tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28676208.post2713974625326273098..comments2023-10-20T04:28:04.547-04:00Comments on Nats320 -- A Washington Nationals Blog: Odds & EndsScreech's Best Friendhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01094199653375184305noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28676208.post-66134923810843982752010-05-17T16:49:46.917-04:002010-05-17T16:49:46.917-04:00The Nats have the right structure in place from al...The Nats have the right structure in place from almost top to bottom for the first time, and it is showing. When I say, almost top, I mean that the ownership, while far more realistic than when it took over in mid-2006 about what it takes to have a winning franchise, is still running on a $50 million payroll, presume 1.5 million fans per year basis. This needs to move up to $75 million payroll, presume 2.5 million fans, with the $75 million coming first - translated, would mean, betting the $20 million net profit, after retiring pro-rated capital investment, into payroll. Tough times to do it - but necessary.<br /><br />Regardless, things are on-track for a decent season as base for a winning one in 2011. Truth is: due to relatively strong start (presume 20-20), Kasten, Rizzo, & Riggleman managing affairs to make a run at the Wild Card in 2010. Odds are very long for that, though, since rookies Desmond and Bernadina would have to hit .275 ball or so over the course of the year; Storen and Strasburg will both have to contribute from June-September; Wang and Marquis will have to contribute after the All-Star Break; and EVERYONE MUST STAY HEALTHY. Team is still operating with Zimmerman as its fulcrum.<br /><br />I like the measured way that the brass is going about treating this season as one not to be wasted entirely as a building year - evidence of that when they jettisoned the first major free agent acquision in Bruney in order to shore-up bullpen. But, it was also not a panic move, as Storen clearly has received ample experience in almost full season since signing in the minors. He is likely to quickly move over Clip as set-up guy for Capps (move from "Clip and Save" to "Store and Save"), permitting Clip to do his thing earlier. When Strasburg joins rotation in early June, this should permit brass to move Stammen to long relief, where he belongs, and let Batista go, too. Could be a terrific bullpen at that point!<br /><br />Wang should replace Atilano in July, and then, starting rotation could be potentially VERY strong, presuming Livo is good for the whole season: Livo; Olsen; Strasburg; Lannan; Wang in no particular order. (Marquis potentially back to fill-in in August, and Detwiler someone available too therein.<br />Point is that the potential is there and it is very exciting for us real fans - miracles do occur, and this team, coupled with the parity among NL teams outside of Philadelphia and St.Louis enables a miraculous scenario to play out.<br />But, realistically, a 2010 team which can win 74 games and provide great baseline experience for Desmond; Bernadina; Storen; Strasburg, and solidify the relationships between and among the brass, Riggleman, the players, and the system, will be a solid year.<br /><br />As to the fanbase, while it is a building process, there will have to be some casting of bread on the water for them to come in numbers - signing Bryce Harper for $8.5 million, or so, in mid-August, will be another good sign, but signing Jason Werth or the likes is going to have to go with it for fans to start to buy in advance.<br /><br />Truth is: 2006-2008 was a disasterous start for the Lerners, and they are paying for it after the fact. Not that they aren't making money despite this and the curse of the missing Iconic Baseball over the Red Loft!<br /><br />Trust in the faithful fans. And two men in Rizzo and Riggleman they can put that faith in. All playinglike a Strasburg...SenatorNathttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10049860385485455410noreply@blogger.com