guess that leaves me to ask you if you feel like, and we are not criticizing anybody—nobody is writing this one down for their blogs—has there been some pitches you thought were strikes and when you went back to look at the replay you realized—man I didn’t get that call? Or this one? Or that one?

JZ: “Yeah, I had a couple of pitches I thought were right on the corner to Chase Utley yesterday (Sunday, May 17th), he called them a ball. After I was done, I went in and (Scott) Olsen said ‘He’s really squeezing you today and you are going to have that with these umps. They tend to be hard on rookies.’ And then (Austin) Kearns comes in and says: ‘Boy, he was hard on you today.’ Yeah, I said. I thought they were some pretty good pitches. Kearns said he does that to rookie pitchers. I can only hope for the best next season.”

Charlie: That’s tough—we get mad upstairs doing the game. There’s a pitch at the knees, oh where was it? How was that a ball? Where did it miss? How did it miss?

Question: I am going to guess that one of your favorite hobbies is fishing?

JZ: “Yes, fishing and I like to hunt. All my friends back home played video games and goofed around all day long—but I like to hunt and fish most of the time.”

Charlie: Fishing you can sit around and talk a bit. But hunting not a lot of talking going on when you are hunting. What do you like to hunt?

JZ: “White Tail Deer.”

Charlie: You have the hunting clothes, the whole nine yards?

JZ: “The camo—we get out there and try to be as quiet as possible and wait for the big one to walk by.”

Charlie: And what time of day do you have to be out there?

JZ: “Half hour or 45 minutes before it starts getting light out. They usually come out in the morning and night. You just have to be there at the right time.”

Question: Is pitching in the Big Leagues what you thought it would be. Is it harder than you expected? What have you found easier than expected?

JZ: “It’s all I expected. I thought I could get away with more pitches like we talked about before. I tend to make a couple of mistakes here and there in the Minor Leagues and the guys did’t hit them. But up here, you make a mistake it’s going to get crushed most of the time. You don’t have that in the Minor Leagues—so that is one of the things I thought would be a little easier. But for the most part, I am just up here to have fun and try to win ball games—and do my best every time out on the field. Just try to work as hard as possible and just try to confuse them.”

Charlie: How much of every day is a learning experience for you?

JZ: “Pretty much every day—all day long! (laughter) I am trying to learn things, keep my ears open and listen to what people say—take in little things every day and hopefully by the midway of the season—I will have things figured out and be on top of my game again.”

Charlie: Do you learn by watching or a combination of watching and asking other guys about say starting pitching like Scott Olsen and John Lannan about game day preparation? What they like to do?

JZ: “No, I pretty much watch and keep my ears open. I pretty much ask Lannan and those guys who have been up here a few years about what I am wearing and when I have to be here. That’s the only thing I ask those guys.”

Charlie: Different dress code in the Big Leagues right?

JZ: “Definitely. The first time wearing suits on the road. I’ve never had to do that in the Minor Leagues. That’s one of the biggest things is wearing suits for me. I am not one of those guys who likes to dress up a lot.”

Charlie: Your first start here it was cold and rainy and you went out in your short sleeves. You don’t pitch with your sleeves no matter what?

JZ: “In my draft video it was snowing and blowing and I was out there in short sleeves. There is something about it that I just can’t throw with sleeves on.”

Question: Speaking of the weather, has pitching in heat and humidity—like in Los Angeles recently, affected you since you seem more comfortable in colder climates?

JZ: “It doesn’t affect me that much. When I am out there pitching, the heat really takes a toll on me. It usually wears me down faster than when it’s 50 or 60 degrees. The 90-100 degree heat usually takes a toll on any starting pitcher in getting into the later innings.”

Charlie: Is there anything you can do to get use to it? I know that they tell some athletes if you are going to be in the heat—you have to be out in it for a few days earlier to get use to it. And drink more water a few days before you pitch to stay hydrated.

JZ: “I guess you can do that but it’s tough when you are in Washington and you have to go over there (next city) and pitch the next day. When that’s the first time in the heat like that—you can’t really go outside and get use to it. You get in late, go to sleep that night, wake up and it’s time to go pitch.”

Charlie: Well, that weather is coming here. In June and July, you will think it’s hot here and we will go down to play The Marlins the first week of July and you will find out that you can’t keep your hand dry to grip the ball. We can’t even keep the microphones dry there.

Question: I was wondering if they would ever start spelling your name right on your bats? (Zimmermann, not Zimmerman)

JZ: “Yeah, I know—Wally (Mike Wallace—Clubhouse Manager) got my first order of bats in and they only had one ‘N’ at the end. Wally what is this? I told them two ‘NN’s’. So hopefully, the next batch that comes in will have two ‘NN’s’ on them.”

Charlie: I feel for Wally, he’s been having a tough first part of the season (laughter). And it has nothing to do with him. (The NATINALS JERSEYS). All he needs to do is check the players name and you have to get that right.

Question: When you were out in LA and were down after the first inning (6-0), how did that make you feel? How did you adjust?

JZ: “I felt terrible!! (laughter) I just told myself this is a 0-0 ballgame and go out there and try to battle as long as I can here with the pitch count that I have. Go as long as I can and try to get quick innings and try to give the team the chance to win. And that’s what I try to do each time out.”

Charlie: Was yesterday (May 17th) similar for you from that regard. You knew you threw along of pitches in the first inning?

JZ: “Yes, it was pretty much the same thing. It’s terrible to give up three runs in the first inning and put our hitters in a hole like that where they have to battle their way out of it. And they came back and scored three the next inning. Then I was fine for a couple of innings but in the 4th inning I made a couple more mistakes and gave up a couple more runs.”

Charlie: Well, if you are a starting pitcher, the offense of this club has to be impressive. You know that if you make a mistake, there is a chance they can come back and get it back for you.

JZ: “With the offense we have, they are going to put up six, seven or eight runs a game. As a pitching staff we need to just figure out what we are doing wrong. Go out there, be confident and throw strikes—get hitters out. We have to try to do our best and I think if we can do that—with the offense we have—we are going to be just fine.”

Charlie: I know these folks are ready for some autographs. So I will ask the final question. These people are ready to see you win a lot of games over the years in that uniform—any advice you would give to tonight’s staring pitcher (Ross Detwiler—making his first MLB Start—May 18th)?

JZ: “Go out there and have fun—throw strikes. You are going to gets runs scored, so just go out there, have fun, throw strikes and everything will be just fine—if you do all that.”

Charlie: How well do you know Ross?

JZ: “Pretty well. I was with him for two spring trainings. We hung out when we were both in Potomac together. So I know him pretty well.”

Charlie: It will be like you are throwing with him tonight—won’t it?

JZ: “Yes, definitely. I can’t wait to see him out there and hope he gets a win so he can get the pie in the face at the end of the game (Customary teasing). (laughter)

Charlie: That’s right!! Pie in the face when you win your first one!!



And those final words ended the Q & A at The ESPN Zone in Downtown Washington, DC. Jordan Zimmermann then signed autographs and took pictures with many of those on hand for the hour-long event.

Additionally--Jordan signed the leather Washington Nationals recliner that will be given away during the last ESPN Get Together in September. Like in 2008, each Nationals Participan signs the chair throughout the season and one lucky fan will take it home as the 2009 season winds down.

The Next “Meet & Greet” at ESPN Zone will be June 24th when The Boston Red Sox invade The Nation’s Capital for the first time since 1971. Player appearance to be announced at a later date.

All Photos Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Repeat Performance

"Every night the same scene repeats," said The African Queen. "Like watching a bad movie scene that never goes away."

Our Washington Nationals Bullpen had done it again. Down early, 3-0 to The Pittsburgh Pirates, Washington's offense unloaded for a five run bottom of the 5th inning. A stellar frame that found "The Guz" ACTUALLY DRAWING HIS FIRST WALK OF 2009. Nick Johnson hammering a towering three run homer to Section 237 near the Scoreboard Walk at Nationals Park and Ryan Zimmerman immediately following NJ with a Big Blast of his own--a home run into the Red Porch Seats in Left Center. The go ahead runs off The Pirates Ross Ohlendorf that put Washington's Ross Detwiler in the position of winning his first Major League Start.

A huge rally that had the small announced crowd of 14,549 standing and cheering on South Capitol Street.

At least until Our Bullpen took over the game.

Quickly, happiness turned to sorrow, claps to a smattering of boos.

Garrett Mock, Jesus Colome, Kip Wells, Joe Beimel & Joel Hanrahan would combine to give up nine runs over the next four innings. Only Beimel untouched for a score. Another demoralizing ending to yet another disappointing loss.

A Repeat Performance that's simply not worth rehashing. This one got ugly too. Our Bullpen again let a baseball game get out of hand. And Our Washington Nationals Offense couldn't do enough to surmount more bad pitching.

Final Score from a very quiet and nearly empty Nationals Park at the conclusion of this 3 Hour & 30 Minute Marathon--The Pittsburgh Pirates 12 and Our Washington Nationals 7. Our Batters again pounded the baseball. And again Our Relief Corp got pounded--letting their teammates and our fans down. Sohna was right--it is like watching a bad movie, over and over again. One of those late night horror flicks that come on TV in the middle of the night. Those that you find yourself compelled to watch but disappointed in that it only gives you insomnia.

While walking out of the park, this lady wearing a Pittsburgh Jacket said to The African Queen: "I feel sorry for The Nationals, five straight losses." All Sohna could do was hang her head. She was feeling pretty sorry for herself as well as Our Team.

Game Notes & Highlights

Ross Detwiler pitched admirably this evening in his first Major League Start. He was touched for a three runner homer off the bat of Pittsburgh's Craig Monroe in the top of the 3rd. A drive that JUST skimmed over the lower part of the centerfield wall--after grazing the higher partition. The end of Detwiler's only shakiness tonight. Monroe's homer coming directly after Ross hit The Pirates Centerfielder Nate McLouth with a pitch, just after Detwiler had picked off Freddy Sanchez at first base--only to see Nick Johnson drop the baseball trying to throw out Sanchez.

Other than that incident--Ross Detwiler was fairly solid. Even two errors in the same first inning by Cristian Guzman didn't faze him. Leaving the game with the lead after five full innings--Our New Number 48 gave up just four hits, WALKED NOBODY, and struck out six Pittsburgh Batters. You had to feel for Detwiler after the latest bullpen collapse. He had struggled over his past year of Minor League Ball--some called him a flop. But tonight, Ross Detwiler showed the ability many expected he could offer to Our Major League Squad. More experience needed, but after this evening--Ross finds his star having re-risen. The necessary steps taken to be considered for more Prime Time Duty in the very near future.

Too bad Our Washington Nationals Bullpen wasted another fine performance by a starter.

We don't think many on hand really noticed when Cristian Guzman walked in the bottom of the fifth. It took "The Guz" 120 At-Bats to get his first free pass this season. As it turns out an important walk because it extended the frame and allowed for Nick Johnson to unload on Ohlendorf with The Z-Man to follow with his blast to left center.

11 Hits, 7 runs scored by Washington. One of the best offenses in the league can't win a baseball game because defensively Washington can't hold a lead.

Pittsburgh Shortstop Jack Wilson had a terrific game this evening. Not only did he go 4 for 4 at the plate with one walk, two rbi and three runs scored--but he easily produced The Defensive Play of This Game. With two out in the bottom of the 4th, Ryan Zimmerman stroked a very hard grounder into the hole between 2nd and 3rd Base. Wilson, The Pirates Shortstop, ranged all the way over to his backside--fielded the baseball while his body was still moving toward the left field line. Yet, he had enough athletic ability to turn his body, throw off his right foot--while FALLING DOWN TO THE GROUND--and still made a perfect toss to Adam LaRoche at first base to retire Zimmerman and the side. IT WAS AN OUTSTANDING PLAY, well deserving of receiving a Standing Ovation from throughout Nationals Park.

Interestingly, The Pirates 3rd Base Coach is former Nationals 3rd Base Coach from 2006--Tony Beasley.


The Pittsburgh Pirates Pierogies made their second consecutive yearly appearance at Nationals Park tonight. During the 4th inning Presidents Race, all four came out running, two well ahead of Our Rushmores, but that giant cat returned again from down the right field line--tackled The Leading Pierogies--allowing Abe to take the Checkered Flag. Teddy also got into the act by knocking down the other two Pierogies.

Oh yeah--that 1924 World Series Flag flying high above The HDTV Scoreboard that continues to get loose on the pole? Fixed Again.


And finally--Without a doubt--one of the best sunsets in the short history of Nationals Park, Just terrific.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Evan Vucci (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Defensive Lapse

Cheers were heard all around Nationals Park. Folks were going wild!! Two runners had just scored the game tying and go ahead runs in the 8th inning. And Sadly, Fans Of Our Washington Nationals sat in their seats stunned. Bewildered over what they had just witnessed. Those loud noises being reverberated around the South Capitol Street Ballpark were from Phillie Fanatics. Visitors from Our Most Disliked Rival--The Defending Champions. All of whom had taken over Washington's Ballpark this weekend, stomping and rooting their team on to victory. In fact, four consecutive times--a series sweep. The latest of which happened in the most stunning of fashions.

Our Washington Nationals were winning 6 to 5--ahead by one heading to the top of the 8th inning. The time of worry for so many Washington Fans this season. Recurring troubles from our bullpen that rose again when Mr. Enthusiasm started this key frame on the perfect low note. Having Philadelphia's dangerous Jayson Werth down 0-2 in the count--Julian Tavarez inexplicably surrendered a two strike single by serving a hittable pitch over the plate. A concern that was even worse when Our Number 50 walked the next hitter, Shane Victorino, on five pitches. Another deteriorating scenario that would soon lead to The Defensive Miscue Of This Game.

As Julian Tavarez slammed HIS right pitching hand into HIS left glove hand in disgust--Our Manager Manny Acta slowly walked to the mound with HIS hands sternly placed inside his coat jacket pockets. The indication that Manny was pissed, upset over yet another reliever not getting the job done. A now no outs--runners on first and second situation with Bling-Bling!! coming in to pitch. The latest bullpen effort to stop the bleeding. The resultant play to be dissected for some time.

On the very first pitch that Jesus Colome threw to Pedro Feliz--The Phillies 3rd Baseman laid down a terrific bunt moving slowly on the grass, near the 3rd baseline between the pitcher's mound and the bag. One of those you better GIVE YOUR ALL EFFORTS to get the batter out. Skill which Ryan Zimmerman has the ability to make the play. The chance denied when Jesus Colome quickly snatched the ball from The Z-Man's glove--moments before the rolling baseball entered his mitt. The confusion which directly led to THE GAME CHANGING MOMENT FOR THIS DAY. As Our Number 43 picked up the ball, Zimmerman ran through Colome's bare handed pick up of the baseball. The important IGNI-SECOND when Anderson Hernandez lost track of the play.

Believing Our Number 11 had simply missed the baseball, Our Second Baseman--covering first base to get the hard charging Feliz--stepped off the base--thinking the play was over. ANDERSON HERNANDEZ NEVER REALIZED JESUS COLOME HAD THROWN A PERFECT STRIKE TO FIRST BASE. Giving up on the play, Colome's on target throw sailed past Hernandez, past Feliz and all the way down into the right field corner--where Adam Dunn had failed to back up the play. Anderson nearly got hit in the head with Bling-Bling's Toss and was scared out his wits he would injured upon realizing a hardball was heading his way. Of all things to be hurt, disabled FOR NOT PAYING ATTENTION.

A brutal error that found both Werth and Victorino scoring easily the 6th and 7th runs of the game for Philadelphia. And despite what Manny Acta said in the post-game press conference that Anderson Hernandez told him that he lost the baseball in the white shirts sitting along the 3rd base stands--television replays clearly showed--Anderson had simply lost sight of what was actually happening on the field. He EXPECTED Zimmerman to make the play, not Colome--and his mental error had set The Philadelphia Faithful into a FRENZY. Two of whom sitting directly to The African Queen's and my left in Section 218 stated: "Are you guys really that bad?"

We remained silent--not giving in to an obvious challenge. While inwardly consoling ourselves that Our Washington Nationals had found YET ANOTHER WAY TO LOSE A BALLGAME--frustratingly so--to The Philadelphia Phillies and their very loud and obnoxious fans.

No it turned out to not be a good afternoon at Nationals Park. Another blown save, another deflating loss. The third straight day that Our South Capitol Street Ballpark turned into Citizen Bank Park South. No question about it--The Phillie Fans took over this weekend and Sohna and I found it saddening to be out gunned, out cheered and out manned by Philadelphia's so called finest. But we where there, cheering Our Washington Nationals on--supporting them through four straight losses. And when that day does come when DC's Team is an elite franchise and Philadelphia or any other visiting ballclub's fans DO NOT control Nationals Park, please give credit to those that suffered through another visiting sweep--keeping hope alive when so many others have already given up. Those that will claim to have been there all along--standing behind Our Washington Nationals. False bravado proclaimed by front runners that only support a winner--not caring about the growing pains.

Final Score from Nationals Park where it wasn't just the bullpen this time--a DEFENSIVE LAPSE turned this latest game around. The Philadelphia Phillies 8 and Our Washington Nationals 6 in another bad loss. Manny stated after the game, we might as well lose with fresher talent than just the same old, same old. So you gotta believe even more changes are coming--not just the emergency call-up of Ross Detwiler to pitch Monday Night against The Pittsburgh Pirates.

Bring It On--and when you do so--can we please add Jason Bergmann now? Jason has got to be better than some of the many we have currently.

Washington now with 11 Wins and 25 Losses--sinking deeper into a ever larger growing crevase. A plunge that may be difficult to recover from in 2009.

Game Notes & Highlights


Jordan Zimmermann had no command of his pitches today. Everything up in the strike zone. He really struggled, but what's important to understand is that J-Z is striking out far more hitters than walking them (32 to 11). He has all the tools. HIs ERA is not that significant for a rookie learning to pitch in The Big Leagues. Of all the issues Our Washington Nationals may well have right now--Our Number 27 is the least of their worries. That young man can pitch, he just needs more experience. Never have I seen a guy battle every single hitter he faces like Jordan Zimmermann. When he figures it all out, he's going to be outstanding--that I have no doubt.

"The Guz" continues to wield a hot bat. Three more singles today, now batting a League High .381. But Cristian Guzman does not qualify for the National League lead--because he missed so much time on the disabled list earlier. One of the biggest free swingers in the game, no one can say Our Number 15 is not one of the best players on our team. What a difference from his 2005 campaign--which was arguably one of the worst seasons EVER by any starting shortstop. He might not have been doing so before--but Guzman is certainly earning his money over the past two campaigns.

Nick Johnson two more hits today--now batting .333. Guzman and Johnson combining for 5 of Washington's 6 scores today. Can we please finally end the Alex Cintron Experiment? A weak pinch hit ground out for Zimmermann in the bottom of the 5th. Sorry, but he's not helping right now. And we need ALL HANDS ON DECK!!

Effort which Adam Dunn performed late this afternoon in the most unexpected way. New Nats Killer Raul Ibanez RIPPED a liner to deep right field, near the Out Of Town Scoreboard. Not known for his defensive prowess, Our Number 44 ran as fast as his thick legs would take him and JUST WHEN EVERYONE THOUGHT the screaming baseball would sail right past him, Dunn leaped as high as his bulky weight would take him--like all of maybe 10 inches (Michael Jordan he is not)--and SNARED THE LINER IN HIS LEFT HAND--his glove hand for what was truly THE DEFENSIVE PLAY OF THIS GAME!! For all his deficiencies in the field, well documented here, you have to give Adam Dunn GREAT CREDIT for hustling all the way and making the best of a very difficult catch. Well done for the big guy with not a lot of speed moving forward or sideways.

Lower attendance certainly means more seats available to purchase and with DC's Team struggling on the field of play--Philadelphia Patrons are going to find Nationals Park an attractive outlet for those PHILLY FANS who can't normally sit at Sold Out Citizens Bank Park. It's the nature of the beast. When you are good, coming off a World Series Championship--you travel well. Washington, DC--just 150 Minutes away by car from the so called City Of Brotherly Love--makes for the perfect destination stop--especially on a weekend. The opportunity to take over a visiting ballpark. One in which--the home fans have wilted on--sadly so for The African Queen and I.




Before today's game, The African Queen and I attended The Smithsonian Institute's Meeting in Conference Room 4 at Nationals Park. The 11AM Get Together with Team President Stan Kasten, Interim GM Mike Rizzo, Our Manager Manny Acta, Pitcher Garrett Mock and Roving Instructor, Spring Training Coach (and Multiple Gold Glove Winner in his playing days) Devon White headlining an impressive hour long Q & A with some seriously minded Smithsonian Associates. This may well have been the best give and take involving Our Washington Nationals in some time. Really some great questions and well moderated by Phil Hochberg. The long time Public Address Announcer at RFK/Fed Ex Field for The Washington Redskins and lawyer to many professional sports leagues and teams.

Much more coming on this event in the next few days (I just need to transcribe the meeting), but the most noteworthy comment coming from Mike Rizzo. Asked if Stephen Strasburg is drafted and signed by Our Washington Nationals in the upcoming June Draft--can fans expect Strasburg to be in a Washington Nationals Uniform this season?

MIke Rizzo: "Strasburg cannot pitch in The Major Leagues this season." Rizzo went on to say that Stephen needs to learn the professional game and Washington wouldn't want to overwork him early after such a demanding Senior Collegiate Career. It's possible (and this is our speculation), Washington might shut him down when signed, just to give him a break. Rizzo didn't deny that when Sohna and I chatted with him briefly today.

While attending The Smithsonian Associates Meeting, the video monitors around Nationals Park showed the upcoming Signature Sunday's Player Schedule. When this program first started in 2008, The Main HDTV Scoreboard would display the Sunday participants during the previous Saturday's Home Game. Is it possible this listing could continue for 2009? It's very helpful. And we would imagine if fans knew IN ADVANCE that Garrett Mock, Austin Kearns, Jesus Flores and John Lannan were available before deciding to attend--that might well better interest some fans in purchasing tickets. Just a thought, not a complaint.




Today was also Kids Giveaway Day. The first 10,000 Children 12 and Under received a very nice Nationals Curly "W" Red Jersey Drawstring Bag--courtesy of Smithfield. Really, it was nice and many children seemed to enjoy the gift.


Of course this was also Kids Run The Bases Day. During each Sunday Home Game, children can run the bases as their parents watch after the conclusion of the ball game.

Washington Capitals Captain, Chris Clark (yeah, the hockey team), was on hand at Nationals Park today in Presidents Club. And was interviewed by Clint during a break in play. Clark received a very nice ovation from the 29, 577--the largest baseball crowd since Opening Day.

And what do you do when you are wearing a short sleeve jersey and shorts during a well below normal spring day with temperatures barely reaching 55 Degrees? Well, if you are NatPack Member Ray, you wear a stylish Red, White & Blue Scarf around your neck. Sohna and I noticed him earlier on the field during the Tee-Shirt Launch, but when Ray and Clint showed up in nearby Section 217 to hand out Red NatsTown Tee Shirts as Randon Acts Of Red--the sight of Ray with his scarf on was too good to not pass up. Ray's aviator shades adding to his image.



TEDDY WAS WINNING ALL THE WAY in the 4th inning Presidents Race. In fact, the crowd cheering on his lead may well have been the loudest of this day. EVERYONE WAS UP ON THEIR FEET, possibly expecting the impossible. It was loud!! But Teddy, well out in front, tripped running down the right field line--to the dismay of many. The sighs of disbelief spreading as ABE again took advantage of opportunity and easily beat out Tom for Victory.

Finally--And that 1924 Washington Senators World Series Pennant above The HDTV Scoreboard? It might well be pretty close to flying off--AGAIN. Attached for yesterday's doubleheader--today--the strong winds were whipping that banner something awful. Someone's got to fix that--and soon--before it flies away.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Evan Vucci (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Jordan Zimmermann--ESPN Zone May 18th

Late word out this evening and now confirmed--Jordan Zimmermann will sit in for Scott Olsen on Monday May 18th at The ESPN Zone in Downtown Washington, DC. The first of the monthly "Meet & Greets" for 2009 hosted by Radio Broadcaster Charlie Slowes. Olsen, now on the Disabled List can not attend. And JZ has agreed to be emergency starter. Gates Open at 11AM, the program with Charlie and Jordan at 12 Noon. As always, Questions and Answers for the first 30 minutes or so, followed by an autograph session at the end.

ESPN Zone is located at 555 12th Street, NW--Washington, DC.

Billowing Clouds

Ray Knight, sitting directly in front of us, threw up his arms in dismay. The African Queen and I stunned. That New Nats Killer--Raul Ibanez--had just hammered out another home run at Nationals Park. His second of just this game. A three run shot on a 88MPH Fastball off the lefty arm of Scott Olsen that put The Philadelphia Phillies up 5-1 . One of those 1-2 behind in the count fastball pitches?

Right over the middle of the plate?

"What wrong with him?" I said to Knight. Ray looks back: "I don't know, but something is not right."


Sohna and I were visiting The MASN Suite at Nationals Park thanks to an invitation by MASN's Todd Webster. Todd had invited a group of bloggers that cover Our Washington Nationals to the game. A full afternoon of meet and greets with all of MASN's On-Air Personalities and some behind the scenes folks.

An interesting time that was the calm surrounding the whirlwind developments on the field of play. Thanks to an April 15th Rainout in DC against Philadelphia--a Day-Night Doubleheader was in the works. And Game 1 was bursting open another sore wound.

Olsen looked awful on the mound, his pitch speeds dropping dramatically as this game wore on. And as it turned out, Our Number 19 didn't admit to Our Manager Manny Acta--until after he was taken out this afternoon--that his left throwing shoulder was hurting. A held-in outcry for relief that sent yet another disturbance reverberating throughout Our Washington Nationals Team. For five innings Scott got pounded by The Defending Champions. And with Washington's Bullpen already overworked and depleted--Manny stuck with Olsen--hoping to save his relievers. No such luck. Hassles turning to strife when The Phillies took Scott deep three times, twice by Ibanez, once by Jason Werth. Bad pitching that sent Scott Olsen to the showers early. And directly to the Disabled List after the game. Gone for at least 15 days after taking a cortisone shot and told to rest for five more days.

A squall that didn't go away after this first game. The billowing clouds continuing to build for the second affair. Eventually developing into a full fledged rainstorm that didn't stop until Our Washington Nationals and Philadelphia Phillies were literally washed off the field of play. Trailing 7-5 in the top of the 6th, with Philadelphia batting, the bases loaded and Ryan Howard at the plate-- A thick downpour ensued. Thunderclaps and strong winds indicating that even The Baseball Gods had seen enough. No more play today.

Because in this Game Two--Daniel Cabrera was absolutely hammered. He didn't give Washington much of a chance to win. A performance that was even more painful to watch than his last time out. A fifth inning pitched by Cabrera that was remarkable for what he didn't get done--allowing three walks, one single, two doubles, one home run and four runs total. Daniel showed no command on most every pitch and no confidence at all. None. The inability to find the strike zone. And when he gave up Ibanez' third homer of this day--the slumping shoulders on the bodies of our field players standing behind Daniel said it all. No matter how hard they try at the plate, right now--on certain days--Washington has no chance of winning. Ryan Zimmerman standing just off 3rd Base slowly grading his metal cleats into the infield clay--head down--while Raul trotted past him in the top of the 5th inning of Game Two. The Z-Man full well knowing he had no control over the outcome when baseball after baseball flies over the fence or off the wall. Or opposing runners walk around the bases--freely--thanks to Washington's very own pitchers being unable to find home plate.

It didn't matter today that Ryan Zimmerman and Josh Willingham both homered in Game One.

It didn't matter today that Washington produced another fine comeback in Game Two--including a key two run double down the right field line by Willie Harris--scoring The Z-Man and Willingham in the bottom of the 5th. Followed by a terrific hustling triple to right center by Ronnie Belliard to get Washington back within two runs. Three runs scored in the bottom of the 5th of Game Two.

It didn't matter because when that last storm started brewing this evening over Nationals Park, the final disturbance was more than just The Phillies bats stirring their latest tempest. This cloudburst seemingly wishing to wipe the slate clean, freshen up what had already been a bad day of baseball in The Nation's Capital by the home side. The overcast skies even darkening the mood of Our Manager Manny Acta. In the post game press conference--Manny seeing no reason to continue this affair tonight.

He just wanted to move on.

Final Scores from Nationals Park were it appeared Washington had little chance to win this day--The Philadelphia Phillies 8 and Our Washington Nationals 5 in Game One. And The Philadelphia Phillies 7 and Our Washington Nationals 5--over five plus innings--in a rain shortened Game Two. Three straight losses for Washington at home. Defeats that are not only hurting, but even more worrisome as our pitching is not giving The Home Side--legitimate chances to win.

Will it ever stop pouring during a Nationals Home Games in 2009? Or will those dark billowing clouds continuing to build over Nationals Park be a constant reminder of a greater storm approaching. One that threatens to derail the new championship campaign of Our Washington Nationals well before the heat and humidity of Summer takes it's debilitating toll.

Rain, Rain--Please Go Away. Let Our Washington Nationals play a fresh new game this coming day.

Game Notes & Highlights

In five innings of Game One Scott Olsen gave up 9 hits, 2 walks and was charged with 5 of his six runs allowed. Heading to the Disabled List with a 1-4 record and ERA of 7.24. Ross Detwiler, 2007 Number 1 Draft Pick to be recalled to pitched on Monday at Nationals Park against The Pittsburgh Pirates.

In five innings of Game Two Daniel Cabrera allowed 8 hits, 4 walks, 7 earned runs and, oh yeah, one more wild pitch. Cabrera now 0-5 for the season sporting a poor 5.95 ERA.

Of course what would be ANY PHILLIES/NATS Game in 2009 without Ibanez blasting out a home run? For the third time today--Raul flat out scorched yet another homer in the 5th inning of Game Two. Inbanez's 6th Homer of this season in 8 games played against Washington. That's right 6th HOME RUNS IN 8 Games. Incredible. That man's ON FIRE. Pretty much hot like Ryan Howard always is. Again today, The Former National League MVP taking Cabrera deep to dead center in the second inning for a two run shot of his very own.

Despite his Consecutive Games Hitting Streak ending at 30 in San Francisco the other day, Ryan Zimmerman has now reached base via hit, walk or Hit By Pitch in 34 Consecutive Games. His 9th Home Run of 2009 in Game One was stroked the opposite way to right center off Brett Myers. Josh Willingham swinging a very fine bat of late. Over his last 32 At-Bats, 10 hits, 3 doubles, five home runs, 8 rbi, 7 runs scored and a nifty .321 batting average. The man's a player and is rightfully earning his playing time.



15 Bloggers posted up for MASN Blogger Day at Nationals Park. Everyone met around 12 Noon at The Media/Suites Gate off South Capitol Street. From there, everyone headed upstairs to the 7th floor television broadcast booth where TV Broadcasters Bob Carpenter and Rob Dibble greeted and chatted with everyone for about 15 minutes. Carpenter and Dibble saying their work facility at Nationals Park is the best in the business. Soft lights and a large work space allows for comfortable stand up positions and ease in performing their jobs. Both telling a funny story about their recent west coast trip where one visiting broadcast booth was so small, cramped and brightly lit that Dibble's sportcoat actually caught on fire--thanks to the heat and proximity of the studio lights.

From there, the group headed down to MASN's Suite, but on the way past "The Boys of Summer's" Radio Booth, The African Queen and I couldn't resist to step inside and say hello to "The Jack Of All Things". Yeah, Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler were there too--but Jack Hicks!! That's almost better than enjoying a "Come Hungry--Leave Happy" Breakfast from IHOP. $4.99 Right Charlie?







Once inside MASN's Suite on The Jefferson Level at Nationals Park--Todd Webster greeted everyone and thanked them for coming. MASN's Debbi Taylor was there, as well as their Beat Reporter--Pete McElroy. Ben Goessling from The Washington Times, Ray Knight and Johnny Holiday from NatsXtra--even Chartese Burnett and Lisa Pagano from The Communications Department of Our Washington Nationals.





Later--in two shifts--groups ended down into the lower bowels of Nationals Park to head inside MASN's HD Production Truck during the game.

Among those on hand in MASN's Suite:

Mike Harris from Nationals Fan Boy Looser & Chris Needham from Capitol Punishment/NBC Washington

Chris from Nationals Inquirer & Ed from Federal Baseball

Stephanie & Kristen from We've Got Heart

Miss Chatter among The Guys.

Todd Webster, Chris Needham & Brian Oliver (Nationals Farm Authority)


Game Two this afternoon was also the make up game for The Jackie Robinson Tribute washed out on April 15th. Both The Philadelphia Phillies and Our Washington Nationals wore jerseys with Jackie's now retired Number 42. Highlights of his career and commentary from Retired General Collin Powell and Former Georgetown University Basketball Coach John Thompson were played on The HDTV Scoreboard.





The first of two new barbecue offerings has opened at Nationals Park. The Pit at The Red Loft is located on the Scoreboard Walk, near the escalator across from The Kids Zone. $11 for Turkey or Beef Sandwichs. We haven't tried it yet. Also coming soon Teddy's Barbecue--Home of The Roughrider to be located near the centerfield picnic area on the main concourse across from The Kids Zone.


Finally: George took Game 1 of The Presidents Race, even though Teddy used a Segway. Abe took the nightcap when he outraced a "Phillie". A human dressed in a long black wig sporting a Philadelphia Phillies Tee.

InGame Photos--Evan Vucci (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

At Least The African Queen Caught A Baseball

Duty called me to work and The African Queen attended tonight's series opener against The Philadelphia Phillies at Nationals Park without me. The Premiere of the new movie-- "Night At The Museum, Battle Of The Smithsonian" took place Thursday night at The National Air & Space Museum in Washington, DC. This evening was the Press Junket. The never ending rolling through of one entertainment reporter after another from around the country and many parts of the world. The promotional arm of any film where the stars and directors show up speak to the press for television and internet use.

Actors Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wilson, Hank Azaria, Tom Lennon, Ben Garant, Actress Amy Adams and Director Shawn Levy where all on hand at The Air & Space Museum for one-on-one interviews. Robin Williams his usual outragous self. That man is hilarious.

Going deep into Friday Night, there was no way I was going to make the game. Sohna did and even caught a baseball in Section 218 off the bat of Wil Nieves. Proudly, she showed it to me upon getting home.

Yeah, I know Our Washington Nationals lost in 12 innings, the bullpen failed again and Elijah Dukes got hurt. But it's time to get some rest and gear up for tomorrow's double header at Nationals Park against The Phillies.

Scott Olsen ESPN Zone May 18th

Monday is the first of the 2009 ESPN Zone "Meet & Greets" with a player from Our Washington Nationals. Now in it's fifth year, the monthly lunch time get togethers allow for fans to chat with a selected player during the hour long Q & A. And then receive an autograph on a item of the fan's choosing. Pitcher Scott Olsen is scheduled first to appear at The ESPN Zone. As usual, radio broadcaster Charlie Slowes will be on hand to moderate, ask questions, and ponder trivia to those attending. Winning answers are awarded free tickets to an upcoming Nationals Baseball Game.

Always entertaining and a good opportunity for some personal one-on-one time with a player, coach or management of Our Washington Nationals--each ESPN Zone "Meet & Greet" well worth the time and effort to attend.

That's Monday, May 18th at 12 Noon at the downtown DC Eatery--555 12th Street, NW DC.

Doors open at 11 AM.

National Bike To Work Day To Stop At Nationals Park

National Bike To Work Day is Friday, May 15 and Our Washington Nationals are participating by being a Pit Stop for The Morning Commute for those bicycle enthusiasts riding their manually pedaled wheelers to their place of business. 7,500 riders have already signed up for The Nation's Capital's Events by this afternoon. May is Bike Month and this week--May 11 through 15--is Bike Week. Friday's pedaled commute is the culmination of celebration and appreciation by enthusiasts.

A grass roots effort now in it's 15th year and becoming ever stronger.

Here is the complete press release from Our Washington Nationals.

Nationals Park To Serve As A Pit Stop for Bike To Work Day 2009 on Friday, May 15

DC Councilmember Tommy Wells & Capital Riverfront BID Executive Director Michael Stevens Will Ride to Nationals Park Together to Start the Festivities.

Nationals Park will serve as a pit stop for the 2009 Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 15, one of only two pit stops within Washington, DC. Over 140 riders have registered to take part in the festivities at Nationals Park, which take place from 6:30am – 8:30am in the ballpark’s Center Field Plaza. Registered participants will enjoy food, drinks and music, along with a program featuring speakers from Capitol Riverfront BID, DC City Council, Department of Transportation, the Office of the Mayor, and the Washington Nationals. Items will be raffled off throughout the morning, including Washington Nationals autographed memorabilia and game tickets to a brand-new bike donated by CycleLife. Nationals Mascot “Screech” and Racing President Teddy will also be in attendance.

The Nationals will host Bike to the Park Day on Sunday, June 21 when they face the Toronto Blue Jays at 1:35pm. Fans interested in riding to Nationals Park and utilizing one of the 250 bike racks located around the park or the Bike Valet located in Parking Garage C should visit nationals.com/groupevents later this month for more information.

Bike to Work day began in 2001 and is coordinated by Commuter Connections, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA). This marks the first time in the history of the event that there is more than one stop within Washington, DC. There are 26 stops total throughout the District, Maryland and Virginia.

Trinidad Recreation Center New Baseball Field

In a continuing effort to get District Youths more involved with baseball, Our Washington Nationals announced today an effort to assist The District Of Columbia Parks & Recreation in building a new baseball diamond at the Trinidad Recreation Center in Northeast DC. Washington's Major League Team donated clay for a new infield and the batter's box. Additionally two baseball batting screens--used for protection during batting practice were also donated. This latest community involvement is separate from the proposed DC Baseball Academy in the works through The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation. That effort, to be situated at Ft. Dupont Park in SE DC is awaiting final transfer of the land from The Federal Government to The City to allow for The Dream Foundation's work to move forward.

Ironically, The Trinidad Neighborhood historically was once involved with a Brick Making Company that dug up the surrounding land for it's rich clay value to make bricks. The resource in this part of NE so great at that time, The Washington Brick Machine Company sold off the excess land for what was soon to become homes and the beginnings of this separate neighborhood in The District Of Columbia. Now, the story has sort of gone full circle.

Photo--Trinidad Concerned Citizens For Reform, Inc.

Here is the complete press release from the team:

WASHINGTON NATIONALS DONATE MATERIALS TO ASSIST WITH CREATION OF BASEBALL FIELD AT TRINIDAD RECREATION CENTER

The Washington Nationals have donated materials from Nationals Park to the DC Department of Parks and Recreation, including clay from the infield, to assist with the creation of a baseball field at Trinidad Recreation Center in Northeast Washington DC. Previously used as a football and soccer field, the recreation center is now home to a baseball field made with Major League commodities.

The Nationals donated 20 tons of infield clay, one ton of clay batter’s brick boxes and two baseball batting screens to the recreation center earlier this month. The infield clay was used to create baselines and cutouts around each base while the clay bricks were used to create the batter’s box at home plate. By creating baselines and base cutouts and leaving the infield as grass, the field will be safe and playable for baseball, football and soccer. The batting screens will be used by the baseball coaches and players during batting practice adding an increased level of safety for the pitchers during practices.

“The Nationals are thrilled that we were able to donate Major League materials to help create the first baseball field at Trinidad Recreation Center,” said Chartese Burnett, Nationals VP of Communications & Community Relations. “We are committed to growing the sport of baseball in the Washington Metropolitan area and to developing young fans. We are honored to represent the national pastime in the nation’s capital and we are dedicated to making an impact in youth baseball in the region.”

“This generous donation from the Washington Nationals will enable District youth to experience baseball on a major league field at Trinidad Recreation Center,” said Dr. Ximena Hartsock, Acting Director of the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. “The Department would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the Nationals for making this new baseball diamond possible.”

Just Win Baby!!

Baseball Fans Care.

The real aficionados of The Great Game appreciate achievement, no matter the individual team any one player represents. So, when those on hand at AT&T Park gave Ryan Zimmerman a standing ovation this afternoon in the top of the 9th--upon realizing his 30 Game Hitting Streak was all but over--you had to appreciate the class and respect shown Our Franchise Player. Because on the national stage, the mainstream media and online community ridicules Our Washington Nationals continuously. Picking on each and every downturn--rubbing it in--without ever acknowledging what Our Team actually does have and does well.

But Baseball Folks Understand Hope and The Importance of Emerging Talent.

Capability and Classiness which Our Number 11 possesses.

Ryan Zimmerman is swiftly developing into The Finest Third Baseman in The National League. And despite how sad it was to watch his COMING OUT PARTY END (the finish of his remarkable 30 Game Hitting Streak) against The San Francisco Giants this afternoon--The African Queen and I are content tonight, happy that The Z-Man has taken upon his strong young shoulders, the ability to lift the spirits of not only Our Franchise, but Our Fan Base--during a frustrating period of play. Promise seen everyday from a young man that never gives up and always puts his team forward--FIRST.

Much like the rising excellence of Shairon Martis.

Now, come on, raise your hand--how many of you picked Our Number 39 to even MAKE the 25-Man Roster out of Spring Training? Certainly many more than believed this 22-Year Old Starter would begin his Rookie Campaign with five wins and zero losses.

A BULLDOG is an apt description of Shairon Martis. A moniker given him by Zimmy in an interview on MASN after today's game. Martis gets himself in trouble on the mound, but he doesn't falter. Sweating it out must not be in his vocabulary, neither must be nervousness. Shairon's composure on the mound is beyond his years. Far more mature than expected. Prepared for most every start and acting like a seasoned veteran, Martis' composure has been noticed by not only his teammates, but his coaches and our fans. The impressive personal qualities that don't come along often or easily.

When you look at all our bullpen falters in 2009, those too many last inning turnarounds, the crushing defeats--it's consoling to know there are already team staples on Our 25-Man Roster. Players to build upon--anchored by Ryan Zimmerman, pushed forward by solid veterans in Adam Dunn, Nick Johnson and Cristian Guzman, while spirited in the youth of Elijah Dukes, Jesus Flores, Jordan Zimmermann, John Lannan and now Shairon Martis. A true core group solidly in place. Baseball Players to build The First Great Nationals Team Around. The Class Act so many in Washington so richly deserve.

No question, there will be a few more stumbles and roadblocks along the way, but the Resiliency shown today by Our Washington Nationals to again battle back from a great adversity last night, and win the last game of a long West Coast Road Trip, speaks volumes as to the character of Washington's Makeup.

Hope is truly on the way, some of it already here--much of it on display this afternoon in The City By The Bay. Those San Francisco Giant Fans at AT&T Park clapping for Ryan Zimmerman this afternoon understood good baseball. Hardball competed on a High Major League Level by Our Washington Nationals Team that never gives up, never backs down, and never considers themselves out of any ball game--no matter how bad the tide has turned. Admiration for hustle and integrity--the appreciation by Baseball Fans that care.

Forsaking the gamer today to concentrate on the long term ramifications--the Final Score from one of the most beautiful cities in America--San Francisco--where finally DC's Team defeated SF's after nine straight losses--Our Washington Nationals 6 and The San Francisco Giants 3 is nine lively innings of baseball. Yeah, Sohna and I would have loved to see Zimmerman's streak continue. But it's comforting to know that Ryan ALWAYS puts his team first. And when he scored Washington's final run charging from third base on a infield grounder to first base off the bat of Dukes in the 9th inning--his resultant perfect backdoor hook slide to avoid the tag of The Giants Catcher Steve Holm and eventual pop up fist pump of joy in celebration--confirmed a young man that has all his priorities in order. Individual goals are worthy, but team values transcend personal achievement.

Curly "W" Number 11 of 2009 is a reminder of "Just Win Baby!!"-the famous slogan of long time Owner Al Davis of The NFL's Oakland Raiders. A phrase that Shairon Martis has taken to the mound every single time this young man has been given the ball and walked to the mound. Get the outs, limit the damage, gain a victory. Martis has only had one bad start and now finds himself on the brink of being named Staff Ace. Thanks to that "Bulldog" mentality Shairon has taken to the field in each and every one of his starting appearances.

Shairon Martis is not afraid of anybody, just like Our Franchise Player--Ryan Zimmerman.

Yeah, they are both Our Babies--and they are both also Our Winners!!

Together, They Just Win Baby!!

Game Notes & Highlights

What I love about Shairon Martis is when a facing batter hits any comebacker to the box. If no one else is on base, he trots the baseball to first base and then underhands it to Nick Johnson. Not wanting to make even the simplist mistake, Shairon wants to be 100% sure to record every out he's personally responsible for. We really like that about him. Also, when the final out of the inning is recorded and he takes off his hat at the foul line as he walks toward the dugout and places it in his glove for safe keeping while he rests. There is something personally inviting about that gesture. A youngster thinking over what he has just accomplished and what more he needs to do.

From personal experience, not much a talker, a little shy, but an underlying fire that's easy to appreciate. Today, seven full innings pitched, just two hits allowed and four walks. Whether in trouble or cruising--Shairon Martis was able to record the necessary outs. A now 5-0 personal record for a team that has only won 11 Games in 32 outings. That's impressive.

Even though Martis had thrown 109 pitches when removed after the 7th inning, the worry began anew when Joe Beimel got into immediate trouble in the 8th--giving up one run. Saved by Kip Wells, who was able to complete the game, but not before having his own problems himself. Shaky, shaky bullpen, but at least today, they didn't blow it.

To their great credit--The San Francisco Giant Fans on hand at AT&T Park this afternoon BOOED when Giants Manager Bruce Bochy elected to walk Ryan Zimmerman with Washington runners on second and third with one out in the top of the 7th inning. Granted, the score was only 2-0 Nats and San Francisco was still trying to win the ball game, but it really hurt to watch that free pass transpire. Washington would score three runs a bit later assisted by Elijah Dukes slapped broken bat single to left center scoring two. But having The Z-Man standing on 30 Consecutive Games of Base Hits and not being able to receive his full accompaniment of At-Bats, was frustrating to watch. No one's fault--just playing baseball.

12 more hits today by Washington's Hitters. Nick Johnson ON FIRE with four of those, two more rbi. Now personally accounting for seven scores in the past two games. Batting .333 for the young season, NJ looks more and more like is old self--vintage 2006 before that awful broken femur. "The Guz" continuing to free swing like not many hitters in the game. Three more hits today, batting .390 and still not receiving a single walk in 100 plate appearances this season. A few more At-Bats and Cristian Guzman will qualify as a league leader. The man can get on base--whether he has the patience at the plate--or not.

From One through Eight in Our Batting Order, love the lineup. It's aggressive, never on the defensive, and always battling.

Although Elijah Dukes really needs some serious baserunning lessons. Again today, thrown out at 3rd base when attempting to steal from second base with one out in the 4th. And being picked off first by Giants Lefthander Pat Misch--when Our Number 34 didn't realize the move to first by The San Francisco Pitcher in the 9th. That's five times, to my recollection, that Dukes has been officially caught stealing in the past few weeks. Marquis Grissom needs to sit him down on this long flight across the country tonight and knock some sense into him. If he doesn't, The African Queen's going to be breathing down his back, getting on his case again. And Elijah knows from personal experience with her, she's not one to mess with.

And finally today, Milb.com reported that Terrell Young has been returned to The Cincinnati Reds. The Rule V Pick deemed not to have a future in Washington. Despite the published report, Our Washington Nationals have yet to confirm it as of this posting.

Today's InGame Photos--Ben Margot (AP)

Rainout Date Information

Just in case you were not aware--below are the complete details concerning the makeup dates for the two postponed games at Nationals Park this season. The first re-scheduled affair set for this Saturday, May 15 at 1:05PM against The Philadelphia Phillies. The Cardinals rainout reset for July 23 during what will now be a part of an 11 Game Home Stand beginning July 16th (right after the All-Star Break) and will include four games with The Chicago Cubs, three with The New York Mets, one with St. Louis and three with The San Diego Padres.

Complete Details In The Press Releases Below.

NATIONALS ANNOUNCE GATE TIMES FOR SATURDAY’S DAY-NIGHT DOUBLEHEADER VS. PHILLIES

The Washington Nationals today announced gate times for Saturday’s day-night doubleheader against the Philadelphia Phillies. The centerfield gates at Nationals Park will open at 10:30 a.m. (all gates open at 11:30 a.m.) in advance of the 1:05 p.m. contest. Preceding the 7:05 p.m. nightcap, the centerfield gates will open at 5 p.m. (all gates open at 5:30 p.m.) or one hour after the completion of the afternoon contest, whichever is later. The two games against the World Champion Phillies will require separate admission.

Saturday’s 1:05 p.m. game was originally scheduled for April 15, but was postponed due to inclement weather. Fans purchasing tickets to the afternoon contest will have the opportunity to take advantage of Value Game pricing, with the majority of tickets reduced by as much as $5.

Season-ticket and mini-plan holders, whose ticket plans include tickets for the postponed April 15 contest, should retain their
tickets for use during the rescheduled game at 1:05 p.m.

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 Saturday's 1:05 p.m. contest or may exchange their tickets for any other 2009 Nationals regular-season home game, excluding the three-game series against the Boston Red Sox from June 23-25.

Individual-game ticket holders who possess tickets from the April 15 contest can exchange their tickets at the Nationals Park
Main Box Office, located at the corner of N and Half Streets, SE. Nationals Park Box Office hours are Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All rain check exchanges are subject to availability.

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

The Nationals return home from their current roadtrip on Friday (May 15) for 11 games in 10 days. Individual-game tickets and
parking for all Nationals home games are currently on sale at the Nationals Park Box Office, online at nationals.com, or by calling 888.632.NATS(6287). Fans interested in Nationals ticket packages (full-season, half-season, partial-season or mini-plan) or group outings of 25 or more should call 202.675.NATS(6287) and select option No. 1, or they can order online at nationals.com. Nationals Park is located on the Metrorail Green Line at the Navy Yard station.

NATIONALS RESCHEDULE MAY 3 RAINOUT AGAINST CARDINALS FOR JULY 23 AT 7:05 PM

The Washington Nationals today announced that their postponed May 3 contest vs. the St. Louis Cardinals has been rescheduled as a 7:05 p.m. game at Nationals Park on Thursday, July 23. Season-ticket and mini-plan holders, whose ticket plans include tickets for the postponed May 3 contest, should retain their tickets for use during the rescheduled game on July 23. Those with individual-game tickets (all non-season and non-mini-plan tickets) to the postponed May 3 contest may use those tickets for the same seats to the July 23 contest or may exchange their tickets for any other 2009 Nationals regular-season home game, excluding the three-game series against the Boston Red Sox from June 23-25.

Individual-game ticket holders can exchange their tickets at the Nationals Park Main Box Office, located at the corner of M and Half Streets, SE. Nationals Park Box Office hours are Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All rain check exchanges are subject to availability.

Two More Little Things

Lost and forgotten in last night's latest meltdown in San Francisco, were two defensive miscues that on the surface didn't appear as important at the time, but in the long run proved costly. Those little things that add up to big innings and ultimately another defeat.

In the very first inning, after Jordan Zimmermann hit Edgar Renteria with a pitch on his left elbow, The Giants shortstop stole second base. A sure thing when Washington's catcher Wil Nieves had to double pump--BECAUSE NO ONE COVERED THE BAG. Cristian Guzman froze, Anderson Hernandez broke late. With eventual San Francisco Game Hero Pablo Sandoval batting lefthanded--neither of our middle infielders seemingly had communicated who should cover the bag. A resultant mental error that cost Washington a run when Randy Winn doubled with two outs in the bottom of the 1st.

Later in the bottom of the 4th--Renteria ropped a two out liner to right field that Austin Kearns scooped up and fired a one hopper to home plate. Aaron Rowand, already on third base, scored easily, but The Giants First Baseman--Travis Ishikawa--came charging around third looking to score. With Austin's throw on target and Ishikawa about to make a beautiful hook slide to the outside/back portion of home plate--Wil Nieves DIDN'T let the baseball come to him. Instead of blocking home plate, Wil moved forward to retrieve the baseball--pulling it back to the sliding Ishikawa, wasting precious seconds and allowing Travis to slip by him and score San Francisco's 5th run of the evening.

Two more little things that if executed better would have given Our Washington Nationals a better chance of winning--and having to depend less on their 9th inning theatrics. Baseball is a team game and it's not been just our pitchers that have made mental mistakes in the field.

InGame Photo--Marcio Jose Sanchez (AP)

Despondent

One out away from a resilient come from behind victory in the bottom of the 9th.

Not a single San Francisco Giant on base.

Then, just like that, three batters later--a down to his last strike game winning three run homer from Pablo Sandoval.

Our Washington Nationals had lost miserably again.

Pablo Sandoval!!??

WE COULDN'T BELIEVE IT!!

To say upset is putting the feelings lightly.

For what seems the upteenth time this season, Our Pitching had failed again. Down big early 5-1, Our Hitters had gotten Washington back in this game, pulled ahead, only to watch as another Curly "W" denied with our relievers not getting the job done.

Like the movie "GroundHog Day", the same ending comes again, and again and again--no matter how different the scenario built to reach the climatic moments.

You could argue that Home Plate Umpire Tim Timmons had a very tight strike zone--especially in the bottom of the 9th with Joe Beimel on the mound. But Our Number 97 can't use that as an excuse. His job is to get the hitter out, no matter the conditions and the calls.

He failed.

This latest blown bullpen save ruined Ryan Zimmerman's extending of his hitting streak to 30 Games.

Wasted Nick Johnson nearly single handedly playing hero tonight--knocking in five runs in the 7th and 8th innings with a three run shot off Matt Cain and a two run single off Jeremy Affeldt.

And threw away all the joy of being proud of Our Washington Nationals Offensive Prowess. Our batters battled their hearts out all night long. They never gave up. And they AGAIN weren't rewarded for their gallantry.

As Gut Wrenching A Defeat as any of the TOO MANY miserable losses so far in 2009.

Knowing the game was going late into the night here on the east coast.

Knowing there was an early call time tomorrow morning for work.

But knowing that The Z-Man, NJ, Adam Dunn, "The Guz" and a host of their bat happy friends would make any deficit a game--we stayed up to the very end--to watch.

Now--The African Queen and I doubt we will be able to sleep. One of those defeats you play over and over in your head--trying to figure out why all went wrong--when everything looked so right with two out, nobody on base in the bottom of the 9th in China Basin.

A very troubling loss.

Final Score from Chilly AT&T Park where DC's Team found another agonizing manner to lose a baseball game--The San Francisco Giants 9 and Our Washington Nationals 7. Heartbroken, anguished, pained, saddened, downcast and distressed. A few of the many adjectives to describe Washington's 21st loss of 2009. But as Sohna and I look to move past this latest tragedy, we find ourselves nearly despondent. Simply unhappy that Our Washington Nationals can't close the door on most any certain victory.

Guys, The Great Game Is Not This Hard.

Game Notes & Highlights

Jordan Zimmermann struggled out of the gate tonight in San Francisco. He didn't look sharp and at times watching on MASN looked uncomfortable, a little less confident then seen in his previous four starts. But J-Zimm hung in there again and finished six full innings. He may well have struck out eight Giant Batters, but he allowed 7 hits and two walks. At times, Jordan seems to throw too many fastballs. In the minors, you might be able to get away with that. But in The Majors, professional hitters are just going to sit back and wait for it. The art of pitching is to keep hitters off balance. Jordan needs to set up his fastball to better utilize his other three pitches. Once he does, J-Z's going to be a good one.

Kip Wells relieves Julian Tavarez in the bottom of the 8th, right after Washington had battled back to take a 7-5 lead. The first batter he faces--Bengie Molina--he gives up a home run--deflating the uplifting spirit of the latest rally. And the telling sign of what was to come in the bottom of the 9th.

Beimel retired pinch hitters Juan Uribe and Rich Aurelia quickly to begin the 9th. Then, just as suddenly, everything fell apart. A slap single up the middle by DC Native Emmanuel Burriss. A pickoff throw to first to check the speedy Giant Second Baseman was thrown away for an error. Burriss moving to second base. Edgar Renteria walks on five pitches when Umpire Timmons' strike zone became tighter. And Sandoval followed with his no doubt blast into the leftfield bleachers to end the game. Beimel threw Pablo nothing but changeups--never challenging him. Almost afraid to give up the lead--which he did anyway. Just sad.

13 Hits and 7 Runs scored by Our Offense tonight--and we lost again.

Ryan Zimmerman got the drama out of the way early when he singled off Matt Cain on a 1-1 pitch in the very first inning. But even Our Number 11 probably can't enjoy completely what he's accomplishing right now. Not with these highest of high's only to be let down by the lowest of lows.

Nick Johnson unloaded on Cain in the 7th with a well struck opposite field three run homer to the left centerfield bleachers at AT&T Park. NJ's power is coming back and he's pretty close to playing All-Star Caliber Ball. What a great pleasure to see him healthy and playing well. So many have doubted him and he's proving everyone wrong. Sohna and I couldn't feel happier for the man.

Not only is Cristian Guzman still swinging at everything and getting hits--two more tonight, but Wil Nieves has found his batting stroke as well. Replacing the injured Jesus Flores, Nieves with three hits tonight raising his average to .280.

Finally--and this is worth repeating--some didn't appreciate what we had, until we lost him. But when healthy--Sohna and I would take Chad Cordero back as Our Closer in a heartbeat. "The Chief Cardiologist" was tantalizing and scary, but "The Chief" had the mindset and the ability to close the door on most every threat. Aptitude which doesn't exist with our relievers this day.

As Sohna says: "It seems no one can fill Chad Cordero's shoes."

Tonight's InGame Photos--Marcio Jose Sanchez (AP)

May 23rd--Open Auditions--MASN Defining Moments

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The Mid-Atlantic Sports Network announced today that fans for both Our Washington Nationals and Baltimore Orioles can audition live and in person at an upcoming home game at Nationals Park and Camden Yards, respectively, for the second round of "Defining Moments" Ads. Nationals Fans on May 23rd and Orioles Fans on May 30th. The location at each ballpark will be The MASN Booth. At Nationals Park, that would be on the Main Concourse--3rd Base Side (Not The Left Field Broadcast Booth for NatsXtra) and for Camden Yards--Eutaw Street, Gate A.

Those interested must have prepared their own defining moment to improvise. And Staff will give each participant lines to read off the cuff. Auditions will begin 90 minutes before game time and continue throughout the scheduled ballgame.

To get an idea of what MASN is looking for--go to MyMASN.com to view the first round of advertisements.

Good Luck!!

Here is the complete MASN Press Release:

Calling All O's and Nats Fans: MASN to Hold Casting Call for Defining Moments Campaign

Network to Audition Fans on May 23 and May 30

(Washington D.C.) -- MASN, the local leader in live sports entertainment, will conduct open auditions for future spots in the network's Defining Moments advertising campaign. The innovative campaign, which launched at the beginning of the 2009 season, features real, everyday fans describing their favorite memorable baseball moments - in their own words. Fans of both the Washington Nationals and the Baltimore Orioles can audition at Nationals Park on May 23rd and at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on May 30 to star in a MASN commercial later this summer. Fans may also submit their Defining Moments videos and blogs at MyMASN.com for consideration.

Auditions will start 90 minutes prior to the first pitch and continue throughout the game at MASN's booth in each ballpark. At Nationals Park, MASN's booth is located on the concourse level near third base. At Camden Yards, fans can find MASN on Eutaw Street by Gate A. Participants should bring a Defining Moment or story about their favorite game or player. MASN will ask each fan to improvise their Defining Moment and to read some prepared lines.

Selected participants will be called back for a second round of auditions in early June, with final shooting to take place during the second week of June. Approximately 20 new fans will be chosen to "star" in the next round of Defining Moments commercials for MASN, which are scheduled to hit air in early July, around the time of baseball's All Star Game.

The first series of Defining Moments spots can be viewed on MASN and at mymasn.com. Over 200 fans submitted their defining moment online, while several dozen were selected during open auditions at Nationals Fan Fest. Fans came from Charlottesville and Richmond, New York and Connecticut, Pennsylvania and the Baltimore-Washington area to participate in the campaign.

"Baseball fans are passionate about their favorite teams, and their love for the game is on display throughout this innovative, season-long campaign," said network spokesman Todd Webster. "MASN saw a unique opportunity to let real fans star in these spots because their baseball experience is authentic and their passion is infectious. We invite all Nats and O's fans to submit their favorite moments and to audition to be in their own television ad."

For more information, please visit MASNsports.com and MyMASN.com.

Overshadowed Effort

Josh Willingham can be excused for his misplayed fielding error tonight at AT&T Park in the bottom of 5th inning--his first error in two seasons of Major League Baseball. It happens.

But Daniel Cabrera is not excused for walking four straight batters after Willinghams' miscue. Neither is Logan Kensing for walking the first San Francisco Giant he faced upon relieving Cabrera. The five unearned runs scored by The Giants were the game changing results this excruciating evening. The sum total of the most painful inning watched all season long involving Our Washington Nationals.

Really, it was hard to watch. And sad too because it clouded an otherwise terrific offensive night at the plate by Ryan Zimmerman. Even outweighing a tremendous 9th inning comeback attempt by Washington's Batting Order.

D-Cab going 4.2 innings, giving up 8 runs, three earned--8 hits, 6 walks while throwing one wild pitch.

Logan Kensing--1/3rd inning pitched--two hits allowed, one walk and two more earned runs. His ERA now 13.14.

Even Joel Hanrahan gave up one run on three hits in his sole frame pitched.

Washington can't compete if Our Pitchers don't give our now potent offense the opportunity to feel like their hard work is paying off. At some point Our Batters are going to be discouraged. Downcast over the very fact that no matter how well they play, it's mostly all for naught.

That crestfallen belief that you are always running uphill and getting nowhere. Slamming 15 Hits, 4 Home Runs and Scoring 7 Runs with nothing to show for it can be pretty discouraging.

Tonight in China Basin--despite all that offensive support--Our Washington Nationals played a baseball game they really had no chance to win. A Beat-Down mostly of their own doing. Thanks to more poor pitching and one key defensive mistake self-guiding the damage and putting this affair out of reach early in The City By The Bay--despite fighting back until the very last out was recorded.

Final Score from Gorgeous AT&T Park, where one awfully pitched 5th inning by Washington included an error, intentional walk, walk, walk, walk & walk--all in order--ruining the night. And there is no excuse for that. The San Francisco Giants 11 and Our Washington Nationals 7 in just an ugly game.

Sadly, completely overshadowing the effort put forth by Ryan Zimmerman--who added to his now 29 Consecutive Games Hitting Streak with a single off Randy Johnson in the top of first. Then, powered out his 7th homer to left center in the 6th also off The Big Unit. And finished off another fine night at the plate with a clean single to center in the 8th and another three run homer in the 9th. A fabulous Four for Five evening, with four RBI and two runs scored. The Z-Man never gives up. Now batting .364 for the season. Clearly becoming A Great Young Star--arguably the best third baseman in The National League--no matter what The New Yorkers' want to proclaim about The Mets David Wright.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Paul Margot (AP)

Ours Over Theirs

Jason Bergmann, even Jesus Colome, over Logan Kensing.

Alberto Gonzalez, even Pete Orr, over Alex Cintron.

Little moves that will not decide whether Our Washington Nationals become a contender, but just might make a difference in whether Washington is a last place team or not.

In the week or so since Logan Kensing has been donning a Nationals Jersey, he's hasn't exactly been very good. In fact, fairly awful. He's not the answer to our pitching woes. But the underlying question is why has Baseball Management seemingly given up on Bergmann? Told during the off-season and in early spring training, he would not be a starter anymore, but a reliever--Jason took the demotion well--worked hard--and really hasn't done anything that outwardly seems to diminish his value or talent. Yet, for 2009, Jason Bergmann has become the Yo-Yo Man. Like My Main Main!! Ryan Church, when he played for Washington, never getting enough respect to make headway after being sent down.

Granted, Bergmann had a poor 2008 in the starting rotation, but clearly he has the pitching assortment to be a lights out reliever. Talent which isn't abundantly available in the higher levels of our current Farm System. So, what's holding him back? Why is Jason Bergmann being left behind?

An afterthought--which Alex Cintron must be considered. Why exactly is Alex Cintron on Our 25-Man Roster and being given key pinch hitting roles and spot starts in the field at shortstop? Not only is Cintron hitless, but he swings the weakest bat from the left hand side of the plate not seen from a field player in some time. Although Sohna and I didn't watch Sunday's Series Finale against The Arizona Diamondbacks (Mother's Day Commitments)--when we watched portions of the replay--why did Our Manager Manny Acta keep Cintron in the game, at the plate, with one out in the 9th, down two (after Josh Willingham had just homered off Chad Qualls) with Willie Harris on first base? "The Guz" was available off the bench--getting a Sunday break. Manny was going to send him up next anyway to bat for the pitcher. Austin Kearns, Ronnie Belliard and a hurting Jesus Flores were still sitting on the bench.

All three far better choices to get back into the game--for like the 4th time yesterday.

Having Cintron bat again made no sense. And even less that Alex is still on the active roster? What exactly has Alex Cintron done to keep his utility role? Honestly, we don't see it and can't understand why Alberto Gonzalez or even Pete Orr are still playing at AAA Syracuse? Neither are All-Stars, but better choices to possibly give Our Washington Nationals more chances to win right now.

When you need all hands on deck for every single game, because no lead is ever safe, why not take advantage of every last piece of scrap talent you have in your system--to make ends meet--while the longer term responsibilities of the upcoming draft and possible trade scenarios to improve Our Franchise play out? These little decisions can add up to better results on the field of play--in the near term.

If Jason Bergmann and Alberto Gonzalez were even directly responsible for 8 wins out of 162 games on The Major League Level in 2009, that would be surprising. But the Over & Under on the number of Curly "W's" being put in the books would be a whole lot greater with these two guys wearing a Nationals Jersey. Sometimes you have to trust what Bergmann and Gonzalez CAN provide, not worry about what they can't--while wishing upon the Fallen Stardom of someone else's castoffs just to get by.

Six weeks into the 2009 Season--Jason Bergmann and Alberto Gonzalez for what they can do, OVER what Logan Kensing and Alex Cintron clearly have not provided for Our Washington Nationals so far.

Ours Over Theirs

InGame Photo--Ross D. Franklin (AP)

Perilous Journey

Arizona's Chad Tracy was down to his last strike. His Diamondbacks were down to their last out. "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game--The Next Generation" was on the mound. Another emergency was at hand. Washington was up one, 2-1. But Arizona had runners on 2nd and 3rd. No one watching would have expected anything less. For nearly nine full innings, this perilous journey had played out between Our Washington Nationals and The Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. One of those thrill a minute games that tends to take on a life of its own. Just when you think it COULD NOT GET BETTER. Somehow, someway--it does!!

And nothing like the final three inings played this evening--tremendous stuff.

Hazards and roadblocks during every frame. Great Defensive Plays, Key Pitches, Two Mammoth Home Runs by Washington. And not one inning passing without a Diamondback reaching base. A treacherous path chosen by Washington's Pitchers tonight. No Diamondback hitter miraculously scored until Kip Wells allowed a two out RBI double to Miguel Montero in the 9th. Wells' final pitch before Our Number 38 was called on by Our Manager Manny Acta to hopefully record the much needed save.

But Hanrahan was looking shaky-again. Having already bounced three sliders in the dirt, well before home plate to Tracy--not many in the announced crowd of 27.233 did not believe Arizona was finally going to strike. Bite hard into an already snake bitten reliever fighting his own personal poisons. The confidence factor lacking so far in Hanrahan's worrisome 2009 start.

Washington's Emergency 9th Inning Catcher, Wil Nieves (who replaced a beaten and bruised Jesus Flores), stood halfway between home plate and the mound--yelling words of encouragement to Hanrahan 30 feet away. With the count now full, first base open, and the slap hitting Augie Ojeda coming to the plate if Tracy reached base--Nieves wanted Joel to bear down and get The D-Backs Slugger right now.

No time to waste any more pitches. Time to find the winning elixir. The remedy for all that has pained Hanrahan during these first six weeks of 2009.

Yet there could not have been ANYONE watching who believed Joel Hanrahan would throw anything but heat--his 95 MPH Fastball. Joel had no command of his slider so far. Certainly, no one in the crowd ROARING in the desert thought otherwise, and neither did Tracy standing ready in the lefthanded batters box, waiting to whack this one pitch.

All evening long, surprise after surprise, unexpected moments after another. And the next 10 seconds to come fittingly ended this game in the exact same astonishing fashion. If you can't control your slider and everyone on hand is expecting you to throw your fastball--the only pitch they know you can throw over the plate. What do you do?

Well, to my absolute amazement--and probably just about everyone else watching--when Joel Hanrahan went right back to his 55 Foot slider that bounced in front of the plate--such a gutsy toss with the game tying run on third--you had to marvel at the pitch. The accompanying screams of joy (which The African Queen can attest to) let out by me over watching Tracy lunge at that pitch and strikeout to end this incredible game--so loud--Sohna was sure everybody living within our entire block in Alexandria, Virginia--must have heard me.

Maybe even Charlie & Dave 3000 Miles away in Phoenix, because Charlie Slowes was bellowing himself on WFED in wonder over that final pitch: "AND HE'S STRUCK HIM OUT!! AND THE GAME IS OVER!! Dave Jageler commenting: "I can't believe he threw that pitch."

No one did.

For the final out of this game, Joel Hanrahan had found the winning antidote. Don't change a thing, spoon feed the batter with exactly what he wasn't expecting. The same slop he was throwing before. A Perfect Setup and the resultant celebration to come on the field by Our Washington Nationals, to be cherished, not just for that 27th Out, but for just about every single recorded out that came before it.

This affair was special. Distinctive because Washington fought demons in every inning. Nine walks allowed to Arizona Batters, Two Errors by Dr. Stone Glove at First Base. Adam Dunn was charged with only two miscues giving Nick Johnson a rest tonight. A less lenient official scorer would have given Adam three--possibly four. Costly mistakes where Washington was able to fight back and get out of each subsequent inning.

None better than the bottom of the 7th inning. Washington only held a slim 1-0 lead (on a Launched Home Run Off The Powerful Bat of Dunn--It is why Adam is in the lineup everyday) and The D-Backs had the bases loaded now with one out. Former Washington Nationals Farmhard, Josh Whitesell, was at the plate--batting lefthanded. Lefty reliever Ron Villone had just replaced the struggling Garrett Mock. Whitesell would RIP a liner to right JUST in front of the hard charging Austin Kearns. Felipe Lopez, on third base for The Snakes, held up momentarily to see if "Bluegrass" would catch the baseball. When Kearns scooped the baseball off the grass, FLop took off for home--looking to score and dove head first into home plate. Only to witness Home Plate Umpire Paul Emmel give one of best and most Emphatic Out Calls In Some Time. Austin had UNFURLED a one hopper--maybe three feet up the first base line of home. Jesus Flores, still with his catcher's mask on, played like a first baseman. Knowing the force play was in effect, Jesus stretched as far as his bulky body would take him, extending his glove hand, his left hand, to catch Our Number 25's hard throw--WHILE STILL KEEPING HIS HIND FOOD ON THE PLATE--for the recorded out.

The very sight of Ron Villone jumping up and down near home plate celebrating what he had just witnessed--Precious. Jesus Flores fist pumping his right arm in the air over the out--Delightful. And finally watching Austin Kearns, who had just help make The Defensive Play Of The Year--actually laughing along with Elijah Dukes standing in right field over what he had just accomplished--PRICELESS.

A GEM that will be remembered for some time.

Yet in the very next inning--Ryan Zimmerman saved the day again. This time Joe Beimel was in trouble. Arizona's Chris Snyder on third, Ryan Roberts on second with a double. Beimel had retired former Nat Josh Wilson for the second out of the frame. Washington was now up 2-0 thanks to Zimmerman's 27 Game Hit Streak Extending Homer to dead center at Chase Field in the top of the 8th. But now, in the bottom half, Our Number 97 was in a serious bind. The game changing moment that certainly seemed at hand when The Snakes Chris Young hammered a hard hit grounder in the hole between shortstop and third base, a sure game tying rbi single. The actual final incredibly recorded out of the frame, when The Z-Man dove to his left, parallel to the ground--getting some air time flight--and snaring the baseball in the webbing of his glove. A Gold Glove Play by the Best Third Baseman in the game going side to side defensively. Once again, Our Number 11's catlike reflexes--talent which can't be taught--was on display again. Ryan Zimmerman--quickly getting to his feet and throwing out Young at first base to end another Arizona threat.

Yeah, it was that type of night.

Like twice this evening--Washington turned two double plays to end D-Back Threats in the 3rd and 4th innings. For six innings, Washington Starter John Lannan had to come up with key pitches to get himself out of trouble every frame--never allowing a single run. All night long this difficult march to victory played out. Never was the odyssey easy. Always, Our Washington Nationals took the more difficult road. Predicaments that made this Perilous Journey not just The Best Game Of 2009 so far, but just as exciting as most every other game played in the past five years since baseball returned to Washington.

If this one was a playoff game--this May 9th, 2009 affair would be remembered FOREVER.

It was really that thrilling--edge of your seat stuff.

Final Score from Chase Field where there was NEVER a dull moment tonight. Our Washington Nationals Two and The Arizona Diamondbacks One in just a GREAT BALL GAME. For all its flaws, miscues, huge home runs, key pitches and two of the finest defensive plays you may ever witness--this one really had it all. Curly "W" number 10 was Washington's third victory in a row, winners of five out of their last six.

The adventure continuing forward. Tonight's plot twisted voyage another sign of a maturing team that understands better it's capabilities. The willingness to improve and ultimately consistently beat their foes. What a different ballclub materializing now from the first two weeks of the 2009 season. Too bad, we can't start the season over now.

Game Notes & Highlights

Quite the performance by John Lannan tonight. When you walk six and allow three hits in six innings, you don't usually get a win or walk off the mound with a shutout in hand. Tonight Our Number 31 was able to make his best pitches when he was most in trouble. A strikeout here or an inning ending double play grounder there. John Lannan deserved his second win of 2009, because when the game was on the line, and he was pitching--Lannan was at his best. When Ronnie Belliard, Cristian Guzman and Adam Dunn combined for their second double play of the night to end the bottom of the 4th, the sight of John walking to the dugout, exhaling a big breath in thanks--was really telling. The harbinger of the difficult journey to victory this night would be. A wandering course that played out all night long.

Dunn's homer in the top of the second off Doug Davis actually hit the lower part of the scoreboard in Centerfield at Chase Field. The blast originally only recorded as going 400 or so feet, until Dave Jageler went to the official record keeper in Phoenix to tell him how far that home run went. Television replays missed the ball hitting the scoreboard but The Boys Of Summer knew exactly what happened.

Which of course doesn't explain Adam Dunn's difficult night in the field playing first base. If you watched this game tonight, there is no way ANYONE would want to see Nick Johnson traded and gone from Our Lineup anytime soon. There is no comparison to these two's abilities defensively. Adam Dunn really could have been awarded three errors tonight. And would have been given four if FLop had simply ran out a routine grounder to shortstop. A lazy effort jog to first that found Dunn dropping the ball delivered right to his glove by Guzman. Only to see Adam have just enough time to pick up the ball--before Felipe Lopez reached the bag. Charlie Slowes gave it to FLop something awful for not running out the play. The lack of concentration FLop again showed later defensively, when he failed to cover second base with the slow moving Dunn running his way--believing Mark Reynolds fielding error at third would make for no play at second. Lopez was wrong once again for giving up too soon.

Something Ryan Zimmerman never does. With his hitting streak on the line and down to his final At-Bat, Zimmy unloaded on the very first pitch he saw in the top of the 8th thrown by Juan Gutierrez and deposited the baseball over the centerfield wall into the bleachers at Chase Field. The eventual game winning score, Ryan's 6th Homer of 2009 that extended his Nationals Record Streak to 27 Consecutive Games.

Not many hits tonight by Washington--just five--but enough to win. Journeyman and soft tossing lefty Doug Davis had our batters off balance all night--most everyone lunging at his off-speed stuff in the dirt.

Elijah Dukes got picked off first base again tonight. The third time in the past two weeks. This time by Arizona lefthander Davis. Dukes needs to pay more attention on the basepaths.

"The Guz" nearly cost Washington the 9th inning as well, when he couldn't get the possible game ending double play grounder out of his glove to flip to Ronnie Belliard. Eric Byrnes sent the tailor made dp ball right at Cristian Guzman, but while attempting to scoop the baseball out of his fielder's mitt, the ball wouldn't budge. The subsequent late toss to Belliard, extended the inning and eventually led to Joel Hanrahan's theatrics.

And finally--Jesus Flores took a beating tonight. Foul balls off his shoulders, bouncing balls in the dirt blocked. Obviously hurting, Manny finally took Jesus out with one out and two Arizona runners on base in the 9th--figuring Flores would not be able to throw anyone out with his bruised right shoulder. Hopefully, Our Number 3 will be fine, although expect Wil Nieves to start Sunday--day game after night game.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Matt York (AP)

Second Casting Call For New MASN Commercials

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The Mid-Atlantic Sports Network is moving ahead with Part Two of their "Defining Moments" Television Commercials. A new casting call is being offered. Fans who fill out a blog entry at MyMASN.com or upload a video on their MyMASN home page will be eligible for entry.

Nine Washington fans and Nine Baltimore fans were chosen in the first round of the "Defining Moments" advertisements. No exact number given as to how many additional fans will participate in round two.

To enter you must to fill out a profile to get started. Those chosen by MASN will be directly contacted by the producers. You can also link to the entry page from MASNsports.com

Good Luck.

Speaking from personal experience, well worth the time to participate.

Team Building

What was Eric Byrnes thinking? Standing on second base with one out in the bottom of the 8th. His Arizona Diamondbacks down one run with FLop at the plate. Felipe Lopez has been hot all season--already had three hits tonight for the snakes. And Eric Brynes ran himself out of scoring position by attempting to steal third base off Julian Tavarez's slow delivery to the plate. An ill advised move that resulted in Jesus Flores slamming the door shut with a perfect throw to Ryan Zimmerman--right on the bag. The Defensive Play of This Game and really the final pivotal moment of a hardy victory by Our Washington Nationals.

No longer just showing promise, Washington is going out on the field and beating opponents. Now victors of three out of their last 4 and, not counting the suspended game last Tuesday against Houston, four out of five. Confidence building which comes from a starting lineup that is getting more comfortable working together and the realization they are a very good offensive club. Better than expected and as good as most teams in their very own league.

One through eight in Our Batting Order is pretty tough. Individually, other teams have more stars. Collectively, Washington has a more cohesive unit. Just look at tonight. "The Guz" hasn't walked all year from the leadoff spot, but he hammered out a two run triple to put his team ahead in the top of the 2nd. Adam Dunn unloaded with his 8th Homer of 2009 in the 3rd. And the ever improving Flores added his 4th Dinger in the 4th inning.

In fact, this was Jesus Flores' night. Not only did he throw out Byrnes to kill The D-Backs last threat, but he slammed that homer in the 4th and knocked in Washington's last run on a broken bat single to left center--scoring Austin Kearns in the 6th. Just watching Our Number 3 take control and haul in two Major League Pop Up foul balls off Arizona Bats this evening proved how far this young man has travelled. Two years ago, when Washington was carrying Flores on the 25-Man Roster only because he was a Rule V Pick--Jesus had troubles with foul flies--turning around and catching the back spinning balls. Not a problem anymore and the signs of an ever growing quality catcher that wants to get better and better and better.

The All Star Caliber level which Ryan Zimmerman continues to perform at. This evening continuing his Washington Nationals Record Hitting Streak to 26 games with a clean single to left in his first plate appearance. One of two hits on the night for the Z-Man, now batting a robust .339.

That professional approach to everything he does on the field, which Shairon Martis also continues to excel at. Not considered at the beginning of Spring Training to even make the Opening Day Roster, Our Number 39 didn't participate in The World Baseball Classic for his native Netherlands. Instead, he came to camp, ready to pitch, made a name for himself and look at Martis now? The team leader in wins with four and a building confidence of a 22 Year Old Starter that is surprising alot of folks in Major League Baseball. Once the weak link in the roster, Our Starting Pitching is looking far better than the first week of April, 2009. Martis, Jordan Zimmermann and Scott Olsen have all been good. John Lannan has been up and down. Daniel Cabrera a struggle to watch. Just imagine what that starting rotation will look like if Our Washington Nationals pick and sign Stephen Strasburg with the 1st Overall Pick in the 2009 June Entry Draft?

A very competitive outlook on the horizon--and with more consistency out of the back end of our bullpen, the won-lost record will continue to climb upward--in a positive direction.

Help is certainly on the way, but some of that assistance has already arrived. Washington's powerful offense has proven that fact.

But what was really nice about tonight's effort was the result being just a conventional win. Good pitching, defense and timely hitting--all on the road. Our Washington Nationals didn't blow The Arizona Diamondbacks out of their very own park. But they did beat them--with self assurance.

Mettle shown--understanding now more what they are capable of accomplishing.

Final Score from Chase Field in Phoenix, where the roof was open on a 91 degree evening and that's considered "COOL" in the desert--Our Washington Nationals 5 and The Arizona Diamondbacks 4 in a win that showed poise. Curly "W" Number 9 of 2009 exhibiting the new Backbone of Washington. Don't ever give up, don't ever back down, and just when you think all might not be going your way--display a determination--the nerve to settle down--and work your way through any situation.

Team Building is well underway and Our Washington Nationals are beginning to focus on how good they could possibly become--now and even more so in the very near future. Maybe not world beaters yet, but certainly aggressive enough to worry their opponents into believing DC's Team is no longer a walkover. Now combative and looking to take their game to the next level.

This was a very good win over The Snakes.

PS--Very strange to see both Felipe Lopez and Big Jon Rauch play for Arizona this evening . FLop ran himself out of Washington and no one really missed him, but The Wookie is a entirely different story. Rauch was a very good set up man in previous years and a decent closer last season for Washington--before he was traded. An Original Washington National that The African Queen and I will always remember fondly. Like when Chad Cordero and Luis Ayala on top of their games, we miss those three in the back end of Our Bullpen.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Matt York (AP)

Going To Bat Against Breast Cancer

Awareness, maybe an overused term, but fitting to describe Major League Baseball's Partnership with The Susan G. Koman For The Cure. The high profile of professional teams gives public service work much needed exposure. Community Needs which The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation pushes every single day to achieve. But MLB should also be congratulated for their work to help find a cure for Breast Cancer. For each of the past few seasons, on Mother's Day, players from around both leagues have participated by using pink bats and wearing pink arm bands. Exposure that has been taken to a new level when Major League Baseball and The Susan G. Komen For The Cure joined together for the "Going To Bat Against Breast Cancer" Program.

The latest well thought out twist that will honor 30 Breast Cancer Survivors, half on Mother's Day, Sunday May 10th. This coming Sunday, 15 Breast Cancer Survivors will participate as "Honorary Bat Girls" for their home teams around The Major Leagues. In the upcoming few weeks, those teams playing on the road this weekend, will honor their selected recipient when they each return to play a home game.

Our Washington Nationals winner is Mary Eno, who was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in December, 2007. You can read all the details in the press release below. She is a valiant lady and deserving of the honor. But what needs to be emphasized here is that Our Washington Nationals and Major League Baseball can make a big difference in the lives of others--off the field of play. And it's these efforts they make Sohna and I appreciate all that is Big League Baseball in The Nation's Capital.

It really is more than just than game on the field.

Mary Eno will be honored on Sunday, May 17 at Nationals Park when Our Washington Nationals take on The Philadelphia Phillies.

The Press Release from Major League Baseball and Our Washington Nationals

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL AND SUSAN G. KOMEN FOR THE CURE ANNOUNCE ‘HONORARY BAT GIRL’ WINNERS FOR 30 CLUBS


Mary Eno Will be Recognized by the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park On May 17, 2009

Major League Baseball (MLB) and Susan G. Komen for the Cure today announced the winners of the ‘Honorary Bat Girl’ contest, a campaign to recognize incredible MLB fans who are going to bat against breast cancer in their daily lives. 15 home Clubs will host their ‘Honorary Bat Girl’ during scheduled Mother’s Day celebrations; visiting Clubs on Mother’s Day will select another date in May to recognize their ‘Honorary Bat Girl.’ The initiative was developed to raise additional awareness and support for the annual ‘Going to Bat Against Breast Cancer’ program, a joint program between MLB and Komen for the Cure, the world’s largest breast cancer organization.

The winner of the ‘Honorary Bat Girl’ contest for the Washington Nationals is Mary Eno. Mary was diagnosed with breast cancer in December of 2007. Determined to beat the disease that had taken her mother 30 years earlier, Mary had a bilateral mastectomy in January of 2008, followed by several months of chemotherapy. Upon realizing that her chemotherapy treatments would begin right around the opening of Nationals Park, Mary worked with her oncologist to ensure she wouldn’t miss Opening Night. A 20-game Season Ticket Holder, Mary was able to attend a few games in 2008, staying for only a few innings each time. Each game she attended made her more determined to win the battle against cancer. She would proudly remove her cap for the National Anthem – even though she had lost her hair. Mary has completed the first phase of reconstruction surgery and hopefully will complete her treatment later this year. She is ready to enjoy the Nationals 2009 season, staying for every pitch and removing her cap to reveal a full head of hair, along with her husband, family and friends who have been so supportive during her battle. Mary’s husband has a tattoo of a pink ribbon, for Mary and everyone who has been affected by this disease, as a reminder to live life one pitch at a time.

The Nationals will honor Mary during a special pregame recognition ceremony on Sunday, May 17 before the team’s 1:35pm game vs. the Philadelphia Phillies. She will have an opportunity to meet with some of the Nationals players and receive an engraved pink bat and jersey from Major League Baseball.

“We are proud to honor these brave and inspiring people who are supporting the fight against breast cancer,” said Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig. “As a social institution, Major League Baseball is making every attempt to raise awareness about the disease while recognizing the men and

women living with its effects. We salute the ‘Honorary Bat Girls’ as they help us celebrate Mother’s Day in this very special way.”

“Major League Baseball’s involvement and support over the years has been vital in enabling us to move forward in our promise to save lives and end breast cancer forever,” said Katrina McGhee, vice president, global partnerships at Komen for the Cure. “All of the ‘Honorary Bat Girls’ and Contest participants are a living testament to the power of one person making a difference and inspiring others to take action.”

On April 14, MLB and Susan G. Komen for the Cure launched an online search to find an ‘Honorary Bat Girl’ for each Club. Fans from across the country have been sharing their stories of inspiration and hope and how they are supporting the fight against breast cancer. More than 1,000 testimonials were submitted online at MLB.com, the official website of Major League Baseball, by breast cancer survivors, advocates and supporters of the cause, and one winner per Club was selected by a panel of judges and nearly 2.2 million fan votes.

On Mother's Day (May 10, 2009), hundreds of Major League Baseball players will use pink bats produced by Louisville Slugger, the Official Bat of Major League Baseball, stamped with the MLB breast cancer logo. Many players also will wear pink wristbands and the symbolic pink ribbon for breast cancer awareness will be displayed on player uniforms, as well as on all on-field personnel. Dugout lineup cards also will be pink. In addition to promotional support, Major League Baseball Charities has committed $50,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Game-used Louisville Slugger pink bats will be auctioned off on MLB.com at a later date to raise additional funds for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Fans can purchase their own personalized pink bat at MLB.com or www.slugger.com, with $10 from the sale of each bat benefiting Komen for the Cure.

One player from each Club will be a representative on Mother’s Day, and most have personally experienced the effects breast cancer and other cancers have had on their families. These players include Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim P Jered Weaver (mother survived breast cancer), Houston Astros 1B Lance Berkman (aunt survived breast cancer) and Baltimore Orioles OF Nick Markakis (mother survived breast cancer).

Several MLB players and MLB Network talent were part of a celebrity panel that took part in voting for ‘Honorary Bat Girl’ winners. New York Yankees 1B/OF Nick Swisher is an advocate of fighting all forms of cancer, and in 2007, grew his hair out to donate it to create free wigs for women dealing with hair loss from cancer treatment. Today, Swisher continues to participate in the on-field activities of MLB’s “Going to Bat Against Breast Cancer.” MLB Network analyst Mitch Williams’ mother survived breast cancer, and he is involved in helping charities associated with the disease. MLB Network analyst Dan Plesac’s mother recently was diagnosed with breast cancer. Berkman and Markakis also were part of the celebrity panel.

Major League Baseball Health Initiatives
The Mother's Day “Going To Bat Against Breast Cancer” program is one of several cancer-related initiatives supported by Major League Baseball. Other initiatives include Stand Up To Cancer, an organization whose mission is to establish and fund focused and intense cancer research in an effort to effect cancer advances as rapidly as possible through a new and unique funding scientific funding model; the Prostate Cancer Foundation Home Run Challenge which helps increase awareness of prostate cancer and raise money towards the search for a cure as part of Major League Baseball Father's Day activities; the “One A Day Men’s presents MLB Strikeout Prostate Cancer Challenge” is a joint initiative between MLB and Bayer HealthCare’s One A Day Multivitamins, who donate $10 for every strikeout thrown throughout the regular and postseason to the Prostate Cancer Foundation; and Play Sun Smart, a league-wide, season-long skin cancer awareness program in conjunction with the Major League Baseball Players Association and the American Academy of Dermatology.

About Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that promise became Susan G. Komen for the Cure and launched the global breast cancer movement. Today, Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Komen Race for the Cure, we have invested more than $1.3 billion to fulfill our promise, becoming the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer in the world. For more information about Susan G. Komen for the Cure, breast health or breast cancer, visit www.komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN.

Notes From Last Night's Thrilling Victory

Important notes to take from last night's electrifying victory at Dodger Stadium.

Jordan Zimmermann learned that he doesn't have to challenge every single hitter with his 95 MPH Heater. J-Zimm was touched up badly in the first inning for six earned runs (one a direct result of Elijah Dukes and Adam Dunn not calling a routine fly ball). But he didn't give up and for five more inning Jordan more effectively used his off-speed pitches, using his fastball to set up The Dodger Batters. 10 straight hitters retired a one point. Zimmermann did not figure in the final decision, but he may well have figured out how to pitch to quality Major League Batters--who are learning about him. I'll take that as good sign.

Our Washington Nationals can score runs in bunches and fight back from most any deficit. It's just too bad our bullpen has played so poorly. You can't take back any of the losses, but it's reasonable to say Washington could be near .500 if not for the faltering relievers.

Our Bullpen is still killing us. Thankfully, Our Offense appears immune to the relievers plight and keeps plugging away--getting on base, slugging. You gotta like that. 18 hits by Washington last night, 9 from the first four hitters in our lineup--Guzman, Johnson, Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Dunn. Except for Jordan Zimmermann, every other starter had just one hit.

Anderson Hernandez is proving a quality 8th hitter in the batting order--getting on base and scoring runs.

Josh Willingham needs to play more. He proved last night why he is a valuable asset. One home run, one double, two runs scored and an RBI. Josh also made a nice diving catch playing left field.

Nick Johnson is back. NJ looks really good and seems to be getting better and better each passing day. Very proud of a man that can continually fight back from injury, maintain his professionalism and produce on the field--in a very helpful way.

Cristian Guzman made one of the finest plays of his career when he slid to his left on a sharp ground ball off the bat of Xavier Paul in the bottom of the sixth. With Casey Blake running hard from 1st to 2nd, "The Guz"--while still sliding--scooped the ball with his left handed glove, and while still moving past Anderson Hernandez standing on 2nd base, had the wherewithal to backhand flip the baseball directly out of his mitt to Hernandez. Anderson quickly firing a relay toss to Nick Johnson at first base to retire Paul for The Defensive Play of This Game and maybe the best of the year--so far. It was a terrific catch and toss.

And speaking of defense--Washington needs to quit giving away outs. Last night's misplay in the first inning by Elijah Dukes and Adam Dunn of Blake's routine fly was inexcusable. CALL THE BALL!! You can't blame crowd noise or anything else. Our fielders need to take charge of every pop up. Much like Anderson Hernandez who waves his arms violently to let EVERYONE know "I GOT IT!!" Fundamental Baseball Guys.

Finally, The African Queen and I thought Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler on WFED were going to blow fuses if Washington had thrown away the bottom of the 9th inning--leading by four runs heading into the frame. When Charlie mentioned a "Circuit Breaker" no other description was more apt. A Perfect Call. Instead Our Washington Nationals survived their latest ordeal and head to Phoenix with their spirits lifted.

Something that can't be said about The Dodgers. As mentioned previously--I've made my peace with the steroids issues. But it's just shameful that more players feel they can still beat the system. Manny Ramirez has always been enjoyable to watch. We don't feel sorry for Manny today. He gambled and lost and must now pay the price.

Suffering which Bob Melvin must be doing today. Just two years ago National League Manager of The Year, now fired as skipper of The Diamondbacks. In baseball, it's always what have you done for me lately.

InGame Photo--Hector Mota (AP)

Circuit Breaker

Charlie Slowes described it perfectly. The wildest ride of the season. A total heart stomper. Just no time to write about it with an early call tomorrow.

The largest come from behind road victory since Baseball Returned to Washington---six runs. A mark no one could have believed possible after the rough first inning by Jordan Zimmermann tonight.

UNBELIEVABLE GAME!!

Curly "W" Number 8 not to be forgotten.

Final Score from Dodger Stadium were you are never quite out of it, even when you are never quite in control of winning it.
Our Washington Nationals 11 and The Los Angeles Dodgers 9 in nine thrilling innings. Only in a game like this can a guy that literally joined our team in the 4th inning--get the win--Ron Villone. The first home loss in 14 games for The Dodgers.

Just an incredible roller coaster ride ball game. Truly A Circuit Breaker. Charlie was so right.

Tonight's InGame Photo--Chris Pizzello (AP)

No One Wanted It