Getting Even With Phillie Fans

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This one looked forgettable early, and since we had decided to not attend last nights 11-2 debacle at the hands of the Phillies and enjoy the night in Philadelphia. We thought we might escape the derogatory comments once again. But, down 10-1 in the 4th on Sunday at Citizens Bank Park, meant Sohna and I were going to get HAMMERED AGAIN by the Phillies Fans.

Today--we had box seats right behind the Nats 3rd base dugout, and as Pedro Astacio continued to struggle, the Phillies' Fan Ridicule reached its ZENITH!! "Your Team Sucks as much that President that lives in your town!!" (We actually enjoyed that one!!) "Washington's a city of LOSERS!! LOSERS!!" And-- "WASHINGTON SUCKS, WASHINGTON SUCKS!!" (by a chorus of fans). Not to mention the continuous drunken barbs, cursing us out to no end--throwing popcorn at us on 2 occasions.

It was a typical day in the "City of Brotherly Love!!"

But, then the tide turned--BIG TIME and the Nats STORMED BACK--and it looked like for some time that WE WOULD GET THE LAST LAUGH!! AND IT WOULD HAVE BEEN THE MOST ENJOYABLE MOMENT OF THE YEAR!!

Down 10-2 with only a Solo Home Run by Brandon Harper (His First MLB Homer) and a bases loaded walk to Felipe Lopez, Frank Robinson began to empty the bench and replaced Ryan Zimmerman with Damian Jackson (officially Waving the White Flag in the bottom of the 5th inning). With one out and the bases loaded in the top half of that 5th inning, Zimmerman would drill a shot right at Phillies Third Baseman Abraham Nunez, that Nunez only caught because it was right at him. And, Nick Johnson followed with a terrible K to end what looked liked the last possibility for the Nats.

And the ABUSE continued from the Phillies' Faithful!

But, in the top of the 6th, INCREDIBLY, our Nationals Rallied, knocking starter Randy Wolf from the game, then Rick White and finally getting to the unreliable Ryan Madsen.

Austin Kearns, on two strikes, would single to center. Alex Escobar would get ahead 3-1 in the count and lace a ground ball up the middle, moving Kearns to second. On the very next pitch, Brandon Harper (standing as straight up erect as any batter I have seen in some time) slugged his second Major League Home Run of the day, just over the left field fence, bringing the Nats back to 10-5.

Sohna and I cheered Brandon to no end, and received a conciliatory wave from Harper when he reached the end of the dugout, stepping out to acknowledge us!! We were very pleased. The Phillie Fans continued to BOOOOO!! Not only the Nats, Their Pitcher, AND US!! It WAS GREAT!!

Bernie Castro would then walk on a full count and Philadelphia Manager, Charlie Manuel had seen enough, bringing on the righthanded reliever White. Wolf was BOOED UNRELENTINGLY by their own FANS. And this guy is suppose to be their ACE! You got to love the Philadelphia Home Field Advantage.

Marlon Anderson would pinch hit for then Washington Pitcher, Travis Hughes, and down 1-2 in the count, would get a fastball right over the plate that MARLOOOON! would drill past Phillies centerfielder Aaron Rowand for a run scoring double. 10-6 Phillies. Soriano would come up FREE SWINGING as always and strike out on 4 pitches. FLop would then follow with a full count walk. And then, MY MAIN MAN!--(and least favorite Nat) Damian Jackson would come to the plate (would have loved to see Z in this position now) and, HOLY COW!---Walk! to load the bases.

At this point, I figured we had to win if Damian actually did something positive. Sohna and I were yelling and screaming "LETS GO NATS!!" to no end. The Phillie Fans were QUITE QUIET!! To our great delight!!

Nick Johnson would step to the plate, once again going DEEP into the count, drawing a FULL COUNT RUN SCORING WALK. 10-7 Phils!!

Manuel would then replace White with Ryan Madsen. White BOOED UNMERCIFULLY!! Austin Kearns, just not swinging the bat well at all, would ground to 3rd, forcing out Johnson, but FLop scored, Jackson moving to 3rd--10-8 Phils.

At this point, Frank Robinson decided to GO FOR THE JUGULAR. Sending Daryle Ward to the plate to pinch hit for Escobar. Frank sensing that this was their LAST CHANCE. It was a questionable/debatable move, Alex has been pretty good in the clutch. I would have left Escobar in the game and held out Ward for later, but if Ward hits as well as he has in the clutch, this game might be tied or the Nats ahead. Unfortunately, Daryle would K mightily to end the threat.

The Phillie fans sighing in great relief.

In the Bottom of the 6th, Saul Rivera would enter the game, and although it did not cost the Nats in this inning. Damian Jackson would throw away a grounder to Nick Johnson, his first of 2 errors today, and a harbinger of things to come in the 8th. I really can't stand Damian Jackson. But, Anderson would save the inning, when Lieberthal hit a looping liner to center, Marlon playing SO FAR BACK NEAR THE WARNING TRACK, no one expected him to get to hit. Anderson sliding on his left side, coming up to throw immediately, and doubling off Pat Burrell at second. IT WAS A FANTASTIC PLAY!! And totally unexpected.

After escaping the 6th, Rivera would get in trouble in the 7th when Abraham Nunez (3-5, 1HR and 4 RBI on the day) would double down the right field line to lead off the inning. Madsen would step to the plate, attempt a sacrifice bunt, Brian Schneider would pounce on the ball and CLEARLY THROW OUT NUNEZ at third. Abraham sliding into the glove and ball held by Damian Jackson. 3rd base umpire Paul Nauert called Nunez SAFE!! IT WAS A TERRIBLY WRONG CALL!! Schneider looked like he wanted to KILL SOMEONE!!

And it would cost the Nats when Jimmy Rollins walked, Shane Victorino grounded into a force out, Nick Johnson to Schneider, but with still one out, Danny Sandoval would Sacrifice Fly Madsen home on a deep fly to Marlon Anderson. 11-8 after 7.

Washington would continue their comeback in 8th, after Jackson led off the inning with a lazy fly to right. Nick Johnson would single to center, Kearns walked and, pinch hitter, Ryan Church (batting for Jon Rauch) would get behind 1-2 in the count, only to see Madsen throw a curve ball off of Church's foot--TO THE GREAT CONSTERNATION OF PHILLIES FANS. SOHNA AND I THANKED EVERYONE AROUND US FOR THE FREE BASE. We were starting to be hated, SERIOUSLY, in Philadelphia.

Lefthander, Aaron Fultz, would come on to replace Madsen and Schneider greeted him with a bases loaded rip to left field, scoring Johnson and Kearns, moving Church to 2nd. 11-10 with only 1 out in the 8th. Between the Nats and US--WE HAD SHUT UP THE PHILLIE FANS!! IT WAS VERY SATISFYING!!

It looked like we were going to come all the way back, but Bernie Castro would swing at the very first pitch and line a grounder, through the legs of 2nd base umpire Greg Gibson. If Gibson was not in the way, it would have been an easy inning ending double play, but Phillies 2nd baseman Sandoval was distracted by the umpire, bobbling the ball, before throwing out Schneider at 2nd. Then, Marlon Anderson would K BADLY to end the threat. As disappointed as we were, with one inning left, I still felt we could win it.

But, I had forgotten that Damian Jackson was in the game.

The Chief, Chad Cordero, would come on for the bottom of the 8th, and in typical fashion, gave up a leadoff single to Rowand. Philadelphia Catcher Mike Lieberthal would attempt to sacrifice Rowand to second. Jackson butchered the bunt badly, everyone safe. Zimmerman would have barehanded it, no problem. 1st and 2nd--NO OUTS. Nunez would ground to Chief, who would make a play, throwing to Jackson. Jackson's foot NO ON THE BAG!!, loading the bases, no outs still. Cordero would strike out David Delucci, but Rollins would swat a Sacrifice Fly, scoring Rowand, giving the Phillies that extra insurance run. Sohna and I were depressed. Just when it looked like we were going to steal one. The Nats gave it back. 12-10 Phils going to the 9th.

As Arthur Rhodes came in to close it out, there were not many left in the stands among the announced crowd of 36,023 So Sohna and I bellowed out the ALFONSO!! SORIANO!! Chant, clearly heard by EVERYONE on the 3rd base side as Alfonso stepped to the plate for the 9th. Zimmerman, sitting at the far left end of the Nats Dugout, lifted his head out of the dugout to look at who was making all the commotion. I raised my fist to Z approvingly. His FISTED BACK AN "ALL RIGHT" Z Smiling BACK HAPPY FOR THE SUPPORT!!

The Leftover Phillie Fans looked on in AWE!! At not only our NOT BACKING DOWN CHEERING, but Nationals Players Approval.
One lady sitting a few rows behind us to our left, commented to us--"Phillie Players Never acknowledge US" Sohna said--"That's too bad, because we know, in Washington, they appreciate everyone that comes to the game--AND THEY KNOW US!! We're Season Ticket Holders in Section 320, right behind the Nats Dugout!!" The Phillies lady nodded approvingly. Others looked at us like "WHO ARE THOSE GUYS!!"

Then, Soriano and FLop killed all the good will by striking out. Jose Vidro, would pinch hit for my LEAST FAVORITE PLAYER, Damian Jackson. Batting righthanded, Jose would HAMMER a 1-0 pitch to left center that LOOKED LIKE IT WAS OUT ALL THE WAY!! It hit the VERY TOP OF THE FENCE, bounced straight up, and landed back on the field, Vidro chugging into second for a 2 out double. WE STILL HAD A CHANCE.

Nick Johnson at the plate, struggling at the plate lately--And Nick just could not get it done, striking out on 4 pitches to end the game. We lost, but considering how far we were down, how quickly the Nats came back, how much CRAP Sohna and I were getting, and then able to turn the tables on Philadelphia FANS. It was really a great day at the ballpark.

And, it was all CAPPED OFF as we stood and cheered for Vidro and Johnson as they walked off the field, heads down, thanking them for their efforts, when, out of nowhere, Frank Robinson walked up to the side of the dugout, pointed to us and thanks us for "supporting us--we really appreciate it" Sohna called over to Frank that "We're the ones that sit with your Wife and Daughter in Section 320" Frank responded--"Oh, I know who you two are!! Thanks--I really appreciate it!!" And he dropped his head back down into the dugout.

You could hear the creak of jaws dropping among the Phillie Fans still in our section. SOHNA AND I WERE WALKING ON WATER NOW--at least to Philadelphia Fans. No ONE. And I mean NO ONE--bothered us as we excited the stadium to drive home. Even cranky Phillie fans were sober enough to realize that Frank Robinson had acknowledged us, and knew who we were.

I would call that a GOOD DAY!!

Citizens Bank Park

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The African Queen and I were in Philadelphia last night, continuing my birthday weekend celebration, attending the Nationals/Phillies Game at Citizens Bank Park. Sohna's Brother is a Financial Manager for Citizens Bank. He was able to setup some PRIMO SEATS as another Birthday Present for me.

Although surrounded in a Stadium District for all the Philadelphia Pro Sports Franchises, Citizens Bank Park is actually quite an attractive addition for South Philadelphia. With a nice view of the Philadelphia Skyline some distance away. What Sohna and I really enjoyed was the beautiful sightlines from ANYWHERE in the Ballpark. And, when Stan Kasten is talking about WIDE CONCOURSE WALKWAYS and the ability to see the field from all concession stands. THIS STADIUM IS THE MODEL!

As you walk around the park, the entire concourse is open, and the stadium has these terrific standing room areas around behind the seating area, but in front of all the concessions, with elbow high resting places to place your food, so you can enjoy your meal, standing, while still watching the game. We were quite impressed with the attention in ease of use by fans.

We also love the music played throughout the game, good beats, timely, but not BLOWING YOUR EARS AWAY--like at RFK. And the music was NOT PLAYED during every lull in the action of the field. We appreciated that tremendously. I don't need to be told what to do, sing or watch every moment I am in a baseball park.

But, after attending virtually every single Nationals Home Game at RFK Stadium, I don't want to hear ANYBODY BITCH about the Nationals Game Presentation and our Fans. Citizens Bank Park is a MORGUE!! Sohna and I have never been to a park that had SO LITTLE FAN PARTICIPATION!! We met another couple, down from Boston (obvious RED SOX FANS) and they could not believe how NO ONE was into the game.

The Phillies Fans barely got up during the 7th inning Stretch to sing "TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME". And, if it wasn't for The Phillie Phanatic, there would have been NO NOISE in the stadium.

At RFK, we have the NAT PACK, Screech, FAN PARTICIPATION Q & A, More Screech, THE PRESIDENTIAL BOBBLEHEAD RACE, 5th Inning Safeway T-SHIRT Lauch, 7th Inning Stretch followed by the 'JUMPING UP AND DOWN SONG", Capitol Shuffle, XM JAM, KISS CAM, etc. And, even when the Nats are behind, Washington Fans are still cheering on the team. And actively getting involved.

Citizens Bank Park has the KissCam, Phillie Bobblehead race on Video, SEPTA TRAIN RACE on Video, and their version of XM JAM, but everyone just sat on their hands, waiting for someone else to do something. IT REALLY SUCKED!!

I don't think I am underemphasizing how bad the IN GAME EXPERIENCE was in Philadelphia.



Of course the Nats jumped off to a 6-0 lead (which made the Phillie Fans restless), thanks to a TITANTIC LEAD OFF HOME RUN by THE AFRICAN QUEEN's main love, Alfonso Soriano, on the 3rd pitch of the game off Brett Myers. The 451 foot shot, travelled to deep centerfield and landed in Ashburn Alley and the Phillies Hall of Fame. And, a full count line shot 2 run homer by Ryan Zimmerman, the 3rd batter of the game, following a Felipe Lopez single to quickly make it 3-0.

As Sohna and I stood to cheer in our special box for the Night, the verbal assault began from the Phillie Faithful. First--"F-You you TRADER!! YOU'RE A TRADER!! TRADER!! GET YOUR FACES OUT OF THIS STADIUM" Sohna and I actually laughed at him for that one--he was plastered and there was not even 1 out in the first inning and 7:15pm.

In the second, Z would strike again after a Soriano single, Lopez walk, when he ROPED a full count pitch down the left field line, scoring 2 and putting the Nats up 5-0. We both cheered MIGHTILY, to then see a 9 Years old kid, in the box over to our right, wearing a Phillies Outfit, WITH HIS MOTHER AND FATHER, REPEATEDLY YELL AT US FOR THE NEARLY THE REST OF THE GAME--"WASHINGTON SUCKS!!!,, WASHINGTON SUCKS!!" This kid was relentless and his parents did nothing to quell the behavior. I was fully expecting this kid, and the drunk guy to the left, to walk out of their suite and come down to ours to continue the abuse.

Eventually, another parent in a 3rd suite, also attending with both his youngsters, would personally go over to the Parents of the kid and tell them to show some respect. The Good Guy then came over to apologize for the abuse from that family. We told him we were from DC and were celebrating my Birthday, thanks to a relative. We offered him a couple of cocktails and his kids came over for some munchies. Made for a much more pleasant night.

Zimmerman would eventually cap a early career high 5 RBI when FLop would double JUST OVER Phillies Centerfielder Aaron Rowand and Z would plate Felipe with a bloop single to right.



Tony Armas though would, despite the big lead, not be agressive around the plate. Tony is a frustrating pitcher to watch. He never shows enough confidence in his stuff. Rarely throws a first pitch strike. And, it cost him in the 6th, when he got in serious trouble.



Chase Utley ( who I like alot) would lead off with a walk on 4 straight pitches. Amazingly, Ryan Howard would strike out looking of a 2-2 count. But Pat Burrell, looking for a fastball all the way--would first pitch slam a liner right down the left field line. The ball caromed around the corner, moving toward center, before Alfonso could track it down. Utley scoring easily. Burrell stopping at second. Rowand would hit a high chopper to Z at third, Ryan had no play and Burrell advanced to 3rd base. Armas was seriously struggling, but once again, Frank Robinson did not take him out. And it costs the Nats BIG TIME, when Mike Lieberthal, honored as the game began for setting a Phillies record by catching in his 1,125 game, would step to the plate and hammer a fastball well over centerfielder Alex Escobar for a bases clearing double to make it 6-3.
And, just like that, Philadelphia was back into it. The Crowd into it for the first time tonight.

Frank would then replace Armas with Saul Rivera, who probably pitched his most important innings of the season. Striking out Abraham Nunez and pinch hitter Danny Sandoval on a pop to Z to end the threat, leaving the Nats in the lead. Saul would then get through the 7th after a leadoff walk to Jimmy Rollins by Striking Out David Delucci, Chase Utley and, surprisingly, getting Ryan Howard to ground to Nick Johnson at first.

I had yet to be impressed with Rivera, until last night, he was pounding some fastballs, agressive with the always dangerous Ryan Howard. Saul did a very nice job.

Only to see Jon Rauch, once again, get too comfortable on the mound, and give up a full count, 2 outs, fastball home run to Lieberthal--to make it 6-4. Rauch, who I have noted, gives up way too many home runs--seems to lose concentration at times--AND ITS ALWAYS COSTLY. Can't wait for Luis Ayala to return.

Chad Cordero came on in the 9th to close it out for his 23rd save. Sohna and I loved watching the Nats celebrate on the field after the win.

We thoroughly enjoyed our night a Citizens Bank Park. Loved the Stadium, but we missed all the excitement and fun provided by everyone at RFK Stadium. We have it better than you could possibly expect.

MY BEST FRIEND!! MAKES MY DAY!!

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He showed up, RIGHT AS THE GAME BEGAN!!-Pointing and Chirping, rotating his little belly--shaking his head, pointing that claw--RIGHT AT ME! As most people know, Screech and I have a long history, since early in the Inaugural Season. And as that relationship developed, there has not been a SINGLE TIME, NOT ONCE, that myself and the Section 320 FAITHFUL have not SCREAMED HIS NAME (sometimes followed by "DOWN IN FRONT")--Whenever he moved in or around our portion of RFK Stadium. We've even asked Screech to drive us home in the ScreechMobile ZipCar (That's not happened yet, figuring Screech doesn't have a Drivers License).

And he's been GREAT!! Getting into the spirit of the fun we all have, EVERY SINGLE GAME (WIN OR LOSE) in SECTION 320. And it HILARIOUS to see Screech bend down, almost walking on his hands and feet trying to move through our area without blocking the view. He's become a GREAT FRIEND, for not only me, but everyone else surrounding us.

Screech learned some time ago--that I was SCREECH'SBESTFRIEND (and for a very good reason as I previously blogged), and he got a big kick out of it. Even reads the blog, when he has the chance. Its amazing how you can communicate with someone without a voicebox.

But, Today--SCREECH HIT THE GRAND SLAM!! In honor of my 47th Birthday, Screech stopped by to wish me a Happy Birthday and presented me with a FABULOUS GIFT!! A Signed Screech BobbleBelly! He even led the Chorus in Singing Happy Birthday. And paused long enough to take pictures with myself and the African Queen, before heading off on his appointed rounds.

Sohna and I were very pleased and Section 320 helped bellow out the Birthday Song in Style. Thanks Screech!! Made my Day!!





And, considering the outcome of today's 5-0 shellacing by the Atlanta Braves---It was, UNQUESTIONABLY, the highlight of the day. Our Nats just didn't compete today. And, if it was not for Alfonso Soriano throwing two TERRIFIC throws home attempting to throw out runners attempting to score, THIS GAME WAS TOTALLY FORGETTABLE!!

On a beautiful summer 84 degree day with virtually no humidity, the Nationals slept through this one, after a rousing 9-6 win last night. The Nats could only manage 1 hit off Atlanta emergency starter Oscar Villarreal, making his first start in over 3 seasons, but raising his record on the season to 9-1. Washington only managed 4 hits all day off Oscar and 3 relievers. The Bats were pretty quiet.

Although, Braves Catcher, Brian McCann would hit a solo home run in the second inning, all the real action came in the 4th when the Braves sent 7 batters to the plate against Nats Starter, Jason Bergmann, who proved, hopefully for the last time, he is just not starter material. With one out, Matt Diaz doubled down the right field line, and advanced to 3rd on a wild pitch. Ryan Langerhans would walk, followed by a Villarreal sacrifice bunt, moving Langerhans to 2nd, but leaving Diaz at 3rd. 2 Outs-- It looked like Jason might get out of it, but then, the game fell apart.

Marcus Giles would step to the plate, and on the very first offering from Bergmann, would line a single to left, Soriano ran in on the ball, confidently, scooping up the ball with his glove hand and fired a SIDEARM HEAVE toward home. The ball arrived, just a split second late, before Brian Schneider could make the tag, Langerhans sliding to the left rear side of the plate, it was a FINE THROW, but Langerhans was safe. 3-0 Braves.

Edgar Renteria, he of 3 hits today, would then go deep into the count, 2-2, and line a single, again to left, right at Soriano. And, in a carbon copy play, Alfonso scoops up the ball and heaves it home, once again. A PERFECT THROW, that arrives a split second before Marcus Giles. Schneider catches the ball, just off the plate, to the front left side, and drags his glove hand right into the sliding GILES!! Giles knew he was out. Unfortunately, Home Plate Umpire, Ed Rapuano, thought otherwise. To the shock of virtually EVERYONE at RFK. Rapuano called Giles SAFE!! The video replays clearly showed the truth. Giles was out!! Frank Robinson, came running (well more like hobbling) out to Rapuano to argue the call--TO THE GREAT DELIGHT OF THE RFK FAITHFUL!! Finger pointing as well as FRANK could ever do!! It didn't change the umpires mind though, but it gave the Nationals Fans something to cheer about today. The Braves would close out the scoring in the 7th on another 2 out Renteria RBI single off Chris Schroeder.




It wasn't much of a game, especially after last nights raucous win. Future Hall of Famer, John Smoltz, just didn't have it on the mound last night for Atlanta, and admitted so after, but the Nats second at bats of the game, made for a MEMORABLE MOMENT. Already ahead 2-0 on a run scoring ground out by Bernie Castro and a rbi single by Alfonso Soriano, the Nats had starting pitcher Billy Traber on 2nd base and Alfonso on 1st with 1 out. Felipe Lopez (FLop) was at the plate and worked a 2-2 count from the struggling Smoltz. FLop would then get a pitch high, over the inside portion of the plate, and TURN ON IT, DRILLING THE BALL DOWN THE RIGHT FIELD LINE, about 10 feet left of the foul pole. For Whatever REASON, Third Base Coach, Tony Beasley, DID NOT SCREAM, YELL, and PROD Traber to get his BUTT moving!! Soriano and Lopez were FLYING AROUND THE BASES--Traber AMAZINGLY was standing on 3rd with Alfonso 5 feet away. Lopez hustling toward 2nd. Soriano DISGUSTED with the STUPIDITY of the play infront of him, Just stopped, Chipper Jones tagging him out at 3rd, leaving traber on the bag. AND THE RFK STADIUM CROWD BOOOOOOOOOOED TO NO END!! And deservedly so. For consecutive nights, Tony Beasley had NOT DONE HIS JOB!! Beasley does not react well to the action in front of him. He has too many jitters. Not the person a team needs as the third base coach. Too important of a position. Tony Beasley does not impress me.

Fortunately, the Nats would score 2 more runs on a Zimmerman infield single to Chipper Jones at 3rd, with Z SLIDING into 1st to avoid the tag, and Nick Johnson would clean single to right scoring FLop to make it 4-0. Traber would give most of it back in the 5th when the Nationals decided to give Atlanta 6 outs in the inning which included a Zimmerman error, and Johnson unable to track down a difficult foul ball down the right field line, that Castro should have called for and retrieved, but was hesitant to take command.

Zimmerman would fight back in the 6th by hammering a 2 run homer off Smoltz and Brian Schneider would put the game away in the 7th with , believe it or not, a 2 out, 3 run shot off Atlanta's Ken Ray, making the score 9-5. Jon Rauch would give up his 11th homer of the season, a TITANIC BLAST, by Adam LaRoche, 7 rows deep into Section 466, but would settle down to give the game to the Chief, Chad Cordero, who recorded his 22nd save of the season.

Rauch is really starting to worry me. As I have mentioned previously, he gives up too many first pitch home runs. And he did so tonight. "WOOKIE" needs to realize that just because you are the tallest player in Major League History, it doesn't mean you can overpower everyone.

The Nationals continue to struggle, and will as long as the pitching talent is mostly of the Minor League Variety. But, Sohna and I continue to enjoy attending every single game. We have alot of friends at RFK. And we can't appreciate enough the efforts today of MY BEST FRIEND--SCREECH!!

Vote For Pedro

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The crowd was standing on its feet, rhythmically clapping. A great majority of the 24,036 still in the stands, wanting to see something no one in attendance expected. Pedro Astacio stood on the mound, raising his right forearm and wiping his dripping wet forehead. The RFK Faithful continued to ROAR!!. Section 320 CHANTING "WE WANT A SHUTOUT!! WE WANT A SHUTOUT!!"

Astacio looked in for the sign from Brian Schneider. Dropping his right arm down so low it was dangling sweat on the mound from mere inches. Matt Diaz was down to his last strike. The Atlanta Braves down to their last out. Astacio reared back and threw pitch number 89 on the night. Diaz --SWING AND A MISS!! Slider on the outside corner of the plate!! And game IS OVER!! RFK STADIUM SCREAMED IN JUBILATION!! Astacio finishes off a COMPLETE GAME SHUTOUT!! 5-0 whitewash of the Braves. Bang Zoom Went the FIREWORKS!! Fans were dancing in the Aisles. You would have thought the Nationals had just made the playoffs!! The Crowd stayed for a STANDING OVATION for the Nationals as they walked off the field in triumph. Astacio nodding to the fans in thanks.

No one. And I mean NO ONE, could have expected Pedro Astacio to pitch the finest game of the 2006 season for the Nationals tonight. A two hour, one minute affair that saw Pedro throw 66 strikes, not walk a single batter, pitch a PERFECT GAME until a 2 out single by Jeff Francouer in the 5th and allow only one additional baserunner, a single in the 7th by Adam LaRoche--facing just 29 batters.

By throwing this complete game shutout, the Nationals avoided the possible embarrassment of being the first team, in the history of the game, to not have a starter pitch a complete game in a season. The Chicago Cubs are now the only team in 2006 yet to toss a complete game by a starter.

Astacio was outstanding, retiring the side in order in 7 of 9 innings. Number 34 struck out 5, only reached a 3 ball count on 2 batters. Mixed his pitches well, pitching confidently throughout the game. Not a single Braves hitter got good wood on the ball. Pedro had them fooled all night long.

As the game moved further along and the shutout continued, the crowd began to ramp up its anticipation of the possible final outcome. I can't recall a game in quite some time that no one seemed to leave the park early. And the 2 hour playing time certainty didn't hurt. Sohna and I made it home in Springfield by 9:45pm. The game started at 7:05PM The crowds approval at the end made the wait worthwhile for every Nats fans in attendance. And shut down the TOMAHAWK Chop for the entire night.

To help along Pedro, the Nationals received a couple of clutch base hits with runners in scoring position, a sacrifice fly and, for once, a terrible fielding play--this time by Atlanta--leading to 2 additional Washington runs.

Bernie Castro continued to show promise as an igniter of the offense. In the second with 2 out and nobody on, Alex Escobar would beat out an infield single to 3rd that Chipper Jones really didn't have a play on. Schneider would then ground a single into the hole between 1st and 2nd moving Escobar to third. Castro stepped to the plate, and realizing the Braves were playing deep, laid down a perfect, first pitch bunt between pitcher Lance Cormier and Braves first baseman LaRoche. Marcus Giles gave up on the play, seeing Castro BURN HIS WAY DOWN THE LINE!. Escobar scored easily to make it 1-0 Nats. There could not be many, IF ANY, faster runners in the game than Bernie Castro. THAT GUY CAN FLY!! AMAZING SPEED RIGHT FROM THE GET GO!!

The RFK Stadium crowd applauded its approval of, not only a DECENT BUNT, but a GUTSY ONE with 2 outs. A very nice surprise. Castro has potential to be a game changer, but on a much smaller level than Alfonso Soriano.

The Nats would actually put the game out of reach in the 3rd, but not without a bizarre play involving Felipe Lopez (FLop). Soriano led off with a soft liner to center for a single. Lopez would work a 2-2 count, and with Soriano running, would hit a softly hit grounder deep into the hole at 2nd. Soriano was going to easily make second, Marcus Giles hustled all the way to eventually pick up the ball on the outfield grass. FLop believing it was an easy single was just jogging down the line. Giles, seeing he could still get FLop, hurried his throw, as Lopez speeded up. A good throw would have had him, but the throw went wide of LaRoche and down toward the Braves first base dugout. Soriano looked around at second, and did not see 3rd base coach Tony Beasley waving him on to third, but Alfonso seeing the play develop was smart enough to jog to 3rd. In the meantime, first base coach, Davey Lopes, NEVER ONCE, told Lopez that the ball got past LaRoche. It actually appeared that FLop thought he was out as he rounded first base and stopped, briefly, between 1st and 2nd, until realizing the ball was still in play. Seeing Braves Catcher Brian McCann setting to fire the ball to 2nd to throw him out, Lopez speeded up again, barely beating the throw at second.

It was just an amazing sequence of fundamental incompetence, on the part of 2 coaches and FLop. SenatorNat and I discussed this for about 10 minutes in Section 320. Very few Nationals seem to be able to accomplish the basics. Felipe just doesn't seem to have his head in the game--like ever!!

With runners on 2nd and 3rd, no outs, Ryan Zimmerman would come to the plate (and not having a good night) and strike out for the second of 3 times tonight. Atlanta would intentionally walk Nick Johnson, setting up the force play, to bring up the struggling Austin Kearns. Kearns would oblige the Braves by hitting a perfect slow rolling double play grounder to shortstop Tony Pena. Pena COMPLETELY MISSED on the charging pickup, the ball rolling into left field, Soriano and FLop scored. Johnson to 3rd. Austin safe at 1st. 3-0 Nats. Escobar would get Johnson home with a deep enough fly to right that Jeff Francouer threw up the line as Johnson scored Washington's 4th run.

Another interesting Note about this inning, was that SCREECH was visiting around our section during this rally. As Kearns was batting and about to swing on the decisive error of the night, Screech wanted to move from 320 down toward 319. As he walked, MY MAIN MAN!! POLITELY GOT "DOWN IN FRONT" No one else noticed, but it cracked me up something awful!! After the 2 runs scored Screech jumped on top of the railing in front of 320 and put on his show. It was great.

Screech its OK to walk through Section 320 during game action. JUST DON"T STOP. I love you nonetheless. I really did appreciate your attentiveness to the action though. THANKS!!

The Nats would close out the scoring in the 5th when Johnson walked with 1 out and Austin Kearns drilled a deep liner to the left centerfield wall that Matt Diaz eventually tracked down, Johnson running all the way ( and running as if he's pulling a tractor load behind him--the guy seems to run in perpetual motion, knees completely locked up) and was able to beat the relay throw from Pena to McCann with his usual awkward slide somehow ending up completely on his stomach sliding backwards across the plate. But you just got to love his hustle. Johnson never gives up on a play, EVER!!

Not often that National Fans get to enjoy a no doubter. Although the Chief, Chad Cordero, was warming up in the 9th, this one was ASTACIO ALL THE WAY!!!. Good pitching, defense and timely hitting always wins. We just don't have enough of it. But WE DID TONIGHT. FUN NIGHT AT THE BALLPARK!!

Thank you---PEDRO ASTACIO.

Road Trip

As Nat Del Negro mentioned in his comment to the last post, I am out of town. I want to thank screech's best friend and everyone from Nats320 for keeping me up to date. Part of the reason I am out of town is for my yearly pilgrimage to Fenway Park, the Holy Grail of Baseball Stadiums. If you have never been, it's a lot of fun. I treated my Dad to a game. We arrived early and caught the end of the Red Sox batting practice and the Tigers batting practice. No one put on a show, so we walked the park to see the changes since last year. The ownership have made so many changes to the ole ball park. Aside from the Green Monster seats and the extended roof box seats, there are so many new vendors under the stands. They have also added signage that is reminiscent of the '20's. A 3 piece brass band plays, there is a guy who walks around the stadium on stilts playing catch with the fans. Yawkey Way is now almost like a carnival, with vendors, music et. al. Luis Tiant, know to the baseball world as El Tiante, has a table, and signs autographs before the games. He is pictured with me and my Dad.

I wish the game was better for Sox fans, Beckett never had great stuff. The Tigers led 5-0 after 3 innings. The Sox nibbled away and scored 3 runs in the middle innings.

Right when the Sox were rallying trying to come back, I made section 320 proud. Mike Lowell was up with men on 1st and 2nd and they played the Hey Ho Lets Go song. Nobody was singing, so I started into "Hey Ho Mike Lowell". After the second time people started to catch on and sang with me. And Lowell singled on a sharp liner to right. IT WAS GREAT!!! Unfortunatly the Sox sent Manny home from second and he was dead at the plate. To make it worse, Terry Francona took a page out of Frank Robinson's managing book, he left a questionable reliever (Rudy Seanez) in for too long and the Tigers scored 2 more. Between the bottom of the 8th and top of the 9th they started playing "Sweet Caroline" I sang out chorus of "I hate this song" which got a lot of laughs. Although I love the Nats, I am also a Red Sox fan, and wished for a beter outcome, but they Sox lost 7-4.

Well maybe better luck next year when I return back.

From the road, best wishes to the Nats,and section 320!!!!!

Dear Frank:

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I realize over the course of a 162 game baseball season, that on some nights, you just simply lose. Tonight's 10-4 whacking by the Atlanta Braves at RFK Stadium was one of them. Chipper Jones unloaded on our mediocre pitching for 3 homers and 5 RBI and Matt Diaz tied a National League Record with his 10th consecutive hit, 4 hits in all, 1 home run and 4 RBI. This one was over pretty early and everyone knew it--and it was OFFICIALLY OVER when Damian Jackson replaced Ryan Zimmerman for the top of the 8th.

But, Frank, what I want to understand is what were you thinking during the 5th inning when Ramon Ortiz was struggling so badly. Everyone knows that your bullpen is not too good. You are trying to get every possible out from your starters to lessen the opportunities for your undependable guys from the New Orleans Zephyrs. Lets retrace the steps during the deciding 5th inning.

With the score tied 3-3, Ortiz continued to struggle, giving up a leadoff single to center by Marcus Giles. Edgar Renteria would hit a lazy pop to Austin Kearns in right for out number 1. Chipper Jones would come up and on a 0-1 count, Ramon tried to sneak a fastball on the outside corner of the plate, that Chipper went with, driving it high into the prevailing wind and it carried well over the left field fence for a 2 run homer (Jones 1st of the night). Making it 5-3 Atlanta. Andruw Jones would follow with a 0-2 count shot down the left field line, doubling into the corner. It was obvious Ortiz was out of gas, but you left him in and Brian McCann crushed a deep fly to dead centerfield that landed just short of the wall on the track--appearing that Alex Escobar might have misplayed, the ball bouncing over the fence for a run scoring ground rule double. 6-3 BRAVOS. After a visit by Randy StClaire, Ortiz was able to get the free swinging Jeff Francouer to strike out for out number 2.

Now--here's where the question arises. There are 2 outs, Adam LaRoche is at bat. You are not going to take Ramon out, because you feel he is your best of the lesser choices. You intentionally walk LaRoche to get to THE HOTTEST HITTER IN THE GAME TODAY. Matt Diaz is one hit away from tying a National League Record. I would say Diaz is determined at this point!! I was surprised you did not pitch to LaRoche. So, Diaz comes to the plate. Yet, Ortiz can not find that plate and gets behind 3-1 in the count. The Atlanta Pitcher, Chuck James, is the next hitter. He has never recorded a hit in the Majors. James has looked foolish at the plate tonight. 2 Outs (thinking out loud here), I can pitch to Diaz, waiting for a fastball you know he is going to hit, OR--I can intentionally walk Diaz and pitch to James as I am sure that Bobby Cox, Atlanta's Manager, will not pinch hit for him?

What would I do? I would walk Diaz to bring up James. You chose to pitch to Diaz, who slammed the next pitch, a fastball to center scoring McCann and closing out the game. 7-3 Braves. Only then do you take out Oritz and replace him with Ryan Wagner. For the Nationals, this game was out of reach at this point.

I am really confused about this one Frank. The managing choices are obvious in this situation, yet you chose the hard way out. Why? Really would love to know.

And this all came after we had just battled back to tie the score at 3 in the bottom of the 4th thanks to Alfonso Soriano playing the GAME CHANGER--knocking in Bernie Castro (who by the way CAN REALLY FLY!!--TREMENDOUS SPEED!! Lets see him some more--PLEASE!!), stealing second, advancing to 3rd on the catcher's overthrow (everyone enjoyed the site of seeing Soriano just jog nonchalantly to 3rd after Brian McCann's throw went about 15 feet behind second, Alfonso knowing he could easily make it without busting it) and scoring on a Felipe Lopez (Surprise!!) single up the middle. This after MICKNATS and I started chanting "DON"T KILL THE RALLY!!, DON"T KILL THE RALLY!!" Over and Over again for Lopez, to those surrounding Section 320's great amusement.

Chipper Jones continued to put on his show by ripping a 2 out shot over the right field wall in the 7th off Wagner, and completed his excellent night by HAMMERING a 2 run shot off Travis Hughes that just missed the Mezzanine Section below 464 in the 8th. I have to say I had to clap for the guy, it was a TREMENDOUS NIGHT for a SUPER PLAYER!!

One more thing Frank--You pinch hit Ryan Church with two out in the 9th to face Braves Lefthander Wayne Franklin. Church CRUSHED a fastball well over the right field fence for his 7th home run of the year. As I have said before, Ryan has BETTER Power Numbers, Average and On Base Percentage against lefthanders. Yeah--he struck out looking yesterday on a 99MPH Heater from Billy Wagner, but he's facing, at that time, one of the BEST in the game. Ryan Church is not YOU in your prime. Not many players will, or ever be. But, Church is a good player. Would you please not continue to put him in your doghouse, when he makes ONE OUT??

Only 21,550 showed up for the Monday Night affair. In fact, Section 320 was left short again when the 4 "Noise Boys" who sit directly in front of Sohna and I, and to the right of MickNats, did not post up for their second straight game. Come on guys, we need your VOICES!! Screech came by early and was surprised to see all the no shows. Maybe the boys are still recovering from RallyTimeRichards Birthday Party from last Saturday Night.

So Frank--What were you thinking???

How To Make A 1-0 Win--A 3-1 Loss

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Our Beloved Washington Nationals showed to everyone of the 37,732 at RFK Stadium, why they are a LAST PLACE TEAM to the great consternation of all Nats Fans. On a beautiful, sunny, not a cloud in the sky, 81 Degree day in our Nation's Capital, the Washington Nationals, Fans in attendance, including the Section 320 Faithful just played out the string. Unlike the intense excitement just over 16 hours ago in the very same stadium, RFK felt more like a morgue today, with virtually no action on the field and little excitement in the crowd. It was PRETTY DULL! Except for a few brief moments. Even the New York fans were pretty quiet.

Maybe it had to do with all the kids in attendance for the Screech Bobblebelly Giveaway to those 12 and under in age. Maybe it had to do with both teams playing a day game, after a tense, raucous night game, before a HUGE CROWD, just a few hours previously. And, definitely, it had to do with the partying that took place before, during and AFTER last nights event for RallyTimeRichards Birthday Party.

Section 320 had limited regulars in attendance, as Myself, The African Queen, MickNats and Mary were the only ones capable of posting for the 1PM start. And, as the Nationals have clearly shown that you just can't produce with a Minor League Pitching Staff from their New Orleans Affiliate, Section 320 could not sustain its momentum or excitement with all the called on last second fill-ins. Despite Sohna and I's best efforts, we could only get Lisa and Jeff, who sit to our left, directly behind MickNats to get into the spirit of the festivities. And, Screech, fully occupied with his guest Mascots (Mr. Met, Ace from Toronto and The Bird from Baltimore) for his End of Summer Party, must have sensed the
hangover effect behind the Nats 3rd Base Dugout, as Screech didn't make an appearance today in 320. That's OK Screech, you didn't miss much!!

Tony Armas would complete 7 very effective innings. Probably his BEST EFFORT of the season, throwing 98 pitches, 60 for strikes, allowing just 2 hits and one walk, but leaving game when the Nationals JUST KILLED HIS GOOD EFFORT TODAY, IN BRUTAL FASHION.

The game itself was a pitchers duel between mediocre talents. Tony Armas for the Nationals and Steve Trachsel for the Mets. Each pitcher got through the first 3 innings perfectly. But, former National, Endy Chavez, would lace a liner to right in the 4th for the games first baserunner, but he would be left stranded.

In the Bottom of the 4th, Alfonso Soriano would, not only take away Trachsel's perfect game, but no hitter and shutout ON ONE PITCH. Slamming a 2-2 fastball DEEP over the left field fence, near the GEICO Sign for his 38th Home Run of the Season, second in as many days. And the FANS WOKEUP AT RFK!! For the first time today. 1-0 Nats after 4.

And, that's how it would remain through 6. A single here, a double there, but no offense was sustained by any team. All runners left stranded.

Then, the Nationals decided to GIVE AWAY THE GAME!!!! Carlos Beltran lead off the 7th and got a 2-0 count from Armas. Getting a pitch to hit, Beltran launched a deep drive to left centerfield, Soriano got a late jump, but was still able to keep the fast Beltran from racing for 3rd, Carlos stopped at 2nd. But Armas would settle down, getting the Dangerous Carlos Delgado to fly meekly to Soriano. Then, David Wright grounds to short, but slow enough, so Lopez can only make a force out at second on Delgado. Wright beating the relay throw to first. But 2 are out. Nats are still in a good position. Unfortunately, the next 2 plays were the game changing moments that ended any chance of a Washington Victory today.

With Wright still at first, and Jose Valentin at the plate with a 2-2 count, Wright took off in an attempt to steal second. Valentin took the outside pitch and Brian Schneider, off balance, from the outside toss from Armas, HEAVED THE BALL toward second, well over the head of Felipe Lopez covering, David Wright quickly stood up and sprinted to 3rd as Ryan Church retrieved the ball. Still 2 were out and all Armas had to do was retire Valentin.

And HE DID!! Only Marlon Anderson decided to CHOKE on the play. Valentin hit a routine, full count, grounder to Anderson, directly where Marlon was standing. All he had to do was field the ball cleanly, throw it to first, inning over and the Nats maintain the lead. Instead, Anderson thought about it too long, didn't charge the ball, the ball played him, he booted it, scurried to pick it up, still had time to retire the slow Valentin--AND THREW IT OFF THE BAG TO NICK JOHNSON"S LEFT, IN THE DIRT. Valentin SAFE, Wright SCORES. 1-1 and the NEW YORK FANS WERE, Suddenly, back into it.!!

Two, BACK TO BACK, errors by experienced veterans, players you expect to have their acts together. TERRIBLE BASEBALL, JUST TERRIBLE!! Armas would complete his day by getting Ricky Ledee to ground to Johnson at first, but the damage was done. The momentum was lost, and the Nats WALKED OFF THE FIELD, not jogging, looking like the defeated team they would be in a very short while. And, a fabulous start from the very inconsistent Tony Armas, Jr. WAS WASTED!!

The Nats would attempt to rally in the bottom of the 7th with a 2 out rally. Anderson, attempting to rectify his horrific error, would slap a single to left. Brian Schneider, deciding he needed to step up after last innings bad throw, got ahead in the count, 3-1 and grounded a pitch into right field, Anderson swiftly moving to 3rd. 1st and 3rd--2 outs.

Frank Robinson then sent ACE PINCH HITTER, Daryle Ward, to the plate for Armas. Mets Manager, Willie Randolph, countered by removing Trachsel and bringing on lefthander Royce Rings. Ring would walk Ward on 4 straight pitches, bringing the RFK Stadium Faithful to life for ALFONSO SORIANO WITH THE BASES LOADED!! The anticipation was GREAT!!

Randolph would replace Ring with righthander, Chad Bradford, he of the fabulous underarm sidearm motion. Bradford, at times, throws so low to the ground, his knuckles scrape the dirt. It also means that his pitches RISE, and if off target, can fly DIRECTLY into a POWER HITTERS WHEELHOUSE!!

The crowd stood and roared for the entire at-bat. This was the Nationals chance. Soriano would take strike one looking. Take the next two pitches outside the strike zone. Ahead 2-1 in the count, Bradford came in with a whipping up shoot at the letters, Alfonso swung mightily--AND MISSED!! 2-2 the count. Bradford looked in for the sign, never paying attention to any of the baserunners. His only concern, and rightfully so, was Soriano. Chad laid in a pitch on the outside corner of the plate, Alfonso swung slapping the ball up the middle, but to the right of second base. Valentin was able to cleanly pick up the ball and throw Soriano out at first--The Washington crowd sighed in defeat. Mets fans rose in celebration. Soriano stopped and just looked up at the sky. He wanted to be the Hero. But IT WAS NOT TO BE TODAY!!

Jon Rauch would come on in the 8th for Armas, and, as effective as Jon has been all season, he gives up WAY TOO MANY FIRST PITCH AND 1-0 PITCH HOME RUNS. Sorry to report, he gave up Home Run number 9 today, this one on a first pitch, one out fastball, to, OF ALL PEOPLE!!, the very washed UP MICHAEL TUCKER!! Tucker was a decent player in his prime for many teams. He's a Virginia Native, from Farmville, Virginia and Longwood College, but when the Nationals cut him, in favor of Daryle Ward during spring training, I thought it would be the last time anyone ever saw him playing in the Major Leagues. Tucker has been toiling at Norfolk for New York and only got the call up when Cliff Floyd went on the Disabled List for UPTEENTH MILLIONTH TIME in his career.

This home run, and, if the Nationals had any gas left in the tank after the disastrous 7th, put them on empty. The crowd began to leave in droves. Frustrated at the abrupt turnaround.

That Empty Tank reached critical in the bottom of the 8th, when Ryan Zimmerman slammed a one out single to left off Bradford, and Willie Randolph came to the mound to replace Bradford with Lefthander Darren Oliver. Now remember, ONE OUT is important to remember. The Patient One, Nick Johnson was at the plate, and has he has struggled hitting of late, he has not been going deep into the count. On Oliver's very first pitch, Zimmerman took off, and Johnson swung at the pitch, driving it high, but not deep enough to center to get out of the park. Beltran raced under the fly, caught it, AND WAS AMAZED TO SEE ZIMMERMAN CONTINUING TO RUN AROUND THE BASES TOWARD 3RD, AS IF 2 WERE OUT!! Tony Beasley, the Nats 3rd base coach, was SCREAMING at Z to turn around. Zimmerman, realizing his lapse in judgement just stopped, and was easily doubled off first to end the inning in CHORUS OF BOOS!!

Zimmerman has been pretty terrific all season long, better than anyone expected. I will give him the mulligan of that one--as discouraging as it was for everyone watching and Frank Robinson ( who I am sure was just STEAMING!! in the dugout).

The Nationals would continue to unravel in the 9th, when Saul Rivera would give up a lead off walk to Beltran, and with one out, David Wright would single hard to left, moving Beltran to second. Valentin would step to the plate and Rivera would throw a WILD PITCH, moving up the runners. Valentin would loft a fly, just deep enough to Austin Kearns in right to score Beltran, but Kearns would throw the relay past Felipe Lopez and Ryan Zimmerman into the Nats Dugout, fortunately, the errant toss hit the protective screen in front of the dugout and bounced back, keeping David Wright at third, where he would be left stranded.

Mets FLAMETHROWING Lefthander, (and Charlottesville, Virginia resident), Billy Wagner, would come on attempting to close it out. Billy made short order of Kearns and Church, but with 2 outs and 2 strikes, and Mets fans on their feets rhythmically clapping for the final out, Marlon Anderson was able to poke a Wagner toss into center for a single. Alex Escobar, the electric one, with a powerful stick, would pinch hit for Schneider and work a 5 pitch walk--runners and 1st and 2nd--2 still out--But the Nats have a chance. Frank would send backup catcher, Brandon Harper, to pinch hit in the clutch in his second Major League Game Ever.

As nervous as the guy must have been, Frank decides to really put the pressure on him, by sending the runners on a 1-0 pitch, Harper swings at a high outside fastball, pops it foul toward the first base dugout, where Delgado makes a nice sliding catch at the dugout steps to end the game. Wagner gets his 28th save and the Nats lose out on a very decent opportunity to win the 3 game series.

Our Nationals are a last place team. A last place team for many different reasons.

Injuries
Bad Pitching
Poor Fundamentals
Just can't bunt
Can't hit in the Clutch
And, today proved that, even veteran players, are just not thinking out there on the field. I find that really disturbing.

Marlon Anderson's error was INEXCUSABLE!! Even if he booted it, he should be experienced enough to recover nicely.

THIS ONE WAS A WIN. WE ARE NOT A GOOD TEAM, BUT EVEN POOR TEAMS NEED THIS ONE. VERY BAD LOSS.

DEMORALIZING!!

Rocking NIGHT AT RFK!!

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42,507 baseball fans showed up at RFK Stadium tonight for an exciting affair. Its safe to say that nearly 15,000 were Mets fans, but it really didn't matter as it all added to a fabulous atmosphere on a VERY LOUD NIGHT.

Section 320 was in full tilt, with the celebration of RALLY TIME Richards birthday. Nearly the entire contingent was in attendance--16 in all, and the Cheering, Singing and Attempts to drown out the New York fans was in constant motion. Everytime the "LETS GO METS" chant began, Section 320 went into a "LETS GO NATIONALS!!" or a song for whomever was at the plate for our NATS!!

We added a "HE-HO Castro" chant for Bernie Castro, and had nearly the entire 320 and accompanied sections screaming the "Alfonso----SORIANO!! cheer, EVERY SINGLE TIME Alfonso came to the plate. Zimmerman, Nick Johnson, Austin "Bluegrass" Kearns, Mar--LON! ANDER--SOOON, Schneiderman (Spiderman theme song) and even Felipe Lopez got in some serious chants. Section 320 was rocking. And SCREECH (MY MAIN BIRD) came by early to receive his deserved adulation. And quickly got "DOWN IN FRONT".

It was a GREAT NIGHT, it would have been FABULOUS, if the Nats had won, but pitching, once again doomed our team, a 6-4 lost to the very dangerous, and talented, New York Mets.

Mets starter, John Maine, came into the game riding a 22 inning scoreless streak. Maine, traded by the Baltimore Orioles over the past winter, for Kris Benson (and his showoff wife--Anna) has been nothing short of tremendous for New York-although is record of 2-3 does not show it. And, he continued that streak, mowing down the Nationals on zero hits and one walk through 3.2 innings. At first, the Nats just could not figure Maine out.

By the time the Nats would get their first hit, the Mets would have already struck hard at emergency Washington Starter, Jason Bergmann. Decent at times, Bergmann has been up and down for the Nationals over the past season and a half. And, only because the Nats are DESPERATE for pitching, did Jason get the call tonight after his recent call up from New Orleans.

In the top of the 3rd, Jason lost his control over the first 4 hitters. Hitting Maine with two strikes, followed by a Jose Reyes triple to right center that Alex Escobar made a valiant dive for, but missed , scoring Maine, a sharp single to left by Paul LoDuca, scoring Reyes and another shot to right center that got past Kearns and Escobar for another triple, making it 3-0 METS. And the stadium was rocking, unfortunately, it was the New York Fans. With still no outs and a visit to the mound by Randy StClaire, Bergmann was able to settle down, retiring Carlos Delgado, David Wright and Jose Valentin in order, without Beltran scoring.

The Nats would get their first hit and first run, in the 4th, when Nick Johnson would finally figure out Maine, in a big way, and CRUSHED a full count fastball deep into the upper deck. SECTION 464. Monster Shot--Giving the approximately 27,000 Nats fans a good opportunity to, FINALLY, let out some NOISE!!

Bergmann would actually complete 5 innings, throwing 91 pitches, 61 for strikes. He wasn't bad, just wasn't good enough tonight against a very aggressive lineup. The 3rd inning killed him, just 4 batters, but it was enough.

Travis Hughes would come on for the 6th and proved, once again, he is just not Major League Material. Leadoff blast by David Wright into the right centerfield poweralley, put Wright at second. Valentin would move him to 3rd on a ground out to second. Michael Tucker would walk, and Lastings Milledge (the guy so many Nats fans were craving for, in exchange for Livan Hernandez) chopped a pitch right off home plate soooooo HIGH that Zimmerman just had to hold onto the ball, scoring Wright and giving the Mets a 4-1 lead.

But, as the Nats have proven alot lately, they can fight back, and they did it GRAND FASHION in the bottom of the 6th!!. Bernie Castro, a talented, fast second baseman, that played extremely well late last season for the Orioles, came to the plate to pinch hit for Hughes. He slapped a single to Reyes at short and beat the throw easily. Soriano would come to the plate, take one pitch and then WHACK a John Maine High Fastball to DEAD CENTERFIELD. A NO DOUBTER 2 RUN HOMER. THE CROWD WENT NUTS!! The African Queen (my wife) went crazy over her love, Alfonso's 37th home run of the season, and RFK STADIUM BOUNCED and ROARED ITS APPROVAL!! 4-3 Nats And Sohna gave me a very appreciative kiss!! Still no outs!!

Felipe Lopez (not known as my favorite player, and affectionately known by me and other bloggers as "FLop") lashed a single to center. Flop then stole second. After retiring Zimmerman, Mets Manager, Willie Randolph would take out Maine and bring in crafty lefthander, Pedro Feliciano. Nick Johnson would greet him with a line shot single to center, scoring Lopez and bringing the RFK Stadium Faithful to their feet!!

As faith would have it, this was the last time we were able to shut up the New York Mets Fans.

Frank Robinson, with his hands tied over an inexperienced bullpen, called on Chris Schroder to make his second Major League Appearance. Unfortunately, his effort was nowhere near as positive as his first one. Schroder looked nervous from the first pitch, which Carlos Beltran greeted him with a towering drive to right center for a clean double. Delgado would ground sharply to Lopez at short, moving Beltran to 3rd. Then, Chris would hit David Wright. A visit to the mound by StClaire didn't help as Valentin would go deep into the count, fouling off 4 straight pitches, before blopping a texas leaguer just in front of Kearns, scoring Beltran, moving Wright to 3rd. And Michael Tucker would end the scoring with a routine sacrifice fly to left, scoring Wright and giving the New York Fans the opportunity to chant "LETS GO METS" for the remainder of the evening.

Aaron Heilman would come on for the Mets in the 8th and Billy Wagner would come on in the 9th to retire the side, including another fabulous strikeout by my least favorite player, Damian Jackson, pinch hitting for Saul Rivera. The Mets fans stood, clapped and shouted till the end. But, that's OK with me. It was a FUN atmosphere. The Nats just don't have enough right now to compete every single night.

But, it did not take away from the enjoyment of the evening.

One final note, in celebration of Screech's Birthday, the Oriole Bird, Mr. Met and "ACE" of the Toronto Blue Jays were all in attendance, and will be for the entire weekend. All the mascots, with Screech stood on the Nats 3rd base dugout during the 7th inning stretch and threw T-Shirts to the Crowd. I believe MR. MET is the very first Mascot, ever. And "ACE" looks just FABULOUS. Serious BEAK and close cut wings/fur. And, we all know the Orioles Bird from many seasons past. It was nice to see them.. Too bad the Phillie Phanatic could not have been there. Sohna LOVES the Phanatic!!

Wish I could've been there...

...but it was fun to (at first) hear on my way home from work, and then watch the final few innings...

I was watching the late innings, listening to the Mets fans vs. the Nats fans (like the Mets fans had a chance!) and when Rauch got the strikeout, I think my TV's speakers blew out. I hadn't heard an RFK roar like that in a long, long time, and it was good. Really good. I was doing a jig so hard my apartment manager below put the major broomstick to her ceiling. Heh.

Billy T. was amazing, I was psyched (after a healthy dose of "oh well, here we go again" as he gave up the long ball to LoDuca early on...) when he came back, unfazed, throwing the "filthy" stuff (see Harold Reynolds) to throw off and out some somewhat decent Mets hitters (see sarcasm)...

It's great not expecting the unexpected (see NATS WIN!). We all gotta have patience, but it's awesome in those (unfortunately) rare moments when we pull a good, concise game together, FLOP notwithstanding.

Thanksmuch again to Screech's BF for a wonderful recap.

Allrighty then, see some or all of ya'll tomorrow night, I trust.

Respectfully (and ready to cheer his *** off Saturday night) yours,

-Nat del Negro

PS... Tomorrow (Saturday) is Rally Time Richard's B-day. Anyone and everyone should come by 320 and yell RALLY TIME!!!!!! with him as tribute. I will laugh. And probably spill beer.

Excellent Tight Win

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On Negro League Tribute Night, the Washington Nationals and New York Mets played a wonderfully tight, well fought, pitching duel that came down to the last pitch. A Nats 2-1 Victory before 29,414 on a beautifully comfortable night at RFK Stadium.

Washington came out in vintage 1943 Homstead Gray White Jerseys with Navy Pinstripes, GRAYS on the front and a "W" (but not a CURLY W) on the left sleeve. The cap was Navy with a "G". The Mets wore replica NEW YORK CUBAN Gray with Red NEW YORK across the Jersey Front, Navy/Red Piping down the neck and jersey front and a Navy Cap with Red Bill and Classic NY crossover logo in Red.

The Players looked great in them, most even looked heavier due to the bulky style of the day. Alfonso Soriano looked 20lbs heavier. Most everyone looked like a barnstorming player from years past. It was really cool.

The game featured a fabulous pitching duel from sure fire Hall of Famer, Tom Glavine, for the Mets and one time top Mets prospect, Billy Traber, getting the opportunity to, once again, revitalize his often injured career.

Traber gave up a DEEP Home Run to Paul LoDuca, the second batter of the game, giving the Mets a quick 1-0 lead, but he was solid the rest of the way. Glavine was just as good, and except for a clutch single by Brian Schneider in the bottom of the second scoring 2, Tom and Billy traded shutout innings the rest of the way, Glavine going 6 complete and Traber 7 complete and one hitter in the 8th.

The Nationals only runs came in the 2nd when Austin Kearns led off with a clean single to left. Marlon Anderson followed with a looper to center, moving Kearns to second. Alex Escobar would ground into a force out at second, removing Anderson, moving Kearns to 3rd. With one out and Schneider at the plate, Escbar would steal second and on a 3-1 pitch, Brian would lash a outside corner fastball from Glavine down the left field line scoring both Kearns and Escobar. 2-1 Nats. The Final Scores of the game.

Although Alfonso Soriano was not a factor offensively tonight, he did make his usual outragous play in the field during the 6th. With 2 outs and Carlos Beltran at the plate, Beltran belted a HIGH FLY to the left field warning track. Soriano drifted back, not realizing it was farther than expected, over his head. Instead of running back, like most outfielders, Alfonso just kept on peddling backwards and as he hit the warning track LEAPED OFF HIS WRONG FOOT, getting no jump, but was still able to snowcone the ball into the webbing of his glove as his back hit the fence. The crowed cheered with approval, while sighing in relief, and laughing all at the same time. You have just got to love watching that guy play. YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT SORIANO WILL DO NEXT. Alfonso jogged off the field to a standing ovation and was greeted warmly at the dugout steps by his teammates. Austin Kearns was laughing so hard that Soriano started to cover his mouth--embarrassed. Just one of the many enjoyable moments you can enjoy in this game.

Traber, with his slow, off speed stuff, pitched alot like Livan Hernandez in his prime. Getting batters off balance with just enough zip on the fastball to set up the junk. And his pitching motion is so odd, it appears he will throw out his left shoulder on every pitch. Traber gave up just 4 hits, WALKED NO ONE, and certaintly pitched his finest game in about 3 years at the Major League Level. After giving up a lead off single to Michael Tucker in the 8th, Frank Robinson did the right thing, removed him from the game for Jon Rauch, and let Traber jog off the field to a ROUSING STANDING OVATION from the NATS FANS in attendance. Billy deserved it BIG TIME. IT WAS A MASTERFUL PERFORMANCE.

Rauch though, made it interesting by throwing a Wild Pitch with Jose Reyes at the plate, moving Tucker to second. Reyes would chop a bouncer to short, and with his speed easily beat the throw from Felipe Lopez, moving Tucker to 3rd. Reyes would steal second unopposed with LoDuca again at the plate. Rauch would pitch to a full count and the ENTIRE STADIUM ROSE, SCREAMING Both Nats Fans and Mets Fans. Rauch rared back and UNLEASHED at 95 mile per hour fastball right down the middle of the plate, LoDuca swung mightily, missing and the STADIUM ROARED ITS APPROVAL!! Standing ovation for the Nats as they jogged off the field.

The Chief, Chad Cordero, would make it interesting once again in the 9th. Chad would hit Carlos Beltran leading off the last inning. Powerfully Dangerous, David Wright would come to the plate, and Chief pounded fastballs inside, getting Wright to Pop out in foul territory to Nick Johnson. The equally dangerous, Carlos Delgado stepped to the plate. This guy can CRUSH the ball. And he did, just so happen to slam it the the dead zone of RFK, centerfield, where Alex Escobar ran under it easily. With 2 outs Cordero walked Jose Valentin on 4 straight pitches. First and Second 2 outs. Michael Tucker once again came to the plate, and swung at the very first Cordero offering, grounding to Nick Johnson at first, who ran over to the bag, retiring Tucker and giving the Chief save number 21 in the Nats 51st win of the season.

This game was one of the best, well played games of the season. The pitching was excellent, except for Lopez dropping a hard hit liner by Reyes right at him, it was a very clean game. Fast pace, fun to watch. Everyone was into it.

And, my main BIrd, Screech came by in the 6th for an inning of fun with his BEST FRIEND!! ME!!

On most any night a lesser team can beat a good team, its the fun of baseball. The Nats played extremely well tonight. We enjoyed the game tremendously. The stadium was rocking and noisy all night long .REALLY REALLY FUN!!

Tough Road Ahead

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We have all seen this coming for some time, the fact that the Washington Nationals are trying to compete with a Minor League Pitching Staff. Last night's 9-6 loss to the Florida Marlins drove the image home clearly.

There is no way the Nats will be competitive until they overcome the alarming amount of injuries to the pitching staff, and can put competitive Major League Pitchers on the mound.

Last night, Washington gamely fought back from a 4-0 deficit, eventually tie the game 6-6 in the 7th, only to see relievers Travis Hughes, Ryan Wagner and Saul Rivera fall apart under the pressure of runners in scoring position, 2 outs and 2 strikes on a batter-- batters that ended up knocking in the game winning and insurance runs that determined the outcome.

7 of the 12 pitchers in the Nats bullpen all played significantly for the New Orleans Zephyrs, Washington's top farm club, this season. These 7 players, collectively, do not have either, the experience, or talent to compete on the Major League Level. That's why when the Nationals got solid starting pitching over the previous few games, its necessary for them to pull out a win. Only Jon Rauch, Micah Bowie and Chad Cordero can be trusted late in games. This will not change for the remainder of 2006. Its going to be a difficult last 52 games this season.

On a better note, Alfonso Soriano possibly made his BEST OUTFIELD PLAY of the year in the top of the 3rd inning. A play that had everyone of the 21,304 in the crowd talking about for some time.

With one out, Dan Uggla roped a solid single to center off Pedro Astacio. Slugging third baseman, Miguel Cabrera, stepped to the plate and on a 1-1 pitched, looped a sinking liner down the left field line. Alfonso rushed in toward the line, looking like he had NO CHANCE to catch the ball. But, speed paid off for Soriano and he reached down with his glove AT THE VERY LAST SECOND, catching the ball off his shoelaces. Uggla, believing Number 12 had no chance had already reached 2nd base. Soriano, never stopping after the catch, immediately threw the ball OFF HIS WRONG FOOT (His left foot), slinging the ball sidearm toward first. Uggla had reversed course and was steaming back toward first. The ball bounced once and reached the streching Nick Johnson well in time to retire Uggla and end the inning.

Outfield Assist number 19 for Soriano was a FABULOUS ATHETIC PLAY!! This was a play that Soriano would have had trouble with earlier in the season. In April or May, he would not have made this catch. Alfonso has gained confidence, and is becoming a more complete ALL AROUND player. The STANDING OVATION from the crowd was WELL DESERVED.

Of Course, Soriano would also WHACK his 36th home run of the season in the 5th. A Towering Blast into the Mezzanine between section 433 & 434 in left. Soriano actually paused to watch the flight of the ball and smiled noticeably. Later, he would pay for his indulgence when Sergio Mitre would drill him in the thigh, leading off the 7th--which actually lead to the Nationals big comeback 4 run inning to tie the game. Only to see Ryan Wagner give it all away in the 8th.

Despite the nice comeback in the 8th, the Nationals also continued to fail in DRAMATIC fashion with runners in scoring position. In the first inning, Marlins Starter, Anibel Sanchez, could not find the plate. Sanchez walked Soriano, Felipe Lopez and Ryan Zimmerman on 14 pitches to load the bases with no one out. Nick Johnson comes to the plate--AND WITH SANCHEZ TOTALLY STRUGGLING--swings at the very first offering, a high inside fastball, fouling it off. I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT!! Johnson would then pop out on the very same next pitch. Nick should know better.
Then, Austin Kearns would step up, take two balls, then swing at an inside fastball and ground to Cabrera at 3rd for a 5-4-3 inning ending, rally killing double play!! It was awful. And, the boos came out noticeably. Frank Robinson actually took off his cap, rubbing his head, as if he had a migraine. I think every Nats fan in attendance felt the same way.

The Marlins would open the scoring in the 2nd on a Josh Willingham single to left, Joe Borchard drive to deep left centerfield, scoring Willingham and a Reggie Abercrombie single up the middle to take a 2-0 lead. Florida would go up 3-0 in the 4th when Willingham crushed a Pedro Astacio 0-1 fastball over the left field fence, near the Geico sign, for a homer.

And, then go up 4-0 in the 5th on a Abercrombie infield single to short, Anibel Sanchez sacrifice bunt, Uggla walk and Cabrera 2 out, 2 strike line shot single up the middle.

But, the Nats would get on the scoreboard in the bottom half on Soriano's Blast, Lopez single to right, Zimmerman single to left, advancing Lopez to 3rd, and NICK JOHNSON, with one out, hitting a sacrifice fly to deep left, making the score 4-2.

Travis Hughes came in for the 7th, and was downright awful. Hughes hits Cody Ross with one out, then gives up a HOME RUN to Dan Uggla that was crushed over the dead centerfield wall. Ryan Church had no play on it. 6-2 Marlins.

But, in the bottom half of the 7th, The Natonals showed life, this time set up in the exact same situation as the 1st. Soriano was hit by Mitre, then walked Lopez and Z. Bases load, ZERO OUTS. This time, Nick Johnson would not fail, drilling a liner up middler off Brian Moehler scoring Soriano and Lopez. 6-4 Marlins. Austin Kearns would then bat, and ground a slow roller to Cabrera at 3rd. Miguel's only play was to step on 3rd. Everyone else safe, keeping the bases loaded. Ryan Church would step up and swing badly on a 3rd strike way off the plate, in the dirt. I like Church alot, but sometimes he comes to the plate with NO GAME PLAN. Every team throws him outside waste pitches with 2 strikes, he almost always swings at it.
But, Schneider would come up with 2 outs and actually come through, lining a shot up the middle, scoring Johnson, moving Kearns to 3rd, 6-5 Marlins.

Then, inexpicably,Damian Jackson ran onto the field to pinch run for Schnieder. Before he was officially announced, Frank Robinson started yelling at home plate umpire Gary Cederstrom and Jackson ran back off the field. Apparently, Damian, wasn't listening to what Robinson actually told him. Jackson would pinch hit later in the inning. Schneider staying in the game.

Darlye Ward then continued his fabulous play off the bench, by pinch hitting a double down the left field line, scoring Kearns to tie up the game at 6. But, Damian Jackson would kill the rally, striking out badly once again.

Unfortunuately, Ryan Wagner would give it all back in the 8th. A Willingham lead off single. One out bloop single by Olivo and very frustrating 2 out, 2 strike double down the left field line by Wes Helm put the Marlins up 8-6, a lead they would never relinquish. Saul Rivera would give up 1 run on 2 singles and a walk, making in 9-6 in the ninth. The Nats did get 2 runners on with 2 outs in the bottom half, Alex Escobar at the plate, he hit a nice liner up the middle on the shortstop side, but Hanley Ramirez SNARED it to kill the rally and giving the Nats their 64th loss of the season.

Good pitching always wins over the long haul. The Nationals certaintly don't have it.

August and September are going to be trying times for The Nationals and their Fans.

WOW!! What a Start!!

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Over the past two days, the Washington Nationals top pitching prospects made their Nationals Farm Systems Debut at Harrisburg. You know, the two the Nats received from Arizona for Livan Hernandez--Matt Chico and Garrett Mock.

BOY--WERE THEY TERRIBLE!! Lets hope its just adjustment pressure and nerves.

Chico got things started last night against the Portland Sea Dogs in Harrisburg. Chico struggled all night long, couldn't strike out anyone, giving up 9 hits, 2 walks and 3 earned runs in 5 innings. From most reports I read online, he was all over the place and just couldn't stay ahead in the count. His fastball just didn't have it.

To make matters worse, today, Mock was down right awful against the same SeaDogs. Garrett could not make it out of the first inning. Facing only 10 batters, 7 reached base, six on hits, one via walk, giving up 5 earned runs.

Its just their opening game playing in the Nats System, lets hope they got their mulligan out of the way.

Remarkable

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If someone had told me the Washington Nationals would load up the bases with less than 2 outs--4 times (and 5 times total during the game), have runners on 2nd and 3rd twice with less than 2 outs and 1st and 3rd with less than 2 outs once, draw 11 walks and stroke 9 base hits, I would reasonably expect to have routed the opponent.

Unfortunately, that was not the case last night for the Nats, although, they did pull out a 5-2 win over the Florida Marlins in the most excruciating fashion.

And due to just a BRUTAL ERROR by Felipe Lopez, the Florida Marlins were actually in position to steal this one late, before Micah Bowie was able to quell the uprising, lowering the blood pressure and heartbeats of the 21,390 in attendance at RFK Stadium and relieving Manager Frank Robinson from a sure heart attack. This all on one of the most beautiful, full moon, comfortably cool, summer nights you will ever spend in our Nations Capital. In fact the weather tonight helped off the Section 320 cheering and singing as the voices carried BIG TIME on the cooler air and breeze in the park.

The Nationals left 14 runners on base, 35 total runners by all their batters. Alfonso Soriano and Felipe Lopez left 5 runners apiece, Nick Johnson, Damian Jackson and Marlon Anderson 4--Not to be outdone, Alex Escobar, Ramon Oritz and Luis Matos--3.

And all 5 runs scored--WITHOUT A BASEHIT--REMARKABLE!!
The Nats scored on a wild pitch, 2 ground outs and 2 sacrifice flys. I could personally strangle Felipe Lopez last night. He continues to show no enthusiasm for the game--NONE.

You could see Frank Robinson just STEWING on the top step of the dugout. At one point, I thought he was going to blow his top!!

This win, though, had alot to do with nats starter, Ramon Ortiz, who pitched a rather efficient and effective game. Going 6.2 innings scattering 8 hits, walking NO ONE and striking out 6. He would leave in the 7th to a rousing standing ovation from the RFK stadium faithful. And Oritz DOFFED HIS CAP APPECIATIVELY!

It all got started with Ortiz getting in trouble right from the start. Alfredo Amezega would lead off the game with a looping liner to left center, that Alex Escobar, could not get a bead on, circled around to his right, and allowed the ball to drop right in front of him for a single that should have been out number 1. Amezaga would advance to second on the very next pitch to Dan Uggla, when Ortiz and Brandon Harper (playing his very first MLB GAME at catcher for Washington) got crossed up on signs with Ortiz throwing the pitch to the backstop-prompting a quick visit from pitching coach Randy St.Claire. Uggla would K, but Mike Jacobs would lace a liner to center to score Amezega and it was 1-0 Marlins.

But, the Nats struck back when Soriano doubled to DEEP RIGHT CENTER FIELD in bottom half, Zimmerman blooped a single to left, Soriano holding on the play. Dontrelle Willis, tonight's Florida Starter, would then unleash his first Wild Pitch of the night, advancing the runners to 2nd and 3rd. Nick Johnson would then walk on a full count, but on the 4th ball, Willis threw another WILD PITCH that bounced off the screen behind home plate, Soriano scoring easily. Zimmerman to 3rd. 1-1. Austin Kearns would ground slowly enough to short to score Z, Johnson out a second on the fielder's choice. Kearns then would be PICKEDOFF FIRST by Willis to retire the side, killing the rally, 2-1 Nats after one.

In the 2nd, Escobar singles to center, and with one out, Brandon Harper would get his first MLB Hit, a bloop double down the right field line, advancing Alex to 3rd. Ortiz would come up to bunt. Ortiz would come up, could not get a sacrifice bunt down, and ends up grounding to second. Escobar, for some unknown reason, decided to run home. Was out by a mile. Soriano would then walk to load the bases, but FELIPE LOPEZ would strikeout BADLY on a Willis pitch so far in the dirt in front of the plate, it was laughable.

Ortiz would continue pitching well and in the bottom half of the 3rd, Z would slice a liner to left for a single, Johnson would K, Kearns single to right center, moving Zimmerman to 3rd. Kearns moving to 2nd on the throw hom. And, then, lo and behold, Alex Escobar would drive a deep fly to right field to score Ryan for run number 3. The NATS FANS went nuts over seeing the Nats actally drive a run home from 3rd. It was a nice moment. But, Damian Jackson would kill the rally with a terrible stike out at-bat.

During the bottom half of the 4th, Ortiz proved, once again, what terrible bunters the Nats are. Harper was hit by pitch to start the inning, but then, in horrific fashion, he bunts just in front of the plate toward first, the ball bouncing high, instead of just stopping and allowing the play to develop and advance the runners, Ramon tries to JUMP over the ball, which hits him, killing the sacrifice, making Ortiz an automatic out and returning the runner to his original base. Really, how stupid can you be.

Pitchingwise, Oritz would cruise through 5 and in the bottom of the 5th, the Nats would score in strange fashion. Zimmerman walked, Johnson opposite field single to left. Kearns walks. Bases Loaded, NO OUTS. Escobar would strike out swinging mightily at a Willis Fastball right down the middle of the plate. Damian Jackson would come up, and I was fully expecting the inning ending double play by my least favorite National, Damian didn't dissapoint, by dribbling back to Willis. Dontrelle picked up the pitch, no more than 5 feet from home, but threw off to the left of catcher Miguel Olivo. Olivo caught the toss and threw to first to retire Jackson, but Home Plate Umpire Kerwin Danley called Zimmerman safe at home, Olivo's foot off the plate as Z slid home. Lucky break. Big sigh of relief. 4-1 Nats after 5.

After Ortiz got through the 6th unharmed, the Nats loaded up the bases in the bottom half on a Ramon 4 pitch walk, Lopez single--(bringing Joe Girardi to the mound to replace Dontrelle with Randy Messenger) Zimmerman would greet him by walking to load the bases with one out. But, Nick Johnson would hit into a inning ending 4-6-3 double play to kill the rally. The groans in the audience were loud.

The crowd was getting mighty restless. As we have seen all year, the Nats tend to keep teams into games that should be routs. The 7th inning came back to haunt the Nationals.

Olivo would hit a ground rule double down the right field line to lead off the 7th. But Ortiz would fight back to strike out Cody Ross, and Amezega grounded to 1st, 2 outs. Dan Uggla came to the plate, and in a previous at bat during the game, Ramon had thrown a pitch near his head. Ortiz threw the second pitch of this at bat right over Uggla's head--Uggla glared at the mound. On the very next pitch, Ramon hit Uggla on the hands. Home plate umpire gave the warning, prompting Frank Robinson to come out and get into a good 5 minute jawing session with Kerwin. During that time, Micah Bowie came in to replace Ortiz. Frank got in a good spat, cap beak to cap beak and, as expected, didn't back down. Frank got a nice ovation from the RFK faithful.

With runners on 1 and 2nd, 2 outs, Jacobs grounded a routine, inning ending, ball to Lopez, who BOOTED IT BADLY, with the ball rolling into the grass towards left center. Lopez then, DID NOT GO AFTER THE BALL, at first, and Olivo ran all the way home for the second score. The crowd was all over LOPEZ--DESERVEDLY--Frank looked like he wanted to kill him. Miguel Cabrera came to the plate and walked to load the bases. But, Bowie was able to retire pinch hitter, Wes Helms, ending the inning to a great relief of most everyone at RFK.

The Nats would load up the bases again in the 7th with one out but Soriano and Matos K'd badly to end it. VERY FRUSTRATING. Rauch pitched a scoreless 8th for Washington. The Nats would load up the bases again with 1 out in the 8th on 3 walks, and, Escobar delivered again with another sacrifice fly to score run number 5.

I joked to my Section 320 friends that these extra runs were very helpful because with Chad Cordero coming in for the ninth, Cordero could have his typical inning and we would still pull out a 5-4 win. Everyone laughed.

The Chief did come on to get his 20th save of the season, giving up only a 2 out single. And, the Nats got CURLY W number 50 on the season.

As a side not, during the 8th, with Escobar at the plate, this totally drunken fan, early 20's, that earier had slobbered all around Section 320, and who MICKNATS yelled to: "Yeah, I remember my first beer too!!"
eventually made his way down behind the 3rd base dugout and JUMPED UP ON THE DUGOUT YELLING!..Frank Robinson turned around immediately, and so did the entire team. They were worried something was going to happen. The game stopped briefly, the fool jumped down and was arrested while walking away by MPD. WHAT AN IDIOT!! You can bet he will never remember it.

It was truly remarkable that the Nats could only pull out a 5-2 win. Easily, decent teams would have scored 10 runs on a night like this, and the game would have never been in doubt. For 2 straight nights, Washington got good pitching, not only from their starters, but the bullpen was solid. Its only a few games, but when we do get these efforts, the hitters have got to come through. It was really remarkable that the Marlins were in a good position to win this game in the 8th.

And, Felipe Lopez needs to get his head examined. Lopez has some decent talent, speed and pop in his bat, but he just does not seem to care. He struck out badly 2 times last night, had done so the previous night, all with runners in scoring position and the game on the line. And, his crucial error in the 8th that prolonged the possibility of an unimaged comeback victory for Florida was unacceptable. It was a routine ground ball, not difficult in any way. UNACCEPTABLE.

Oh Yeah--one more thing--DAMIAN JACKSON HAS GOT TO GO!! HE'S TERRIBLE!! Bernie Castro deserves the chance to play. Come on FRANK!!