Duty Calls

I am on my way to Blacksburg, Virginia where I have been assigned for the next few days. I will not be back for a few days. In all liklihood, posting will not be possible, unfortunately. I hope you understand.

On The Job Training

When Our Manager Manny Acta finally walked out to the mound tonight to relieve Matt Chico at Dolphin Stadium, I found found myself chuckling. How in the world were Our Washington Nationals STILL IN THIS GAME!! The score was only 5-3 Marlins with two outs in the fifth inning. Florida should have been well ahead, because Chico simply was not good. Although this 23 year old is a gamer and hangs tough, his inexperience showed.

On most other teams in Major League Baseball--Matt Chico would have been out of this ballgame much earlier. But, for 2007 Version of Our Washington Nationals this was a night for a young pitcher to learn, no matter how frustrating his performance was. And, Number 47 was all over the place. Anyone that walks the opposing teams pitcher twice, throws a wild pitch to that same pitcher to score a run and proceeds to walk SEVEN HITTERS, GIVING UP Six Hits in the process has ALOT TO LEARN. When Manny took Chico out of tonight's game he had given up 5 Earned Runs resulting in a season ERA of 6.38. That's a long learning curve. Randy St.Claire needs to inform him to THROW SOME MORE STRIKES, especially first pitch strikes.

When your team is building from within, attempting to re-load for the long term, the effort tonight has got to be expected. I have no doubt, NO DOUBT-Some do not, or will not, put up with the tonight's play by Our Washington Nationals. But, if Our Washington Nationals CAN NOT find out what their current corps of players can do, then WE ARE ALL WASTING OUR TIME!!. Matt Chico is a Major Part of Our Washington Nationals Re-Building Project. So, his up and down starting effort tonight is part of that process. Disappointing, Yes, but not the end of the world. Chico is definitely not going to be A 1986 Dwight Gooden Era, Super Fantastic Rookie coming out of nowhere. What Matt is doing, is learning on the job. And, Thanks to The Scrappy Nature of Our Pesky 2007 Washington Nationals, Chico was able to stay in tonight's game, when for all intents and purposes he had no right to. Since the 1-8 start, The Nationals have played decent baseball, getting 5 wins to 4 loses.

Reliever Ryan Wagner, who I like alot, also simply was not good tonight. While Chico left the game with the game still having a glimmer of hope for a comeback, Wagner just gave the game away. 5 Hits, 1 Walk, 1 Home Run, 4 Runs Scored, 3 Earned, his own Throwing Error--A close game was no longer. At 9-3, this game was OVER. At 24 years of age, Wagner has a ton of talent. Unfortunately, consistency, thus far, has been a problem for Ryan.

Overall, Pitching, has been The Nationals crutch all April--not unexpected by just about everyone that follows the game. And, that pitching, mostly the starters, continues to hamper this team's efforts. You can only play from behind every so often and expect to win.

9-3 Marlins the Final Score Tonight.

Still, you can take some good moments out of this one.

My Main Man!! Ryan Church continues to impress. A nice opposite field drive off the wall in left to score Ryan Zimmerman in the fifth shows his comfort level at the plate. Number 19 is just playing baseball. Ryan is not worried about each and every At-Bat, and whether his very next strike out or mistake in the field, will bench him for the next two weeks. Manny Acta seems to understand Church's potential.

Ryan Zimmerman shows shades of breaking out of his season long slump. Ryan collected 2 hits tonight, including a double to the gap in left and an RBI Single to raise his average to .234--Well above what Section 320 has been calling the "ZimDoza" Line (.200). "Z" needs a Homer, a game winning hit. More and More no protection before or after Ryan is killing his at bats. Few are getting on base. And, when runners do, other teams DO NOT FEAR Dimitri Young batting behind Zimmerman. Believe me, that is in no way a comment to disrespect Young. Dimitri Young has been a decent stick in the lineup. But, Nick Johnson is a force at the plate. Johnson is patient, willing to take a walk, looking for the good pitch to hit. While waiting, every single team understood Nick's ability to hit the ball out of the park. That's respect. Respect that Dimitri Young has not earned, yet.


FLop continues to wield a hot bat. Two hits tonight, raising his average to .308. Felipe Lopez showing shades of a real leadoff hitter.

Game Notes and Highlights:

Of course, I have yet to mention Matt Chico's amazing pitch to Josh Willingham in the top of the first when Matt lost grip of the ball in his delivery. The site of a baseball leaving a pitcher's hand and landing OVER TOP THE FIRST BASE DUGOUT, HILARIOUS TO WITNESS. As funny as the moment was, Matt showed no emotion, returning to strike out Willingham during this At-Bat. Matt Chico certainly needs some more seasoning, but he definitely has guile. No doubt, he will be remined of that moment for the rest of his life. ESPN's SportCenter will play the video FOREVER!!

Later, in the top of the second, Ryan Church would bloop a sure out just behind 3rd base and shortstop. Marlins 3rd Baseman Aaron Boone had the ball tracked all the way. Amazingly, at the very last moment, Boone peeled off believing Shortstop Hanley Ramirez had called for the ball. The baseball dropping safely to the turf. Church safe at first, resulting in Our Washington Nationals first run of the night. Its funny how baseball can play out sometimes.


In the top of the 3rd inning, personally I had a flashback to an occurrence to me in a Minor League Game nearly 27 years ago. While batting against the Lynchburg Mets in a Carolina League Game, I was hit on my left hand by a inside fastball courtesy of Sid Fernandez. The Big Burly Lefthander, who later played for The New York Mets, Phillies and Orioles, could fire the ball. Fernandez broke by fifth metacarpal bone in my little pinky finger that night. I was out 2 months. When Anibel Sanchez hit Ronnie Belliard tonight, I felt like I was on the field with him, reliving the pain. Fortunately, Belliard was OK. Years ago, I was not.

Finally, as I have stated previously, Don Sutton is wonderful to listen to on MASN. His understanding of the game, the situations and what players should do in said circumstances marvelous to hear. Really, I can't say enough good things about him. Sutton is honest and straightforward. His partner, Bob Carpenter, I haven't quite figured out yet.

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

Tonight

Tonight, Our Washington Nationals Found Their ACE.
Tonight, Shawn Hill was Outstanding. Even his Two Run Homer served up to Aaron Boone does not detract from his effort.
Tonight his effort was special, when Shawn Hill got in trouble during the 5th inning, 2 runners on, 1 out-- He Painted The Corner to Strike Out Both Hanley Ramirez and Dan Uggla. That was pitching in The Big Leagues Tonight or on any other night.
Tonight, Shawn Hill started a Two Out Rally with his second career base hit.
And tonight, Shawn Hill continued to prove he is Our Best Bunter (I can always be proud of any batter that can bunt).
There is No Doubt Shawn Hill IS OUR BEST STARTER.

But Tonight, (believe it or not) was not all Shawn Hill.



Tonight, Ronnie Belliard did his Best Manny Ramirez Imitation with a two out, 3 Run Homer to left. If you put Belliard and Ramirez together swinging in the same photo, only size would tell the difference. You can pick, but you really can't complain about Belliard's effort so far this young season. Ronnie Belliard has been a pretty solid ballplayer.


Tonight, Our Washington Nationals slapped The Marlins Scott Olsen all over Dolphin Stadium.

And Tonight, Felipe Lopez played like a real leadoff hitter--3 walks, 2 singles. If only Our Washington Nationals could knock him around to score more often. And, a couple more stolen bases would not hurt.
Tonight, Austin Kearns finally realized you don't have to pull everything, going to right twice tonight, getting 2 Doubles and a Single.

Tonight, MY MAIN MAN!!Ryan Church ALMOST SAVED THE NIGHT by THROWING OUT AARON BOONE on a Beautiful multiple bounce throw to Ryan Zimmerman at Third Base in the 8th, with the game on the line. It was THE DEFENSIVE PLAY OF THE NIGHT. Just TERRIFIC!

And then Tonight, everything went DOWNHILL-- Jon Rauch came on to give up a Two Run, opposite field Homer to Joe Borchard in the 8th making the score 5-4.

In an attempt to SAVE THE NIGHT, "The Chief Cardiologist" Chad Cordero, was called on. Sadly, Number 32 would give up a lead off game tying homer to Pinch Hitter Cody Ross in the bottom of the 9th. I was so sad and upset, I seriously considered not posting Tonight.

As this game lulled on into the 12th, Robert Fick PISSED ME OFF TONIGHT, when attempting to bunt Ryan Zimmerman to second base, HE DID NOT RUN OUT THE BUNT TONIGHT, and was doubled off by a smart thinking Hanley Ramirez at shortstop for The Marlins. Losing the lead is one thing, QUITING is a WHOLE OTHER NUMBER. No Excuses for Fick TONIGHT!!! NONE, for Tonight, OR ON ANY OTHER NIGHT!!

Then, in the bottom of the 13th, with the Bases Loaded, two outs, a 3-1 count on Pinch Hitter Matt Treanor--Home Plate Umpire Mike Reilly gave Jesus Colome a GIFT CALL TONIGHT, ringing up a called strike two, when a ball four call would have ended this game with a walk off bases on balls. Colome would strike out Treanor to end the threat on the very next pitch tonight.


Finally, IN THE 14th, Our Washington Nationals got LUCKY AGAIN TONIGHT, when Ryan Church singled, stole second due to a bad throw by The Marlins Miguel Olivo, then with Ryan running all the way off a sharp liner off The Marlins Mike Jacobs at first base by Chris Snelling, saw Florida's Jason Wood throw a terrible bouncing toss to home in an attempt to throw out My Main Man!! Olivo could not handle it--Church scoring to give Washington a 6-5 lead 4 hours and 15 minutes into this marathon tonight.


Yet, as you can probably expect, that lead was not SAFE TONIGHT.

Saul Rivera would trot out to the mound tonight, looking for the save. Jason Wood would double to left with one out and advance to third on a Brian Schneider crossed up passed ball. With the game tying run on 3rd with one out, you had to expect this game would tied up, yet again, very soon tonight.

Fortunately, Rivera Struck Out Joe Borchard and got Aaron Boone to ground out to FLop to FINALLY END THIS GAME TONIGHT!! 4 Hours and 30 Minutes after it started tonight.

For Our Washington Nationals, Curly "W" Number 6 Tonight, a 6-5 Victory of The Florida Marlins.

The Post Script From Tonight:

By the way, Our Washington Nationals had 18 hits tonight, received 7 walks and Our Hitters left 28 Runners ON BASE TONIGHT!! That's REMARKABLE!!

And No Doubt, Shawn Hill Deserved the Win Tonight.

But, the Big Question is: What will Our Manager Manny Acta do with "The Chief", after Tonight.

I guess we shall find out, starting tomorrow night.

The African Queen and I feel sad for Chad Cordero Tonight.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) Lynne Sladky

"Rocky" K.O.'s Our Washington Nationals

What was left of the thinned out crowd was on its feet, Roaring. For the first time today, in their final at-bats, Our Washington Nationals were alive, in the midst of a FURIOUS RALLY against The Philadelphia Phillies. Already, two runs were in, but down 4, they needed two more. Ryan Church was on second base, Austin Kearns on third, Two Outs, Chris Snelling at the plate, against Phillie Closer Tom Gordon. You could not ask for a more exciting moment. Then, Out of NOWHERE, over The P.A. SYSTEM comes THE "ROCKY" Theme Song. THE ROCKY THEME SONG!!! There is no tune in modern times more related to Philadelphia than "ROCKY". Its played at every single SPORTS VENUE in The City of Brotherly Love.

Nationals Fans all over RFK began to SCREAM IN FUROR!! Phillie Fans, for once today, sitting quietly in their seats, fearing a Horrible Collapse by their team, immediately JUMPED UP IN JUBILATION!! You talk about killing the atmosphere, there could not have been a more ill-timed music interlude in this, or any other game. Just a terrible choice. And, as fate would have it, the harbinger of the final outcome. Chris Snelling would take CALLED STRIKE THREE to end this fine comeback effort. Not a single Nats Fans left RFK STADIUM this afternoon, not believing, The "Rocky" Tune was the Ultimate Rally Killer. The African Queen and I just stunned by the turn of events.

Maybe, One of the Dumbest In-Game Entertainment Decisions I have ever seen in Sport. And, its not THE FIRST TIME ITS EVER HAPPENED AT RFK STADIUM. Twice previously, with Our Washington Nationals rallying at RFK, also against the Phillies in 2006, the same tune was played. Really, JUST INCREDIBLE!! Today, a Phillie Fan sitting behind us in Section 320 even admitted he was SHOCKED at hearing the "Rocky" Theme Song at RFK STADIUM, during a Nats Rally. "Why are they playing that song," he stated. "That's a Philadelphia Song!!"

Possibly the Music Coordinator for The Nationals was the ONLY PERSON at RFK that did not realize this mistake. AMAZING!!


Of course, until this thrilling bottom of the 9th inning, today's Phillies/Nats game was the most lackluster affair to date. Possibly drained from two exciting encounters over the past two evenings against The Atlanta Braves and The Phillies, Our Washington Nationals had little life. Philadelphia's Jamie Moyer was setting the Nats hitters down 1-2-3 most every inning. Not one hitting anything hard off one of baseball's premier soft toss, junk pitchers. Jamie Moyer may well never qualify for the Hall of Fame. But, he will go down in The History of The Game as one of the finest left handed pitchers after reaching 35 years of age. Now 44, Moyer became a bonified All Star during his 10 seasons as a Seattle Mariner. Today showing, he's still on top of his game. He was FABULOUS until the 9th inning against Washington.

John Patterson, on the other hand, had nothing. Number 22 labored through his entire appearance. Always in trouble, rarely getting ahead in the count. Few of his pitches reaching the low 90's. Patterson had no zip and less command of his pitches. It was hard to watch. A lead off double by Jimmy Rollins and bloop single to right by Shane Victorino scored Philadelphia's first run, eight pitches into this game. Aaron Rowand would add a solidly hit homer to left in the top of the second off Patterson. And, proceed to knock John out of the game with no outs in the top of the 5th when Victorino doubled, followed by a JP wild pitch, Chase Utley walk, and Pat Burrell walk to load the bases.


Our Manager, Manny Acta had seen enough and slowly walked to the mound to replace Patterson with Levale Speigner. John slowly walked to the Nats 3rd Base Dugout, grimacing, no doubt, disgusted with his performance. And when Speigner got out of the jam by only allowing a Sacrifice Fly by Wes Helms, scoring The Phillies third run of this game, Patterson's official stats for 2007, became even more apparent, Not Good. No Wins, 3 Loses and a 7.00 ERA. Our Staff Ace, has been anything but. Patterson's pitching line today: 4 Innings, 7 Hits, 4 Walks, 1 Wild Pitch, 86 pitches thrown--only 47 for strikes. Whether he is injured or still recovering from his forearm problems from last season, I do not know. But, Our Washington Nationals need to find out--QUICKLY!! John Patterson is not helping. Its hard for me to say this, as The African Queen and I like him, a lot.

When Moyer cruised into the 9th inning, there was nary a sole at RFK Stadium that did not believe Jamie would finish this one out with a Complete Game. As Baseball always does, when you least expect, games change, drastically. And, when Ryan Zimmerman led off the bottom half of the 9th with a screaming double into the gap in left, those Nationals fans remaining rose. This game may well not be over, just yet. Dimitri Young would follow with lacing liner down the third base line into the corner, scoring Ryan, Dimitri motoring into second with an RBI Stand Up Double. 4-1 now. The Crowd alive. The Phillies Bullpen, also. Their closer, Tom Gordon was warming up. Out of the blue, this game was coming down to the wire.

Phillies Manager, Charlie Manuel slowly walked to the mound to relieve Moyer. Jamie, then slowing walking to the first base dugout. To everyone's credit at RFK Stadium, he received a very nice ovation from the fans, both Philadelphia and Washington, alike. He deserved it. Jamie Moyer is a working man's player. You can never say enough about that man's efforts both on and off the field of play. The African Queen and I joining in the appreciation.

But, once Gordon reached the mound, this was all about RALLY TIME!! Austin Kearns was next and was plunked on the second pitch by Gordon, runners now on first and second, still No Outs. Out of all miracles, the game tying run was stepping to the plate in Ryan Church. My Main Man!! has struggled all week at home since his fine game last Sunday at Shea Stadium in New York. No doubt, I was looking for Church to hit the Long Ball. Church battled, reached a 2-2 count, then on the fifth pitch of this At-Bat, lofted a blooper down the left field line. NO ONE could get to the ball, but Dimitri Young could not run on the hit, as he didn't know whether the ball would be caught. With Church safe at first, the bases were know loaded, No Outs-And RFK STADIUM WAS BOISTEROUS with noise. There wasn't a Nats Fans in attendance that DID NOT BELIEVE this game was for the taking.

Pitcher Saul Rivera was the next scheduled hitter. No way he's coming up to hit. Up stepped Robert Fick. And, like two nights ago, Robert worked deep into the count. Tom Gordon still not finding his range on the mound. Eventually, Fick would get fooled, but still pop a medium range fly to left field--Deep enough to score the hard charging Dimitri Young from third for the second run of the inning for Our Washington Nationals. As I said to The African Queen, "Yeah, we scored, but that out looms big." And, it did. Out Number One was costly.

Was that ever true with Brian Schneider pinch hitting for Jesus Flores. Rule V Pick Flores got the start today behind the plate to give Brian a breather after last night's gruelingly long affair. Flores has yet to get his first Major League hit in just six At-Bats. I understand the move, to pinch hit. But, this moment shows how thin the bench is for Our Washington Nationals. Josh Wilson, D'Angelo Jimenez and Schneider were the only choices remaining to hit. Michael Restovich started today and was replaced by Snelling. None of Manny's choices are hitters with bat control. That's a problem, when you are pinch hitting with the game on the line.

Schneider, being patient, would get ahead in the count, 3-0, bases loaded again a possibility. Unfortunately, it was not to be. Brian would take a called strike, then ground the very next pitch to Philadelphia's Greg Dobbs at first for out number two. The runners moved up to 2nd and 3rd, just a single could still tie this game up. But, Number 23 was openly upset with himself, kicking the dirt as he crossed first base after being called out by Umpire Randy Marsh. Our Washington Nationals were down to their last out. The Crowd still behind the effort, standing and roaring waiting for the next hitter, Chris Snelling.

Then, The "ROCKY" Theme Song was played. You can talk about killing momentum all you want. Nothing quite stated that fact than THAT SONG!! The Uproar Began. And, Chris Snelling, probably oblivious to the meaning of the song, took a called strike one, swung and missed strike two, fouled off a third Gordon pitch, all fastballs, before The Phillies Closer completely fooled "YODA" with an off speed pitch over the outside corner. Snelling never lifting his bat of his shoulder. Home Plate Umpire Hunter Wendlestedt emphatically calling out Number 8 to end the game. Snelling would argue for the briefest of moments, to no avail. Gallantly, Our Washington Nationals had come alive and nearly won a game they had NO RIGHT TO WIN. As Sohna stated as we were leaving RFK STADIUM: "If they had, if would have been SWEEEEET!"

"Yes it would have been," I replied, "If only that hadn't played that stupid "ROCKY" song!!

You better believe I have already contacted Our Washington Nationals to make sure That Song Is NEVER PLAYED AGAIN, with The Philadelphia Phillies in town.

Game Notes & Highlights:


In the 4th inning with Philadelphia Catcher Carlos Ruiz on third base, Jamie Moyer on first with one out--John Patterson was in trouble again. The swift Jimmy Rollins was at the plate for The Phillies. On the very first pitch from John, Rollins would swing and ground a hard liner down the first base line. Dimitri Young, overplaying toward the line, would scoop up the ball in his glove hand, touch first base and then fire the ball off his wrong foot to Jesus Flores at the plate in an attempt to throw out the hard charging Ruiz. The throw was slightly up the third base line, but Flores still held his ground, the plate and caught the ball, tagging out Ruiz for an inning ending double play. It was The Defensive Play of This Game. Young received a Standing Ovation and Huge Admiration from his Nationals Teammates.


Although Speigner allowed one inherited runner to score when he entered with the bases loaded and no outs in the 5th, he pitched three decent innings of relief, allowing one earned run on two hits and one walk. Twice, Levale was like a cat in the night, snaring liners back to the box, off to the side, then throwing out the runners at first. For a career Minor Leaguer with only a few Major League Appearances under his belt, there is nothing that would give me pause and attempt to move Speigner off the 25 man roster. He has promise.



Finally, The African Queen and I picked up Our Washington Nationals MP 3 Player today at RFK Stadium. Nicely packaged with 128 MB of memory, the White with Red Curly "W" Player claims to have New Stadium images inside to download. I would imagine the images are the same as those on Nationals.com The MP 3 Player was the gift to Full Season Ticket Holders that paid their Ticket Accounts in full, by a set date last winter. Others may have a varying opinion, but we liked it. This MP3 Player is nice.

Today's In Game Photos--(AP) Nick Wass

Enduring, Bonding & JUST A FABULOUS BASEBALL GAME!!

Except for Opening Day, you had to be a DIE HARD Washington Nationals fan to put up with all bad weather during the first 9 homes games of 2007. Tonight, you just had to endure. Endure 13 innings of exciting, thrilling, frustrating and, at times, downright scary baseball. All words to describe tonight's affair between Our Washington Nationals and The Philadelphia Phillies. This one had it all, including a very unusual 4-5-3 Double Play and A Second Presidents Race. Section 320, faithful as ever, was in FULL FORCE, chanting, cheering and hanging on each and every twist and turn. We all stayed to the Climatic Ending. If RallyTimeRichard gets his voice back by next weekend, I will be amazed. Folks, games like this one are the sole reasons why The African Queen and I attend each and every Nats Home Game.


Nothing was held back,not OUR VOICES, not even nearly every player. Both teams emptied their bullpens, their benches (except for The Nats Jesus Flores), and were forced to use every last available resource to pull out a win. The Phillies used a pitcher to pinch hit. Philadelphia Slugger Ryan Howard went 0-5. Manny Acta was forced to use a Rule V Draftee in a crucial situation--only because he had NO OTHER CHOICE. And, Our Washington Nationals experienced the arrival of Michael Restovich in GRAND STYLE. Restovich should not have even been playing late into this game, if not for a managerial mistake by the Phillies Charlie Manuel. What a ROLLICKING GAME!! JUST TERRIFIC!!



From the 7th inning on, Our Washington Nationals put 13 runners on base, none of whom scored until the very last play of the game. Fans were tested tonight. And, those Nats Fans that lasted throughout this late ending "Friends & Family" Affair were justly rewarded, witnessing a beautiful walkoff 5-4 win. When Chris Snelling belly sled across Home Plate with the Winning Run, it did not matter that only a few hundred remained to witness the event. The sight of the entire Nationals Team running onto the field to first jump all over Snelling, then attempt to chase down Felipe Lopez and tackle him, a beautiful sight to see. That, and The MARVELOUS PLEASURE of seeing Phillie Fans, heads down, walking dejectedly out of RFK STADIUM. Our Washington Nationals bonded tonight. This was a team effort and no one was left out. Even Our Manager Manny Acta, personally ran over to Restovich to congratulate him on his terrific late inning performance, hugging Big Number 29. Michael returning the hug and patting Manny on his back, thrilled at his first day back in The Major Leagues.


All this drama set in motion by an unusual move by Philadelphia Manager Charlie Manuel. With Washington up 4-3 in the bottom of the 7th, Brian Schneider had singled, followed by a walk to Snelling, no outs. Manuel had seen enough of his left hander Matt Smith. On consecutive tosses, Smith had thrown away a pickoff throw to first and then proceeded to throw a pitch off the screen behind Home Plate (Shades of Nook LaLoosh from the movie "Bull Durham"--everyone in the stadium cracking up laughing). With Micah Bowie scheduled to hit next, Manny Acta sent Restovich out to the On Deck Circle to pinch hit for the pitcher. Manuel, for whatever reason, did not wait for Home Plate Umpire Sam Holbrook to officially announce Michael as the Pinch Hitter. The Philadelphia Manager just walked out to the mound and called for Righthander Geoff Geary. Acta called Restovich back and Robert Fick stepped to the plate. Eventually, The Nats would not lengthen their lead in this frame, but since Restovich was never officially in the game, Manny could insert him later in a crucial double switch in the 11 inning. Acta did. It was The Key substitution of the game.

Of course no one would have had to sit through this barn burner 13 innings if "The Chief Cardiologist" as The African Queen now calls Chad Cordero, had held on in the 9th. He didn't. Once again, Chad Cordero had no command, and less control, giving up two singles, a sacrifice and a run scoring ground out to The Phillies to send this one to extra innings. Personally, I don't know whats wrong with Cordero, but he looks lost at times. Someone pitching without ANY confidence. And, "The Chief" must have been ashamed when he walked off the mound, because tonight's Nats Starter Jason Bergmann deserved this victory, blown by Chad, and assisted by Saul Rivera.


Bergmann worked into the 7th inning, and was masterful at times. Shutting down the heart of the Phillies Lineup. Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley and Howard a combined 0-16 tonight. Jason was touched early by, of all folks, Phillies Pitcher Adam Eaton, who slammed a two strike, two out pitch to the wall in left field, scoring Rod Barajas in the second inning. NO ONE IN THE STADIUM COULD BELIEVE THAT DRIVE, yet it put the Phils up 1-0. And, although Bergmann left the mound in trouble in the top of 7th inning with runners on 2nd and 3rd and one out--he received a MUCH DESERVED STANDING OVATION. Number 57 had completed 6.1 innings, thrown 108 pitches, given up just one run to that point. Bergmann had to be happy with is performance. Only to see Rivera come on and immediately give up a run scoring 2 RBI single by Pinch Hitter Greg Dobbs, putting the Phils back in the game, the runs charged to Jason.

From that point forward, Our Washington Nationals did all the following at the plate:

7th Inning--bases loaded, no outs--DID NOT SCORE
9th Inning--runners on first and second, no outs--DID NOT SCORE
10th Inning-runners on first and second, no outs--DID NOT SCORE
11th Inning-With two outs, back to back singles by Restovich and Lopez--DID NOT SCORE
12th Inning-Austin Kearns & Josh Wilson singles--DID NOT SCORE

Baseball is the singuarly most frustrating sport to play and watch. That fact proved tonight, many times over.


In Section 320 we were losing it. Whether it was" Rally TIME!!", a "TWO OUT RALLY", or just plain "WE WANT A HIT!" Nothing was working for luck. Fortunately for Washington, except for Cordero and Rivera, The Nats Bullpen would be LIGHTS OUT, once again. Ryan Wagner came on to relieve Jesus Colome in the 11th, shutting down a Phillie rally with runners on 1nd and 2nd. Then, in the 12th produced one of the oddest double plays you will EVER SEE. After Shane Victorino singled to right for Philadelphia, Chase Utley flied out to Austin Kearns, now playing centerfield. Then, Howard stepped to the plate. Our Washington Nationals were in an EXTREME SHIFT for this slugger. Zimmerman at the normal shortstop set position. Lopez nearly at the customary 2nd Base Position. Ronnie Belliard in right field toward the first base line. Ryan Howard would drive a hard hit grounder at Belliard, who scooped up the ball in the grass, fired to Zimmerman at 2nd who pivoted BEAUTIFULLY, tossing to Dimitri Young at first for the inning ending Double Play. Ryan Wagner FIST PUMPING IN JOY at Zimmerman as he trotted off the field. What was left of this crowd going bonkers over the excitement. How could this game get ANY MORE EXCITING?!!

Yet it did.

Rule V Draftee Levale Speigner was Manny's LAST CHOICE to pitch in this game. Except for a Starter, NO ONE ELSE was available. On trotted Levale for the 13th inning. After retiring Michael Bourn on the grounder to Belliard at second, two of the most heart thumping defensive plays of the night ocured. Wes Helms would drive a Speigner pitch to the wall in deep centerfield. Kearns TURNED TWICE chasing the fly, but finally, THANKFULLY, retrieved the ball for out number two. Then, Aaron Rowand popped to short rightfield. Restovich, now playing right, and Belliard did not communicate, both figuring the other was going to catch the lazy pop. Neither went after it, until Michael, at the very last moment, slid onto the grass, making a shoestring catch. MICKNATS, BANGTHEDRUMNATLY, RALLYTIMERICHARD, THE AFRICAN QUEEN and I thought we were going to have heart attacks!! The anxiety level continuing to rise throughout this long night. Really, how could this game get much better? Somehow, someway, baseball always finds a way--to grip you.

Finally THIS THRILLER came to a head. Fireballer, Francisco Rosario stepped to the mound for Philadelphia. As I mentioned to RallyTimeRichard, Rosario gives us a better chance. Our Washington Nationals can hit fastballs, they struggle mightily with off speed junk pitchers. Snelling leading off, was overpowered by Francisco, but was still able to pop the ball up between shortstop and leftfield. Jimmy Rollins overran the ball looking up over his head, And, when he turned his body in an attempted basket catch, the short fly fell cleanly to the ground. A single For "YODA" sending Restovich to the plate for the pivitol At-Bat of the night. Restovich, looking for something to drive, was sitting on a fastball, which he promptly got on Rosario's very first pitch. Michael Swung AND DROVE IT DOWN THE LEFT FIELD LINE. The Few Hundred FANS NOW ROARING as Snelling quickly moved to third, Restovich stopping at second with a STAND UP DOUBLE. Restovich shaking his fists IN JOY over the moment. 2nd and 3rd, NO OUTS--Could we FINALLY END THIS! The Few left in the stands at RFK STADIUM making a ton of noise.



Section 320 starts up the "SEND THEM HOME" CHANT, as FLop stepped to the plate. Phillies Fans NOW QUIET--THANKFULLY. Lopez would take ball one, foul off Francisco's second offering, take ball two, then ON THE FINAL PITCH OF THIS GAME!!--Felipe Lopez would loft a drive to medium left field. Snelling was tagging all the way. Philadelphia leftfielder Michael Bourn does not have a strong arm. Bourn made the catch. THE RACE WAS ON. Chris barreling down the line as the ball came into the infield. Number 8 DIVING HEAD FIRST ACROSS THE PLATE--SAFE!!!!!! with the game winning run!! Snelling so happy, he leaped into the air, both arms extended in TRIUMPH. BANG!! ZOOM!! went the fireworks!! The Party WAS ON!! Four Hours and 16 Minutes after this game began, A TRIUMPHANT 5-4 Victory, was in hand, to be remembered for some time, on so many levels. Curly "W" Number 5!

If you were a Nats Fans and waited this one out, the sheer sense of Joy was palpable. None wanted to go home with a loss to The Phillies. Our Washington Nationals deserved to win this game. A loss would have been devasting. One of those terrible losses you remember for quite some time. That's why the ON FIELD CELEBRATION was so special. Players jumping all over themselves. What was left of the Crowd ROARING ITS APPROVAL. A Huge Sense of Relief and Satisfaction over a hard fought, intense and downright FABULOUS GAME!!

What more can I say. Same two teams, 13 hours from now. Wow!!

Game Notes & Highlights


In the bottom of the second inning, with Dimitri Young on second via a hit by pitch and Kearns on first with an infield single, SenatorNat, The KING OF WIT, yells out--"BRIAN SCHNEIDER--Home Run KING!!!" as Schneider stepped to the plate. Everyone in Section 320 laughing and chuckling at the comment. Only to see Brian, in his FINEST AT-BAT of this season, go 10 pitches into the count, fouling off four two strike pitches, then HAMMER a Adam Eaton fastball over the wall in right for a Three Run Homer. As happy as we all were, everyone in Section 320 just shaking their heads over SenatorNat's prophecy.

Ronnie Belliard continues to play a decent second base. Once again involved in turning two double plays and leaping to catch a Chase Utley Drive in the 3rd. Ronnie may well have been on the downward side of the leap, but it was a nice catch, nonetheless. RallyTimeRichard noting that when Belliard moves to retrieve a grounder, he gets his entire body behind the fielding effort. He is low to the ground, almost a pouncing position. Some can criticize him for some mistakes so far in the young season, but quite frankly, Ronnnie Belliard has played, unexpectantly, well. When Cristian Guzman comes off the Disabled List, Manny Acta has an interesting dilemma.

Levale Speigner would gain his VERY FIRST MAJOR LEAGUE VICTORY TONIGHT.

Personally, I could not be happier for Michael Restovich. He has endured, stayed positive and was rewarded tonight for his efforts.

For all of us in Section 320 this game was so similar to "The Wonderful Morning; Last Night Game" this past September 29th. The Fabulous Midnight Start Game against these same Phillies. The Intensity Level. The Excitement. The Excrutiating Twists and Turns. Few left in the stands when the game counted the most. And, most of those left, Obnoxious Phillies Fans. Section 320, shouting them down. What a pleasure to sit through and enjoy. TRULY, A Remarkable Evening For Baseball.

George Washington Won tonight's 1st Presidents Race in the customary 4th inning. Thomas Jefferson took the honors in the middle of the 13th inning.

Finally, as The African Queen and I got out of our car in Lot 8, parked in our customary spot--Lo & Behold, sitting right next to us--tailgating were THE CURLY W BOYS!!--Brandon and Ben enjoying pregame festivities, living it up. The Shocking Surprise for all us, quite enjoyable. We all talked for some time, pleased with the unexpected company. Brandon and Ben are two of the most fun Nationals Fans Sohna and I have ever met. We like them alot. Thrilled, we were, to see them, again.

As The African Queen and I returned to our car, after this thriler, The Curly W Boys had left the following notes:

Brandon: Rest-O-Vich!! Rest-O-Vich!! Nats Win!! Woot!!
Ben: (knowing Sohna was a little under the weather) Good thing the African Queen's worst night was the Nats LONGEST GAME!!

You got that right Ben. What a trooper, for hanging there! You guys really have no idea how lucky I am.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) Kevin Wolfe
(Washington Times) Joseph Silverman--Snellings head first slide into home (Top Photo)

Great Game

My voice is dead ... 'nough said.

Except ... IT WAS WORTH IT!!!

I'll let SBF comment further.

Heart

I was proud of Our Washington Nationals Tonight. Without thinking twice, Team President Stan Kasten agreed to a fans request for the team to Honor Virginia Tech by wearing Hokie Hats in remembrance of those lives lost in Monday's tragic shootings on the Blacksburg, Virginia Campus. Our Nats showed heart tonight. The spontaneity of the thought, making the moment all the more genuine. And, I love them even more for their kind efforts.

Heart, Washington almost used to pull out a thrilling come from behind victory. This on another CHILLING COLD NIGHT for baseball at RFK STADIUM against The Atlanta Braves. Will the weather ever turn decent again for baseball, you have to wonder. Not a creature was stirring inside the old ballpark, and definitely not THE NATS, at least until the 6th innning. When the first of three THRILLING At-Bats by Washington, all with the game on the line, would ultimately decide the outcome.


Sure Fire Hall Of Famer John Smoltz was cruising along with a comfortable 4-1 lead, thanks to another bad first inning by a Washington Nationals Starter, this time Jerome Williams. With 2 outs in the 6th inning of until that point, rather lackluster affair, Ryan Zimmerman would get the fans blood finally pumping again when he laced a single up the middle off Atlanta's John Smoltz. Dimitri Young followed with a liner to left bringing Ryan Church to the plate. Church, struggling tonight against Smoltz would top a grounder to Edgar Renteria at short, a sure inning ending out. Only to see Renteria charge in and the ball bounce off his glove into short left centerfield. Zimmerman running all the way, scored easily making it a 4-2 game. This was Renteria's second error of the night. Nats Fans really stirring now.


Up stepped Robert Fick. Fick was Washington's Starting Right Fielder Tonight. Our Manager, Manny Acta deciding to rest the struggling Austin Kearns. Ironically, Kearns has the best career stats hitting against Smoltz. But, what happened next set off a series of fabulous At-Bats over the next two innings that made this game, more than interesting. Rarely in the course of any baseball game does any batter reach 10 pitches or more during any one At-Bat. Tonight at RFK Stadium, Our Washington Nationals had three separate players perform such a feat. Each Time, the Game Tying and Go Ahead Runs were on the line. Each time the crowd of 17,391 were on their feet watching breathlessly.

With runners on 1st and 2nd and Fick representing the go ahead run, Smoltz attempted to battle back. Robert equally up to the task. Number 13 would foul off the first pitch, take ball one, swing and miss at a slider in the dirt. Then, proceed to foul off 6 straight Smoltz offerings. The Crowd watching restlessly. Usually, when a hitter goes so deep into the count, the batter wins. Fick took ball two on the 10th pitch of this At-Bat. Finally, on the 11th toss and his 98th pitch of the night-Smoltz would win this battle, getting Robert Fick to fly out to Ryan Langerhans in left to retire the side, ending the two out rally.

And, when Kelly Johnson would score Atlanta's 5th run of the evening in the top of the 7th on a Johnson single off Micah Bowie, wild pitch by Ryan Wagner, walk to Chipper Jones and single by Brian McCann--you had to figure this was not to be Our Washington Nationals night. Yet, amazingly, Atlanta Braves Manager Bobby Cox sent John Smoltz out to start the 7th inning. Number 29 barely made it out of the 6th. On a cold night, nearing 100 pitches, the third week of the season and a comfortable lead, what was Cox thinking? Thankfully, Our Washington Nationals took advantage of the situation.

Brian Schneider sharply singled to left and Chris Snelling immediately followed with lacing liner down the right field line into the corner. Atlanta Braves right fielder Jeff Francouer had trouble getting to the ball and when he did pickup the baseball and turned to throw the ball, he dropped it. Schneider running all the way scored easily, "Yoda" running as hard as his left knee brace would allow, stumbled a little rounding second base but made it safely in to third for an RBI TRIPLE!! The Crowd Roaring Now. Not in my lifetime did I ever expect Chris Snelling to hit a triple, EVER!! Just does not seem possibly.

Now, Bobby Cox finally decided to remove John Smoltz from the game, replacing him with Oscar Villarreal. Austin Kearns, in the game due to a Double Switch in the top of the 7th, would hit a hard topper to Chipper Jones at third. The ball would spin right into Jones' glove and pop out. Error on Jones. Kearns safe at first, Snelling holding at third. Still no outs. Felipez Lopez was next and grounded sharply to the left of Renteria at short. The ball glances off Renteria's glove, again. Really, Edgar should have made the play. Instead the ball rolled into centerfield, scoring Snelling, advancing Kearns to second. Now 5-4 and EVERYONE WAS ON THEIR FEET CHEERING. Once again, The Nationals Official Scorer ruled a questionable call. Renteria was not charged with his 3rd error of the evening. All season long, The Official Scorer has made some very odd decisions at RFK Stadium.

Still no outs, Ronnie Belliard at the plate. Once again--Our Washington Nationals CAN NOT BUNT!!! Belliard nearly gets hit by his first attempt, yet fouls off the ball more by accident in protecting himself-then fouls off his second bunt attempt. Now, in the hole 0-2, he strikes out badly swinging at an off speed pitch, well off the plate. You could hear the groans from many in the stands. How difficult is it to BUNT! Players today just don't seem to care about bunting, yet the skill is very important to the game. I just don't understand it.

With Ryan Zimmerman and Dimitri Young due up next, Bobby Cox went to his bullpen to bring on FIREBALLER Rafael Soriano. Soriano can reach the high 90's. Tonight, Rafael was bringing the hard stuff. Three Times reaching 98 MPH on the radar gun--consistently hitting 97. As Zimmerman walked to the plate, the entire crowd waited, many standing--this and the At-Bat to follow would MAKE THIS NIGHT. Even My Best Friend, Screech, was into the action at this point. During the entire two dramatic plate appearances to come, Screech was in Section 320 attempting to put the WHAMMY HEX on The Braves. Not a sole at RFK Stadium was going to miss out. THIS WAS THRILLING STUFF!!

"Z" took called strike one and then ball one. Swinging away, Ryan missed the third pitch, now down 1-2 in the count. Rafael tried to throw one away to see if Zimmerman would bite, he didn't, taking ball two. Then, Number 11 would hang tough--fouling off 5 straight pitches to stay alive. The Nervous Crowd now watching anxiously. Soriano looking to close this At-Bat out, Zimmerman looking to be the game changer. Rafael would rare back and fire in a 98 MPH letter high HEATER--Ryan Swung Mightily--MISSING!! The sounds of OOOOHH!!! throughout RFK. Zimmerman mad at himself, slapping his bat into his right hand dejectedly walking back to the dugout. The Crowd shaking their heads in sadness.


Two outs now, and believe it or not--Dimitri Youngs At-Bat was EVEN BETTER and EVEN MORE DRAMATIC!! Batting Leftanded, Young would take called strike one, swing and foul off the next two offerings by Soriano. Take ball, one, foul off a third pitch, take ball two. Fans just living on each and every pitch. No matter what the outcome, this was exciting baseball. With the count now 2-2, Dimitri Young would foul off 5 STRAIGHT PITCHES. This Terrific At-Bat now reaching an even dozen tosses. With fans all around RFK standing, riveted with this GREAT BATTLE, Soriano would, once again, fire in a blazing fastball--Dimitri would connect and DRIVE THE BALL the opposite way down the left field line near the corner. A sure bases emptying double to tie this ballgame. Everyone ROARING. Only to see Ryan Langerhans positioned in left field right on the line, waiting to catch the ball for the final out of this FABULOUS INNING!!. You could hear the air rushing out of the stadium from every single Nats Fan. What is Langerhans doing playing on the left field line?

As Jeff & Colleen stated to me later, Langerhans could have been sitting on the grass, having a picnic, he was positioned so well. The Atlanta Braves, through good Major League Scouting, were positive Dimitri Young could not get his bat around on the hard throwing Soriano. Atlanta played the odds, and won. That positioning decision by The Braves was the deciding factor tonight. Our Washington Nationals might have lost the battle in this terrific 7th inning, but they showed tremendous heart, against all the odds.

It was A GREAT HALF INNING of baseball, nonetheless.


Chipper Jones would later hit a 9th inning homer off Jon Rauch, but it really didn't matter at that point. This game had been decided in the 7th, when Our Washington Nationals gave their all, but couldn't push across the go ahead runs. Every team has at least one chance to pull back into every game. We had two tonight, but could not make it happen, despite three fabulous, yet failed, At-Bats by Fick, Zimmerman and Young. Final Score, 6-4 Atlanta.

Despite the loss, The African Queen and I went home content and proud. Our Washington Nationals had shown HEART, both ON & OFF THE FIELD.

Game Notes & Highlights:

Atlanta's John Smoltz started this game tonight looking like the rightful Hall Of Famer he is destined. Washington's Starter, Jerome Williams, looked like a journeyman. A rough start by Our Washington Nationals Starter on the mound led to another early deficit. Williams just could not find the plate in the first. 35 pitches thrown, 4 singles, 1 walk and a sacrifice fly resulted in 3 Braves runs before The Nationals took their first At-Bats against Smoltz. Williams struggled so badly, you had to wonder whether Manny Acta would warm up Jason Bergmann to be the long man tonight. Due to last Sunday's rainout, the rotation had been pushed back one day. Bergmann could have been ready. As it turned out, Jerome would settle down, laboring through 5 innings. But, the damage had been done in the first. Our Washington Nationals had to play from behind yet again.

In that Top Of The First, only a Ryan Church beautiful sliding backhanded grab of a short blooper to center by Ryan Langerhans saved Jerome Williams from not lasting the first frame. With two runners on base and 3 runs already in for Atlanta, Church's fine catch easily saved another run or two.

Felipe Lopez is beginning to show a hot bat. 5 hits over the past two games, raising his average to .288. FLop needs to be the table setter at the top of the lineup. So far this early season, he's been struggling at the plate. From shortstop tonight, Felipe could not get his feet into position to make a throw across the diamond to first for an out. Instead, he rushed the throw bouncing the ball into the camera well down the right field line. His error could have been avoided, if he would only take his time.

After tonight's game, Kory Casto was sent down to AAA Columbus and Michael Restovich's Contract was selected by Washington. This is a move I actually like. As you may recall, I had a fine conversation with Michael at Spring Training. Before we met, I really did not know much about him. Since that date, I have been rooting for him.


Today was My Best Friends Birthday. Screech was hatched on April 17, 2005. Section 320 sang Happy Birthday to Screech. The now 2 Year Old stopping by a few times throughout the evening. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SCREECH!!!

Today was also Mary and MickNats 25th Wedding Anniversary. Gotta give them credit for attending a Nats Game on such an important date. Screech, in the festive mood--also wished them well!!

Jay Hilbert from The NationalsPride.com Blog and This Base For Rent stopped by to introduce himself and talk with The African Queen and I. We were very pleased with his visit. Thank you, Jay. Then, Sohna and I were honored by THE PRESENCE of Chris Needham himself. The Author of Capitol Punishment was kind enough to stop by and chat for a half inning of tonight's game. We had never met. I was very happy he made the effort. As I told Chris as he was leaving, obviously, everyone can recognize us, because of all the pictures on The Nats320 Blog. Sohna and I don't have a clue who most of the other bloggers are. Which makes it, at times, all the more interesting.

Tonight's In Game Photos--(AP) Kevin Wolfe
Manny Acta (VT Cap) Peter Lockley--Washington Times

The Potential Dilemmas

Decent Starting Pitching, Solid Bullpen Help, Timely Hitting and Making The Routine Defensive Play, all traits Our Washington Nationals are finally showing as we begin the third week of the 2007 Season. No doubt, this Franchise has a long way to go before becoming a consistent winner, yet Our Nationals are slowly becoming a team--bonding while four of its most expected work horses are all sitting on the sidelines, recovering from injury.

In a matter of weeks, Cristian Guzman, Nook Logan and Ray King will all return to the 25 man active roster. Since all three went down, their replacements have all fared well. Even Nats Management would have to admit Ronnie Belliard, Ryan Church, Chris Snelling and Saul Rivera have helped turnaround the young season. And, I am not even considering Dimitri Young. Who's sole reason for being A Washington Nationals is due to Nick Johnson's slow recovery from his broken femur.




Belliard has played well in Guzman's absence. Except for two boots in the field (one coming last night), Ronnie has played second base on an All Star Level. Not only that, he has raised his game at the plate, consistently getting on base. Belliard's been a table setter in the two hole, keeping rallies alive. Only with Felipe Lopez, batting second behind Alfonso Soriano last year, has Washington had such success with their two spot in the batting order. And, you gotta love Number 10's Batting Style at the plate. If any player could rightfully call themselves Manny Ramirez, Jr-its Ronnie Belliard. At times, he swings like a Manny Clone. Since both grew up in New York City together, maybe they also learned the game together. Ramirez though has far more power.


Ryan Church is molding himself into the solid player everyone believed, except for Frank Robinson. MY MAIN MAN!! set free by Our Manager, Manny Acta is simply playing baseball, performing up to his potential. Number 19 is a POWER BAT and a decent, although not spectacular outfielder. How much better would Ryan Church be right now, if no one had messed with his head over the first two seasons of Nationals Baseball in Washington. We will NEVER KNOW!!


Chris Snelling is an exciting, heady, gamer. "YODA" would rather run into a wall in a vain attempt to make a catch, than just honestly give up on it. No one is sure whether his bulky left knee will not give way, but what does anyone have to lose. This 25 year old Aussie from Down Under can play baseball. Whether as a starter or role player, Chris Snelling, rightfully has earned important playing time.

And, as I wrote about last night, Saul Rivera is the perfect bullpen complement. Number 52 is versatile. Rivera can go long or short, set up man or closer, no roles seems to affect his performances. After a rough start during his Rookie Season last summer at RFK Stadium, mostly due to Major League inexperience, Saul has been one of Washington's most consistent relievers. This 29 Year Old Native Puerto Rican is coming into his own and developing into a fine Major League Pitcher.

When Guzman, Logan and King recover and are ready to return, what moves does General Manager Jim Bowden make? More importantly, who gets the starting roles, barring any further injuries?



Without a doubt, Kory Casto is sent down to AAA Columbus. Casto is a fine prospect, good hitting skills and a plan at the plate. Yet, so far this early season, Kory has been outmatched hitting against more polished Major League Pitching. Casto needs to refine his game with The Clippers and learn to hit the Cut Off Man in the field. Something Number 5 has yet to do in April playing left field. No one within Our Washington Nationals are down on him. Jumping from AA Ball to The Majors is not something every player can pull off. Kory Casto will be back in A Nationals Uniform-sooner, rather than later.

D'Angelo Jimenez is gone. His days are numbered. A true journeyman now, Jimenez may well have a decent bat, but he simply can't field the ball consistently well anymore. Which reminds me of Josh Wilson. Wilson performed rather well in Spring Training, hitting solidly and making most of the routine plays in the field. Jim Bowden at one time in March claimed four other teams were calling him about Josh's availability. Yet since the regular season began, Wilson played poorly at shortstop in the second game of the season and has been banished to the bench, receiving virtually no quality playing time. I would love to know if anyone is calling Bowden now about Josh Wilson. If so, lets move him.


Then, there is Ray King. "Everyday" Ray is known for having a rubber arm. Bowden picked King off the baseball scrap heap in an attempt to bolster Washington's Bullpen with a situational lefty. King if successful, would certainly return a mid-level prospect in July to The Nationals near the Trade Deadline from a contender. Left Handed Pitchers are such a hot commodity in the game. Those players that can perform this chore seem to last forever. Although King has not fared well so far this early season, I can't see Bowden giving up on him, and letting Ray go for nothing. Ray King is a Washington National only to see a young prospect returned for his services to another club. If Bowden can get something for nothing, during a total rebuilding season, its a great move. This is how you "steal" prospects.

But, that also leaves Saul Rivera, once again, as the man on the outside, looking in, unless Our General Manager can move a low level prospect to Minnesota to keep Levale Speigner and send him to The Minors. Bowden is not going to give up on Rule V Draftee Levale and try to pass him through waivers, so soon. Number 36 has struggled in his few Major League outings over the past two weeks. But, outside of Shawn Hill, there might not have been any more impressive pitcher in The Major League Camp in Viera, Florida than Levale. Speigner is here to stay, until he proves himself worthy, or not.

Makes me feel bad for Saul Rivera. He is just so deserving.

Finally, 2nd base, shortstop and centerfield--who gets the nods?



As much as so many wish for "THE GUZ" to just go away, it simply is not going to happen. Our Washington Nationals are not going to dump his contract. For better, or worse, everyone needs to see whether Guzman can still play the game, provide a solid batting average (.260 or so) and still field his position well. If healthy, Number 15 is a better choice at shortstop over Lopez. Cristian would also make himself tradable. Felipe has a terrific arm, but is too erratic of a fielder. FLop at 2nd, Guzman at Short, with Belliard playing the key backup role, is a decent set up. Belliard can also play third base, if Ryan Zimmerman needs a breather.


Personally, I am all for Ryan Church remaining in centerfield and Snelling in left for the time being. Nook Logan is a terrific outfielder that covers some serious ground. But, I have always felt the number of runs he saves defensively never overcomes his offensive shortcomings. As a fourth outfielder, late inning defensive replacement, situational hitter, Logan has VALUE. Everyday playing, Nook is more a liability. Sorry.


Now--can we TRUST that NICK JOHNSON will be FULLY RECOVERED to play 100% come August 1st? Does it really matter? Dimitri Young is providing some serious power filling in at first base. Where would Our Nationals be without Bowden signing Young out of nowhere land. Young may not be much of fielder, but his bat has been potent--and key to two of their four wins so far. At the rate Dimitri Young is playing, he, more than any other current player on Washington's Roster will be highly sought after by American League Teams looking for a Designated Hitter down the stretch run. Lets hope Dimitri continues to rejuvenate his career. Young could prove extremely valuable later this summer (Belliard as well) in trade.

As I said a few months back, The Team Our Washington Nationals field in April, may well not be the team we see come May. And, unquestionably will be a far different ballclub come late summer and early fall. Our Washington Nationals are in perpetual motion. A very interesting dilemma, watching Our Washington Nationals transform before our very eyes.

PS--I sure would love to see a Healthy Alex Escobar. That man can play!! Escobar in Center, Church in left. Power, Defense and Arms in the outfield, alongside Austin Kearns. I can live with those three starting everyday.

All Game Photos--(AP)--Photographers--Julie Jacobson, Nick Wass, Gregory Smith, John Bazemore

A Perfect Night For Baseball

44 Degrees, 25 Miles Per Hour Winds, Gusting up to 50 MPH, and a constant swirling drizzle. What more could you ask for. This Was A PERFECT NIGHT FOR NATIONALS BASEBALL. Really, you had to be a complete DIE HARD to attend tonight's game between Our Washington Nationals and The Atlanta Braves. Maybe 1000 Folks showed tonight, and by the end of this most excellent affair, only a few hundred remained. On The Night Washington Honored Jackie Robinson, those that stayed witnessed The Most Complete Game by Our Washington Nationals in 2007--A 5-1 Victory over Atlanta.

This was a night, not ONE TIME, was the Braves' Tomahawk Cheer heard throughout the park. Not hearing that obnoxious chant, A VICTORY ALL ITS OWN. This was a night, Andruw Jones DID NOT make This Game Official. Andruw, 0-3 with a walk. This was a night Washington's Dimtri Young, not only Honored Jackie Robinson by wearing his famous Number 42, but acted like Jackie on the field. An instigator throughout the evening, Dimitri had three hits, including two doubles and The Two Decisive Runs Batted In of the game. Also, this was a night Matt Chico struggled so badly in the first inning, not a sole attending figured Matt would step to the mound for the 2nd inning. Yet, he survived, pitching into the 6th and taking home his Very First Major League Victory. Finally, this a night for The Nationals Bullpen. Saul Rivera, just called up from AAA Columbus, inherited 2 runners from Chico and no outs in the 6th--and put out the fire. Rivera to Jon Rauch to Chad Cordero, shutting down the potent Braves Bats.


Shortly after 2pm this afternoon, The African Queen asked me whether The Nationals would play tonight. Responding positively, "Why not." I stated. "If they can play with an impending Snowstorm and 32 Degree Weather (like during the first week of the season), whats a little rain and wind." We laughed. To the degree Our Washington Nationals have battled weather through the early portion of the Spring Schedule, you have to figure by the end of this year, fans will get the opportunity to also watch a game with an impending Hurricane in sight. That's about all that's left to run the full gamut. No doubt, Scorching Hot 100 Degree Baseball Games this summer are a given. The African Queen honored Jackie Robinson by wearing the "Robinson 42" Commemorative Button handed out to ALL MLB STADIUM EMPLOYEES throughout baseball for these special games--Many Thanks to Gloria, our favorite CSC Security Supervisor, for being kind enough to find The Button for Sohna.

And, as you would expect, a given that Sohna and I would attend this game, along with a near complete contingent of regulars in Section 320. No one can ever fault our group for dedication. MickNats, "The Noise Boys", Richard, FlyGirl Karen and her Mom, Sherrie--9 Hardcores, all posting up tonight. The Chants, Cheers and Noise radiating along the third base side of RFK. This on a night EVERYONE could be heard in the ballpark. Screech stopping by at Game Start STUNNED to see all of us sitting in our regular seats. No one else was. Festival Style Seating was in effect throughout RFK Stadium for this one.


Tonight's ridiculous weather affected Matt Chico from the very start. Throughout his 37 pitch first inning, Matt was constantly walking around the mound, moving his pitching fingers around, in an attempt to loosen up his grip. Number 47 had virtually no command, and less control. Obviously, he could not feel the ball in his hand. Only a well turned Felipe Lopez to Ronnie Belliard to Young Double Play hit by Edgar Renteria averted Chico's first problem--a lead off single by Chris Woodward. But with two outs, Matt proceeded to walk, Chipper Jones, Andruw Jones and Jeff Francouer--Not coming close to getting anything over the plate. Fortunately, Atlanta's Brian McCann was over anxious, looking for The Grand Slam--and hit Chico's high 37th pitch of the inning to Ryan Church in centerfield to thankfully retire the side.

Unexpectedly, Chico would come back strong, and until he tired in the 6th--he only gave up three more hits, throwing 97 total pitches, 51 for strikes and WALKING FIVE. Much like "The Chief", Chad Cordero, Matt gets himself in trouble, but seems to have the guile to work his way out of any situation. For a 23 year old, never having pitched above AA Ball, he is impressive. Matt Chico does not back down to any hitter. I like that.

And certainly tonight's ridiculous weather affected every ball hit throughout this evening. At one point, in the 3rd inning, the flag pennants circling the top of RFK Stadium were whipping in the High Winds so hard they looked STIFF AS A BOARD!! Any pitch hit high into the air carried tonight, none more so than a Brian McCann routine fly to right, that Austin Kearns slowly drifted back to his right, drifted some more, and then proceeded to run harder, finally catching the ball on the warning track for the out. Kearns, laughing as he threw the ball back into the infield, had travelled a good 20 yards to track down that errant hit.


Dimitri Young would use that wind to his advantage in the bottom of the 3rd. With 2 outs, FLop would single to left, followed by a bloop single to center by Ronnie Belliard off Atlanta Starter, Chuck James. Ryan Zimmerman followed with a lacing grounder to right field scoring Lopez, putting Washington up 1-0. Section 320 starting up the "WE GOT A LEAD! WE GOT A LEAD!!" Chant. Except for the final play of Game Three against The Florida Marlins, Our Washington Nationals had never led during any of their 8 Homes Games thus far in 2007.


Then Number 42 for tonight, Dimitri Young would step to the plate, fouled off the first James Pitch and JUST HAMMERED the second offering. Getting carry from the wind and speed from his swing, even The GREAT OUTFIELDER, Andruw Jones could not get to this shot. The Ball landing near the base of the wall in left centerfield. Belliard and Zimmerman Scored Easily. Young stopping at second with a stand up double. Dimitri Fist Pumping in great joy, saluting himself, and then to his Nats Teammates in the Dugout. Washington up 3-0, the few fans in the stands jumping for joy. This Crowd may well have been small, but was extremely vocal.

With Chico settling down, this game was cruising along. When the top of the sixth rolled around, it was barely 8:20PM. This game was moving fast. Yet, when Matt walked both Francouer and McCann with no outs--he was done. Our Manager, Manny Acta slowing walked out to the mound to call for Rivera. What was interesting to witness, was the entire infield walking in to the mound to congratulate Chico on his performance tonight. Matt savored the well wishes, but then, unlike most other pitchers that leave the mound immediately, he waited for Saul Rivera to trot to the mound. Both said something to each other. Manny then commented. Finally, Chico and Acta turned and slowly walked back to the Nats 3rd Base Dugout, to a well deserved standing ovation from the hardcore faithful. Then, THE ENTIRE NATS DUGOUT MET Chico at the steps to offer their thanks, as well. As happy as I was for Matt, I was pleased by his desire to remain on the mound for Rivera. It was a classy act. A sign of respect from a young pitcher acting well beyond his years of experience. A Nice Touch to the evening.

And Rivera didn't let Chico down. Saul Rivera was Fabulous Tonight. With the score still 3-0, and those two runners on base with no outs, Number 52 would get Matt Diaz to fly to Kearns in right, Francouer moving to third. Get Pinch Hitter Scott Thorman to ground to Belliard at second, although Francouer would score Atlanta's only run of the night. But, Rivera would effectively shutdown the mini-rally by getting Kelly Johnson to fly to deep left on a wind aided ball caught by Chris Snelling drifting all the way back to the warning track. Saul Rivera would walk off the mound to another Standing Ovation. Then, return for the 7th and mow down The Braves. Woodward Strike out swinging; Renteria on a grounder and Chipper Jones called third strike. Like late last season, Saul Rivera was lights out tonight. The more this man pitches, the more impressive he becomes. His versatility is nice. Rivera can go long or short out of the pen, be a set up man or back up closer. You just can't ask for much more from a reliever. Hopefully, Saul stays on the 25 man roster.

Later in the 8th, Zimmerman would get his 2nd hit of the night (hopefully he's coming out of his slump) with a liner to center. Young would hammer another double (batting lefthanded this time) to right center off Tyler Yates. 2nd and 3rd, no outs. Austin Kearns would "K" on a check swing and Atlanta Manager Bobby Cox wanted no more of Yates. With an all lefty batting order due up for Washington, on came fireballing lefthander, Mike Gonzales. This man can throw smoke. But, tonight the former Pittsburgh Closer HAD LITTLE AMMUNITION and less control. Ryan Church would walk to load the bases. Brian Schneider would also walk, to force in Zimmerman for the 4th run of the game. Then, an absolute GIFT RUN, courtesy of 2nd Base Umpire Sam Holbrook.


Chris Snelling stepped to the plate with still one out, bases still loaded. "Yoda" would knock a grounder right up the middle to the 2nd base side of the bag. Atlanta Second Baseman Woodward would field the ball as he was crossing over the base. Clearly, Woodward had one foot on the bag with ball in his glove as he ran across 2nd, pivoted and threw to first for an apparent inning ending Double Play. To just about EVERYONE's Amazement, Holbrook called Schneider SAFE AT SECOND!! claiming Woodward DID NOT HAVE CONTROL OF THE BALL as he crossed over 2nd base. Even Schneider thought he was out, as Number 23 was about to run off the field. Bob Cox argued to no avail. Not a single Washington Fan was going to be unhappy over that bad call.

The now 5-1 lead would hold up. Our Washington Nationals now having won 3 out of 4 and looking more and more like a competitive team. The Braves were shut down tonight. I don't care how bad the weather was, this COMPLETE VICTORY made for an enjoyable night at RFK STADIUM. More Wind and Rain expected for tomorrow. Same Two Teams. Same Start Time. Same Stadium.

Game Notes & Highlights:

The Official Attendance: 16, 316 (Yeah, Right).

Over their last seven games, Nats Starters have pitched to a 2.27 ERA. That doesn't suck.

No matter how bad the weather was, for Matt Chico, his First Major League Win will be warmly remembered.

In the top of the 4th, Matt Diaz would hit a hard grounder into the hole between 2nd and 3rd, to the left of Zimmerman, right of FLop. Lopez would backhard the ball on the lip of the outfield and FLAT OUT FIRE THE BALL across the infield to retire Diaz at first. FLop may make some mind numbing errors at times, but he's got a CANNON for an arm. If he ever played the outfield, few would run on him.

Chad Cordero finished off tonight's win. He only faced 4 batters and threw just 16 pitches. But, one pitch was flat out WHALLOPED by Scott Thorman. The Lefty Swinging Thorman, who struck out with the bases loaded last thusday night against "The Chief" to end the game, got ahold of a Cordero outside fastball--CLEARLY YOU COULD HEAR THE "CRACK" OF THE BAT HITTING BALL--and this ball just soared to left center. A liner off the bat that continued to rise until it hit the yellow line on top of the wall in left center, missing a home run by mere inches. Chad got lucky, but WOW!! what a SMASH! RallyTimeRichard and I just could not stop talking about it.

Section 320 started up a new cheer tonight for our favorite Australian. Whenever Chris Snelling stepped to the plate, we all cheered "AUSSIE, AUSSIE, AUSSIE"-"OY!!, OY!!,OY!!"--to a nice appreciation from the faithful.

Thomas Jefferson Won The Presidents Race tonight in an ACTUAL FOOTRACE to the bitter end. Teddy as usual stopped to talk to fans, but Abe, GW and TJ WENT FOR IT!! Jefferson JUST NUDGING OUT GW AND ABE--REALLY BY HIS NOSE!! It was good.

"Bustin'Loose" was played in its entirety in the 5th. Quite a few got up to dance, or just attempt to stay warm. Unfortunately, "Sweet Caroline" reappeared in the 7th for the first time this season. Of course Section 320 happily sang "I HATE THIS SONG" as the lyrics to "Sweet Caroline". "Always HAVE AND ALWAY WILL!!' One of our favorites.



MickNats honored Jackie Robinson Tonight by wearing a Replica Jackie Robinson Montreal Royals Minor League Jersey and Cap.

And, of course, Neal came by to join in on the pleasantries.


Tonight's Game Photo's--(AP)-Nick Wass