Chance Encounter

Early this afternoon, I was heading out of NBC News on Capitol Hill for an interview--carrying all my TV Gear, when two other folks got into the elevator with me. This one fellow looks right at me, says hello. Noticing that I am wearing a Washington Nationals Navy Polo Shirt and Navy Curly "W" Cap (Yeah, I know that shocks you), he says to me: "The Nationals have been on a roll lately--playing some good ball!!"

"You bet," I responded. "They had a good home stand and now have won 2 of three in Cincinnati."

This man says to me: "I really like The Washington Nationals. They are good young organization. And, I miss working with them."

Knowing he sees my puzzled look--as I don't recognize him, this man sticks out his right hand, shaking mine stating: "I'm Donald Beaver. I am The Owner of The New Orleans Zephyrs."

"Really," I stated. "I've been to your park on Airline Drive in Metarie a few times. And, I have always enjoyed your team logo. Its Great."

Mr. Beaver was pleased. And, we talked for a brief time. He mentioned one thing that I wanted to share: "Whether it was Major League Baseball or The New Ownership Group, I LOVED working with The Washington Nationals. They were professional in every way. I miss them. They helped to make MY FRANCHISE, A BETTER FRANCHISE. Something I will always remember. I only wish they would come back." It was a nice comment, stated without me asking. Nor, Mr. Beaver knowing anything about me.

But, as he and I discussed, its not likely for The Lerners to return. Our Washington Nationals want their Top Farm Club on an East Coast, not a West Coast Schedule. The Zephyrs play in The Pacific Coast League. The Columbus Clippers in the International League.

Mr. Beaver was here to testify on Capitol Hill concerning Katrina Aftermath. You may recall, Zephyr Field was the staging ground for The National Guard in the few months after the disaster.

It was fun meeting him. When I head back down to New Orleans, Donald Beaver asked me to look him up. Which, I certainly will.

My Main Man!!

He was injured, again. Hit by pitch right on the wrist last Sunday against The Baltimore Orioles. He tried to stay in the game. But, Our Manager Manny Acta, thought it wise to take him out, protecting him for the future. Tonight, DID HE EVER VALIDATE HIS STUFF!!--Proving he is a VALUABLE PLAYER. There is NO DOUBT in my mind, nor Manny's that MY MAIN MAN!! can produce, if just left alone. Did Ryan Church EVER ESTABLISH THAT FACT against The Cincinnati Reds. Two Home Runs and A Bases Clearing Three Run Double to left center. Six RBI's--A GREAT NIGHT FOR MY FAVORITE PLAYER. I couldn't be happer. Ryan Church lead the way, in tonight's BIGGEST OUTPUT of the season by Our Washington Nationals. A 12-7 Slugfest that I could not have enjoyed more.

Church was JUST FABULOUS. Exactly what you want to see out of your Clean Up Hitter. Since 2005, I have felt that Ryan Church was talented. Just leave him out there. Let Him Play. That's all he asked for. That's all, I asked for. That's all many fans wanted to see. What a difference The Manager Makes. Sorry, but its true. No matter How Much I LOVE FRANK ROBINSON.

And, it was a good thing "Church On Wednesday" was in full effect. Because Our Relief Pitching tonight was NOT GOOD. Our Bullpen kept The Reds in a game, they had NO RIGHT TO BE IN. In fact, before Ryan Church Exploded and Our Relief Corps IMPLODED, this game was all about S-I-M-O-N-T-A-C-C-H-I.


During Spring Training 2007, he was just one of the plethora of Free Agents looking for a 2nd, 3rd, 4th or even 5th Chance to make a Major League Team as a Pitcher. No team in the history of baseball had previously decided to have an "All Comers Meet" to decide their Starting Rotation. Yet, as alarming as that seemed at the time, you really can't say Our Washington Nationals ARE TERRIBLE!! Especially, when it comes to pitching. During the first week of April, we struggled mightily, and The Tryout Camp from Viera looked disasterous.

How do you feel now?

Despite four of the five supposed starters on the Disabled List, Washington has actually been decent of late on the mound. Our Bats have been mostly Cold, but Our Pitching has been Hot. Unfortunately, Our Manager, Manny Acta needs to depend FAR TOO OFTEN on his bullpen--which has been costly, at times--including tonight. But, as so many will not give him some due credit, General Manager Jim Bowden should actually be commended for stitching together a rotation, under the circumstances. Ownership told him--DO IT, FOR NOTHING.

He answered.

And, Jason Simontacchi, yeah that guy with 11 letters in his last name, responded tonight, also. What can you say about a long lost veteran that was playing Overseas and in Independent Leagues keeping his hopes alive. Despite surgery, some serious loss of respect and an unwillingness for ANY MAJOR LEAGUE CLUB to give him a chance, he persisted. Pride that anyone in this great country can admire. Jason Simontacchi is not one to give up. He cared. He loves The GAME. Number 50 is a solid Major League Pitcher. And showed to every doubter tonight, he belongs, once again. Catcher Brian Schneider claims Simontacchi has the finest change up he has EVER SEEN!


It helped that My Main Man!!, Ryan Church, got it all started by powering out a Two Run Homer in the top of the first inning. His very first At-Bat since returning from his bruised wrist. A No Doubter in one of the most hitter friendly parks in The Major Leagues. And, you knew The Great American Park was a great place to hit when Schneiderman, Brian Schneider himself, BELTED OUT a Two Run shot off Kyle Lohse in the top of the fourth. By the 5th inning tonight, Our Washington Nationals had scored SEVEN RUNS. "The Guz" scoring that 7th run after a triple down the line in right and running home on a wild pitch.


And, when Ryan, TIMES TWO, HAMMERED out back to back Homers off Todd Coffey--Our Washington Nationals had a 9-1 lead in the 7th. Ryan Zimmerman belted out a 0-2 High Off Speed Pitch. And, My Main Man!! followed with an absolute CLUBBED SHOT DEEP TO RIGHT CENTER--AT LEAST Twenty Rows DEEP!!. That was a blast!! When Ryan Church hit his second homer tonight, The African Queen and I were eating dinner, in front of the television, watching the game. Just before the pitch, I said to her: "Just get the ball up in the strike zone and he will crush it." Not two seconds later, on the swing, I just raised my right arm in delight!! Fist Clenched, I had CALLED IT! That ball was crushed!! And, I couldn't be happier for Number 19. My Main Man!! had done it again. Knowing how excited I was, The African Queen yelled at me: "Don't choke on your dinner!!!"

Stupidly though, I thought this game was over. I had forgotten Our Washington Nationals were playing. First, Saul Rivera let Cincinnati back into the game giving up four runs, with an assist from Winston Abreu in the bottom of the 7th. But, Ryan Church gave Our Nats another comfortable lead with a three run two out double in the top of the 8th--all with two outs--slapping a gapper to left center (when My Main Man!! is hitting away, he's seeing the ball well, none more so than tonight) scoring the 10th , 11th & 12th runs of the evening. It looked like this game was FINALLY OVER.

But, it wasn't, to my great pain.

Big Jon Rauch didn't have it again. Struggling mightily, he couldn't find the plate (Manny, please rest him. Trust whomever else we got. Please.) And, The Reds teed off on him. With two Cincinnati Runs already in, two outs, Ryan Freel on first base, Ken Griffey, Jr on second--"The Wookie" survived by getting the very dangerous Adam Dunn to pop to Cristian Guzman over playing on the second base side to end the threat. If my heart was pumping more tonight, I didn't realize. Really, I thought we were going to blow it.

Fortunately, Jesus Colome (who also needs a break. He's been great, but you can't use him EVERY SINGLE GAME) trotted on for the 9th. Gave up a single, but was able to retire the side to end this never boring affair. Final Score 12-7. Nothing like watching a game in a BAND BOX. No lead ever safe. No deficit ever too much to overcome. That describes The Great American BallPark, in Cincinnati--not my favorite stadium.

Game Notes & Highlights:

Before Ryan Church took over this game, this affair was also about Jason Simontacchi. He battled through 5 2/3rds innings, giving up just one run, four hits and 3 walks. He was decent, before tiring in the 6th. Before, Saul Rivera got him out of a jam. The only Cincinnati run scored off Jason, a Leadoff homer in the bottom of the first by Ryan Freel. Simontacchi evening his record tonight at 2-2. Jason is a definite keeper.


In the bottom of the 7th, Ray King was called upon to retire Adam Dunn with two outs and the bases loaded. King walked Dunn and a run scored of a questionable call by Home Plate Umpire Lance Barksdale. Ray started bitching to Barksdale. Our Manager, Manny Acta was coming out to replace him, anyway. But, before Manny got there, Barksdale had tossed King. Ray then continuing to get in Lance's face. If you are going to get tossed, you might as well get your money's worth. TV Replays showed that Ray King had a legitimate beef.

For the second time in two nights, Our Washington Nationals unloaded on Old Friend, Mike Stanton. Stanton, whom MickNats always proclaimed that "NO NATS GAME IS OFFICIAL UNTIL MIKE STANTON WAS ANNOUNCED," was hit hard last night by Our Nats. And, Ryan Church UNLOADED ON HIM WITH HIS FINE SMACK INTO LEFT CENTER, scoring the three back breaking runs for Washington.

Despite the poor record, Our Washington Nationals ARE NOT A TERRIBLE TEAM. With a "Throw Anyone Out There" approach to starting pitching, they have survived. Its actually an interesting time. Can you image how much better Our Nats will be when John Patterson, Jason Bergmann, and definitely, Shawn Hill return to the starting lineup from injury. Hill may well be one of the emerging talents in the game. And, he's ours. Hopefully, for a LONG HEALTHY TIME (I've said it for one year. Shawn Hill is going to be good). Simontacchi, Chico, Patterson (The 2005 Version), Bergmann and Hill. Folks, anyway you look at it--that's respectable. That's Competitive . Which, is all we wanted for 2007.

Better starting pitching would rest our bullpen. Our Relief Corps is showing great strain right now. Manny Acta has been forced to depend on them far to often, far to early in ballgames. If our staring pitching can't go deep, our fortune so far, can not possibly last. Not only a fact, but the truth.

No really great defensive plays tonight. Too much PING PONG BASEBALL in a BAND BOX STADIUM. This one, not for the purist.

31,971 showed up tonight in Cincinnati, mostly to get a Bronson Arroyo Bobblehead. How many will be on eBay tomorrow morning?? I am guessing 100, easy. You got to love The American Way.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Al Behrman

I Understand

I understand that each and every Fan of Our Washington Nationals wants to cheer for a winner. Desires to see them drub The Mets & Phillies each and every time we play them. Hopefully soon, be competitive. Win Division Titles. And Eventually, WIN THE WORLD SERIES!!

I understand how when MLB Announced in late 2004 that The Montreal Expos were moving to The District Of Columbia--SO MANY WERE THRILLED OUT OF THEIR MINDS!! At long last, pain had turned to fortune. Never again could Washington, DC be slighted as being a MINOR LEAGUE TOWN. And, for anyone my age (now 47), who grew up with The Washington Senators, I understand all your years of grief, and emotional ties of Major League Baseball finally returning to DC. It was, and ALWAYS WILL BE, a Great Moment in my life! I am sure, yours also.

I understand the EXCITEMENT of that 50-31 Start to Our 2005 Inaugural Version of Our Washington Nationals. Not a baseball fan in this area was not DANCING IN THE STREETS. After over 30 years of being BASEBALL's long lost Stepchild, Our Nation's Capital DREAMED OF A WORLD SERIES! On July 1, 2005--who wasn't believing that? Just two months later, we all were just hoping for a .500 record.

I understand that disappointment. But, Honestly--WHAT A 2005 SEASON!!

I understand that once 2005 turned over to 2006, MLB again held us hostage. Not selling the team. Not giving Our Washington Nationals an owner. Not developing the team's talent. And, continued to siphon each and every last dollar out of EVERYONE's Pocket.

I understand the bitterness--Over The Stadium Debacle. The Threats. The Downright ILL WILL that existed throughout the entire Stadium Leasing and Owner Hiring process. It was nasty. Yet, we somehow survived. And, we moved on. Baseball always rises above the fray.

I understand that Our 2006 Version of Our Washington Nationals struggled at times, faded early, never recovering--but we were TREATED to ONE FABULOUS SEASON from Alfonso Soriano and The EMERGENCE of a GREAT YOUNG PLAYER in Ryan Zimmerman. Yeah, I understand those two were not enough for everyone. Some turned their back. Found other more enjoyable ways for evenings out. That's OK.

I understand that many said they WOULD NOT spend a single dollar on Our Washington Nationals until a REAL OWNER was put in place. Everyone wanted direction, everyone wanted a goal to meet. Everyone wanted to see stability.

I understand that when Ted Lerner and the Lerner Group was officially named The FIRST OWNERS of Our Washington Nationals people were quite happy. A local buyer. A local presence. And, they were sharp enough to bring on board one of the most SUCCESSFUL SPORTS EXECUTIVES IN THE HISTORY OF GAMES--Stan Kasten.

I understand that many fans were hopeful. Many seeing GREAT POSSIBILITIES for Our NEW FOUND FRANCHISE. Yet, many of those same fans don't feel the same way now. When Ownership started to trade off veterans for younger talent, cutting payroll, rebuilding now for strength in the future--accolades turned to scorn. And, many more fans decided to walk away. Many not willing to give them a chance. After being treated like riffraff by Major League Baseball for 2 years, Fans wanted more. And, they wanted it now.

I understand that feeling. I am not blind. Everyone wants to see a winner. Everyone wants to be emotionally attached to THEIR TEAM. That's harder to do when your team is struggling.

That being said, I understand the so called "Plan" and I am sure you do too. Yet, I am willing to hear The Owners Out. I am willing to suffer a little now for future glory. Glory that is NOT GUARANTEED. But, has a FAR BETTER CHANCE FOR SUCCESS. Whether you agree to their "PLAN" or not--we're all still baseball fans. I am positive many of you, like me, LOVE THIS GAME. And, you want to see each and every game played at its highest possible level. Even during the rough early stages of a rebuilding plan, you can still enjoy this GREAT GAME.

I understand 2007 is a frustrating season so far for Nationals Fans. Each and every game brings worry to my heart. Not knowing what I might see next. Never knowing who might get injured. What error will cost us tonight. Everyone in DC is familiar with The University of Maryland phrase "FEAR THE TURTLE". Every time Chad Cordero trots out to the mound for a save, I "FEAR THE CHIEF". And, that's not a good thing (I'm just being funny here, don't rip me. I love "THE CHIEF")!

I understand the suffering of the losses, some in excruciating style. Team President Stan Kasten personally told me "I Hear Ya," when I mentioned just this fact about Our GREAT FANS.

I understand criticizing effort, bitching about their play, questioning managerial moves. Wondering, WHY IN THE WORLD IS ROBERT FICK IN THE GAME? That's all apart of being a BASEBALL FAN. It comes with the territory. Because, who knows the game better than you, and I. Baseball is the only sport where EVERYONE IS AN EXPECT.

I understand all that. I understand many losing their emotional ties due to the frustrating times. But, what I don't understand is THE HATRED THAT SEEMS TO BE BUILDING--more and more--each and everyday toward The Lerners, Management, Our Washington Nationals and their Players, even toward the TV and Radio Announcers.

I don't understand that. It bothers me. Just because times are disappointing, PLEASE DON'T TEAR DOWN ALL That's BEING BUILT IN THE PROCESS, JUST FOR PERSONAL REVENGE. Its not worth it.

Please look up, away from your computer screen, just for a moment. The Sky is Blue Today. The Weather Beautiful. Nothing like a Spring Day in Washington, DC.

And, NOTHING LIKE HAVING A HOMETOWN TEAM--Our Washington Nationals.

I understand you. Please understand me.

Our Resilient Team

Our Pitching--Not The Best.
Our Hitting---Not The Best.
Our Defense--Not The Best.
Our Prediction for 2007--Last.
Respect From The Media--None. In Fact--Laughable.

Are We The WORST TEAM IN BASEBALL HISTORY? No.

So--How is it that after a 1-8 Start--Our Washington Nationals are 16-21 since?

Because, quite frankly, we have some talent.

Are we The Kansas City Royals?

No, I don't think so. Although, WE HAVE HOPE. Now, and In The Future. Kansas City--NOT.

Are we The New York Mets or Boston Red Sox--World Series Contenders?

Not A Chance-- Maybe in a few years.

Then, What DO WE HAVE?

Truly, a RESILIENT TEAM. The only term to describe Our 2007 Washington Nationals.

How else can you describe having NO STARTING PITCHING and still competing?

How else can you continually leave runners in scoring position and still keep the game close?

How else do you have not a single player that can field FIRST BASE DEFENSIVELY and still survive?

How else can can you continually keep games close when every factor points against it?

How else can you compete when not a single player, outside of Shawn Hill, can bunt?

Because, Our 2007 Washington Nationals, not only are resilient--They have HEART.

When everything is going wrong, How do you survive?

Because, Our Manager stays POSITIVE.

When most teams in baseball would be fighting among themselves--Why do Our Washington Nationals seem to love each other?

Because Our Manager remains calm, stresses the rebuilding process. Keeps the clubhouse calm. Doesn't get down on his players. Many Acta sees the Big Picture. Apparently, many of his players see the same outlook.

The result--A Close Knit Team, that enjoys playing together. A team that is improving together.

A Team--Our Washington Nationals continuing to grow before our very eyes.

And Tonight, Our Washington Nationals showed all those characteristics.

After last night's demoralizing loss after leading 6-0, they fought back in this one-TWICE-coming from behind to win 8-4 against The Cincinnati Reds. Many teams dead last in the standings would crumble under the same situation. Our Nats DID NOT. Our Nats DO NOT.


Felipe Lopez had a near career night--knocking in 6 runs and the game changing winning runs with his HUGE Grand Slam in the top of the 8th inning. His six rbi's tonight bringing his season total to 16. You know, for FLop this was SWEET to perform so well against The Reds. If only he can keep it up.

"The Guz" knocked in two runs tonight. Our Nats knocked out 12 hits.

Matt Chico continued to hang in there on the mound. Just three hits allowed, but combined with two crucial poorly timed walks followed by Home Runs to Ken Griffey, Jr. & David Ross--Chico left after 5 2/3rds innings with no decision. Our Work in Progress Starter, ever so slowly, becoming a Major League Pitcher. He also scored his first Major League Run tonight.

As usual, "The Chief" made it interesting at the end. But, Hey--We Won!!--In Typical Style--nothing being easy for Our Washington Nationals. This win ending a 9 game road losing streak.

All signs of Our Resilient Team.

Game Notes & Highlights:

In the bottom of the 2nd inning, Jeff Conine slapped a hard grounder down the 3rd baseline. Ryan Zimmerman dove to his right, with his glove hand down near the ground. Reacting as swiftly as anyone can possibly play the position--Ryan reached up and grabbed the ball as it bounced up above his head. It was The Defensive Play of this Game. In fact, Zimmerman had a couple of other nice defensive plays--charging in or cutting off grounders in the infield tonight. Number 11 is worth the price of admission, just to see him field the baseball. What a GREAT INFIELDER!!

With the score tied 4-4 in the top of the 7th, Dimitri Young had just singled. Why in the world, would Our Manager Pinch Run Ryan Church, taking Dimitri out of the game. Then, replace Church with Robert Fick. I understand that My Main Man!! is still recovering from his sore left wrist. And, may not be ready to play. But, my problem with this change is Manny using up TWO PLAYERS OFF THE BENCH to replace Young IN A CLOSE GAME. WHY? Really, WHY? Young is swinging the bat well. I understand, he is a defensive liability. But, the last time I checked, you need to score runs to win.

Then, when Belliard Pinch Hit in the 8th, before FLop came through with his Grand Slam, Our Bench only had Jesus Flores remaining. And, when Jesus Colome had to bat for himself in the top of the 9th, the pinch running switch, in the 7th, was all the more confusing. We won. So, these maneuvers don't stand out as much. Still, though, they make no sense to me. Just puzzling.

Personally, I never got the feel of Mitchell Page as The Batting Coach for Our Washington Nationals. He seemed well liked and respected among his peers. That's all fine with me. But, what I find intriguing with Lenny Harris now The Interim Batting Coach, is that Lenny SITS RIGHT NEXT TO MANNY ACTA during the entire game. Harris chats with Our Manager constantly. In 2006 and early in 2007, Mitchell Page always stayed at the far end of the dugout, away from the other coaches. Almost aloof. Rarely seen talking with then Manager Frank Robinson in 2006 or Manny this year. Maybe it was style, maybe it was attitude. But, Page never seemed to mingle with the remainder of the coaching staff during games.

Just a thought. Something I've noticed. Not a condemnation.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Tom Uhlman

Courtesy--Mrs. MickNats

On Sunday, during the XM Satellite Dance Jam, one fan from the crowd on the lower 3rd base side, joined Screech on top of The Nationals Dugout to participate. As I mentioned in my post from Sunday Evening--This guy was TERRIFIC!! What a great performance.

Fortunately, Mrs.MickNats--Mary, was on the ball and snapped off a couple beauties of this Dance King doing his things. She was kind enough to send them to me, so I could share them with everyone else. Thank you Mary!!



Photos--Mary Wolverton

What Is It With Cincinnati?

Working late tonight to make up for lost time during the just completed 10 Game Home Stand, I did not have much time this evening to watch Our Washington Nationals play The Cincinnati Reds in Ohio. From time to time, I was following the game on the radio, knew we had a HUGE 6-0 lead. But, what has been the case during each game the past two seasons of play at The Great American Ballpark, Our Nationals find a way to collapse late there.

Time and Time again, Washington has struggled playing the Reds in Cincinnati. Tonight was no different. When I got home and turned on the TV, Jon Rauch was on the mound--Scott Hatteberg at the plate. The 8th inning was underway. Hatteberg, at one time, one of Oakland General Manager Billy Beane's ultimate "MONEYBALL" Players. Having respect for his system, I knew Hatteberg was a pest. Earlier in this game, Scott had homered with a runner on against Levale Speigner to get Cincinnati on the board, then down 6-2 in the bottom of the second inning.

Yet, when I was watching in the 8th inning, Alex Gonzalez was on first after he beat out a tough double play grounder from Ryan Zimmerman to FLop to Robert Fick. Our Washington Nationals were ahead 7-5. Rauch not looking sharp. But, when "THE WOOKIE" got Hatteberg to line a gapper with AIR TIME to right center, everything looked fine once again. At least, until Nook Logan--looking right at the play and the ball staring him STRAIGHT in the face--HESITATED--Austin Kearns running with his back to the play, heard Logan call him off (Replays clearly showed Nook yelling for the ball). Then, with Austin veering off, Logan gave up on the ball--WHICH DROPPED BETWEEN THEM, THE HEAD OF KEARNS SAGGING (totally dismayed), SAID IT ALL. Our Number 25 STUNNED Logan DID NOT FOLLOW THROUGH. A Terrible Decision by Nook Logan. Unlike yesterday, Our Washington Nationals had flinched tonight. Was it EVER COSTLY. The Ball rolling to the warning track. Gonzalez scoring the Reds 6th run of the evening.

And, when Pinch Hitter Javier Valentin CRANKED OUT a NO DOUBT SHOT DOWN THE RIGHT FIELD LINE OFF BIG JON, five pitches later--that was it. Just like that--a terrible loss. 9 Straight defeats on the road. This tough decision--a momentum killer, coming off yesterday's electrifying win.

Yeah, Ryan Zimmerman went 3 for 4 with a Homer. Brian Schneider and Dimtri Young had two hits apiece. But, in the end--a demoralizing loss. What is it with Our Washington Nationals playing in Cincinnati? Was this revenge for the expected Wayne Krivsky/Jim Bowden Cage Match for last seasons Big Trade between these two teams. So many would love to see that Wresting Match. ESPN would probably show it PRIME TIME, PAY PER VIEW. The Swap last July that Krivsky just filed an appeal on with Major League Baseball, claiming Gary Majewski was damaged goods, and Washington Did Not come forward with the truth.

Whatever the reason--I fear each and every time Our Washington Nationals play in Cincinnati. In fact, The Reds HAVE NEVER LOST AT RFK STADIUM! Boy, did we ever blow it tonight. Good thing I didn't see it all. I would have been up all night fretting about it.

And to think--I had a really entertaining post ready to go--if we won. That POST will have to wait for a FAR BETTER DAY.

Tonight's InGame Photo--(AP) Tom Uhlman

Simply Satisfying

RALLY TIME!! was in full effect. MickNats had started it up in the bottom of the 8th inning. The African Queen and BangTheDrumNatly had continued it, providing the rhythm and percussion. The Entire 3rd Base Side of RFK Stadium now joining in. Our Washington Nationals had responded. One run was already in, but they were still down one run to The Baltimore Orioles. EVERYONE was on their feet. The Volume Level at RFK Stadium this afternoon reaching its Zenith. The Bases were loaded. Two were out. The Score 3-2 Baltimore. And, Nook Logan was the scheduled hitter for Washington. The hard throwing, but very erratic righthander--Danys Baez, was on the mound for The Orioles. Nook may be swift of foot. But, Logan not swift of handling the bat, lefthanded.

Yeah, everyone rooting for Our Nationals WANTED to see a run scoring base hit. But, deep down, no one really believed. This moment to come, is why--ONCE AGAIN--Baseball is The GREATEST GAME. You have NO IDEA what the outcome will be. You have NO IDEA WHO WILL BE THE HERO!! Nook Logan to get some hearts seriously pumping, during this THRILLING AT BAT!!

When Number 7 stepped to the plate, fans representing both Our Washington Nationals and The Baltimore Orioles were nervous. Everyone had been in this position beforehand. How many times had Washington failed in the clutch with the game winning runs on the line. How many times has The Orioles Bullpen imploded--giving away sure wins. Not a sole in the announced crowd of 29,281 DID NOT UNDERSTAND the ramifications. We had all seen it before. It all came down to who would flinch, first. Two struggling teams in a barn burner--The Ending, A CLASSIC.

Logan would take called strike one from Baez. Sensing Nook to be in trouble from the start, Baez kept throwing pitches over the outside corner. Logan fouling off each of the next two pitches. Down 0-2, it looked like, once again-Our Washington Nationals would fail in GRAND STYLE. But, when Danys threw a pitch in the dirt that Logan refused to swing at--THIS AT-BAT took a change. Nook Logan sensing opportunity. Baez sensing anguish, again . Danys Baez has given up some serious late inning hits, blowing many saves over his career in Major League Baseball. Only My Boy!! Jorge Julio, has been much worse over the past few seasons. Sure enough, Baez threw pitch number 5 of this AT BAT, SO FAR INSIDE-Nook had to raise his arms to avoid getting hit. "What ARE YOU THINKING OF?" Everyone in Section 320 yelled out. "Take a pitch for the team!! Tie this one up!!"--we all yelled. Not only were fans now on the edge of the their seats, things were getting serious. The Drama unfolding, as good as it gets.

Baez looked in to O's catcher Paul Bako, nodded his head in agreement on the next pitch, promptly firing in a fastball-Logan BARELY fouling off. "OOOH!" responded the standing audience. Not a sole sitting. Everyone jumpy--this was becoming a terrific At-Bat. And, when Logan fouled off Baez's 7th pitch of this At-Bat, you got the impression that Nook was going to get him. Many, many times over the course of thousands of baseball games watched--the more a batters sees a pitcher deep into a crucial At-Bat, the hitter, more times than not, wins--because the pitcher is not fooling anyone.

Of course, when Danys Baez threw ball three inside to Nook Logan--The Moment In Time had Finally Arrived. With two outs, bases loaded, all three Nationals runners would be running. Just a single puts Washington in the lead. The Rhythmic Clapping Loud--BangTheDrumNatly pounding his heart in an attempt to slow down his palpitations. The African Queen POUNDING AWAY on her noise bottles for this afternoon--provided by Miller Lite. Pitch Number 9 WAS THE FINAL ACT. This game to be decided momentarily.

Baez set to throw. Logan set to hit. THE CROWD ROARING!! Whether Danys or Nook--who would flinch first--was upon us. Here's the pitch--Nook swings, AND GROUNDS THE BALL THROUGH THE HOLE between first and second!! The CROWD NOW ROARING AT RFK STADIUM!! Austin Kearns' scores the game tying run. Nats 3rd base coach, Tim Tolman, waving Ronnie Belliard home--EVERYONE KNOWING THE GAME WINNING RUN was rounding third. The hustling Belliard giving his all. Nick Markakis scooped up the ball for The Orioles in right field--throwing home--NO WHERE NEAR IN TIME. Belliard crossing home plate with the go ahead score. Home Plate Umpire Larry Young giving the SAFE CALL. Our Washington Nationals had COME FROM BEHIND in ELECTRIFYING STYLE, now leading 4-3. An indescribable feeling of glee!

Not a SINGLE NATIONALS FAN NOT JUMPING FOR JOY!!! Not a single Orioles fans not crumbling back into their seats--DISTRESSED!! Nook Logan HAD DONE IT!! Danys Baez had Flinched--once again. Our Washington Nationals had fought back, with three runs in the bottom of the 8th inning to take a 4-3 lead. Pandemonium at RFK STADIUM!!--The Appreciative Faithful giddy with delight!!

What a GREAT MOMENT!! WHAT A TERRIFIC PLATE APPEARANCE!! Nook Logan with THE AT-BAT OF THIS SEASON. Understand, Nook Logan is not The Expected Savior for Our Washington Nationals. But Today, THIS SUNDAY--Was Nook Logan's Day. And, I must give him HUGE CREDIT. So very happy, I hugged and kissed The African Queen SO HARD, I thought I would crush her. BangTheDrumNatly HIGH FIVING SO HARD--I thought he tore my rotator cuff. Nationals fans were dancing in the aisles. A site not seen for some time. In as unexpected way as possible, what seemed like a heartbreaking three game sweep at the hands of The Angelos Orioles, had taken a sharp reverse turn--The feeling that came over me truly heartwarming. Just like that!! Gloom had turned to GLORY!!!

Yet, it was still not over.


"THE MOST THRILLING CLOSER IN THE GAME" was called on to get the save. And, did he ever make it exciting to the hair-raising end. Chad Cordero trotted on to face THE TOP of The Orioles lineup. Brian Roberts lead off with a clean single to right. If you are a Nats Fans, why worry--this is par for the course for Number 32. "The Chief Cardiologist" seems to thrive on pressure. A shouldered burden of his own doing. Markakis was next. Chad threw over to Roberts--letting him know he was being watched. No way--Brian Roberts gets to second base--scoring position in this inning. And, when Cordero threw his fastball over the outside corner of the plate, The Orioles Number 21 slammed the ball on the ground right to Felipe Lopez at second, who flipped to Cristian Guzman crossing the second base bag--"THE GUZ" took his time heaving a fine toss to first for a Double Play. Cheers & High Fives all around. Chad Cordero needed just one more out to end this one.

But, he walked the dangerous Miguel Tejada on a full count. Still not over--the worries began again in earnest for Nats Fans. Aubrey Huff was next. Just the type of free swinger that can take Chad DEEP with a game changing drive. Cordero knew this. Jesus Flores, his catcher, knew this. No time to fool around. Number 32 looked in--fired away--Huff, looking for a backbreaker smash, swung--grounding the ball to FLop at second. Lopez clean toss to Robert Fick at first!

Just like that--Our Washington Nationals had beaten The Baltimore Orioles in a memorable comeback. Bang! ZOOM!! went the Fireworks!!! Curly "W" number 16 to be fondly remembered for some time. As The African Queen and I walked to our car and eventually drove home--I could only repeat one phrase: "That was SIMPLY SATISFYING!!". A GREAT WIN, A Great Game. Despite Our Washington Nationals winning just the finale of the three games, this was a terrific baseball series. All three games, going down to the final pitch. For pure entertainment, you couldn't ask for anything more.

No one wants to end a series with a loss. No team wants to lose the last game of a homestand. And, Our Washington Nationals DID NOT want to head out on a week long road trip on a sour note. Finishing 7-3 on this just concluded Homestand--Our Manager Manny Acta's squad earned some hard earned respect. Our Starting Pitching may be down, due to injury, but not out. Their fill-ins providing stellar support. Just a few more clutch hits, or better baserunning decisions--and Our Washington Nationals would have won 9 of their last 10. Never as good as you think, but certainly not as bad as advertised--Our Washington Nationals are slowly becoming a really competitive team. What do think about that?

Game Notes and Highlights:

Nook Logan not only provided the game winning hit, but also scored Washington's very first run of the game in exciting style. After drag bunting safely to lead off the bottom of the 3rd inning--BangTheDrumNatly and I started joking about how fun it would be to see Micah Bowie bunt Logan to second for out number one. FLop bunt Nook to third for the second out. With "The Guz" drag bunting safely to score Number 7. "SMALL BALL" at its finest, we laughed, thinking how much we would enjoy seeing that, as risky as it was. Nook must have been listening, as he provided his OWN VERSION OF SMALL BALL.

After Bowie confirmed he is just another Nats Pitcher that CAN NOT BUNT, by striking out--Logan stole 2nd on the first pitch to FLop. Surprised EVERYONE by stealing third on the very next pitch by Erik Bedard to Lopez. With The Orioles infield now drawn in to cut off the run--Felipe slammed Bedard's next offering to center for a clean single. Nook Logan MANUFACTURING A RUN in a manner we are unaccustomed to seeing. Logan had finally used his speed, and smarts, to score. Run NUMBER ONE was all NOOK--It was THE HARBINGER OF THINGS TO COME TODAY FOR NUMBER 7. (And, I still can't believe Nook stroked the game winning hit batting lefthanded. Just amazing!!).


With Erik Bedard cruising through 7 complete innings, I was surprised Orioles Manager Sam Perlozzo took him out of the game. To that point, Erik had given up just 3 hits, 3 walks over 98 pitches. But, he was IN COMMAND. Really, no one with Our Washington Nationals was finding a groove against him. Then, after underarm throwing Chad Bradford gave up a one out double to the right centerfield gap by Ryan Zimmerman--Perlozzo made the decisive decision of this game. Replacing the most always effective Bradford with the most always disappointing Baez. Thank you Sam Perlozzo.

So, to complete out the detail of the fabulous bottom of the 8th--Ryan Langerhans followed with a first pitch single to right, scoring Zimmerman with run number two for Washington. With two strikes, Baez lost control and hammered Austin Kearns on the left shoulder. "I'll Take THAT!"--I said to The African Queen. After Baltimore Pitching Coach Leo Mazzone visited Danys to calm him down--it didn't work--Ronnie Belliard followed with a blooper to right, loading up the bases.

Today's catcher--Jesus Flores was next and "JESUS SAVES!!" was dancing through my head as today's Post Subject Line. Unfortunately, Sunday was not for Jesus--he meekly grounded to Melvin Mora at third--Langerhans thrown out at home--setting up THIS GAME's BIGGEST MOMENT, at the hands of Nook Logan.


Since Our Washington Nationals are struggling for Starting Pitching--today's game featured a Bullpen by Committee Approach. Micah Bowie to Billy Traber to Ray King to Jesus Colome to Chad Cordero. Bowie and Traber pitched well enough to get by. Micah charged with two runs. Billy with one. All of Baltimore's runs scored on small ball, nothing large. All of which allowed Our Nats to get back into this exciting affair and win it. Throughout this entire weekend, the pitching for Our Washington Nationals was decent. Makeshift starters and an overburdened bullpen kept each and every game close. Under the circumstances, you have to respect the performance.

In the top of the first inning, Nick Markakis lined a hot shot to short--Cristian Guzman snared the ball at the last possible moment, moving to his left. "THE GUZ's" grab--The Defensive Play of This Game.


Also, with Jay Payton on third and Melvin Mora on second with one out in the top of the sixth--Paul Bako grounded to FLop at second. With Felipe playing semi-deep on the drawn in infield, Payton took off for home. FLop fired a strike to Jesus Flores at home. Flores chasing down Payton trying to return to third-tagging him out for out number two. A nice play, well executed, defensively.

In the bottom of the 4th, My Main Man!! Ryan Church took an inside pitch by Erik Bedard on his left wrist--going down in pain, immediately. Trainer Lee Kuntz and Our Manager Manny Acta came out and stayed with Ryan for some time. Eventually, Church stayed in the game, but was replaced later by Ryan Langerhans. XRays proved negative and the soreness from the impact of the Bedard pitch, leaving My Main Man!! listed as DAY-TO-DAY. If I hear ANYONE start questioning Ryan Church for not playing through pain again--I am going to be very pissed. He got hammered in a weak spot. Going down is not something to fault him for--as has been rumored previously-falsely.

During the XM Satellite Dance Off during the 6th inning--Screech invited this fan on top of The Nats Dugout who proceeded to put on THE FINEST JAM DANCE EVER SEEN AT RFK STADIUM. This guy was TERRIFIC!!. One hand, Hand Stands--flipping, sliding and whirling all over the dugout. The show so good, the guy received A STANDING OVATION--Not only from the fans along the third base side--but many Nationals Players peering over The Dugout. What A PERFORMANCE!! JUST GREAT ENTERTAINMENT!! This guy needs to be signed by Our Washington Nationals for InGame Entertainment. Wow!! Was he EVER GOOD!!

Today's InGame Photos--(AP) Manuel Balce Ceneta

Trust Your Starters

Too bad The Racing Presidents were not allowed to play. First, we ran out of position players. Then, we basically ran out of pitchers. Finally, we didn't trust our starters. Unfortunately, the game was still going on--tied at one, moving to the 11th. When their BEST, beat our LEFTOVERS--Ending the ballgame.

Tonight, The Baltimore Orioles beat Our Washington Nationals in those frustrating extra innings, 3-2. Alot happened late, that changed the face of this ballgame. But, not before many in this terrific crowd of 30,661 were treated to an old fashioned pitching duel by two unlikely talents.


Journeyman lefthander Mike Bacsik got the emergency start tonight for Washington and pitched 6 shutout innings. The Orioles threw righthander Jeremy Guthrie, another journeyman, making a name for himself in Baltimore due to their injury riddled pitching staff. Both matching up tonight with their BEST STUFF on the Big Stage of The Major Leagues. Its stunning sometimes the breaks of this game. No one in their right mind would have figured during Spring Training 2007 that these two guys would be handed a legitimate opportunity to prove themselves, yet again.

Bacsik, quite the interesting story. Having played within The Indians, Mets, Rangers, Phillies, Diamondbacks and Nationals Organizations, among others. Mike has been able to hang around--because he is a lefthander. A Southpaw without exceptional stuff, but one that can be effective in spots. Its how you survive in Professional Baseball. During 2006, Bacsik started Spring Training with Our Washington Nationals. Eventually was released, signing with The Diamondbacks. At Tuscon, their AAA Club, he went 11-0 for the season. Yet, that DID NOT earn him an invitation back. So, like just about every other hard luck pitcher in the game during 2007--Bacsik came back to Washington. No other team was OPENLY giving FREE TRYOUTS for their Major League Staff more than Our Nationals.


So tonight, his persistence payed off, ability too. Tonight Mike Bacsik pitched his finest game in The Majors since going the distance for The New York Mets in 2002. He kept The Orioles off balance, was helped out by some nice defense--leaving after 6 complete innings, giving up no runs on 5 hits and one walk. 4 of those 5 hits came with two outs in the innings they occurred--minimizing any damage. Honestly, you couldn't ask more from a last second replacement. And Guthrie wasn't much worse. Only allowing a Nook Logan bloop double down the right field line, scoring My Main Man!! Ryan Church who had singled to left leading off the second inning.


Unfortunately, Our Washington Nationals couldn't close the door tonight, leading 1-0 late. Our OVERTAXED Bullpen can't carry the the team every night. Our Manager Manny Acta certainly understands that--yet, he got a little greedy and went for a 2 inning setup job by Big Jon Rauch--not trusting others to perform as well. Rauch pitched a beautiful 7th inning. But, got in trouble in the 8th when Brian Roberts walked, followed by a Nick Markakis single. And, when both moved up on a double steal with no out, Our Washington Nationals could only intentionally walk Ramon Hernandez to load up the bases-looking for the double play. Whereupon, Pinch Hitter Aubrey Huff lofted a routine fly to medium centerfield--Roberts tagged, knowing Nook Logan HAS NO ARM!!, and scored the game tying run.

And, this is where I need to pick a little. Yeah I know, we had our chances-runners in scoring position in the 2nd, 9th, 10th 11th innings. But, late in this game--with the score 1-0 Washington, before Roberts scored, both Ryan Church and Dimitri Young were removed for defensive reasons--IN THE TOP OF THE 8TH Inning! A one run game is far too close to take out YOUR ONLY LEGITIMATE POWER outside of Ryan Zimmerman. No doubt, Young is major defensive problem at first base. But, My Main Man!! is a GAME CHANGING PLAYER. And, despite what others have rhetorically stated against him, Number 19 is a pretty decent outfielder. Maybe not Gold Glove, but if The Boston Red Sox can keep one of the worst defensive outfielders in the game, Manny Ramirez, playing left at Fenway Park--Our Washington Nationals can keep Church in the lineup during a tight game. I not stupid. I am not saying Church is the same offensive threat as Manny. But, he's not bad. Once again, not getting the opportunity to go all out. Who would you rather see with the game on the line? Tony Batista, Robert Fick, Ryan Langerhans, Nook Logan? Or Church & Young? I understand that Young is a huge liability. But, what has Fick done for us offensively all season long? Like nothing. What good does your late inning defense do, if you can't produce any offense? Especially, when you just lost the lead?

None, as far as I can see. And, as this game moved deeper into the night, Our Manager had used up ALL his position players. There was NO ROOM for error. And, we failed when Winston Abreu walked Ramon Hernandez to lead off the 11th. Freddie Bynum pinch ran and Melvin Mora just stuck his bat out with two strikes to loft a bloop single to left. Bynum moving to 3rd with one out. (By the way, just ask The African Queen, I said to her-"You watch, Mora's not going to be denied. He is a tough hitter in the clutch--always has been"). Melvin Mora is a competitive player. I will always appreciate that.


Then, Jay Payton followed by ripping an Abreu pitch down in the left field corner. Fick, now playing left, could not come up with the ball. The Orioles scoring the game winning runs on a Payton 2 run RBI Double. Although, Our Washington Nationals would score a cheap run in the bottom of the 11th when Austin Kearns walked with 2 outs, trotted to second on Catcher's Indifference, and scored the final run of this night on a single through the hole to left by Tony Batista--it was not enough. Brian Schneider did bat as the game winning run with those two outs. But, hammered Baltimore's Chris Ray's final pitch--right at Aubrey Huff at first base to end the game. 3-2 Baltimore. Two losses in a row, after winning 6 of 7 at RFK Stadium.

Realizing I have praised Our Manager alot lately, it did bother me tonight that Manny may have OVER MANAGED this one. Far too many late inning substitutions--hoping to make an impact, instead of allowing his BEST PLAYERS to win. When Jesus Flores was called upon to pinch hit for Saul Rivera in the 10th, we had wasted our final player. There were two outs at the time of his At-Bat. And, Flores was not going to be inserted into the game. Better utilitization of the bench tonight, would have proved far wiser in the long run. Sometimes, you have to win with What You Got. Not, with what you want to be.

I would have left both Church and Young in tonight's game. And, replaced Young for the 9th, if the lead was still in tact. Taking them both out early, forced the overuse of the bench--killing any realistic hopes of a comeback. Plus, any chance to manuever tonight. Sometimes you have to trust your starting nine.

Game Notes & Highlights:

There were a couple fine defensive plays on the part of Our Washington Nationals tonight. Mike Bacsik leaped to snare a hard hit one hopper up the middle by Miguel Tejada and throw out Tejada to end the top of the 5th.


With Nick Markakis on first in the top of the 3rd inning--Tejada SCORCHED a fast moving grounder up the middle, toward the shortstop side of second base. Cristian Guzman short hopped the ball, ran to second to retire Markakis, proceeding to toss to Young at first for a nifty inning ending double play. Very nice play.


And, in the top of the sixth, Melvin Mora HAMMERED a sharp grounder down the third base line, Ryan Zimmerman slid into the ball, backhanding it--got up and easily tossed out the hard charging Mora at first base. It was The Defensive Play Of This Game. Whether moving to his left or right, or running hard down the the left field line into foul territory. No one plays 3rd base with those skills better in Major League Baseball than Ryan Zimmerman. He is just a terrific fielder. What a joy to watch every game at RFK Stadium.

The Orioles Chad Bradford was called on to pitch a portion of the 9th and 10th innings tonight. There is nothing finer than to see this underarm pitcher toss his baseball with his knuckles scrapping the ground. For some time, I had mentioned him to The African Queen. When she first caught sight of him warming up, she was quite taken by the sight. Chad Bradford is fun to watch.

During the Presidents Race tonight, "The Rushmores" came out riding Segways. They looked, not only cool, but intimidating riding those machines. Good idea, nice scene to watch. Very entertaining.


During the 6th inning, some MORON hopped the railing near the first base dugout and proceeded to walk on the field. At first, no one could quite figure out what was going on. The guy was walking toward the Orioles Guthrie on the mound, gesturing, before being retained my security. Most likely drunk, it was actually strange to watch. The guy was stumbling badly.

Metro FAILED MISERABLY TONIGHT heading to the baseball game. I had to work today. So, Sohna took Metro from The Franconia-Springfield Station to hopefully meet me downtown on Capitol Hill and proceed to the game. If Our Washington Nationals and Metro are trying to convince fans to TAKE METRO to the ballpark they are doing a terrible job. On most every weekend Metro performs track maintenance. This afternoon, a 45 minute SINGLE TRACK DELAY to get from Springfield to National Airport. That's ludicrous!! How can you possibly build commuter confidence if Metro continually DOES NOT CARE. There is NO WAY folks are going to trust your service if you continually screw them.

So, instead of meeting at Capitol South Station at 5:45PM and driving the rest of the way to Lot 8--I drove over to National Airport, picked her up--at 6:30PM--we sat down into our seats in Section 320 at 7:04PM. Boy, were we ever pissed. Metro always amazes me at their "I DON'T CARE ABOUT YOU " Attitude.

Finally, as The African Queen and I were leaving RFK Stadium tonight, MsZimmy & Shawn stopped by to say Hello and chat. MsZimmy and Shawn are original Section 320 members. Their ticket group broke up for 2007 and they have been attending Nats Games AdHoc. Sohna and I missed the fun they added & provided over the past two seasons to our wonderful section. If we could only figure out a way to get them back into the fold. (By the way, MsZimmy--what section are you sitting in on Sunday for the O's game?-Let me know).

Last Night's InGame Photos--(AP) Haraz N. Ghanbari

Leaving A Bitter Taste

Runners on 1st and 3rd, down 5-4, bottom of the 9th--2 Out, Ryan Zimmerman at the plate with a Full Count. 22,375 on their feet making a TON OF NOISE!! Chris Ray on the mound for The Baltimore Orioles. Ray was sweating it out. Everyone realizing, there is NO BETTER PERSON Our Washington Nationals want to see at the plate in this position. As the volume inside RFK Stadium reached it highest point tonight, Ray wheeled back and fired away. The Entire Crowd waited with baited breath. "ZIMMY" Swung and HAMMERED THE BASEBALL--The Roar beginning to rise, the anticipation great--Zimmerman has done it again!!!---Driving the ball hard and deep to leftfield---Right At The Orioles Freddie Bynum!! Game Over. Just like that, Our Washington Nationals had lost A THRILLER. Anytime a baseball game comes down to the very last pitch you have to be grateful. The excitement was there, just not the result for Washington.

On most nights, I could live with a loss like that. But, not tonight. And, it has nothing to do with the fact Our Washington Nationals lost to The Angelos Orioles. Unlike so many others, I do not HATE The Orioles. I cheered for them for sometime, but they were never MY TEAM. This game left a bitter taste in my mouth because of Two HORRIBLE Baserunning Mistakes and, to me-- a mindboggling Managerial Move. Yeah, I know--I still love Manny--but in the 8th inning tonight what was he thinking?

Lets begin in reverse order. Nook Logan lead off the bottom of the 9th having replaced Ryan Langerhans in the 7th inning. With the right handed Ray on the mound to close this one out for Baltimore, Logan was batting lefthanded. Nook Logan CAN NOT HIT Lefthanded. Fortunately, Chris Ray walked Logan to begin the bottom of the 9th. RALLYTIME was in FULL EFFECT. Everyone in Attendance tonight in Section 320. A Full House of some of Our Most Faithful Fans. Loud and Boisterous--Section 320 WAS & WE DID PERFORM OUR PART TONIGHT. No One can ever fault our devotion to Our Washington Nationals.

With Jesus Colome the next scheduled hitter, Our Manager Manny Acta sent Ronnie Belliard to the plate to move Logan up. The Correct Move. And, when a Ray Pitch was juggled by The Orioles Catcher Ramon Hernandez-Nook took off--safely stealing 2nd. The Home Faithful Roaring--Washington's Luck on this terrific homestand seemed to be continuing. An advantage Nook Logan THREW AWAY on the very next pitch. Belliard hit a chopper back to the mound toward the first base side--Logan has ALL THE SPEED IN THE WORLD. Yeah, Ray looked him back, BUT MADE A LAZY TOSS to first. THERE IS NO WAY NOOK LOGAN DOES NOT MAKE IT TO THIRD SAFELY! NO WAY!! Yet, he froze-making a terrible baserunning decision to stay at second base.

And, when Felipe Lopez followed with a routine grounder to first for out number 2--Logan's baserunning blunder cost Our Washington Nationals the game tying run. I understand that Cristian Guzman worked a Full Count to eventually walk to bring up Zimmerman. And, I fully realize Zimmerman had a TERRIFIC 7 pitch At-Bat before driving that final stroke right into a fielders glove. But, that final out should have sent this fine game into extra innings. Logan's mental mistake was costly. Truly a Game OUTCOME DECISION. RallyTimeRichard, BangTheDrumNatly & I were just incredulous.

Now let's revert to the Top of The 8th. With the score just 3-2 Baltimore, Manny Acta had Saul Rivera on the mound to keep this game close. Saul simply DID NOT have it tonight. After Nook Logan misplayed a leadoff liner to center by Kevin Millar, Melvin Mora followed with a 4 pitch walk. 1st and 2nd, No Outs. Orioles Manager Sam Perlozzo sent in Freddie Bynum to pinch run for Millar. A Good Decision as Bynum has the speed of a rabbit--Millar the speed of a tortoise. Jay Payton was next and laid down a decent sacrifice bunt to Zimmerman at third, moving the runners up to 2nd and 3rd with One Out.

This is where The MANAGERIAL DECISION TONIGHT was costly. Rivera is a righthanded reliever. The lefthanded Corey Patterson was up next for The Orioles. Perlozzo had the lefthanded swinging Aubrey Huff in the On Deck Circle to Pinch Hit for their Pitcher, John Parrish. The Lefthanded Billy Traber was warming up for Our Washington Nationals. To me, the obvious move to make is for Rivera to walk Patterson intentionally, loading the bases--setting up the force play and potential inning ending double play ball. Then, when Huff is announced, replace Saul with Traber. In this scenario, Sam Perlozzo is most likely FORCED to waste HUFF and replace him with the righthanded hitting Chris Gomez.

Yet, Manny went to the mound to replace Rivera WHILE PATTERSON IS THE SCHEDULED HITTER. When Traber trotted to the mound--The Orioles called Aubrey Huff back to the dugout, unannounced, and sent Gomez up to the On Deck Circle. Our Manager decided to Pitch to Patterson. Corey knocking a Sacrifice Fly to Centerfield for Baltimore's 4th run. Gomez followed with a walk. And, when the very fine Brian Roberts stroked a clean single to center--The Baltimore Orioles had a commanding, Gift 5-2 lead. Our Washington Nationals giving up the games decisive runs due to some very questionable judgment calls.

Did those decisions EVER HURT MORE, when Zimmerman FLATOUT CLUBBED a Danys Baez fastball off the Green Wall above The Orioles Bullpen for a two run homer in the bottom of the 8th. A NO DOUBT BLAST that sent RFK Stadium into a TIZZY!! Ryan Zimmerman COULD NOT POSSIBLY HIT A BASEBALL MUCH HARDER. What a clout!!


Finally, continuing to reverse course--Cristian Guzman KILLED a terrific two out rally by simply, not thinking. FLop had lined a single to center off The Orioles Starter, Steve Trachsel. "The Guz" followed with a walk. Ryan Zimmerman was at the plate. Down 3-0 at this point in the contest, this moment appeared to be The Game Changer. The time in EVERY SINGLE BASEBALL GAME every team has their chance to get back into it. Zimmerman, patient all night---going deep into the counts, working over the Baltimore Pitchers, was doing just that against Trachsel. Six pitches into this fine At-Bat, Number 11 had worked a 2-2 count and had just fouled off the past two offerings from Trachsel. On the 7th pitch of this battle, Steve Trachsel threw the ball in the dirt. The baseball squirting past the catcher, Hernandez. FLop saw the play developing in front of him and WISELY took off for third. Guzman hesitated, stumbled and well after Ramon Hernandez picked up the errant ball--AMAZINGLY TOOK OFF FOR SECOND BASE. Hernandez, he of a fine throwing arm--threw out "THE GUZ" by a GOOD 15 FEET!! to end this game breaking opportunity.

What in the world was "The Guz" thinking of? Lopez understood the situation developing, immediately, and took advantage of it. Guzman did not think, only reacted--far to late. Just a bad decision. With YOUR BEST CLUTCH HITTER at the plate--YOU DO NOT TAKE A STUPID CHANCE. I was so pissed at this play I had to immediately get up and walk out to the concourse behind Section 320 to cool off. YOU DO NOT TAKE THE BAT OUT OF RYAN ZIMMERMAN'S HAND!! What a costly mistake!

Those three decisions, described above, left me feeling awful after tonight's ballgame. Getting beat is one thing, beating yourself through mental mistakes, something that will always bother me. Yeah, we lost to The Baltimore Orioles tonight 5-4, but the outcome should have been far different. As upset as I was, leaving RFK Stadium tonight, Biff did remind me about the most basic rule of this great game: "Tomorrow is a new day, a new game--If we win, this one will be forgotten."

No doubt--Biff is correct, but until 7:05PM Saturday Evening, this loss will irk me. A winnable game, given away.

All of which, leaves a BITTER TASTE IN MY MOUTH.

Game Notes & Highlights:



In the bottom of the 5th, down 3-0, Ryan Zimmerman led off with a walk. Trachsel hit Ryan Church putting runners at 1st and 2nd--no outs. Austin Kearns hit into a rally killing double play, with Zimmerman moving to third. Then, Dimitri Young powered a Trachsel pitch HIGH INTO THE SKY in right. At first, his knock looked like a warning track out. Yet, the wind got ahold of it, and the next thing you know-the baseball had BANGED OFF The Washington Hall of Stars Banner above the Nationals Bullpen. A surprising two run homer to put us back into this game. RallyTimeRichard and I looked at each other STUNNED. Neither of us thought that ball would carry. In fact, Dimitri had a nice game at the plate, tonight. Two hits and a walk in four plate appearances. But, Number 21 continues to struggle at first base. The Orioles knocked two hits right past him. Singles that went under or by his glove. Young has no mobility. The First Base Position in the field for Our Washington Nationals just killing us.



Jason Simontacchi went 6 innings in his 3rd start for Washington. He wasn't great and he wasn't terrible. Giving up 8 hits and one walk through 94 pitches, Simontacchi hung in there. Jason's performance tonight similar to Matt Chico's yesterday. Unfortunately, Number 50 did not get the fortunate key hits to give him the lead, nor did Our Bullpen save the evening, as has been the case over the past week at RFK Stadium.

There were Two Fine Defensive Plays by Our Washington Nationals tonight--both of which--going with the mood of this post--did not result in outs--but were nice efforts, nonetheless. Both occurred in the 5th inning.

Brian Roberts laced a fast dropping liner to left centerfield. Ryan Langerhans did not give up on the ball, took a HUGE CHANCE, and with the ball mere inches from the turf DOVE FORWARD in an attempt to snare the ball off the ground. He almost made the catch. The Baseball glancing off his now sliding glove along the turf. Fortunately, the ball deflected in front of him. If not, the speedy Roberts may well have circled the bases for a Inside The Park Home Run.


Later in the 5th, Ramon Hernandez hit a bouncing scorcher to Zimmerman's left. Ryan dove, got to his feet and underarmed whipped the ball to first base, but off the bag, toward right field. Dimitri Young had to come off the base to prevent the ball from going down the rightfield line. For a moment, Zimmerman forgot the runner was the very slow moving Hernandez. If he had set himself, a better throw would have happened. And, the third out of this inning would have been recorded. An important out, with Ramon safe, Kevin Millar followed with a clutch single to center, scoring Nick Markakis for Baltimore's third run of the evening.


In the 9th, Fans were treated to a really fun Double Play. With one out, Ramon Hernandez on first with a walk, Freddie Bynum grounded to FLop at second. Hernandez was near Lopez, but stopped, forcing Felipe to throw to Robert Fick at first base to retire Bynum. Hernandez then took off for second, resulting in a WILD BACK AND FORTH RUNDOWN. When it was all said and done--the final out of the inning was recorded. The Official Scoring on the Double Play: 4-3-6-3-4. Like most everyone else left in the old ballpark, Section 320 enjoyed that rundown. Very amusing to watch.

You can't fault Our Bullpen tonight. They have carried the load ALL SEASON LONG. Its quite amazing they have done so well, with so many starters now on The Disabled List. With another journeyman going tomorrow--Mike Bacsik, you have to wonder whether they can continue their valiant efforts.

Honestly, it was a surprisingly small crowd for a Friday Night, against the other local team. 22,375 is far less than I expected. 30,000 was my prediction.

Finally, today was Our General Manager Jim Bowden's Birthday. The only reason I know that is because the Giant Video Board in Right Field announced it during the Happy BIrthday Greetings Portion of The 5th Inning.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais

"Aura" In The Afternoon

When baseball games go late into the night, like this past Saturday against The Florida Marlins, many fans leave--and as the crowd dwindles an "Aura" tends to glow around the game. Fans becoming a part of the game, feeling a sense of belonging. The same sensation I get, each and every time I attend a Weekday Afternoon Matinee at RFK Stadium with Our Washington Nationals. Sure, there are quite a few thousand more folks watching, but there is this sense of "GETTING AWAY WITH SOMETHING". You know full well the rest of the DC Area is working, going through the daily grind. Although I had scheduled today off (No Way I Miss A Home Game), these Getaway Games are usually remarkable, entertaining affairs. No Team wants to go out or continue their road trip on a loss. A bad taste in your mouth. Traveling gives EVERYONE the time to re-think, sometimes, over analyze, the just completed game. Both Our Washington Nationals and The Atlanta Braves shared that same sentiment this afternoon. No one wants to end a series on a loss. So, in as entertaining of a good baseball game as you can expect to see, The "AURA" showed brightly this afternoon in an ABSOLUTE THRILLER. A Good Crowd of 24,631 was into it from the beginning. And, they were treated to a most excellent 4-3 come from behind win by Our Washington Nationals over The Atlanta Braves.

Today's game was well pitched, well played, and Our Washington Nationals continued to impress, and more importantly--improve, showing some swagger. Matt Chico continued to convince his doubters--HE BELONGS IN THE MAJOR LEAGUES. Felipe Lopez AWOKE from a distant slumber with his FINEST GAME OF THIS SEASON. Some Keys Hits with the game on the line. Some Terrific defense, especially by Ronnie Belliard (with one of the finest up the middle plays of this season). Our Bullpen continues its development into ONE OF THE BEST IN THE GAME (even with so many players on the Disabled List). And, what more can I say--Our Manager Manny Acta is pulling the right strings. For the second game in a row, Manny was shrewed, understanding his given talent-and making it work into today's winner.

Years from now, Manny Acta will be remembered as an EXCELLENT MANAGER. We all know he has CHARISMA. Everyone finding out right now--Number 14 can also MANAGE. Can you imagine how well he will do WITH TALENT? What more can you possibly want from your Field Manager? Never down, never publicly angry at his players, always positive. I just love the guy. And, nothing Manny Acta has done so far has detracted me from my fondness of this fine young man.

This afternoon he sent Matt Chico to the mound. Our work in progress Starting Pitching, who each and every time, stumbles but somehow survives. Number 47 is going to be good Major League Pitcher. Nothing seems to bother him. He can laugh off REALLY wild pitches. Those that land over the first base dugout. Chico's learning to pound the strike zone, mix things up--keep hitters off balance. Yeah, he gets beat every once in a while. Remember he is only 23 years old. Ask Tommy Glavine (sure fire Hall of Famer for The New York Mets and longtime Atlanta Brave, how he did at the same age). Sometimes Chico beats himself with control problems, but today--only a bad pitch to a DANGEROUS HITTER in Chipper Jones cost him badly. Jones SLAMMING a Matt Pitch directly over the 410 Foot Sign in Deep Centerfield for a two run homer in the top of the 4th for an Atlanta 2-0 lead.

Chico though would settle down--give up one additional run in typical fashion in the 5th. A Scott Thorman single to center, followed by today's Braves' Starter Chuck James sacrifice bunt and a Matt Diaz RBI grounder to center for Atlanta's third and final run of this game. That's small ball folks, nothing to be ashamed of. And, when Our Manager took Chico out of the game down just 3-2, after six complete innings, Matt had pitched his finest game as a Major Leaguer. Throwing 59 of his 89 pitches for strikes. He gave up just 5 hits and two walks--allowing Our Washington Nationals to fight back into this game--one half inning later. Washington starting RALLYTIME Early. Even RallyTimeRichard impressed--we all didn't have to beg for it in Section 320, during the 8th and 9th innings.


Earlier in this matinee, Our Nats had scored two runs. The first score in the 4th, when Ryan Zimmerman continued to rebound from his slow start by singling through the hole to leftfield. Followed by one of the strangest doubles you will see. My Main Man!! Ryan Church launched a HIGH FLY down the right field line. Atlanta's Jeff Francouer was playing Church to hit away, to the opposite field. With the ball having serious HANG TIME, for some reason--Francouer thought it was landing in foul territory--possibly in the stands down the right field line. He gave up on the ball. A baseball that landed RIGHT ON THE WHITE CHALK! Bouncing over the wall for a ground rule double. 2nd and 3rd, no outs. Austin Kearns would strike out for out number 1--but Tony Batista (YEAH--That TONY BATISTA), he of the outrageous open batting stance, today's starting first basemen--reached out to stroke a James pitch and line it cleanly into leftfield for Our First Run of This Game. Of course, with just one out, Our Washington Nationals reverted to the old accustomed style by stranding both remaining runners.


But, in the bottom of the 5th, Washington would load up the bases with one out on a FLop DRIVE to left center for a double. Ronnie Belliard walk, Ryan Zimmerman high chopper ground out to move the runners up--followed by a Ryan Church walk. Austin Kearns was next--and HAMMERED A LINER down the left field line--But Foul. EVERYONE was standing--hoping for the Grand Slam. After slamming the baseball 310 feet foul, Kearns battled back-- KNOCKING A 15 FOOT BOUNCER down the 3rd base line. James quickly scooted in to pick up the ball, as FLop was scurrying past--CLEARLY OUT--James tagged Felipe, yet Chuck James DROPPED THE BALL! Everyone safe. Our Washington Nationals making this one a 3-2 game. Luck had shifted. The Faithful on their feet Roaring. This baseball game was shaping up to be a good one. And, of course--with the bases still loaded--We didn't score the go ahead runs--again.

Yet, that turned out OK--because the DECISIVE 6th inning comeback MADE THIS--ONE FABULOUS GAME. Speed wins, especially on the basepaths. Manny Acta knows this and would make his finest IN GAME move of the season. The ever emerging Jesus Flores (Honestly, I don't think I could be prouder of this young man--He IS one heck of a player) BLASTED a Chuck James pitch off the wall in left centerfield leading off the bottom of the sixth inning. Give Flores credit, despite the fact that EVERYONE thought his drive would clear the wall for his FIRST MAJOR LEAGUE HOME RUN--Jesus ran hard from the start, seeing the ball carom off the wall--Number 3 trotted into second with a stand up double--to GREAT CHEERS from the faithful. Followed immediately by Nook Logan sacrificing Flores to third.

With one out, Atlanta Manager Bobby Cox decided James was done--and called for the hard throwing Chad Paronto. Paronto may have helped The Braves last night, if Cox had called on him before the game got out of hand. But today, Bobby signaled for Chad who promptly allowed this game to get out of hand, in electrifying style. With the righthanded Paronto on the mound and Matt Chico the scheduled hitter, Manny set the switch hitting Dimitri Young to the plate to pinch hit. Young, nearly imobile due to an achilles strain, can still swing the bat. Which he did, lining an opposite field grounder to left scoring Flores with the game tying run. EVERYONE on their feet, cheering. RFK STADIUM was beginning to ROCK. The very next hitter--Felipe Lopez would make the old ballyard shake.

FLop has struggled lately. Not hitting, not getting on base, not being a decent leadoff hitter. The All Star Lopez of just two years past has faded. And, his play in the field, as I mentioned recently, less than stellar. Our Manager Manny Acta sat him down yesterday. And, FLop got the message. Having singled and doubled in his first three At-Bats this afternoon, Felipe UNLOADED on a Paronto FASTBALL DRIVING THE BALL TO DEEP LEFT CENTERFIELD. The hardest hit ball Felipe Lopez has EVER HIT at RFK Stadium. Even the Great Atlanta Centerfielder Andruw Jones was stunned by the stoked ball. No way Jones tracks this one down. Manny Acta had inserted Cristian Guzman into the game as a Pinch Runner for Young, just before this hit. There is NO ONE that runs from 1st to 3rd as well as Cristian Guzman on Our Washington Nationals. Not even Nook Logan. Number 15 was MOTORING (as RallyTimeRichard noted), swiftly moving around the bases, scoring easily with the 4th and final run of this game. FLop HEADFIRST DIVE into third with a clutch RBI Triple.

The BOISTEROUS Crowd PUMPING UP THE VOLUME to it HIGHEST POINT TODAY. Our Washington Nationals had fought back to take the lead--with some serious clutch hitting, and some even better managerial decisions. 4-3 Washington now and Manny Acta went to his bullpen to close this one out. First Billy Traber with a 1-2-3 7th.

Then, Our Manager called for The PITCHING SURPRISE of 2007. Jesus Colome trotted out for the 8th and may well have shown--FINALLY-Number 43 is A LEGITIMATE MAJOR LEAGUE PITCHER. Always touted, but never developed--Jesus Colome's right arm had scouts drooling for years. First ,The Oakland Athletics groomed him to be their closer, but gave up on him, trading the volatile pitcher to Tampa Bay. In Tampa, Colome was well know for throwing a pitch as hard a physically possible, then turning around looking at the radar gun. All he cared about was speed. Never did he learn how to pitch.

At least, until Our Pitching Coach Randy St.Claire got ahold of him this past spring. St.Clare taught Jesus that you can throw that 95 MPH Fastball, but you need an affective off speed pitch, 10-12 MPH slower--a change up-that makes hitters believe you are throwing smoke. The Lightbulb must have gone off in his head, as Jesus Colome has resurrected his floundering career. Jesus Colome HAS FINALLY MET ALL THOSE EXPECTATIONS of years past. In the top of the 8th, Number 43 got Diaz to ground out, Renteria to pop out, then flat out retired Chipper Jones on one of the nastiess off speed pitches he will ever throw. Jones had never seen it. No one else apparently, also. Chipper struck out looking at one of the most wicked 88MPH falling off the table pitches you will ever see--right through the strike zone. I have no idea what Colome threw--but was it ever a terrific pitch. Jones walking away fooled. Jesus walking off the mound no longer the fool, but a respected pitcher. The Nats Faithful realizing--this man may well be for real.


And, when Big Jon Rauch closed this one out in order in the 9th--BANG! ZOOM!! went the Fireworks!! Our Washington Nationals had won their second straight series, 15th game and 6 out of 7 on this Ten Game Homestand. No longer are WE THE LAUGHING STOCK OF BASEBALL. What a turnaround. Good Pitching, Timely Hitting, Excellent Defense and Wise Managing. If building a team is what the 2007 Baseball Season is all about-Our Washington Nationals are beginning to glow. That "AURA" shining brightly this afternoon at RFK STADIUM. A Wonderful Weekday for baseball in The Nation's Capital. Just a terrific fun game to watch.

Game Notes & Highlights:

Previously, I have stated the fact that you can quibble about Ronnie Belliard, but you can't deny his effort fielding grounders. Despite his rather portly body, he moves well from side the side and gets his body in front of nearly every single ball hit his way. Today, Chris Woodward lined a hard smash up the middle off Matt Chico's glove in the bottom of the 4th. Belliard, today's starting shortstop, ranged all the way ACROSS second base to glove the hard moving baseball, then proceeded to pivot off his wrong foot, his left foot--firing the ball IN THE AIR to Tony Batista at first to retire Woodward and The Braves in the 4th. It was CLEARLY--The Defensive Play of This Game. A fabulous play--by ANYONE, ANY GAME. Yet, this was only Belliard's 2nd game ever at Shortstop in The Major Leagues. The other time, nearly 7 years ago. What an impressive play he made. Iris & I couldn't stop talking about it.

Tony Batista got the start at first base today. With Lefthander Chuck James starting for Atlanta, Robert Fick was not going to start at first. Neither was Dimitri Young--he's still not 100%. So Manny, desperate, gave the job to Batista. Tony did provide a key RBI Single, yet twice was unable to track down foul balls--catchable foul balls, due to the fact--he has NO MOBILITY. Fortunately, that did not cost Our Washington Nationals today. But, no doubt--The Baseball Gods will find him, sooner than later. He will be costly playing first--in the long run. Nick Johnson--PLEASE GET BETTER. First Base is our biggest sore point right now, in the field.

Felipe Lopez was a marvel at the plate today. Its amazing what one day off can do for a player. Yeah, I am sure FLop will say he needed to collect his mind. Make no mistake about it, his sitting last night by Manny Acta WAS A MESSAGE. Time to play ball. During his last At-Bat this afternoon, FLop had the opportunity to hit for the cycle. He just needed a Home Run. Unfortunately, Atlanta walked him.

The Atlanta Braves Starting Catcher today was Jarrod Saltalamacchia. WHAT A LAST NAME. We couldn't help but marvel at his name on the back of his Atlanta Jersey. 14 Letters go a long way on the arc above the number on the jersey back. I am sure there have been even longer names, but Saltalamacchia is a Pretty TERRIFIC NAME. In Section 320, we couldn't stop talking about it.

Finally, today was the final appearance in Section 320 for Original Member--FlyGirl Karen. "Ms. Chipper Jones" as she is so fondly known (Karen is a HUGE BRAVES FANS) is leaving the FlyBoys from Andrews to Fly Again in Savannah, Georgia. We figure the closer to Chipper, the better for her. All of us in Section 320 shall miss Karen. Always fun, always a joy at every single game she attended at RFK Stadium over the past two plus seasons of Naionals Baseball. Really, Karen is a GREAT LADY. Section 320 will never be quite the same without her. We really mean it.

Today's InGame Photos--(AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais