A Flury Of Moves

Was I ever stunned to just read "The Guz" is on the Disabled List. Wow--Hopefully more news about this move will come out soon.

The Offical Release:


NATIONALS PLACE JESUS COLOME AND CRISTIAN GUZMAN ON 15-DAY DL, REINSTATE JASON BERGMANN



Following this afternoon’s series finale vs. Cleveland at RFK Memorial Stadium, the Washington Nationals recalled from rehab and reinstated right-handed pitcher Jason Bergmann from the 15-Day Disabled List and optioned right-handed pitcher Chris Schroder to Columbus of the Triple-A International League. The Nationals then placed right-handed pitcher Jesus Colome on the 15-Day Disabled List with a right lower extremity soft-tissue infection and recalled right-handed pitcher Chris Schroder from Columbus of the Triple-A International League. The club also placed shortstop Cristian Guzman on the 15-Day Disabled List with a left thumb ligament sprain. Tomorrow, prior to their series opener at Turner Field, the Nationals are expected to select the contract of infielder D’Angelo Jimenez from Columbus. Nationals Vice President and General Manager Jim Bowden made the announcements.



Bergmann, 25, will start for the Nationals in tomorrow night’s series opener at Atlanta. Bergmann was placed on the 15-Day DL on May 18 (retroactive to May 15) with right elbow inflammation. Prior to his five-week DL stint, Bergmann was leading baseball in batting average against at .162. Bergmann went 0-0 with a 1.29 ERA (1 ER/7.0 IP) in two rehab starts with Columbus.



In his finest big league campaign to date, the 29 year-old Colome is 4-0 with eight holds, one save and a 2.76 ERA in 40 games with the Nationals.



Guzman, 29, was hitting .329 with six doubles, six triples, two home runs and 14 RBI in 43 games with Washington at the time of the injury. He also posted a career-best .382 on-base percentage.



The 29 year-old Jimenez entered play today hitting .368 with 13 doubles, seven home runs, 25 RBI and a .461 on-base percentage in 50 games with the Clippers. He went 1-for-14 (.071) in 17 games with Washington earlier this season.



Schroder, 28, has worked 1.0 scoreless inning during with the Nationals in 2007.

And-Levale Speigner is Officially Ours.

The Offical Release:


NATIONALS ACQUIRE RIGHTHANDER LEVALE SPEIGNER FROM MINNESOTA



The Washington Nationals today acquired right-handed pitcher Levale Speigner from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for outfielder Darnell McDonald. Following the transaction, the Nationals outrighted Speigner to Columbus of the Triple-A International League. Nationals Vice President and General Manager Jim Bowden made the announcements.



Speigner, 26, went 2-3 with an 8.78 ERA (39 ER/40.0 IP) in 19 games (six starts) with Washington before being designated for assignment by the Nationals on June 19. He posted a 4.41 ERA (8 ER/16.1 IP) in 13 relief appearances with the Nationals.



The 28 year-old McDonald, who signed with the Nationals as a minor-league free agent on Nov. 6, 2006, was hitting .315 with two home runs and 41 RBI in 73 games with Columbus at the time of the trade. He will again be a free agent in October.



Rogearvin Bernadina, 22, was promoted to Columbus to assume the roster spot vacated by McDonald. Bernadina batted .282, posted a .358 on-base percentage and swiped 25 bases with Harrisburg of the Double-A Eastern League to garner the promotion.

More on all of this later. Does FLop move back to shortstop--Ronnie Belliard to second? Interesting.

Losing Twice In The Same Inning--Badly

Just Three Outs to go. "The Chief Cardiologist" on the mound with a two run lead. What looked like a sure win--quickly turned to what was assuredly a TERRIBLE loss. Then, out of nowhere--HOPE WAS ALIVE--A VICTORY WAS AT HAND. Until--THE BIGGEST BONEHEAD BASERUNNING DECISION OF THE YEAR--KILLED THE RALLY--Leaving Our Washington Nationals and their Fans FUMING over a DEVASTATING LOSS. This one Hurt. A 4-3 Defeat Tonight to The Cleveland Indians that will take some time to recover from. WHAT A CATASTROPHE!!

Innocently, the downfall started as Chad Cordero trotted out to finish off The Indians in the 9th. Holding a 3-1 lead at that point, Our Washington Nationals had continued to play the crisp baseball shown last night in their Victory over Cleveland 4-1. Good Pitching, Timely Hitting and some decent Defense. Not a single Nats Fan on hand DID NOT BELIEVE a Win was at hand. Yet, this game got out of hand mighty quickly.

Our Manager Manny Acta had rotated his outfield for defensive purposes to start this final inning. Brandon Watson moved from centerfield to left-replacing Ryan Church. Nook Logan would report to center. Oddly, for whatever reason--no matter what batter stepped to the plate for The Indians in the 9th--Watson set himself almost on the WARNING TRACK. Why, I do not know. But, when Cleveland's Franklin Gutierrez opened the inning with a solid liner to left off "The Chief", it had me wondering. Now, I am not sure if Watson could have made a play, even if positioned closer to the infield---but you had to wonder. And, Janet & I really started to worry when Casey Blake followed with another sharp lined single to left. Cordero wasn't fooling anybody--but his leftfielder may not have been helping out, either.


With runners now on 1st & 3rd with no outs--the very dangerous Victor Martinez stepped to the plate--batting lefthanded. A good hitter, with power. No doubt--Our Washington Nationals would give up that second run of the game to The Indians for a double play grounder. Unfortunately--Our Number 32 wasn't throwing too many effective sliders. And, on his very first pitch to Martinez--Victor POUNCED ON IT--Driving a DEEP FLY TO DEAD CENTERFIELD. A NO DOUBT--GAME CHANGING--THREE RUN HOMER. Just like that--Chad Cordero had given it all away. A Blown Save. A Huge Turn of Events. Many Cleveland Indian Fans JUMPED AND HOLLERED. Nationals fans throwing up their arms in disgust. It sure looked like Our Washington Nationals were down for the count.

Yet, Amazingly They WERE NOT. As has been the case all season long--this team, Our Team--does not quit. "The Chief" would retire The Indians without any further damage. And, when Brian Schneider lead off the bottom of the 9th with a clean first pitch single to center off Cleveland Closer Joe Borowski--The Nats Faithful still on hand rose to the occasion. The Crowd Stirring--Our Hopes Alive. There might still be a chance. An opportunity that surely faded when Watson attempted to bunt Schneiderman to second, but instead--being another bad bunter on a terrible bunting team--"00" popped up to The Indians Catcher Kelly Shoppach for out number one. There could not have been a person simmering more than I over another failed bunt attempt by Our Washington Nationals.

Personally, I have stated my point many times before. To Bunt is a skill--but not a hard skill. Rarely, have I seen such futility at the plate trying to move runners up, so continuously poorly--as Our Washington Nationals. Really, I don't understand their problem.

Yet, those concerns were behind me, momentarily, when Nook Logan followed Watson's Out with a slicing right handed hitting drive to left center. Schneider ran hard--all the way to third. And, Nook--with Indians Centerfielder Grady Sizemore making the play in front of him--still easily trotted into second base with a one out double. Everyone now on their feet--the NOISE LEVEL at RFK STADIUM reaching its ZENITH for the NIGHT. Just as quickly as Our Washington Nationals had lost this affair in the top of the 9th--Victory was, incredibly, now at hand. Just one key hit. This Game Would Be Won.

With "The Guz", stepping to the plate--everyone had to realize The Indians would walk Cristian Guzman to load up the bases and set up the force play. Cleveland had no other options. FLop was next--Ryan Zimmerman in hole. Last season, Zimmerman had hit one his MOST FAMOUS GAME WINNING HOME RUNS in the bottom of 9th--against The Florida Marlins on July 4th. The Closer that day for The Marlins--The Current Closer--now on the mound for The Indians--Joe Borowski. This game was coming to its final play. Who didn't wish to see Our Number 11 at the plate with the game on the line. But, first it was FLop's turn.

Little did ANYONE REALIZE Felipe Lopez would be the catalyst, although not personally at fault, for The Worst Play Of The YEAR!!

FLop settled in, batting lefthanded. Very few, if anyone, WAS NOT STANDING. This was crunch time. Felipe would take ball one in the dirt. Then, foul off Borowski's second offering. With A Frantic Crowd now living on each pitch--FLop stepped out to call time--gather himself. Borowski looked in--set himself--and tossed his third pitch of this Key At-Bat to Lopez. Felipe swung and topped the baseball to the left of the pitcher's mound. The Cleveland Closer rushed off the mound and had to make an off balance catch to retrieve the baseball--then turned and fired home to Shoppach to retire Brian Schneider with the second out of the inning. Despite the run not scoring--it appeared Our Washington Nationals were still alive with Zimmerman coming to the plate. What are the odds that "Z" does not deliver? Everyone wanted to see this At-Bat.


Ryan never got his chance. Because with Kelly Shoppach now holding the baseball after catching the toss from Borowski--FOR WHATEVER REASON--NOOK LOGAN ROUNDED THIRD BASE AS IF TRYING TO SCORE on the play. Now standing at least one third of the way down the line toward home--Our Number 7 was in serious trouble. A good throwing Catcher like Shoppach will not misfire. Kelly threw hard to Casey Blake at third base. Nook Logan, diving back in--WAS OUT BY A MILE!!

IT WAS THE MOST TERRIBLE BASERUNNING BLUNDER OF THE SEASON!! Nook Logan had taken the bat out of the hands of OUR BEST PLAYER--with the game on the line. UNFORGIVEABLE.

Our Washington Nationals losing 4-3 in a game Their Closer--Chad Cordero--gave it up BIG TIME--his first blown save in some time. And Nook Logan, Killing RallyTime!!--by using his speed--but not thinking how best to utilize his god given talents.

Tonight--Our Washington Nationals lost Twice--In THE SAME INNING--Badly.

Game Notes & Highlights:


Matt Chico again pitched solidly into the 7th inning. And, when he walked the leadoff hitter, Jhonny Peralta--Our Manager Manny Acta took Our Number 47 out to a Thunderous Applause. Matt Chico had again pitched well enough to win. A Sure Victory in his personal record book--until that devastating 9th inning. Jesus Colome and Jon Rauch held the lead until that fateful final inning of play. Chico continues to impress and grow up on the mound. Really, he has come a long way since Spring Training. Tonight--he deserved a win against a very good team.

In the top of the second inning--Dimitri Young slapped a sinking liner down the right field line--Cleveland Right Fielder Franklin Gutierrez ran hard all the way and dove to his left at the very last second to snare the baseball. Indians Centerfielder Grady Sizemore would rob Ryan Zimmerman in the 8th with a totally sprawled out dive to his right in left centerfield for another out. Both Plays combined to become The Defensive Plays of This Game.

And, of course--When Sizemore hammered out a Home Run to Right Center off Chico in the top of the sixth--it only continued to make me wonder about what could have been. Centerfield has been a lost position for Our Washington Nationals these first three seasons of play in Washington. No one has held the position long enough, or effectively enough, to consider the job theirs. No, I will not harp on it, as I have before--But, Boy--Would I EVER LOVE TO SEE GRADY SIZEMORE as our Centerfielder. As everyone knows--Grady was traded off by MLB as an Expos Prospect--when Contraction was in the works for Montreal and Minnesota. Its just saddening. And, Cliff Lee goes tomorrow as the top lefthanded starter for Cleveland against Our Washington Nationals. Lee was also involved in the same trade as Sizemore.

Tonight, On Cap Night at RFK Stadium--Our Washington Nationals were rewarded with their GREATEST WALK-UP total attendance since baseball returned to The Nation's Capital. 6,863 Baseball Fans, decided just today--to head over to East Capitol Street and see Washington play Cleveland. The 32,539 total draw was the 2nd largest of this season--only Opening Day drew more. And, it was the 3rd time more than 30,000 had ventured out to watch Nationals Baseball in 2007 at RFK.
That's a good sign--the first week after school ended.

Finally--The African Queen and I were involved in a ugly mess tonight. Two Folks in attendance this evening--sitting four seats to our right in the row in front of us in Section 320--did not enjoy or like any of Our Chants, Cheers and Songs. And, when Sohna started to use her customary beer bottle during RALLYTIME!! to bang on our seat handles in the bottom of the 7th inning--they took great exception. They wanted us to remain quiet. Our fun was not to their liking. They wanted us to just shut up and say nothing, don't even cheer--with the game on the line.

The African Queen and I have never bothered ANYONE attending any game at RFK Stadium. We are courteous to a fault. Our fun is enjoyed by HUNDREDS surrounding the lower bowl of RFK Stadium. Not a single other sole sitting around us did not feel this couple was WAY OUT OF LINE. Yet, These Two Complaining Folks actually assumed, wrongly, that Sohna was by herself. Little did they realize we were together. Obviously, we sort of stand out. And, they began to talk DOWN to her--in a tone--I am sure you will understand. An unacceptable tone. And, when The Husband of this couple tried to grab Sohna and tell her that he was going to send that beer bottle up her YOU KNOW WHERE--It was time to take some action.

As this threatening man went to Our Ushers to complain--we waited patiently--never did we raise our voice--and treat them with any disrepect. Our Ushers know us well and they told this complainer that we don't bother anyone. But, if they wish, they would relocate them to other seats. Which was done--with now both The Husband and Wife throwing vulgarities at Sohna while leaving. We didn't say a word back. Its not our style.

Sohna and I stepped forward--we told everyone in charge our side. And, we were backed up by EVERYONE ELSE in Section 320. Even Kathy, who sits just to my left--went down to talk with these two folks to explain Section 320--only to see this couple dish her and tell her to take a hike. Kathy saying these two were "Talking DOWN TO SOHNA, AND NOW ME." Fortunately--those folks were finally taken care of.

Unfortunately--I missed most of the 7th and all of the 8th inning sorting this mess out.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Nick Wass

The Old Fashioned Way

"That was just too simple," I said. RallyTimeRichard responded, "Yeah, we did it, The Old Fashioned Way--we just beat them."

Yeah, We Did.

After getting hammered all over RFK Stadium by The Detroit Tigers earlier this week, Our Washington Nationals tonight used that age-old adage called PITCHING. If Our General Manager Jim Bowden enjoys saying his phrase "Pitching, Pitching & Pitching"--this evening Washington not only used "Pitching, Pitching, Pitching & Pitching, but some more Pitching, a little more Pitching, even 'The Chief' to pitch"--and closed out The Cleveland Indians 4-1. Oh yeah, with a little help from Brandon Watson. "00" had his night to be proud, with two key hits propelling Our Washington Nationals to victory.

How unlikely was this victory? Both the just departed Detroit Tigers and freshly arrived Cleveland Indians can hammer the baseball. It sure seems like each and every starting player for these two teams are sluggers with double digit Home Runs and 30-50 RBI so far this season. Our Washington Nationals Have One such hitter (Ryan Zimmerman). Quite remarkable actually. And, it shows that The Cleveland Indians wrongly pretended RFK Stadium to be a typical American League--Band Box Park. A Stadium that allows your team to sit back and hit the three run homer--to get back into any ballgame. That's American League Baseball. No stolen bases, no bunts--no strategy. What a mistake. And, it cost The Indians tonight--in the most unusual National League Park as you can possibly play.

Micah Bowie understands Our Ballpark on East Capitol Street. Our Number 59 knows you can let opposing hitters take their whacks. More times than not--you get your outs. Micah saw each and every Cleveland Hitter step up to the plate tonight--seemingly salivating. Eager to not only attempt to take advantage of his not overly hard throwing lefthanded stuff, but to jack his pitches into the nether reaches of The Upper Deck at RFK Stadium. You just knew The Indians wanted to accomplish that feat. Micah Bowie let them try and even helped them out by issuing four walks. Yet, Cleveland Failed-continually.

And, when Our Manager Manny Acta decided that Bowie had seen enough of The Indians with one out in the 5th, he handed the ballgame over to his bullpen.

Once Again, Cleveland was ineffective against Luis Ayala (making his triumphant return after being on the Disabled List for 21 months). Unproductive against Saul Rivera, Ray King & Jesus Colome. Unsuccessful against Big Jon Rauch (although they tried hard against him getting the game tying run to the plate before "The Wookie" struck out Trot Nixon) and downright FUTILE against Chad Cordero. Possibly the most well executed TEAM PITCHING PERFORMANCE all season long. Every button that Our Manager Manny Acta pushed tonight--worked.


Even the placing of Brandon Watson in the starting lineup in centerfield spun GOLD on this gorgeous evening weather wise. The ultimate slap hitter--playing for his 3rd Major League Club in less than one year (Washington Twice)-Watson got Our Nats on the board in the bottom of the 4th inning with a two out poke to leftfield off Fausto Carmona, scoring Ryan Church with the game tying run at one apiece. Then, after Brian Schneider got Washington's second run home with a bases loaded, no outs--double play grounder in the 6th--Brandon followed with another poke, this time to right and ran hard all the way around first JUST beating the throw to second by Cleveland Right Fielder Franklin Gutierrez for an RBI Double. Austin Kearns scoring this game's crucial third run with Brandon Watson now standing on second base--All Smiles, Applauding Himself. The Cleveland Indians stunned. "OO" taking in the adulation of his success--not only from his clapping Teammates at the top of The Nats 3rd Base Dugout, but also, The Now Standing and Cheering Faithful at RFK, including, believe it or not--me.

Every one has their day. Even Nook Logan had his day on May 20th against The Orioles. So, for tonight--I will give Brandon Some HUGE CREDIT. With the game on the line--he delivered. His two hits a Significant Back Breaker to The Indians. No team wants to get beat. And, No Team wants to get beat by a journeyman player--just recalled from The Minor Leagues--even one that just completed a Minor League Record 43 game hitting streak.

On a night The Cleveland Indians attempted to Blast Their Way out of RFK Stadium--Our Washington Nationals threw 7 Pitchers at The Tribe--and shut down their potent offense. Cleveland never able to sustain any rally.


Then, while The Indians tried to slam the ball, Our Washington Nationals played small ball--dinging hits here, slapping pokes there. And even "The GUZ" got into the act in the bottom of the 7th--slapping what appeared to be a lacing liner down the right field line off Fernando Cabrera certain to bounce off the fence. With The Indians overplaying him to hit to left, for sure, Guzman would motor all the way to third for a triple. Yet, he didn't have to. To just about every one's surprise, somehow, the stroked ball JUST CLEARED the fence and slammed off The DC United MLS Champions Banner over The Nationals Bullpen. A shocking Home Run for Cristian Guzman like no other. As far as I can recall--I don't remember Our Number 15 EVER hitting a baseball out of RFK. RallyTimeRichard and I just stared at each other. Neither believing what we just witnessed. "THE GUZ", the so called "NEW GUZ" had powered out an all important insurance run. The African Queen and BangTheDrumNatly rejoicing in Guzman's Revival. During Cristian's Awful 2005 campaign--they may well have been Our Number 15's only two fans in existence.

Really, I still can't believe that baseball went out for a Home Run. The last of Guzman's three hits tonight--raising his average to .337--just Incredible.

Curly "W" number 31 was won The Old Fashioned Way.

Pitching, Timely Hitting, Solid Defense. Our Washington Nationals Simply Beat The Cleveland Indians Tonight 4-1.

Game Notes & Highlights:

At precisely 8:43PM, the gates to Our Washington Nationals Bullpen opened and an old friend emerged for the very first time since September 2005, wearing his customary Number 56. Luis Ayala was back playing Major League Baseball. His journey from reconstructive elbow surgery now complete. Was I ever happy. You better believe I gave him A STANDING OVATION. One of my Favorite Players from that magical Inaugural Season, Luis had destroyed his elbow pitching in The World Baseball Classic in March 2006--throwing far too soon after minor surgery on that same right elbow in the fall of 2005. Ayala has been lost for some time. Openly, he has mourned his inability to compete on the Big Stage--no doubt--feeling he had let down so many of his fellow teammates.

For his debut tonight, Manny Acta threw him right into the fire--relieving Micah Bowie in the 5th inning with Indian runners at first and second and one out. With No time to just get his feet wet, Luis Ayala had to deliver. The game was stilled tied at one at this point--a Cleveland rally sure to break open this affair. Luis' first two pitches to Jhonny Peralta were high breaking pitches no where near the location his catcher Brian Schneider wanted. Fortunately Peralta was anxious and swung at ball two. But, that didn't please Schneider--who immediately called time and stepped out to calm down the antsy Ayala. Eventually, Luis would fool Peralta--but Jhonny would get just enough of the fifth pitch of this At-Bat to loft the baseball into no where's land--between Guzman at short and Ryan Church in left. Everyone safe--bases loaded, one out. And, The Cleveland Indians sending The Very Dangerous Slugger--Travis Hafner to the plate to pinch hit--batting lefthanded.

Hafner was looking to do just one thing--Break Open The Door with a game changing Grand Slam. Luis Ayala was looking to slam shut that very same door. After falling behind 2-1 in the count to Hafner---Travis was looking for that pitch to drive. Instead, Ayala provided an outside pitch that Hafner pulled--on the ground--right at Felipe Lopez. FLop quickly turned and tossed to "The Guz" gliding across the second base bag for the first out--then Guzman--actually took his time--gathered himself and made a perfect toss to Dimitri Young at First Base for a RALLY KILLING, INNING ENDING, Double Play. Luis Ayala with THE TRIUMPHANT SWEEPING FIST PUMP OF JOY at the result. The Entire Crowd of Nationals Fans on their feet ROARING its Approval. Luis Ayala had returned in style--providing The Defensive and Game Changing Play of This Game.

How Sweet it must have felt to be Luis Ayala tonight. Our Number 56 returning in style--unfailing in his effort.

Ayala to Rivera to King to Colome to Rauch to Cordero pitched 4 and 2/3rds scoreless innings. The uncertainty and poor performances shown by Saul and Jesus just two days ago against Detroit--forgotten past memories. In fact, with the lead heading into the 9th inning this season--Our Washington Nationals are 27-2.

"The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game"--absolutely DOMINANT in his one inning of work. Chad Cordero earned his 12th save of the season. His ERA now down to a very respectable 2.57.


Our Washington Nationals have now won all 7 starts by Micah Bowie. Although Micah was far removed from this one when the final out was recorded. Stunning to read that he threw 104 pitches in just 4. 1 innings. Good Thing The Indians were swinging for the fences. Most other good hitting teams might have hammered him.

Saul Rivera was awarded the victory--evening his record at 2-2. FLop went 3-4 tonight. Felipe and "The Guz" combining for 6 of Washington's 12 hits at the top of the order.


Only in baseball can you regularly witness something you may have never seen before--even after watching thousands of games. Tonight, 25,534 saw The Indians Franklin Gutierrez strike a hard grounder right at Ryan Zimmerman. The ball hopped up at the last moment--Ryan thought the baseball had bounced off him and proceeded to turn to retrieve the baseball. Yet, it was no where to be found. Because--the baseball had lodged within his Uniform Jersey Top--and safely rested just above his belt buckle. Gutierrez was safe on first, awarded a single. While everyone else had a mighty fine laugh. Just another reason why Baseball never ceases to amaze me.

Finally, as The African Queen and I were leaving Section 320 tonight, a nice man came up to us to thank us for our efforts on The Nats320 blog. I asked him his name--and he told me he must show me his Driver's License first. What a treat this became. Without saying his last name, I can tell you his Given name is "LOU GEHRIG". Sohna and I got a real kick out of him. Only a baseball fan who became a baseball parent could ever give their child such a great name. Thank you for sharing--Lou.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Lawrence Jackson

Five Minutes With Ryan Langerhans

This past Wednesday, June 20th, I headed over to The ESPN ZONE to take in the monthly Washington Nationals "Meet & Greet" with a player from Our Washington Nationals--hosted by Radio Broadcaster Charlie Slowes. This week's affair was a Double Header of sorts. Team President Stan Kasten joined Centerfielder Ryan Langerhans as the Guests of Honor. Both took questions from a very large crowd of nearly 200 folks--packed around the top floor on the 11th & E Street Eatery. As usual, both signed autographs for all those who wished. And, Our Washington Nationals provided Red Curly "W" Caps to anyone in attendance that wished to receive one.




A Fan from Cleveland, Ohio mentioned to me that he was in town just on vacation and happened to pick The ESPN Zone as his place to eat lunch that day. "I have been a Cleveland Indians Fan my ENTIRE LIFE, and they have NEVER DONE a Lunch Time Meet and Greet with a player or team official." this nice man told me. When I responded by telling him that Our Washington Nationals had done just such a get together since the very first month of April, 2005--he was impressed. "Those guys know what they are doing. Building Team Trust and a Closeness, we in Cleveland never have been a part of," he concluded. Thereupon, this man went up, received his Curly "W" Cap and proceeded to get autographs from both Ryan Langerhans and Stan Kasten.

Mr. Kasten took his usual questions concerning team building and the new stadium. Including an affirmation that "It was my responsibility, and mine only" to not return Former Manager Frank Robinson as Manager of Our Washington Nationals. "I will take all the hits for that move. I felt we needed to go in another direction.

You can read the majority of the question and answers at MLB.com. One of their Nationals.com reporters, Michael Phillips was there taking everything in for his post. We actually talked for some time. It was nice to hear that he has read The Nats320 blog on occasion.


For Fans following New Nationals Park closely--Mr. Kasten stated that JULY 11th is the scheduled ceremony for "TOPPING OFF" New Nationals Park. From that point forward, all construction will be filling in the details. And hopefully, that will mean more and more opportunities to have fan events coinciding with the stadium construction. So, EVERYONE can have a better chance to see what's being built on South Capitol Street.


Of course--being there meant an opportunity to Chat with a player from Our Washington Nationals. Ryan Langerhans (after being warned by Mr. Kasten--jokingly-- telling him that everything he said to me would be available online for the world to see in a matter of minutes) agreed to Five Minutes of Questions and Answers. He was great and very gracious with his time.

We begin following up on a comment Ryan made to NatsAccess, the MASN show that I found very interesting concerning the June 13th, 2007 game in Baltimore.

You were talking about your reaction to Washington Nationals Fans cheering on their team in Baltimore last week? (SBF)

“Yeah, I think it was the bottom of the 8th inning and they (The Orioles) got a couple of runners on in a one run ball game, and we got out of the jam—and I looked up and the whole side of the stadium above our dugout and all the way down the leftfield line—everyone was on their feet cheering. It was like Our Fans had taken over that side of the stadium. It was just great to see. Everyone coming in off the field and everyone on our bench noticed this. A Really Nice Moment.”

There is a lot of talk about how close this team is. How the players not out on the field, are always still involved in the game. Always on the railing watching. How is that different from your experience in Atlanta? (SBF)

“WE (Our Nationals) are always out there battling every day. No doubt, its tough to win. But, we have to bring our best effort each and every day. The feeling is good here as I have seen each and every guy, in this Clubhouse, wants to put in the work that its going to take to for us to get where we want to be (A Consistently Winning Team). The Perfect Example was that rally we almost pulled off the other night (Monday, June 18th—9-8 loss) against The Tigers. Believe me, EVERYONE is leaving it all out there for all nine innings, and then some.”

How weird was that week when you were traded from Atlanta to Oakland to Washington without stepping foot in the Athletics Home Park (McAfee Coliseum)?

“Really it was CRAZY and VERY HARD ON ME. I was struggling really badly with the bat (hitting below .100) at the time. Then, to get traded from the Organization I grew up in (Atlanta) was very tough. Then play for Oakland for two days. Then fly again halfway across the country to meet up with The Nationals in Chicago was just draining. I didn’t know what to expect. But, I have settled in. I am happy to be here in DC now. In a short period of time, I have really come to enjoy this group of guys and playing with this group of guys.”

Losing your close friends and teammates is tough when traded—especially after coming up and being together, sharing so many experiences both on and off the field—are you really comfortable? (SBF)

“Yes, I think I fit in here really well. No doubt I going to miss those guys (Langerhans had mentioned during the ESPN Zone chat that for the first two weeks after being traded twice, he spoke with his Best Friend, Former Braves Teammate Jeff Francouer each and every day). I am still going to keep in touch with those guys. They are still my friends. But, I like the fit here. I like the opportunity to play Centerfield here (The Great Andruw Jones was blocking him in Atlanta). Really (almost surprising in tone), its been a very good experience.”

Also, Ryan Langerhans had mentioned during the ESPN Zone Chat that in his two days as an Oakland Athletic, he only knew their Closer, Huston Street—no one else. Upon arriving in Washington he knew, if even only casually, many more Washington Nationals Players—which has made his transition far easier landing with another National League Team, instead of an American League Team.

For two seasons now, I have seen you track down each and every baseball that has ever come your way here at RFK Stadium. Including a memorable one earlier this season when you tracked down a Dimitri Young , potential game winning drive—that you caught on the run down the left field line that, honestly, looked like you were running a timed football receiver pattern and The Quarterback hit you in perfect stride (I knew right away, he remembered EXACTLY the play I was talking about—what a smile). So, what did your Former Atlanta Teammates think about playing in RFK Stadium and have those thoughts changed in your short time playing for Washington? (SBF)

“It (RFK) is a very tough park to hit in. But, at the same time it can be an extremely favorable ballpark to hit in. Because, it is SO BIG—So Much Ground to cover out there that its far tougher to hit the Home Run. But, you have to realize there is all that ground to get base hits. As a Brave, we didn’t dread coming here, but you knew you were not expected to hit a home run this weekend or series.”

“Now, since I have been here, I see the flip side of everything with RFK. I have started to use the ballpark to my advantage at the plate.” (It’s a double and triples hitting ballpark—SBF) Smiling grandly Ryan replied; “Yes—Yes it is. If you can hit some line drives into the gaps and down the lines, you are going to be able to run for a long, long time.”

How about playing the outfield at RFK Stadium? The Distances are Vast. How difficult is it to cover all that ground? (SBF)

“No doubt—those distances are VAST. There have been times when we have been able to cut down the gaps really good. Then, of course, there are times when balls slip through. Its really one of those situations when the ballpark is so big there is no way you can cover everything. There is going to be sometimes when hitters are going to place the ball in a spot you simply just can’t get too. But, it’s the same for both sides. So, it evens out.”

Last question. You were struggling with the bat when you got here. You seem to be doing far better now. What’s the difference? Who has helped you? What’s changed? (SBF)

“Its getting my confidence back. Its getting my swing back. Getting my hands going again. When I first got here to Washington, I was doing everything (swinging the bat) with my body. I wasn’t doing anything with my hands. So, my bat speed was not good. My success lately has been a result of working with Lenny Harris (Interim Batting Coach). He told me ‘everything looks fine’, its just that ‘you are not getting your hands going’. That’s why I was just getting beat on a lot of pitches. So, I have been working to improve that part of my batting. Things have really been going a lot better. My average is starting to creep up there, although I would still like to cut down on the strikeouts a little bit. I have been striking out too much. But, that's something I can’t go up to the plate and worry about.”

I’ll betcha being more comfortable in your surroundings now has been a big help also? (SBF)

“Yes, definitely. A lot less to worry about.--a lot more time to concentrate on Baseball.”

With that, My Five Minutes with Ryan Langerhans was up. Our Number 4 was really kind to give me some of his time, as he was heading off immediately to RFK Stadium to prepare for this past Wednesday Nights game versus The Detroit Tigers.

Being Unsure

The Human Rain Delay was on the mound for Our Washington Nationals. Tonight's Game was on the line and Our Number 43 looked mighty uncomfortable. Jesus Colome had inherited a No Outs Bases Loaded Situation courtesy of Saul Rivera and promptly gave up a Brandon Inge tie breaking single to right, scoring Magglio Ordonez giving The Detroit Tigers a 4-3 lead.

Then, the fun really began. With the bases still loaded and nobody out, Colome returned to his pitching form well remembered from an earlier time in his career. His Journeyman Career. He was unsure. Unsure How to pitch Omar Infante. Unsure what to throw. Unsure how to get out of this jam. After arguably being Our Best Pitcher through 71 games this season, Game Number 72 saw Jesus Colome unsure how to retire The Tigers Back Up Second Baseman.

What was to come was unquestionably The At-Bat Of The Year, both in terms of pitches thrown--pitches fouled off--walks around the mound, along with fidgeting on the mound, and some great gamesmanship by Infante. Colome would throw his first two tosses to Infante outside the strike zone for ball two. Then, Omar would foul off three consecutive pitches. After each and every foul--Colome would take a ball from either Catcher Brian Schneider or Home Plate Umpire Mike Everitt and proceed to walk around the mound--slowly walk up to the rubber--looked in for the sign--maybe take his foot off the rubber again--then repeat the process--Finally Throwing The Pitch. It got so annoying that Omar began to also call for time, slowly step away from the Batters Box and then get back in--allowing Jesus Colome to repeat his antics all over again. Finally, Our Number 43 threw pitch number 7 of this lengthy At-Bat in the dirt to load up the count at 3-2. And, what did Colome Do? He walked off the mound, fidgeted, talked to Schneider, walked up to the rubber--looked in for the sign--and saw Omar Infante CALL TIME!!

Repeat Process. You had to laugh. All of us in Section 320 couldn't believe what we were seeing. An At-Bat reaching the 5 minute mark in what would become a 30 minute half inning. Eventually, Colome & Infante would get around to playing This Great Game again--with the same result for pitches number 8, 9, 10 & 11. That's right--All foul balls.

As I have said before, the farther and deeper a hitter goes into the pitch count--The Batter has a huge advantage. The Hitter, in this case, Omar Infante, knew this. "Omar's going to rap a game breaking single--its just a matter of time," I said to The African Queen. Sure enough--after all the strolls around the mound, the fidgeting, the uncertainty, the gamesmanship and time outs--Colome reverted to the Jesus of old and JUST FIRED IN A FASTBALL as hard as he could humanly toss it--just like the old days--when he struggled with control and his command. Omar Infante, like many Major League Hitters before him facing Colome, just went with the pitch--stroking the baseball to right, scoring Carlos Guillen for The Tigers 5th run of the evening.

Omar had won the battle of wits. Jesus had lost the war of uncertainty. Colome would never recover. By the time this terrible top of the sixth inning ended--Jesus had allowed all three inherited runners by Saul Rivera to score and two additional more of his own doing. A one time 3-3 Ballgame was now well distanced by Detroit. An 8-3 advantage that Our Washington Nationals couldn't recover from tonight.

The 8-4 final score giving The Hard Hitting Detroit Tigers a three game sweep of Our Washington Nationals tonight. All on heels of Our Most Reliable Reliever this season, losing control, looking unsure--all the while delaying this ballgame to a depth hardly seen before. Was he ever slow and timid. Everybody has a bad night--but, hopefully tomorrow, Our Pitching Coach Randy St.Claire will sit down with Jesus Colome and get him straightened out. Colome looked no where near the quality performer he had been through the first 11 weeks of the 2007 Season.

Can Those Tigers EVER HIT!! If their relief pitching was slightly better--they would easily be A Top Team, along with The Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox. What a performance at the plate by Detroit over the past three days. I can only dream about racking up runs like that by Our Washington Nationals on such a consistent basis. Maybe, one day soon, that dream will come true.

Game Notes & Highlights:

Saul Rivera got the loss tonight by entering in the 6th of a tie ballgame and setting a fire--proceeding to not retire a single batter. Magglio Ordonez walk. Carlos Guillen single to right and Mike Rabelo walk. Our Manager Manny Acta had seen enough already from Saul. And, brought in Colome. A decision tonight that just fueled that fire and turned this close ballgame into an absolute disaster.

Speaking of disasters--there is No Doubt that Cristian Guzman has been a revelation at times in 2007. Currently hitting .327 with some key hits and terrific runs around the bases. But, tonight, "The Guz" reminded me of The Number 15 of 2005 with two mental mistakes that come from just not having your head in the game. In the top of the 5th--Tigers Starter Jeremy Bonderman hit a routine lazy moving grounder to "The Guz'' at shortstop. Guzman took a lazy tract to the baseball, nonchalanting a one hand glove scoop that rolled over his hand for a silly error. Eventually, this blooper wasn't costly, although Bonderman would reach third base with two outs. But, there is no excuse for laziness.

A laxness that Cristian again showed in the DECISIVE 6th inning. With Curtis Granderson on first and Omar Infante on third after his "At-Bat Of The Year"--Detroit's Craig Monroe would hard chop a Colome Pitch to Ryan Zimmmerman's left, in the hole. "Z" made a nice play ranging over, but with one out--only could toss to Dimitri Young to retire Monroe. Infante scored the 5th run of the inning. But, Granderson rounded second on Zimmerman's toss to first realizing that "The Guz" did not over play behind Ryan to cover third base. Dimitri Young had no one to throw to at 3rd for the out--because Guzman was watching and not participating. Sure--Granderson eventually didn't score as, thankfully, Marcus Thames would ground out to Zimmerman for the final out, on a fine charging in underarm toss scoop throw by Ryan--But the point had been made. Cristian Guzman was asleep and not paying attention to the entire situation at hand.

And, since I am on the subject of tentative play. Also in that top of the 6th--Magglio Ordonez had walked to lead off. Carlos Guillen was next. Guillen is a fine hitter, that can hit the baseball to all fields--with some power (in fact--he knocked a two run shot to left that bounced off the very top of the wall for a homer in the 4th). This time, Detroit had the Hit & Run on. With Carlos batting lefthanded--why DID Felipe Lopez move to cover 2nd base on the steal by Ordonez? Carlos is batting lefthanded. Was Rivera supposed to send the pitch to the outside corner and miss badly? As FLop ran to second--Carlos Guillen, being the professional hitter he is--promptly sent a routine ground ball, right to where Lopez was previously placed for a clean single to right. This Hit & Run the Harbinger of bad things to come for Washington that inning. So Manny--Why was "The Guz" not covering second on that steal? Just Curious. Was that ever costly.

As is always the case in each and every baseball game--Our Washington Nationals had their one shot late--to turn the game around. A Two Out Rally loaded the bases after Zimmerman singled earlier and Ryan Church was Hit-By-Pitch and Schneider walked. Unfortunately--the newly re-arrived Brandon Watson was the scheduled hitter. A slap hitter with no power who was hitless tonight--there was NO WAY Our Manager Manny Acta lets "00" hit for himself. The Good Choice was Ronnie Belliard. But this evening--Belliard was not successful--flying out to left to kill the rally and really--Our Final Opportunity to pull back into this one.

For a Wednesday Night, there was good sized crowd at The Old Ballyard Tonight. 26,637 were on hand. Many into this one, it helps with School no longer in session. Although, Sohna and I continue to be impressed with the large contingent of Detroit Tigers Fans at all three games this week at RFK STADIUM. Really, Detroit had a good turnout of fans. Being an Original American League Team now 107 years in the making--I guess I shouldn't be too surprised--especially with The Tigers coming off Winning The American League Pennant and participating in The World Series in 2006.

The Three Roster Moves made today by Our General Manager Jim Bowden, I found very interesting. Brandon Watson being recalled due to Robert Fick going on the Bereavement List is a sign that Watson is not even in the short term plans. When Watson surprisingly made The Starting Lineup over My Main Man!! Ryan Church in 2006, I was personally shocked. Brandon is nowhere near the player that Church is. Watson was terrible for us and was eventually sent down, released and passed around to a few other teams, whereupon he eventually resurfaced in Washington Today after a record breaking 43 game hitting streak playing AAA Ball. How odd it was to see Watson in Center and Church in left tonight. Where's Frank Robinson when you need him, maybe Livan's coming back next? Brandon Watson has no arm, limited defensive skills and can hit singles--that's about it. Just another version of Nook Logan in a varying degree. Once Fick returns in 3 to 7 days, as the rules stipulate--someone on the 25 man roster must go. If its Watson, he must be sent through waivers to return to AAA Columbus. After going 0-3 tonight and showing no spark--it sure seems to me that "00's" time is limited to less than 5 more days. And, then he's gone.

I wasn't surprised about Winston Abreu being Designated for Assignment--He's 30 and after a good start--fell apart. He's not in the long term plans. There is no need to keep him. And, as much as I like Levale Speigner--The Rule V Draftee--was out of his depth in the Starting Rotation. A position he was forced into due to injury. Our Number 36 had some talent--just not well developed enough to be anything but a sacrificial lamb. That's too bad--It will be interesting to see if he clears waivers or The Twins buy him back from Washington.

Luis Ayala's return to The 25 Man Roster is THRILLING for me. Just love the man and missed him dearly over the past season and one half. In 2005--Majewski to Ayala to Cordero was a DOMINANT Trifecta was Our Washington Nationals. I am not expecting Our Number 56 to be thrown back into a tough situation straight off the bat, but I am happy to see his return. And besides, during Our Spring Training Adventure in Viera, Florida this past February--Luis Ayala was nothing short of WONDERFULLY kind to both The African Queen and I. We really like him.

Chris Schroeder--also recalled today--can hum the ball--strike out the side in order--but still get hammered at the same time. That was his M.O. in 2006--lets see if he has turned anything around for 2007


Finally, In the middle of the 3rd inning--The African Queen and I were having a conversation with some of Our Friends in Section 320 over the Relocation Process at New Nationals Park when Clint and The NatPack came over to surprise us with one of their RFK--Random Acts of Kindness. Sohna and I were presented with Gift Certificates to "RED, HOT & BLUE Barbecue Restaurants" We were thrilled. And, Mary (Mrs.MickNats) was quick on the draw and took this picture of us being presented with the prizes. Honestly, we had NO IDEA this was going to happen. We couldn't thank Clint and The NatPack Enough.

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

Its Raining Runs

The Loud Clapping of Thunder was heard overhead for the first time tonight. There was hope, after all. Maybe, just maybe-luck would be on our side. Because at that point, Our Washington Nationals were already down 9-0, the bases were again loaded and The Detroit Tigers Brandon Inge was at the plate. Oh yeah-there was also just One Out.

"Do you think we can get a Rain Out? Please!!" I stated. The very next pitch my prayers were answered. Only the thunder clap that followed was the sound of that Wood Bat Thumping The Baseball, AGAIN--this time off a Levale Speigner fastball driven by Inge to right center scoring everyone. At that point, I realized it had been raining all night long--in the fashion of RUNS scored by The Detroit Tigers.

Our Washington Nationals got routed this evening. A Downright Colossal Beating. One of those nights YOU HAVE NO CHANCE TO WIN. When The Tigers had finished off the ample onslaught this muggy night at RFK Stadium, the final score was 15-1. By the 7th inning, the announced crowed of 22,227 had been reduced to Friends & Family Size. Not many were left watching.


Jason Simontacchi got ROCKED for 10 runs--10 Earned Runs in just three innings of work. Its hard to believe his ERA only rose to 6.31. And, only Billy Traber was unscored upon among the four Nationals relievers that followed Simontacchi. This game was so far out of hand--The African Queen and I spent the final four innings talking and visiting with friends. Why not, the baseball game had little interest.

Unfortunately, I can't call this massacre "Forgettable". Because, if you witnessed this debacle--you will remember it. How could you not? Rarely do baseball games get SO FAR out of hand. At RFK Stadium tonight--The Clouds Surely Opened Up--It WAS RAINING RUNS--almost all at the hands of The Detroit Tigers.

Those Guys Can Hit!

Game Notes & Highlights:


For the second consecutive night, Marcus Thames reached the Upper Deck, this time to Section 445--fourth row. Surprisingly, this Home Run was also hit off the same Nats Pitcher as last nights clout to Section 443--Winston Abreu. Marcus HAMMERED THAT PITCH TONIGHT--the baseball's flight MAJESTIC.

In the bottom of the first, Detroit Tigers Starter Chad Durbin threw an outside fastball to the left handed swinging Cristian Guzman that "The Guz" fouled off behind the Nationals Third Base Dugout. The baseball bounced on the walkway directly in front of Section 320, caromed over my head and landed in the row right behind. So, I reached over and picked it up. In all the baseball games I have attended over the many years--this is only the second baseball I have ever retrieved. The First coming in 2005, when Vinny Castilla fouled one directly into my hands while Sohna and I were sitting in the Upper Deck behind First Base during a game against The Atlanta Braves.

During the 5th inning--regular Nats320 Reader and Commenter Eddie Cunningham stopped by to visit. He cracked The African Queen up when he mentioned to her that "She Owes Me" for not allowing me to watch last Saturday's Game at Toronto on TV because I had promised her that Saturday was Her Day. It was very funny. Eddie & I chatted in the tunnel just to the left of Section 320 for some time.

Later, in the 7th, another Nats320 Reader HJMcK came by to introduce himself, meet Sohna and talk for the very first time. . Initially, we all began talking in the seats-then HJMcK and I moved down to the Tunnel to continue the conversation. All while My Best Friend!! Screech came by for some fun. So, I introduced Screech to him. I lost track of the game for an inning as HJMcK told me he is also a Native Washingtonian and loves the fact that Our Washington Nationals relocating here gives all of us a TRUE HOMETOWN TEAM. I couldn't agree with him more. We had a fine chat. Hopefully, he will come back and see us soon.

Of course Little Abby was in attendance tonight in Section 320 with her parents Becky & Mike in tow (as always). Sohna, Mike & I got into this very long conversation covering various topics--the most interesting was finding out how many friends and colleagues we both knew either from my growing up in Alexandria, Virginia. Or, Mike working with or alongside these same folks over the years. Quite stunning actually.

Finally--Sitting in Section 320 tonight were a few Potomac Nationals Players. Apparently, they had just returned from a long roadtrip and had today off. So, a few of them stopped by RFK Stadium to see their Parent Club. I didn't recognize all of the players, but I had met Justin Maxwell in Viera during Our Spring Training Trip this past February. Maxwell is a talented young outfielder with Speed, A Throwing Arm & Power. Pretty Nice Tools that any Major League Team would covet.

Spotting Maxwell walking up the stairs--I took the opportunity to go over and speak with him briefly. Pleased to find out--he remembered Our Chat. The Former University of Maryland Star told me he has a Staph Infection, but will be cleared to play soon. Out of nowhere, Justin was having a fabulous early season run at Low A Ball Hagerstown before being promoted to Potomac last week. "Its all about confidence," he told me. "I understand what is expected of me. Before, this season--I was struggling. I didn't know the pitchers and what they could do. It hurt me. (Yet, you were injured also--SBF) "Yes, injuries set me back. Its amazing how much better you can do when you are not thinking about being hurt. Just play ball." (Have you had the opportunity to speak with Nationals General Manager Jim Bowden? Has he told you what the team expects from you? "Yes, we have talked briefly. I think they want to see what I can do when I am healthy. Which, despite this minor setback (The Infection), I am doing well. I'm looking forward to getting back to playing at Potomac."

Only for a few minutes did we speak-but I enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with him.

Sohna and I send out our best to Robert Fick--who lost his mother this morning after a long illness.

PS--Do notice in the Scoreboard Picture at the top of the post--it reads that The Tigers are Batting in The Top of The 10th!! Knowing how much fun we have in Section 320 laughing at the consistent scoreboard mistakes for nearly three years now--I couldn't help but chuckle over this one. Can you imagine if an actual Major League Game went Extra Innings and one team scored 14 runs. That would be Fabulous to SEE!!

Also--speaking of Scoreboard mistakes--Our Washington Nationals were thanking Major Corporate Sponsors tonight for attending between innings on the Video Board in rightcenterfield. Every one of us in Section 320 cracked up when the electronic board read: EXXON MOBILE (Yes, that's right--EXXON MOBILE!!! With An "E" on the end) Let's only hope that EXXON MOBIL (No "E" on the end) does not want to be The New Stadium Naming Rights Sponsor. How can you miss something like that? EXXON MOBIL one of the largest cash cow organizations on the planet. Just flat out funny.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Nick Wass

A Near Miracle

The Most Obnoxious Detroit Tigers Fan you could EVER have the displeasure to sit next to had finally SHUT UP!! For 8 Plus innings tonight this Jerk had taunted each and every one of us in Section 320. The more he drank--the worse he became. But, after Felipe Lopez singled in the 8th run in the bottom of the 9th for Our Washington Nationals and Ryan Zimmerman had immediately followed with a lacing liner to right--not a sole in attendance tonight at RFK Stadium did not believe Washington was going to come all the way back, from a 9-1 deficit, to win.

Three runs were already in, FLop on second, "Z" on first, there were ZERO OUTS and Dimitri Young was stepping to the plate. What was left of 22,562 were mostly all standing on their feet. Nats Faithful making a ton of noise. The Sea of Bobbing Heads along the third baseline stands had returned. The Ballpark was in a FRENZY. The Jerk-- now slumping in his seat--a drunken stupor on his face. The Tide had turned. But, unlike this man's actions earlier--in Section 320, we showed far more class than he ever gave us. We said nothing back to him. It was more satisfying to see him wallow in his own sorrow. After three hours of acting The FOOL, this man might have realized, we were pretty decent folks. And, he had shown us NO RESPECT.

Respect which Our Washington Nationals showed none of to Detroit's Closer Todd Jones this evening. Having inherited a 9-5 lead heading to the bottom of this terrific 9th inning--Jones could not get ANYONE OUT, for quite some time. Ryan Langerhans pinch hit for ever shaky Nook Logan and greeted Todd with a liner down the right field line for a leadoff double. Robert Fick was next. Fick, a late inning double switch replacement when the game was seemingly out of hand--followed with an opposite field liner to left, moving Langerhans to third. And, when "The Guz" hammered a Todd Jones fastball into the right field corner--THE RACE WAS ON--Langerhans scored easily--Fick being waved on home by Third Base Coach Tim Tolman. The Crowd ROARING ITS APPROVAL!!. Our Number 15 was motoring and set his sites on 3rd base. Guzman, running hard, slid into third with a game changing two run triple--pulling Our Washington Nationals within two runs at 9-7. If you thought RFK Stadium was loud before--the noise level now--near deafening. Folks were going wild. Everyone sensing a FRANTIC WIN!

Todd Jones had stirred up an Hornet's Nest, with Felipe Lopez and Ryan Zimmerman adding those extra stings. Now Dimitri was up. There could not have been a player, coach or manager on either side that did not understand the irony of this situation. Young was released by Detroit last season due to well documented personal problems. A year in which The Tigers won The American League Championship and advanced to The World Series. These Tigers are a pretty good team.

Dimitri Young's baseball career was a distant afterthought over this past winter, until Our Washington Nationals came a calling. Now, Our Number 21 has turned around his life and career. Many feeling Dimitri Young deserving of the Comeback Player of The Year. With The Boisterous Throng living off every pitch now--Dimitri took ball one batting lefthand. Then proceeded to foul off three consecutive pitches. Each time you could hear the air coming collectively out of every single fan watching. Totally out of the blue, this game was tense--and it only got better.

On the 5th pitch of this At-Bat, Dimitri Young HAMMERED a grounder down the first base line--past Detroit's Sean Casey at first base. A sure game tying, possible game winning hit! Only to see the baseball go JUST FOUL!! The EVER LOUD sound of "OOOOHHH!!" from the disappointed gathered masses--amazing to hear. If you stayed to this ending--you were being treated to an ABSOLUTE THRILLER!!

Todd Jones had now thrown 18 pitches, given up three runs and had yet to record a single out. Until--he finally fooled Dimitri Young and got him to chase a high fastball for strike three and the first out of the bottom of the 9th. Dimitri returning to haunt his old team--not in the cards tonight. But, this game was far from over. Austin Kearns was next. The Crowd still on its feet. The Heads continuing to bobble along the third baseline. Our Number 25 has begun to hit in the clutch. And, as a veteran player, he has to know-- when you have a pitcher in trouble--you have to be patient.

So, what did Austin Kearns do? He swung at the very first pitch--looking to send the ball into rightfield.

Unfortunately, Austin hit the baseball right at Casey at first base. Sean turned and threw to Carlos Guillen gliding across second base for Detroit. It looked like a sure GAME ENDING Double Play. But, Carlos had trouble moving the baseball from his glove hand to his throwing hand--the delay, allowing just enough time for Kearns to safely arrive at first. Washington was STILL ALIVE. A Sense of RELIEF throughout the old ballyard. Our Washington Nationals had been lucky. Could that break, be the final advantage to win this ballgame. FLop representing the game tying run was now at 3rd base, with two outs. And, Jon Rauch was the scheduled hitter. No way the pitcher hits.

Making the right move, Our Manager Manny Acta called on his most reliable bench player--Ronnie Belliard. The One Man with the experience to get the that run home. Belliard walked confidently to the plate. "LETS GO NATS" ringing throughout RFK STADIUM. Hardly anyone sitting. How could you sit--this was just too exciting. And, despite Jones being in serious trouble all inning long--Tigers Manager Jim Leyland had no one else warming up. This Game was now Todd Jones' to Save or Lose. The loss a better proposition when Todd threw a first pitch ball one. And, when Our Number 10 worked a Full Count--this game had finally come to a head. Kearns would be running on the pitch--a single into the gap would win it. The Thundering Crowd whooping it up. The Rhythmic Clapping Loud. The Fanfare at an All-Time High for this evening.

With all eyes tuned to the excitement on the field, Jones was tuned to the signals of Pudge Rodriguez, his catcher. Belliard tuned to the game deciding moment at hand. The Time of Day tuned to 10:00PM--Exactly. On Jones' 26th and final pitch of this inning and game--Ronnie Belliard swung and grounded hard into the hole between 2nd and 3rd--those in the stands screaming that a game tying hit might have just been struck-- only to see Tigers Shortstop Carlos Guillen backhanded the ball and throw A STRONG TOSS TO FIRST BASE--caught by Casey--retiring the hard charging Belliard to END THIS GAME. Just like that--a glamorous come from deep behind victory was no longer. 9-8 Detroit, the final score. The Tigers celebration on the RFK Turf, like that of a team winning a playoff game. They well knew--they nearly lost in miraculous fashion.

Shades of sorrow throughout RFK STADIUM from Nationals Fans. To come so close, after coming back from so far, yet still lose, put a serious damper on one marvelous ending to tonight's affair. Down 9-1 after 5 innings, No One was expecting a finish like this. Baseball never ceases to amaze me. And, as The African Queen noted on our way out of RFK STADIUM Tonight--"There is no shame in that loss. They almost pulled off A MIRACLE".

A Near Miracle that would have been gone down in Nats Lore, and remembered fondly, for years to come.

Oh, that Obnoxious Tiger's Fan--he told all of us to "F-OFF" as he left Section 320 after the game. Very Classy-THAT JERK!!

Game Notes & Highlights:


Matt Chico found out what its like to face a Hitting Machine. The Detroit Tigers can scorch the baseball--hard. They pounded Matt all over the field tonight. Nothing cheap in any of their hits--except for one--which I will explain later. Our Number 47 couldn't make it out of the 5th, eventually being charged with 8 runs. Winston Abreu relieved him--and also got hammered--including giving up a MONSTER HOME RUN to Section 443 hit by Detroit's Marcus Thames. Thames' Homer Launched into the 6th row, near the leftfield foul line. A very impressive shot.

"That's not a good sign," I stated to The African Queen. In the top of the second inning with Magglio Ordonez of second with a double, Thames hit a soft liner to centerfield. Nook Logan immediately went back on the ball--yet the ball was heading a good 30 feet in front of him. Logan changed direction running in. FLop ran out. Austin Kearns ran over. NO ONE CALLED THE BALL. Thames safe with a cheap single. Come on GUYS!! Don't be afraid to catch the baseball. This is happening WAY TO OFTEN!!

This Miscue directly lead to a game changing moment--when with one out--Brandon Inge flied to Ryan Church in left. Ordonez tagged on Ryan's catch and took off for home. My Main Man!! unloaded a NICE THROW to Brian Schneider at the plate. Schneider caught the baseball just up the first base line and appeared to tag Magglio out at the plate. It was The Defensive Play of This Game. Yet, Home Plate Umpire Gerry Davis called Ordonez safe. The Crowd WENT NUTS!!! He sure looked out with the naked eye. We don't have the capability of seeing a replay. But, I just can't imagine Schneider missing that tag. Our Manager Manny Acta promptly came out of the dugout to argue the call--but to no avail.

Of course--if either Logan, Kearns or Lopez had caught Thames pop--this argument would have been moot.

Speaking of Logan, Nook is providing no offense right now. Tonight, he hit into a rally killing double play in the 2nd. And, killed another rally with a weak fielders choice with two runners on in the 6th. He is simply not doing the job. On the other side--Ryan Langerhans is hot with the bat right now. Manny, just stick Ryan in there and see what he can do for you everyday for a while. At least we have a fighting chance of getting some extra base hits with Number 4 at the plate. Something Logan can not do, at all.

"The Guz" had three hits tonight, not only his big triple in the 9th, but a single and double--scoring two runs, raising his average to .325. Guzman also made an inexplicable baserunning blunder in the 3rd after that double. With one out, FLop hit a routine grounder to Guillen at short. With the play in front of him, Cristian took off for third base. Carlos Guillen easily threw "The Guz" out. What were you thinking of? That mental mistake had alot of heads shaking back and forth.

Down 9-1 Washington got back into this game originally in the bottom of the sixth--thanks to their top of the order and a little luck. Guzman single, FLop triple (where Felipe would have been thrown out on the relay if Brandon Inge had not missed the baseball). An error by Guillen on a Zimmerman grounder, followed by a Young sharp grounder to center. Kearns walk and Church run scoring single to left (a beautiful opposite field swing) and Brian Schneider sacrifice fly--before Logan and Pinch Hitter Tony Batista killed the rally. 4 Runs scored in all. Detroit Starter Mike Maroth being knocked out of the game.

From the day he ever played his first Major League Game in 1988, Gary Sheffield has swung the bat harder than any player I have ever seen. Tonight, at age 39--Sheffield continued to show--he is a menace with the baseball bat. His power through the strike zone so swift--if he connects decently at all--the baseball is going to fly out of the park. Its hard to believe, with his coiling action swing, he doesn't mess up his back during each and every At-Bat.

Top Brass for Our Washington Nationals were all in attendance tonight, sitting behind The Nats 3rd Base Dugout. It seemed all The Principal Owners were there--including Managing Principal Owner Ted Lerner. Ted's son--Mark was kind enough to stop by and say hello as he exited the park tonight. Mark Lerner also thrilled by the near miracle ending. "How about that, we almost pulled it off," he stated excitedly.

"Yes, we almost did," I said, as we shook hands.

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

Understanding

"You watch, Kearns is a professional hitter, he will hit the ball to the right side of the infield," Don Sutton stated. Not 5 seconds later, Austin Kearns rapped a slicer down the right field line scoring Dimitri Young with Our Washington Nationals first run of the game. Sutton continued on MASN--"When you do the right things, it rubs off on everyone. Austin Kearns understands the game."

And, with the TONE now set, Our Washington Nationals went on to take this final game of their nine game road trip. Having won five of their first six games at Minnesota and Baltimore this past week, Washington found a less friendly foe North of The Border in Canada. The Toronto Blue Jays had pitched their way convincingly through the first two games of this three game set. A sweep by The Blue Jays would put a serious damper on the tail end of these away series. Yeah, at the start of this road trip, if someone had told me Our Nats would win 5 of 9--I would be pleased. But, losing those final three in Toronto would be disheartening and a momentum killer. Especially, heading back to RFK Stadium to face two of The American League's Best---The Detroit Tigers and The Cleveland Indians.

Today, it was important for Our Washington Nationals to understand that fact. Understand how to end a losing streak. Understand how to win, when you are not playing your best. Understand how to play within yourself. Baseball is a team game. Understand, if you do your job--everyone else will follow. Understand--you are better than believed.

With Dimitri now in with that first Washington score in the top of the 2nd, Brian Schneider understood the situation at hand when he advanced Kearns to third on a ground ball out, up the middle. And Tony Batista followed, with another shot up the middle that bounced off the top of the mound and caromed into centerfield for Washington's second run of the ball game. Neither trying to hit the baseball out of the park, both hitters just looking to take what they were given and produce. Schneider and Batista understanding--just get the lead run home. Mission Accomplished--Washington 2-1 after two.

And, although "The Big Hurt" Frank Thomas would club a Micah Bowie pitch to the nether reaches of left centerfield at SkyDome for a game tying Home Run in the bottom of the 3rd--every Washington player understood--the game was just tied. The Blue Jays had not taken the lead. They had no momentum.


Something Ryan Zimmerman always understands. His gained experience telling him that when you can stay close in a ball game--you can also get lucky. Something hoped for, but never expected, can happen. Zimmerman looking for something to drive, leading off the 4th, received just what he wanted--a hanging slider that Number 11 rarely misses. The Result: A TOWERING HOME RUN into the Second Deck down the left field line off former Baltimore Oriole Starter Josh Towers for his 12th Homer of the Season. Just like that, Our Washington Nationals were back in the lead.


An advantage that Micah Bowie understood was his for the taking, if he continued to pound the strike zone--be aggressive, and don't give in. What more good remarks can I say about Our Makeshift Lefthanded Starter. Our Number 59 Striking Out the dangerous Vernon Wells twice and inducing an inning ending double play at the hands of Curtis Thigpen on the very last of his 96 pitches thrown today in the bottom of the sixth. Really, I want to know. What is it at an Age approaching 33 years that has given Micah Bowie an UNDERSTANDING of the game? An Understanding of how to pitch? An Understanding that he belongs in The Major Leagues. More and more--even The Media has to Understand--Micah Bowie is becoming a fine story--worth following. Number 59 pitching like a 10 year veteran.

An established veteran role that Ronnie Belliard understands. Ronnie's given talents are to fill in when needed--give an everyday player a rest--Be an emergency replacement. Or, Pinch Hit in the clutch. Today, Our Manager Manny Acta rested the slumping Felipe Lopez. So, Our Number 10 started at second base. And, when Ronnie Belliard stepped to the plate with two outs and runners on 1st and 3rd with two outs in the fifth--Belliard, using his veteran savvy, understood he needed to shorten up on his swing. No Time To Be Manny Ramirez, Jr. (as Ronnie's swing so beautifully mimics). With The Blue Jays Towers again in trouble, Belliard also just took what Josh threw--and lined a clean single up the middle for an all important 4th insurance run scoring Robert Fick.

A 4-2 lead Our Manager Manny Acta understood was now, the appropriate time, to hand this affair over to his bullpen. And, only to his Best Guys. Time to steal a win, on the road--in a difficult arena to play. Manny understanding, it was time to close this one out. Time to fly home to Washington, one Happy Group.

Giving the baseball to Jesus Colome, Our Number 43 understanding his role in the 7th. Throwing Strikes, Getting Outs--then handing the baseball over to "The Wookie" for the 8th.


Big Jon Rauch, understanding his situation. While inheriting that two run lead in the 8th--Number 51 threw mostly strikes. And, when he got in trouble with three balls on the very dangerous Vernon Wells--he spotted a gorgeous fastball over the outside corner that Wells had no chance of hitting, tipping it into Brian Schneider's mitt for an important out number two. That's not overthinking. That's not over throwing. That's not trying to do too much. That's understanding the ballgame and the situation you are in. Why test a slider, that can hurt you--when your best stuff, your fastball and location, is working for you.


All, which leads (like all Nats leads) to "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game". With his Father (and Section 320 Favorite) Ed, on hand in Toronto to Celebrate Father's Days with his Son--Chad Cordero understood it was time to close this one out--no time to mess around. Going right after the Dangerous "Big Hurt", Thomas was handcuffed on a backdoor moving fastball and lazily flied to center for out number one. Aaron Hill was next, and Our Number 32 kept pounding the outside corner--until Hill skied a foul ball down the right field line that Austin Kearns ran hard for, to the first row of the seats, to retrieve it for out number two. And, finally--Chad Cordero closed out Curly "W" Number 30 by getting Pinch Hitter Matt Stairs to pop out to Ryan Langerhans to end the game.

Like every single Nationals player before him today--"The Chief Cardiologist" brought his "A" Game for Save Number 11. Chad Did His Job--with the Understanding that everyone else had his back.

That's Understanding How To Win--As A Team.

Our Washington Nationals 30th win today, In Canada, marked a 21-14 record since that terrible 9-25 start.

Everyone watching them--Now Understanding--Our Washington Nationals are not a bad team.

How will they do against The Tigers & Indians this week? Badly, I have waited for these two upcoming series. Possibly the best six game stretch anticipated at home in 2007. Two Excellent American League Teams against The Nationals League's biggest upstart.

Do you think Detroit & Cleveland "Understand" Our Washington Nationals?

Game Notes & Highlights:

In the top of the 6th inning, Austin Kearns hammered an Astroturf grounder that was skidding up the middle. Toronto Second Baseman, Aaron Hill quickly scooted to his right, dove--skidded some more on the hard, unforgiving turf--caught the baseball in his glove, quickly got up and JUST TOSSED OUT Kearns at first for out number two. It was The Defensive Play of This Game. And, I could only wonder, immediately--how much I would love to see "The GUZ" and "FLop" give it up more for Our Team, like Hill just did for The Blue Jays, in similar situations. Remember Hill plays a majority of his contests on that unrelenting field turf. You had to appreciate Aaron Hill's effort. No doubt--he's got some serious scrapes and burns.

Micah Bowie has now started 6 games for Our Washington Nationals in 2007. He sports a 4-0 record, in those starts, and has led Washington to wins in all six games. Incredible. Just Incredible!

And also understand--the very day Randy St Claire IS NOT The Pitching Coach for Our Washington Nationals--we should all begin to mourn. As far as I am concerned Randy St Claire has the job FOR LIFE. What a Pitching Coach!!

Although he has yet to breakout with power--Austin Kearns is beginning to get on base more--drive in some runs--be a better all around performer. His fielding has never suffered during his prolonged slow start at the plate this season--but its nice to see him coming around with the bat. His 5th spot in the batting order needs to produce more--especially with, THE STILL HOT, Dimitri Young and Ryan Zimmerman getting on base in front of him.

How much FOUL TERRITORY can you possibly have in a ballpark while keeping your fans a significant distance from the field? McAfee Stadium in Oakland has a Monster Amount of Foul Territory. But, I never recalled until today the vast distances between the first row of seats and the baseline at SkyDome. If there are 90 feet between the bases, there must have be at least 60 feet between the dugouts and the baseline. Hitters must HATE SkyDome. There was a pop up by Toronto's Adam Lind that Zimmerman ran so hard to retrieve that if he were playing at RFK Stadium-"Z" would have caught the baseball 10 to 15 rows back in the field boxes. That's Amazing to realize. And, also very funny. But sad, if you are a baseball fan in Toronto. No one wants to pay the big bucks and sit that far from the action. NO ONE.

Oh Yeah--those black Blue Jays Jersey's--EVEN UGLIER THAN THE HOME WHITES I decried the other day. What an awful set of uniforms for a team playing in one of the most Cosmopolitan and Wonderful Cities in North America. What A SHAME!!

"Pre-programmed music just to get a crowd response is ANNOYING!!" stated Don Sutton this afternoon on MASN from SkyDome. I couldn't agree with him more. That's why sitting in Section 320 each and every Nationals Home Game is special. Our Chants, Cheers and Song are Heart Felt--not contrived. And who needs pre-programmed music when BangTheDrumNatly and The African Queen perform as The Orchestra. When that man is accompanied by The African Queen pounding away on her beer bottles--usually provided by Budweiser--Section 320 is a Rhythmic Wonder!! Truly a Sight to Behold, And Hear. And, I have not even mentioned RallyTimeRichard--his voice, the linchpin to the operation.


Speaking of Section 320--it was fun to see Royce Clayton face his former team today. During his half-season in Washington in 2006, Royce was basically a caretaker shortstop with no long term commitment. But, he became a Section 320 Favorite--only for the fact that BangTheDrumNatly and I would always pronounce his last name "Claytouun" with a French Canadian Accent, immediately followed by "HEH HEH, HO, HO" Always got a chuckle out of someone surrounding us. "HEH, HEH, HO, HO!!"

Finally, MASN showed something on TV today that I had noticed during the last home stand. As Our Starting Pitcher emerges from The Bullpen after warming up before the game--The Entire Nationals Relief Corps stands in line to slap hands with that Starter, his Catcher and Pitching Coach Randy St. Claire--Wishing today's starter Good Luck. Just another sign that Our Washington Nationals are Relaxed, Close and Building Support, from within, for each and EVERYONE OF THEIR OWN. A very nice gesture.

Today's InGame Photos--(CP) Nathan Dennette

PS--Just a personal note. Usually, I would never mention something like this. But, If you can make it, at all, to one of each of the upcoming series against Detroit and Cleveland, you should. This is MUST SEE BASEBALL when it comes to the competition . Most likely, better teams all season long, will not show up at RFK STADIUM--back to back.

Just a thought, not a sermon.

Happy Father's Day To All You Dad's.