Chatting With Luis Ayala

Until his right elbow started having problems from overuse in 2005--Luis Ayala was quickly becoming one of the finest SETUP Men in the game. The Man With The RUBBER ARM. Almost daily, it seemed--during that Inaugural Season of Our Washington Nationals, then Manager Frank Robinson slowly walked out of the dugout in the 8th inning and signaled for Our Number 56 to bring in his glove, take the baseball, and get Our Washington Nationals out of a jam. Did Luis ever respond--22 holds in a fine season in which Chad Cordero set The Franchise Record for saves with 47.

Only a few other bullpen mates combined to perform so well together during that 2005 campaign. Ayala and Cordero were quite the tandem. And, The ANCHOR STRENGTH behind one of the best Bullpens in the game that year. A Force that was cut short when Luis felt a twinge in his right throwing elbow, late during that summer. His constant appearances had finally taken its toll. Shutdown for precautionary measures in September of that year--Our Number 56 went through minor surgery to repair a bone spur. There were no complications. Luis Ayala would be ready for Spring Training, 2006. Or, so everybody thought.

Then, The First World Baseball Classic was held during the 2006 February/March Time Frame. And, Ayala--against the wishes of Our Washington Nationals--decided to compete. Although--he had just began to throw fully--once again--pressure from former teammates--Esteban Loiaza and Vinny Castilla--was too great to allow Luis to see The Big Picture. And, as most every one knows now--he was wasn't even close to being 100% ready to pitch at the WBC. The awful sight that spring evening, seeing Luis Ayala holding his right elbow while walking, dejectedly, off the pitchers mound during a World Baseball Classic Game--gave the appearance of a funeral taking place. As a fan of Our Washington Nationals--it was a sad, gut wrenching moment. For love of his Native Mexico, Su Pais--Our Number 56's Major League Career might well be dead. Over with, done for--forever. Reconstructive Elbow Surgery was performed. Never did Ayala pitch in another Major League Baseball Game until this past June 22nd, 2007--against The Cleveland Indians--over 20 months between MLB appearances.

Knowing he had let down his Major League Teammates--Luis Ayala worked hard to get back into playing shape. "I worked harder than I ever had in my life, " he told me. "I didn't want to disappoint again. I didn't want to go through that feeling."

During that very first game back--Our Manager Manny Acta put Luis Ayala right into The Fire, that is Major League Baseball. And, he responded--holding a 1-1 tie in check by retiring Travis Hafner--Cleveland's Big Slugger on a bases loaded double play grounder in the 5th inning. A TRIUMPHANT RETURN you usually only dream about.

Nervous at first--Luis Ayala settled down and his 2007 comeback campaign was decent--though not spectacular. But, by the end of this past season--he was becoming--once again, a respected, trusted player, out of Manny Acta's Bullpen--late. And, even recorded his only save of the year during his penultimate appearance at Shea Stadium in New York on September 26th.

Now--with the start of the 2008 Championship Season--just a few short months away--Luis Ayala was kind enough to give me some of his time this past Thursday afternoon at The ESPN Zone in Washington, DC during his Guest Appearance there for Our Washington Nationals Boys & Girls Clubs of Washington Holiday Party. With a half season of Major League Baseball now, once again behind him--Luis says he is looking forward to what his future has in store for him.

“Chief and I were Special in 2005. We had something really good going. I came in, set him up. Then, he came in and closed the door. I would very much like to enjoy that success all over again (in 2008). That, was not only fun—but each game was a pleasure to go out and compete--every day. I want to feel that excitement again.”

You have already been working out—since you only played a half season (coming back from injury). How is it going so far? (SBF)

“I was very excited about how the season (2007) went for me. I know my arm is healthy now. My body is healthy too. So, I was happy to go home, relax and take some time off—especially after all the time off after the injury to my elbow. But, I realized, I now wanted to work out even harder (than I did) from the past. About two weeks ago, I began to work out again really hard. Really, I can’t tell you how excited I am to have the opportunity to come back and play here in the new stadium. Now, I am excited just to be back here in Washington."

So, here we are in early December—and you are already throwing? (SBF)

“Yes, I am on my normal program, throwing, working up my arm strength again. This is how I stay in shape. Really, I didn’t want to play Winter Ball, because I wanted to come back 150% (both of us chuckling) next season. I need to give my Good Team (The Nationals) my best stuff, my best effort. Those are the people that are supporting me the most.”

How difficult was it for you to come back after such a long period of time away, due to your two elbow surgeries? You might have felt good last spring—but you really were not ready? (SBF)

“Yes, that’s true. I felt great. I was not in any real pain (during spring training). But, I had not built up enough strength. Also, I had a problem in my neck. My shoulder was sore. (The Medical Staff) said I was not 100% ready. I needed to take my time after being away for such a long period of time. In fact, I was told, I needed a complete 9 or 10 months to fully recover. So, they told me: 'No—you are not ready.’(at Spring Training) OK, I said. But, I remember I felt bad. I couldn't help my team. So, I took my time, got ready, got my arm healthy, worked out and came back (in June).”

“I went to Jose Rijo. I went to Manny (Acta). I talked to Jim (Bowden). They said they were waiting for me. For the day when my arm was healthy, but not before. Now, I can say, I am ready. Next year (2008), I want to give them my very best during Spring Training. I want to give them my best season of my entire career.”

“My confidence is back. I believe in myself again.”

How different will it be without Brian Schneider as your catcher this season? (SBF)

“I can’t say anything special about that issue. Trades are a part of the job. We are professionals--you never know what is going to happen in baseball. The Nationals traded Schneider. Its good for him—as he has a chance to play for a very good team. Its good for us—as we have another good young catcher (Jesus Flores). It’s a part of the job. We, as players, need to accept every change in the team.”

Personally, you may not like any trade, but the business aspect, you must accept. That’s true. (SBF)

“Yes, very much so.”

Back a bit to last season. When you started playing again for The Nationals—were there days that you simply didn’t have it? I was reading were some doctors have written that baseball players recovering from elbow surgery—can feel strong one day—then feel like they are starting their re-hab all over again the very next day. Not a single pitch can find the plate. This, just as a result of the elbow still working its way back into shape. (SBF)

"Yes, I had a cutoff point on pitches before the All-Star Break. Before I got recalled, I was pitching pretty well in The Minor Leagues—AAA. Then, I remember my first game back against Cleveland. I said to myself: ‘I don’t feel 100%.’ You can get away with that at The Minor League Level more so than The Big League Level. But, I had a greater desire to play (for Washington) and my adrenaline was flowing. I didn’t think I was ready. But, you have to say you are ready. Its why you are here (in The Big Leagues). So, I just had to get comfortable. And, to do that, I needed to pitch in key situations. I get put in and now the bases are loaded (in that first game back) against Travis Hafner (Indians Slugger). I said: “Wow—welcome back to The Big Leagues!!” (Both of us laughing). Then, I made the pitches that help save the game (inning ending double play). It was a GREAT FEELING. I felt I belonged again. And, the crowd at RFK gave me a nice ovation. It really felt good. I was happy.”

"I went to the dugout and said to Manny: 'OK—I am ready!!' (Luis and I bust out laughing—he’s now smiling greatly)."

"But, seriously, I needed to be careful. And, the team (medical staff) worked well with me."

Now, since you did only play that half season—do you believe you can be that workhorse you were before? (SBF)

“Yes, most definitely. Over the last month of the season (2007), I pitched more and more—back to back games. It helped more than anything—to give me my confidence back. My arm was ready then. I didn’t have any pain, any problems. I was ready. I told Manny I was ready to pitch everyday. He said—‘NO, NO, NO!!-take your time’ But, next year, I want to pitch more. Happy I am to be back, and I know my arm is ready for anything.”

Although, I know you feel you are ready right now—take it easy. This Team needs you. (SBF)

“I do keep telling Manny--I am ready right now. He tells me to calm down. Don’t do too much. We are not even in Spring Training. Take it easy. But, its hard—I really want to play and show my teammates they can count on me again.”

[You could just feel his enthusiasm to play. If somebody had told Luis Ayala he could go out to New Nationals Park and throw off the new mound that afternoon—I would bet he would have made the effort—despite the snow. SBF]

So, final question—are you still fooling “The Chief” with those card tricks? (At Spring Training, 2007 in Viera, Florida—Luis Ayala one afternoon, in the Nationals Clubhouse, showed me a series of hocus pocus card tricks. Slight of hand maneuvers that Luis claims always befuddles Chad Cordero. We had a good laugh then.)

And, Luis Ayala LOVED THIS LAST QUESTION. He didn’t stop laughing for about 15 seconds.

“I’ve been working on some new ones—BETTER TRICKS!!!” (everyone breaking out laughing—even the Nats PR Person in attendance. “Chief better be ready.”

I love that story that you told me last spring, I said to Ayala. One of my favorites. (SBF)

“Yeah, it’s a good one. Hopefully, I will have some more to tell. We shall see!!” (all of us laughing mightily)

With that, a hearty handshake and embrace concluded my chat with Luis Ayala. He's straight forward, honest with his thoughts. And, most pleasing for me, Our Number 56 is quite the character. Seemingly, always has time for others. And, enjoys the interaction of meeting different folks. When he mentioned to Principal Owner Mark Lerner later that afternoon at The ESPN Zone that he wished to remain a member of Our Washington Nationals for the remainder of his professional playing career—he meant every single word of it.

“This is a great place to play. Good Atmosphere, Great Fans—Fun is the only to describe it. I really love it here in Washington, DC.” Luis Ayala concluded.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Washington Holiday Party

"I love playing for The Washington Nationals" said Luis Ayala. "I am looking forward to playing in the new park. And (now looking directly at Principal Owner Mark Lerner standing about five feet way), I hope to play the rest of my career here in Washington, DC. I really mean it. I love it here, are you listening?"

Mark Lerner replies nodding and smiling: "Then stay healthy." Everybody cracks up laughing. Smiles all around.




Was Luis Ayala ever in a great holiday spirit!! You can't say enough about his effort yesterday afternoon at The ESPN ZONE in Downtown Washington, DC. The occasion--Our Washington Nationals Second Annual Holiday Party for The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington. Over 180 invited children showed up from 8 different Area Clubs. Five from The District of Columbia, Two from Alexandria and Fairfax, Virginia, and One from Silver Spring, Maryland.




Ayala, Mark Lerner and Senior Vice-President, External Affairs--Alphonso Maldon, Jr. presented each child in attendance with a special holiday gift from Our Washington Nationals.


The ESPN Zone provided, not only the venue, but a Buffet Meal plus Game Tickets for the various play stations on the lower level of their restaurant. Also on hand--Principal Owner Judy Lerner.



Centerplate--The New Concessionaire at New Nationals Park--provided specially made Curly W Holiday Cookies (Really nicely done--by the way).




And--last, but far from least-- My Best Friend Screech!!! posted up to provide the antics.



Honestly, I didn't know what to expect when I first decided to attend this event. But, Luis Ayala was GREAT with the kids. He told some jokes, sang songs with them, played along with their games, signed an autograph for EACH AND EVERY ONE in attendance-- and took plenty of pictures. Our Number 56 worked the room like a real pro. And--most importantly--he was loving every minute of it. HE WANTED TO BE THERE.


Luis Ayala flew in from his home in Mexico on Wednesday--along with his brother--Mario. "I don't see snow often." he said. "So, this is different, but I am really not use to it." Of course--Ayala, like Ryan Zimmerman the day before at The New Nationals Park Holiday Lighting Party, was only wearing a light jacket in the freezing weather, as well. There must really be something about being young and adapting to cold--that I just don't remember as I approach 50 years of age.

The event itself lasted over two and half hours. In addition to the toys provided--each child also received a Goodie Bag of Washington Nationals memorabilia--including a Red Curly "W" Cap. Most all those caps left The ESPN Zone with Luis Ayala's autograph.



Stacey Wiessbock--Head of Catering for Centerplate and Chef Michael Snead (The New Executive Chef for New Nationals Park) took the time to introduce themselves to me and thanked EVERYONE who posted suggestions on The Nats320 Blog about their food and concession desires at the new ballpark. Both assured me that Centerplate was very pleased to receive and hear those comments. And, their company is looking forward to announcing what's in store for New Nationals Park after the start of the new year. Without taking away any one's thunder--Centerplate has been listening--and seemingly does want everyone to enjoy the upcoming choices to be available on South Capitol Street--no matter how much, or how little, you wish to spend at a ballgame. That can't be a bad thing. No way--in my opinion.

The Event itself was fun. Glad, I was to attend. No, not over news worthy--when it comes to The Baseball Operations side of Our Washington Nationals. But, its nice to know Our Team, along with some of their players and business partners--are reaching out to various parts of The Washington D.C. Area Community to show their appreciation--to others. Like the Holiday Lighting Ceremony on Wednesday afternoon and this Party at ESPN Zone. Something simple--goes along way in building and generating a solid fan base--especially during The Holiday Season.

A Few Minutes With Ryan Zimmerman

Yesterday afternoon, after the Holiday Lighting Ceremony at New Nationals Park--Our Washington Nationals Ryan Zimmerman was kind enough to give me a few minutes of his time. A small update on his hand surgery, a look back at his sophomore season of Major League Baseball. And, his view forward concerning the near future of baseball on South Capitol Street.

Our Number 11 was sporting a light tan jacket, no gloves, and an open collar shirt on a wintry, cold, snowy day in Washington, DC. It must feel great to be young. He was in good spirits and enjoying his time with the assembled construction workers of New Nationals Park--despite still wearing a light brace on his left hand as he recovers from his two operations.

With that, here we go.

How is your hand? (SBF)

“Feeling good, everything is right on schedule. Luckily for us—we don’t have to rush or do anything desperate. If we had to, we could rehab five times a week and push it, but we don’t have to. That’s a good thing.”

When I first heard about the surgery, I read that this bothered you for some time? (SBF)

“Yes, sure. But, in baseball something bothers you all the time, every day. So, if you take a day off every single time you are bothered, you would be sitting out every single day. That’s just how I play. My hand was hurting, but I didn’t think much of it that I couldn’t play, so I kept playing.”

Since you are in recovery mode, have you had the chance to think about your second season in The Majors?

“You know what, I learned a lot. If was definitely harder than the first year as to the way people pitch you. They (pitchers) were not surprised by me. And, they did not surprise me anymore. Year number two is definitely harder than year number one, but I learned a lot more about the game. How people are going to treat you (on the field) in certain situations. How I have to adapt to their countermoves. All that experience is going to help me a lot this coming year.”

Before last season began, we talked about how you wanted to cut down on mental errors. The silly mistakes as you mentioned. You had some throwing issues this past season. Are they mental or technical? (SBF)

“No, I definitely don’t think its mental, its more physical than anything else. I never think about an error, the very second I make it. Everyone makes errors and I am going to make more this year (both of us laughing). Everything is going to be fine, really” (more chuckles).

I know that David Wright (NY Mets) is a good friend of yours. You didn’t get Rookie of The Year because Hanley Ramirez (Florida Marlins, 2006) beat you. Some would say—wrongly. Now, a good friend beats you out for a Gold Glove (in 2007)—does it bother you in any way—honestly? (SBF)

“Ah, no. Really, David is a GREAT PLAYER. We talk. He’s got one now (Gold Glove). Let’s see who finishes up (his career) with more (challenging Wright while chuckling, but serious at the same time). Let’s just put it that way.”

You are well aware of the flurry of moves over the past week by The Nationals. What do you think about the power, which has been added? (SBF)

“Well the power and the pitcher (Tyler Clippard) makes us younger. And, the young guys we are adding have great talent. If you look around the league—that is what you need to win. Young guys who can be here for a long time and get better every year together.”

Do you see Lastings Milledge and Elijah Dukes as protection in the order for you? (SBF)

“No, I don’t look at it that way. We have a great core here already that offers enough protection. At a certain point, you only need so much protection. You have to produce yourself. We (Nationals Teammates) are excited to have the fresh talent. And, to see that they (Management) want to make moves and they want to make us better. That just makes everything more exciting as a player, when the Front Office is doing stuff for you.”

How hard is it to take, knowing the team is moving forward—but at the same time—you are losing friends like Brian Schneider as teammates? (SBF)

“Its tough. Obviously I have friends and will miss him. That’s the part where it’s not really a game; it’s a job and business. But, its not like I will never talk to him again (chuckling).

(My time was up) Ryan, its nice to see you again. Good luck with the rehab and thanks for your time. (SBF)

“No problem. Always good to talk to you.”

PS--Pictured above with Ryan Zimmerman. On picture left--Ronnie Strompf--VP, Clark Construction. On picture right--Matt Haas--Project Manager, Clark Construction.



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Holiday Festivities at New Nationals Park

"So, are you going to change the blog name?" said Principal Owner Mark Lerner, laughing. "It's no longer Section 320." SBF replies--"No, I got to stay with my roots. The Nats320 name stays to commemorate three great seasons at RFK." Mr. Lerner smiles knowingly: "I hear ya."




Mark Lerner was on hand in the nearly completed West Garage at Snowy New Nationals Park for this afternoon's Holiday Lighting Ceremony. Included on the dignitary list was Our Washington Nationals Ryan Zimmerman; Michael Herrald--Regional President of PNC Bank; Matthew Cutts--Board Chairman of The DC Sports and Entertainment Commission and The DCSEC's CEO--Greg O'Dell. All joined in thanking the many construction workers at New Nationals Park, this holiday season for their efforts. Following some opening remarks--A Christmas Tree was lit, as well as a Menorah, and Kwanzaa Candles.





Then, Mark Lerner and Michael Herrald handed out to every Construction Employee able to attend the ceremony, a very nice Red Curly W Christmas Tree Ornament. The Gift--Sparkling Red with White Curly W and PNC Bank Logo on the back. That ornament is a nice memento.



Later--Ryan Zimmerman posed with the many workers and signed their Ornaments or Construction Hats. Mr. Lerner and Ryan both then took the time to speak with reporters on hand. You can bet--I also got my few minutes in. Also, I was able to chat with Greg O'Dell concerning the parking situation with free shuttle from RFK that Our Washington Nationals previously announced for customers to New Nationals Park in 2008. Today--my three minutes with Mr. Lerner, followed by an update on the parking situation as it relates to Lot 8 at RFK Stadium for New Nationals Park. Tomorrow--A Few Minutes with Ryan Zimmerman. He has some interesting things to say--about his 2007 Sophomore Season, and the trades made by Our Washington Nationals over the past week. He was in good spirits--left hand still wrapped in a soft brace, after his hand surgery.

But, before the conversations with Mark Lerner and Greg O'Dell--I wanted to pass along an update on the FanFest/Winter Carnival which the team previously stated was on the agenda this winter. Although no specifics yet--the target date for this event will be the last week of January, location or locations, to be announced. And, don't expect a Huge Event that takes up an entire weekend just yet. With all the work that is being done to get New Nationals Park up and running--the scale of this year's event for fans, will be small in comparison to what Our Nationals wish to do in the future. Those are just the facts, as I was told.

Also--Ronnie Strompf--Vice President Clark Construction--Point Man for all the crews working the stadium site--told me that he hopes to have a Special Super Bowl Party for ALL HIS CONSTRUCTION CREWS at New Nationals Park for Super Bowl Sunday this NFL Season. On that date--everyone invited would watch the Big Game on the new HDTV Scoreboard in rightfield at the ballpark. Sort of a cool way to usher in the Screen.

With that--here we go with my brief chat with Mark Lerner:

“It’s a great time of the year and the opportunity to give back a little to those that are working so hard to make this ballpark come true. Just look out there and you can see that everything’s moving along well. This gives us another opportunity to recognize all the construction workers.”



“It’s the holiday season at this terrific place. I am excited about it (The Stadium). Everybody is excited about it. Those construction workers are doing an Herculean task on such a short time schedule. I always tell people that these type of construction projects take 30 to 32 months and these guys are doing it in 23 months. There are not many contractors in the world that can pull that off. Clark/Hunt/Smoot have been terrific.”

Construction is your life’s business. Have you ever had to work on a project with such a tight schedule? (SBF)

“A lot of our projects do have tight deadlines, especially Malls where you set a date and you have a lot of stores working to get done, The Mall to get done. So, yes, there is the same type of feeling—you don’t want to miss the date (The Opening). We’ve been through this before and we have our act together now.”

Talking to different people, the cooperation to make it all happen, as been good. (SBF)

“No question about it. We can’t say enough about the DCSEC (DC Sports and Entertainment Commission), The Mayors Office—helping us in every step of the way to make this happen. We all have the same goal in mind. There are always bumps in the road, but at the end of the day—we all want to make THE BIGGEST SPLASH WE CAN ON MARCH 30th.”

I can’t wait for March 30th (SBF)

(Laughing, happily) “You are not the only one!!”

Quickly, on the team. What do you think about the transactions over the past week—if you can talk about them? (SBF)

“I think our pick ups so far have been great. I am very excited about Lastings (Milledge). Elijah (Dukes), I think, hopefully, another Dmitri (Young) Project. Dmitri is obviously taking some personal attention to that situation himself. This is a great opportunity for The Nationals. If Elijah can turn his life around, and we are going to try to help him, his upside is incredible. His talents are amazing and hopefully, he will be our centerfielder for the next ten years.”

Its interesting that this team is not opposed to bringing in so many reclamation projects? (SBF)

“Well, as you know, we had such great success with Dmitri. We are going to try it again. We felt, after long discussions, it was worth taking a shot at Elijah and see if we can help turn his life around. If it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work. But, we are going to give our best effort to try to make it happen.”

All right, thank you very much. And, Happy Holidays to you and your Family.

“Same to you. And, say hello to the misses (Sohna) for me.”

And, now--a few minutes with Greg O'Dell--CEO for The DC Sports & Entertainment Commission.


On parking for Nationals Park—what is the latest on the use of RFK Stadium for patrons? (SBF)

“Right now, we just exchanged a proposal with The Nationals. Basically, we had a lot of good conversations with them. And, we just want to make sure everything is reasonable for both parties. In our last proposal, we recognized the flexibility for employee parking. We are going to have some additional parking for patrons if it is necessary, and demand warrants that.”

“But, we want to preserve our rights for other events that we are going to have, like DC United and other events. We need to maintain some flexibility. We are going to limit the parking to certain areas so we don’t have an impact on the community around us as well.”

That’s a point that many have asked. What would happen if DC United was playing a game at RFK. Many tailgate in Lot 8. Will Lot 8 be a part of this agreement with The Nationals? (SBF)

“Yes, it will. But that speaks to the flexibility we want. If we have a DC United Game, we need to have precedence for those events first. So, we are going to have to work out a compromise. And, The Nationals are onboard for that. They recognize that DC United is our Primary Tenant.”

Will that parking be free at RFK as originally stated? (SBF)

“That is their decision (The Nationals) in terms of how they manage their patrons. From our standpoint we need to make sure all the costs are covered and have a reasonable arrangement for us, should we provide the parking.”

On New Nationals Park. Once this facility is done—are you—The DCSEC basically handing over the keys to The Nationals? (SBF)

"Not necessarily. We are the landlord and they are our tenant. They are going to have events here. We have rights to some events here on non game days as well. We are responsible for the maintaining of the facility. As part of our bonds to actually have the stadium built—we have to have reserves to make capital improvements to make sure we maintain this facility. We are certainly involved in making sure the facility is up and running—but they (The Nationals) are responsible for operations.”

How about the DCSEC shortfall in revenue from The Nationals no longer paying rent at RFK Stadium. Is that going to affect your work? Will you still be a viable organization?

“Yes, we think so. Our future is still bright for sports and other events and other things from a sports perspective, which we want to pursue. It came to light that there is a shortfall this year. We are working on our business plan for the long term and we think we are going to be very viable."

That concludes the brief chats. But, before I end--here are a few more pictures from today's snowy grounds at New Nationals Park.

Centerfield Restaurant


Left Field Line--Walkway Ramp


East Parking Garage

Dukes Definitely A Hazard

UPDATE: Our Washington Nationals traded Lefthanded Pitching Youngster Glenn Gibson to Tampa Bay for Dukes. Gibson, I thought, was an up and coming pitcher in Our System? So, Washington did give up, at least, something of value--interesting. Press Release now shown at the bottom of the post.


With Team President Stan Kasten now confirming to The Washington Post that Our Washington Nationals have traded for troublesome youngster--Elijah Dukes--from The Tampa Bay Devil Rays--Washington better not have given anything of value back to The Rays. Apparently, just a minor league player to be named later.

Finding a talented reclamation project is one thing--some consider Elijah a Five Tool Talent. And, Our General Manager Jim Bowden is The Leader in that respect. Credit is given for making the effort to find talent others will pass on. Acquiring a young adult like Lastings Milledge after making immature mistakes, is one thing. Dmitri Young's past problems, another. Remember, to Dmitri's credit--he also had serious health problems--affecting his thoughts. But, threatening to harm your wife, and impregnating a 17 year old foster child living with a relative--fully knowledgeable of the acts--are not exactly character traits that I am looking to root for at New Nationals Park. Dukes has committed both these sins.

Yes, everyone deserves a second, sometimes even a third chance. Our 2007 All-Star (Young) proved many wrong in 2007. Milledge was impressive in his brief introductory Press Conference with The Washington Media, this past Friday. But, Elijah Dukes has been in trouble six different times--so far--with the law. And, contains a driving furor inside himself, well documented--that seriously needs to be addressed. Dukes has a temper and can cause a tantrum like few others. Attempting to turn someone around, to make your baseball team better--has now reached a new level in DC.

Is he worth the time and effort? Is this the type of player you wish to represent The Nation's Capital? Is winning worth far more than questionable character traits? Does being selfish, and self-absorbed, make you a desirable player--no matter what your background, and history has proven?

When Sohna and I attend any game involving Our Washington Nationals, we always hope for a win and the best for Our Players. Never do we expect that any one player may harm another--or that one player, is in fact, dangerous. Elijah Dukes has us worried--because--as his background shows--no matter what the Spin Doctors Say--he is A HAZARD.

The African Queen and I are compassionate folks. Never do we turn our backs on those that are trying to pick themselves up. But, in this case, we shall be watching--very, very, closely.

The Offical Press Release from Our Washington Nationals:

NATIONALS ACQUIRE OUTFIELDER ELIJAH DUKES FROM TAMPA BAY

The Washington Nationals today acquired 23 year-old outfielder Elijah Dukes from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for minor-league left-handed pitcher Glenn Gibson. Vice President and General Manager Jim Bowden made the announcement.

Dukes went 35-for-184 (.190) with three doubles, two triples, 10 home runs, 21 RBI in 52 games in 2007 as a true rookie with the Devil Rays. Dukes displayed advanced plate discipline as a rookie, as he averaged 3.9 pitches per plate appearance en route to earning 33 walks. Although he has pro experience at all three outfield slots, 37 of Dukes’ 38 starts with the Devil Rays came in center field.

The 6-foot-2, 220 lbs. Dukes—widely regarded as one of the best athletes in baseball—joined Kansas City slugger Alex Gordon (23) as one of just two American League true rookies to hit 10 or more home runs in 2007.

Originally Tampa Bay’s third-round selection in the 2002 First-Year Draft, Dukes was rated as high as the Devil Rays’ No. 5 prospect, according to Baseball America, entering the 2006 campaign. He entered 2007 ranked by the same publication as the top athlete in Tampa Bay’s system.

In four minor-league seasons, Dukes posted a .370 on-base percentage and averaged nearly 23 stolen bases per year. In Dukes’ Triple-A debut with Durham in 2006, in little more than half a season, he hit .293 with 30 extra-base hits, 10 home runs, 50 RBI and a .401 on-base percentage. Upon being drafted out of Hillsborough (FL) High, Dukes was named the nation’s best two-sport athlete by USA Today.

And Then There Was Light

At Approximately 6:30PM on December 1, 2008--New Nationals Park gave its first glimpse of what's to come--at night. Workers turned on the stadium light fixtures down the right field line for the very first time. Our Good Friend, Colleen, emailed all excited over seeing the stadium lit from their home in Rosslyn, Virginia.