For the first time in quite some time, Chien-Ming Wang threw live batting practice this morning on Field Number 4 of the Space Coast Stadium Practice Fields. He wasn't overly sharp, but that was not the point. The very fact that Wang threw to hitters was a major step forward in his ongoing effort to return to the Major League Roster this season. Above is an 80 second video of a few of his tosses during his nearly 10 minutes on the mound.
Jordan Zimmermann threw live batting practice at the same time on Field Number 3. What's always impressive to watch when it comes to JZ throwing is how he uses his entire body. All good pitchers use their legs and Zimmermann has the proper mechanics to take advantage of his strong lower body.
Jayson Werth and Drew Storen drew a crowd of media and front office staffers when they faced off for live batting practice on Field Number 4. The last time they played against each other on September 19th at Citizens Bank Park, Werth crushed out a grand slam to win the game for The Philadelphia Phillies. The two made fun of today's situation when Storen brushed Werth back on the first pitch thrown. But after that moment, it was back to all business.
More interesting was watching Bryce Harper take batting practice moments later on the same field as VP of Player Development Bob Boone watched intently and offered advise to the 18-year old after each round of swings.
Considered a talented but raw young player, Nationals Prospect Destin Hood was seen walking through training camp watching some of the action on the field. Reporting to Minor League camp, this 20-year old prospect with exceptional skills is expected to begin 2011 playing for The Potomac Nationals of The Carolina League. Last year, Hood was an All-Star in the Sally League for The Hagerstown Suns and is hoping to continue improving his talents on the field. Once a prized football prospect out of Mobile, Alabama--Hood turned down football scholarship offers to both the University of Alabama and Auburn University to sign with Washington in 2009 for $1.1 million. "I really don't miss football anymore," Hood told Nats320 yesterday. "I know I made the right choice in my career. I just need to continue working hard so I can move up within the organization."
Livan Hernandez, Ross Detwiler, Jason Marquis and Tyler Clippard were a few other pitchers that threw live batting practice.
And finally, The African Queen and I ran into Amber and Sam D. Mann from Social Circle, Georgia. We met this enjoyable couple last year during spring training. Sam and Amber were Dodgers Fans before Los Angeles moved from their spring facility from Dodgertown in Vero Beach to Chandler, Arizona. Looking for a new team to support, they switched their allegiance to Our Washington Nationals.
P.S. A few bonus photos from today's practice session.
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