A Few Minutes With Lastings Milledge

Lastings Milledge was quite the engaging young man at The ESPN Zone this past Wednesday Afternoon. And after the conclusion of the signing session for fans, Our Washington Nationals Centerfielder was kind enough to give me a few minutes of his time. A one-on-one interview picking up on some of the topics discussed earlier and some others on my mind.

With that, here we go with A Few Minutes With Lastings Milledge.

There was an interesting quote from you the other day in The Washington Post after a reporter asked you whether centerfield is your best position. You responded that you are not fit to be a corner outfielder because you are not going to hit 30 or 40 Home Runs per season. Can you elaborate on that? (SBF)

“Centerfielders should be able to do more in the lineup. And when you take a centerfielder and put them in right or left field—your expectations have risen. Now, he must put up the power numbers and that can be difficult (for me). When I am in centerfield, I can just play my natural game and play how I grew up. There is less pressure on me—rather than moving to right or left field and do things that you can’t do.”

Are you comfortable playing in centerfield? (SBF)

“Yes, I am comfortable playing in centerfield. I think that is my primary position. But then again, I do have a lot to learn. I have a lot of repetitions to get. So, I am only going to get better.”

There was a story in The DC Examiner Newspaper that said you are a very gifted athlete, but not necessarily a gifted outfielder. Do you feel you can be a good outfielder and improve on your play? (SBF)

“Yeah. I have been bouncing around from left to right to center. Once I get consistent reps in centerfield—I will be a great centerfielder.”

As far as your hitting is concerned, what do you need to work on right now? (SBF)

“Nothing. I just need to go out there and get some good pitches to hit. Everybody goes through their own ups and downs. Whether it’s now or later, you are going to fall into a slump. Hopefully, I got mine out of the way and can improve on what I have been doing.”

You mentioned during the Q & A here at The ESPN Zone that sometimes the stands behind home plate in stadiums are so high—that it makes it difficult to track baseballs coming off the bats of hitters. Is that really the case? (SBF)

“Yes, because the baseball will be in the seats and you can’t really get a read off the ball until it gets above the seats and into the sky—where you can really see the ball well. It’s difficult, but the more reps you get in chasing those flies, a couple of years down the road, I will know how everything plays and I will be a decent fielder.”

Does that 14-foot wall at Nationals Park—help you or hinder you? (SBF)

(Laughing) “Oh-it’s OK. Just don’t expect me to be jumping over top of it!! (Both of us busting out laughing). It’s not that big of a deal.”

Looking to improve, before a ballgame—what are doing to enhance your game—in the field and at the plate? (SBF)

“I take plenty of flies off the bat in BP. I am always out there shagging the balls—that’s as close to live baseball as it gets. Taking those balls off the bat and working on my mechanics out there are important. I am trying to be consistent and that holds true in the batting cages as well.”

You knew Manny Acta in New York--obviously—how important is he in your development, so far? (SBF)

“He’s been supportive. I have not gotten off to the start that everyone wanted me to. But he is still there for me and still has my back. He knows that sooner or later, he is going to get the type of player in me—everybody wants. Now, there have been some struggles. The whole team has been struggling a little bit. But, we are winning as well, too. We can sacrifice some individual accolades to help the team.”

“Is it difficult to adjust from New York to Washington? Is this home yet? (SBF)

“”This is home. I am actually more comfortable here because there is a lot going on in New York!! Man, that place is unbelievable!! There are a lot of people. There is a lot of Chaos. But here it is more like my home in Florida—a lot of things are laid back. And still get a good taste of the big city.”

Easier to deal with the press—I guess? (SBF)

(Laughing) “Definitely, Yes!! No comparison!!”

Over the next few months—any short term goals to get your game going? (SBF)

“We just need the team to win. I keep elaborating on it. But winning takes care of a lot of things. If you can help the team and you are not doing as well as you want to do—that’s OK. You end up having more time to work things out. If you are not helping the team and the team is not winning—you can become more of a liability. I don’t want to be that.”

Final question: You feel you have all the skills to be a good outfielder? And what you need is experience playing on The Major League Level? (SBF)

“Yes, Definitely. I have just been in the Big Leagues for a little over a year. Everybody has gone through similar trials. The best players in the game went through it. But I feel I have the skills to be an All-Star Gold Glove Centerfielder—knowing I still have a lot more to work on. I will continue to work hard and eventually it will come.”

With that, my conversation with Lastings Milledge came to an end. There were a few other media outlets waiting to speak with him. Lastings Milledge is an interesting person to chat with. Confidence in himself, a trait not lacking in this young man. There is a lot of pressure on him to succeed in Washington. And at 23 Years of Age--Lastings Milledge will be given every opportunity by Our Washington Nationals to reach his self assured All-Star Status.

"Potential"

There comes a time when "Potential" has surpassed any player. And the colossal struggles of Wily Mo Pena immediately come to my mind. Originally a New York Yankee--Wily Mo was hotly pursued by Our General Manager Jim Bowden--when JimBo was the GM of The Cincinnati Reds. For a couple of years--Pena had some decent--if unspectacular years as an outfielder with The Reds. Eventually, he moved on to The Boston Red Sox--where he first played well--but eventually languished on the bench for The BoSox. Now--Wily Mo Pena finds himself a member of Our Washington Nationals.

Never has Wily Mo Pena earned a starting spot for any consistent period of time--during any point in his Major League Career.

And easily, Our Number 26 has been one of the most disappointing players so far in 2008.

Looking lost at the plate--Pena is receiving off speed pitch, after off speed pitch. Not a single pitcher has challenged him with a fastball. A pitch that--if Wily Mo connected on--could well end up in The Red Loft Bar in Left Centerfield at New Nationals Park. Of course, each opposing pitcher does not have to throw him their heater--as Pena is getting himself out--expanding the strike zone and swinging at everything. Wily Mo Pena has no plate discipline.

Which always bring up one of two questions--whether he is coachable or not receiving the proper coaching? That may be a thought for another day.

But, after 30 games this season and 91 At-Bats, Our Number 26 has not hit one single home run. As powerful and strong as Wily Mo is--that's pretty hard to believe. Being a 2 O'Clock Hitter (as my Dad always called batters that hit well in Batting Practice, but flailed in the game), Pena has been--mostly--an automatic out with runners in scoring position.

Simply--Wily Mo Pena is not helping Our Washington Nationals.

So, how long should Our Washington Nationals keep Wily Mo Pena in the lineup?

When should Our Washington Nationals decide that Wily Mo Pena is more of a deficit--than advantage in the lineup?

At what point should Our Washington Nationals cut bait with Wily Mo Pena--if he doesn't turn his season--and ultimately his career--around?

That time certainly appears to be coming fast.

Clearly--Wily Mo Pena is a below average outfielder. If he slugged 40 Homers and knocked in 100 or more runs--no one would probably care about his fielding. Unfortunately, since Our Number 26's struggles at the plate have been so great--his field work has been magnified--to his detriment. As someone once told me: "I learned early on--never to fall in love with my stocks. And the same holds true for baseball players."

I have never fallen in love with Wily Mo Pena. And Our Washington Nationals should not fall in Love with his "Potential" any longer.

There are better options.

Sorry Wily Mo--Nothing Personal.

PS--Give me credit, I just wrote an entire piece about Our Starting Leftfielder having a terrible season and I did not once, until now, mention My Main Man!!--as tempting as that may be. But even I realize--Ryan Church is perfectly situated in a New York Mets Lineup--behind Jose Reyes and in front of David Wright--that gives him the power to just be himself. And what a season Our Former Number 19 is having--being in a position--where he does not have to be The Mets "Main Man!!" In fact, possibly, Ryan Church is having an All-Star Season. And I am happy for him.

Skunked

As Jamie Moyer trotted home from third base on Shane Victorino's single to right field--The Philadelphia Phillies upped their lead tonight over Our Washington Nationals to 6-0. Then, after Elijah Dukes fielded this bases loaded RBI hit--right at him--the score advanced to 8-0, when a routine toss back into the infield by Dukes was poorly played by Dmitri Young. The site of the thrown ball glancing off Our Number 21's fielding glove--skipping on the grass off toward the 3rd Base Dugout--unable to be retrieved by Jesus Colome--encapsulated just how badly Our Washington Nationals were beaten tonight at New Nationals Park.

This one error set the tone for one of the worst innings Washington may ever play. By the time The Philadelphia Phillies had batted around and sent 13 hitters to the plate--Philly had scored 8 additional runs and lead Washington 12-0. Yes, 12-0!!

You had to wonder if The Umpires might call the game over The Skunk Rule. The Little League decision to stop play after so many innings when one team is up 10 or more runs on another. I would bet not many in attendance and even those playing on the field--would not have minded this Wednesday Night.

This evening--Washington received some poor starting pitching from Matt Chico. Our Number 47 giving up three Home Runs--including A TITANIC BLAST off the bat of Ryan Howard--his first of two homers in the game. This one--landed into the UPPER DECK in right centerfield. Worse--the shot came on an 0-2 pitch by Chico. Nothing worse than that for any pitcher. The first home run to EVER reach Section 243 in a regulation game. What a shot by Howard!! That ball had that majestic flight to it. Ryan Howard HAMMERED IT!!

Later in the terrible sixth inning--Jesus Colome relieved Chico--and just added fuel to the fire. Stepping on the mound with a 3.38 ERA, Our Number 43 was removed from this game--after recording just one out in the inning. But--after allowing five hits, one walk and six runs. Jesus Colome stepped to the Clubhouse sporting a new and not so friendly 5.82 ERA. Did he ever get beaten badly.

This eight run top of the sixth by Philadelphia found Colome and Chris Schroder (who allowed Howard's second home run on the very first pitch he threw in the game) combining to throw 55 Pitches in the half inning. That's right--55 PITCHES!! I recall a game in early 2007 at RFK Stadium--where Jason Bergmann threw 51 pitches in the first inning of his start that night--but at no other time--do I remember such an exhaustive effort to record three outs in just one inning in Washington's DC History Since 2005.

The Mock CHEERS from the those on hand to witness the catastrophe--LOUD AND BOISTEROUS--when the third out was finally recorded in the terrible top of the sixth.

This game so far out of hand, many in the crowd of 28,055 got up to leave immediately after that eight run sixth. By the time Our Washington Nationals actually scored two runs--New Nationals Park had reached "Friends & Family" Status. And the mock cheering in celebratory salute of avoiding the shutout--now echoing throughout the emptying park. For history's sake, there was hardly anyone in the park to witness the moment.

But--at least The African Queen and I can say--we did stay until the bitter end. In fact, Sohna and I were just about the only ones sitting in Section 218 from the 8th inning on. Few others were willing to provide support until the final out was recorded.

Although, it would be hard to blame anyone tonight as The Philadelphia Phillies Skunked Our Washington Nationals 12-2 at chilly and vacant (at the end) New Nationals Park.

Game Notes & Highlights
With John Lannan, Tim Redding and now Jason Bergmann all pitching well and showing promise--why not send "Our Starter In Training" to the minors for a refresher? Matt Chico is talented--but appears to have lost his confidence. Unable to locate his pitches consistently--he needs to regroup and comeback at a later date. There is no harm in that. I'm still sticking with my Dark Horse Favorite from Spring Training--Garrett Mock to make the transition from Minor League thrower to Major League Pitcher.

Amazingly--Washington had 12 hits tonight and could not push across any runs when the game was still in it's infancy. Jesus Flores with three, Ryan Zimmerman, Lastings Milledge and Felipe Lopez--all with two apiece. As has been a problem all season--runners are continually stranded in scoring position. Case in point in the bottom of the second--Milledge on third base and Flores on first with no outs. Wily Mo Pena--flys out meekly, Dukes and Chico strike out.

That Jesus Colome performance tonight was incredible for how badly he pitched. Batting Practice for The Phillies. Colome made Matt Chico's effort look respectable. It was that type of night--especially when Schroder comes on and throws Ryan Howard a first pitch fastball that Ryan deposits over the right centerfield wall. Only Joel Hanrahan would pitch for Washington tonight and get away unscored upon.

Late reports are stating now that Our Washington Nationals may place Austin Kearns on The Disabled List--as his elbow is not healing. Would Our General Manager Jim Bowden recall Alex Escobar to give him another shot? His last? Or Ryan Langerhans? Or someone else--if Kearns is disabled? Either way JimBo chooses--we need some offense--badly--from our outfield. They are not currently doing their jobs--offensively.
Until Dukes singled in his last At-Bat--Elijah's Batting average was down to .037. 037--that's correct!! Wow!!

At least there was some fun off the field.


Usher Rick made a costume addition to his special Nats Phanatic. Not only sporting a new Red Nats Jacket & Curly "W" Bear, but a sign stating: "I am a NATtily attired Phanatic!!"

In the 4th inning--during the GEICO Presidents Race--Teddy came running out of the centerfield gate flashing a cardboard sign. Handwritten on his pad was "Bring On The Sausages" and "Show Me The Mustard". This Memorial Day Weekend, The Milwaukee Brewers visit New Nationals Park. Are The Brewers bringing along their Famous Racing Sausages? As you may recall--The Pittsburgh Pirate Pierogies visited Washington early this month--when The Pirates played at New Nationals Park.

Finally, when the game became a romp--it was time to do some visiting. So, I headed down to the main concourse to catch up with Boris and Charles. They were our regular ushers for the past few seasons in Section 320 at RFK Stadium. We miss those two guys. They have always been into the fun of it all. We like that--a lot.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Lawrence Jackson
All other photos--Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Lastings Milledge ESPN Zone

"I always compared New York to my dad -- I think my dad is worse than New York, to be honest. When I actually got there, I was able to handle myself in a professional manner. I was able to handle adversity real well because my dad put me through a lot. My dad put a lot of pressure on me when I was young. That's why I am here today, I guess.


Our Washington Nationals Centerfielder Lastings Milledge was speaking to an assembled group of nearly 100 fans at The ESPN Zone in downtown Washington, DC. Our Number 44 the first quest speaker of 2008 at the monthly lunchtime Meet & Greets with Fans. As usual, Nationals Broadcaster Charlie Slowes was the host. For nearly one hour--Lastings took questions, joked and provided questions for Charlie to ask to fans. Those fans answering correctly, received two free tickets to an upcoming home game at New Nationals Park.


After about 45 minutes of Q & A--Lastings took pictures and signed autographs for each and every person in attendance.

Lastings Milledge was very personable and--at times--frank about his short time in the Big Leagues. Below is my transcript of selected questions from Charlie Slowes and Fans to Our Number 44.

Here we go.

Question: What are your thoughts on the New York Media riding you over high fiving fans after your first home run at Shea Stadium?

“Well I don’t make $20 Million. So, I guess if you do, you can do whatever you want, I guess (Laughing). I don’t know if a lot of people were upset, but they seemed surprised that a guy, a rookie, would do something like that. I really caught some people by surprise. And I think that is the biggest thing—I caught a lot of people by surprise, because I was a rookie and I was exuberant. Honestly, I don’t think anybody was really ready for it. And I promise you—if I hit a WALK OFF HOME RUN—you will get it also!!”

Charlie Slowes—“Also, you were playing right field that day. If you were playing centerfield that moment might not have happened. You would not have gone down the line from the dugout. —You would have cut across to centerfield.”

“Exactly."

Question: What is your favorite ballpark to play in? The ballpark where when you step on the field—you can’t wait to play.

“Nationals Park. Really, Nationals Park. I love it.”

Charlie Slowes—“What do you like the most about it? From the time you guys arrived from Florida at the end of Spring Training—you saw The Clubhouse and all the amenities before you even walked out on the field.”

“I tell you what. When I first got here in December, I went out there (to Nationals Park). The grass was already out there. And I said ‘Wow’—this is going to be a nice place—despite the fact it was not completed. I said to myself: ‘This is going to be my place.’ I know I am going to be playing 81 games here and it’s easy to say this place is the best place. But, there is just something about it, that video board, when you see your face on there—the nice sound system—and the way they put together the pre-game—it makes you feel good. So honestly, Nationals Park is my favorite park.”

Charlie Slowes: “Manny has moved you around the lineup. You started the year batting second. Now, you have been batting 5th, 6th—does any of that matter to you?”

“No—to me it does not matter. But, at the same time, sometimes you feel comfortable in a position and the change they make affects your game. There are certain things you can or can’t do based on your position in the lineup. Like, in the five hole—I can’t bunt. Or, I don’t really want to steal that much. So, it really changes your game a little bit. But, that is what makes you a better player—changing your game—and being able to take on different roles. So, this has been a challenge for me to take on different roles throughout the year. But, to me, as long as I am out there, as long as I am able to help the team and be an asset on the team—I am comfortable hitting anywhere in the lineup.”
Charlie Slowes: “One role that has not changed for you when you are out there—is where you play. When you came up with The Mets, it was rightfield, left. I remember when The Nationals played in New York last year—when Carlos Beltran was hurt—that’s when The Mets played you in centerfield for a short stretch. Now—you know where you are going every time you play. The corner people have changed—Kearns mostly in right, the leftfielder has changed a lot—and that affects you too, when you have different people playing alongside you when you are the centerfielder—especially when it comes to communicating.”

“Yes, definitely. We have a lot of good outfielders out there. We’ve pretty much played together since spring training. That was enough time to get to know everyone’s game—get to know how much speed a person has. How much ground he can cover. So, we had enough time to really get each others games down and know he others abilities in spring training. So, when Manny switches it up, and there is a different outfielder like Dukes, or Wily Mo, or Willie Harris out there—we pretty much know what we have to do. And we pretty much know how we have to play.”


Charlie Slowes: “One thing that is different and I remember Lou Piniella saying that it is different when you come out of spring training and you become a big leaguer and you are now playing in the big ballparks—as far as—seeing the ball off the bat—the trajectory of the ball. Is it easier or harder?”
“It’s tougher. I had a lot of trouble and am still having a lot of trouble right now still picking up the ball off the bat. This is only my fifth season playing with wood. So, it’s still a little bit difficult to read the ball off the bat. These guys are so strong here and in the Minor Leagues they are not as strong. And you know how the ball is going to come off their bats (in the minors). But here, you have guys like Carlos Lee (Astros), Lance Berkman (Astros)—all these different guys and even Barry Bonds. The ball may not seem like it came off their bats—then the next thing you know it will be 100 feet past you. These guys here are very strong. The stadiums are higher (in the stands and lighting). So, you can’t really get a true read because once the ball comes off the bat the ball is still in the seats. And you really don’t get a good read until the ball gets above the seats. It’s really difficult out there. I can tell you it’s easier, but it’s harder than it really looks. I used to always say:’Dang!! How did that guy drop that fly ball!!’—When I was younger—‘I will never miss a fly ball!’ But, it’s really difficult out there.”

Charlie Slowes: “I hear guys say you can’t watch the bat, you have to watch the ball. If you get the big swing like Carlos Lee—if he doesn’t hit it off the sweet spot—you get fooled by the wood bats.”

“Definitely—because of the sound. What I have always been taught to do is break back—when you hear the crack of the bat. But here—it’s the total opposite. You really have to read the ball. You can’t make a move until you actually see it or read it. So, it’s a little bit different than High School or College (using aluminum bats).

Question: Which pitcher is the toughest for you to face and why?

“I would say Jake Peavey (San Diego) is a tough guy to face. I can tell you that right now. It’s between him and John Smoltz (Atlanta). I would probably say I would rather face Smoltz—as I have a couple of hits off of him. But, I nearly tied the record for consecutive strikeouts because Peavy put me in a slump once. It was crazy. Jake Peavy is one of the better pitchers in the league. He is very deceptive. You never know what he is going to throw.”

Question: How do you like playing in Minute Maid Park with that funky outfield?

“It makes it tougher to read the ball. Left field is so short and then the field plays deep to the gaps. So, you can either run for days or for just 10 feet. A fly ball there—you might think it is gone—but it gets past that short corner and you have to run about 40 feet deeper. So, when you get a fly ball that is in that corner—you don’t really know what to do.”

“I like the old school equal distance type circumference. That is me—all me. I don’t like the short, go deep, come back, and curl route type of fields. I am not a big fan of that.”

Question: There is a lot of controversy about maple versus ash bats. What do you use and why?

“I got caught up in that too-when I first came up (to the Majors). Ash bats are less condense. Maple bats let the ball jump off better. I like using maple for the simple fact that it does not splinter. It is a harder wood. There are the pros and cons. Maple breaks from the inside. So, you never know if you are using a broken bat or not. You can then end up using a bat and it explodes upon contact with a thrown ball. So, I would say that maple bats are probably better because they last longer. Ash bats tend to splinter—unless to bone them. And nobody wants to do all that work. That’s a lot of work. I don’t want to be on the side of the toilet boning my bats. (laughing) I just pick one up and go with it. You can’t just pick up an ash bat and roll with it.”

Question: Ever since The Pope came to Nationals Park, the team is over .500—are there any thoughts to asking The Pope to come back as we get closer to the playoffs?

“We may need to get him to throw out the first pitch. We need to bring him back, man.”

Question: Charlie’s counterparts on TV are always saying they want to see Lastings go to right field. What’s going through your mind when you are at bat? Are the coaches working with you to do that, or is this something the announcers are dreaming up on their own?

“Sometimes you want that approach. Sometimes it depends on how the team is pitching you and the different scenarios that are in play in the game at that time. There are a million and one scenarios. You don’t want to force yourself to go a certain way. It’s better to approach everything in the middle so you can be able to drive the ball to right field, left field and not overly commit to one side of the plate. If they pitch you there, you will be ready. If they pitch you somewhere else—you will not be ready. So, when the announcers are saying he needs to drive the ball to right field—they are basically saying you need to stay on the ball—not pull it—not pull your head and just trying to hit a home run.”

Charlie Slowes: “With all the game scenarios that can play out in each and every at-bat. Is there ever a time now—where you can just step up to the plate and react to the pitch coming?
“When you are hitting and not thinking, you are usually crazy hot. You are not worried about anything or anybody that is on the mound. Pretty much anything that they throw out there on the mound—you have the confidence to do damage at any given time. When you are struggling a little bit and not getting hits—that’s when you have to be mentally strong. You can’t worry about: ‘should I go right field? Left field? He’s pitching me here. He threw me two curve balls and I think he is going to throw me another.’ This is where you start thinking too much and start making the game more difficult than what it already is. You are mentally out of it.”

“It’s a tough game out there. It is a game of failure. It affects you mentally. This is one of the only games that really affects your family. It goes beyond play and affects your home. If you don’t come through, if you don’t get ahead, you don’t want to disappoint your family. They want you to do so well. They are so use to you being an All-Star or MVP or High School Player of The Year—and you get to The Major Leagues where EVERYBODY has had those accolades. Baseball is a toll on your family, but this is what we want to do. It’s a dream, so you kind of have to go with it.”




With that--Charlies Slowes invited all those in attendance to line up for autographs and pictures. The Next Scheduled ESPN Zone Meet & Greet with a player for Our Washington Nationals is June 25th.

By the way--notice the special Washington Nationals Leather Lounge Chair in which Lastings sat in during the get together. It will be given away--by ESPN Zone after the final Meet & Greet in September. Raffle tickets are given out by ESPN Zone Staff during the luncheon and collected at the conclusion of the program. Each and every Guest of Our Washington Nationals at the ESPN for the Five Scheduled Dates will sign the chair--as Lastings Milledge did before leaving ESPN Zone in Downtown Washington, DC.

Patience & Forethought

Those cheering for The Philadelphia Phillies were on their feet--whooping it up. Our Washington Nationals Rob Mackowiak was down to his final strike. The Potential Final Out of this game. But, the Washington Faithful were not going to let The Phillie Fans take over New Nationals Park. No--not tonight and not in this very closely played affair. Eljiah Dukes was standing on second base after a two out walk and subsequent steal. The Score Now--Philadelphia 1 and Washington 0.

Not wishing to be out shouted in their very own park--the Washington Fans let loose. Just about EVERY SINGLE PERSON remaining among the 28,105 was standing. The New Ballpark on South Capitol Street was ROCKING as The Phillies Brad Lidge set and threw the 7th pitch of this crucial At-Bat. A CALLED BALL THREE!! that raised the tension level inside New Nationals Park a bit higher--especially after Dukes took off again--stealing third base--now finding himself 90 feet from home plate with the tying run.

How quickly this bottom of the 9th inning had changed--all with two outs.

As Phillies Fans attempted to get louder--they were drowned out by Washington's Fans. A thankful occurrence that nearly exploded into hysteria when Mackowiak would battle on and into the 8th and final pitch of this terrific Pinch Hit At-Bat by walking--putting runners on first and third with two outs. The eruption inside New Nationals Park had the Club Level Section--in which we were sitting--ACTUALLY MOVING!! The Concrete Floor below our feet was SWAYING--not the first time we have felt this phenomena this season. But, sort of similar to those jumping seats that so many enjoyed along the third baseline at RFK Stadium.

Our Manager Manny Acta realized this game was now at hand and substituted the speedy Willie Harris to run for the slow moving Mackowiak at first base. Unexpectedly, Our Washington Nationals had fought back into position to tie and even possibly win this game--in a walk off. All thanks to Lidge--the one time Houston Astros Closer given up on and traded over this past winter to Philadelphia--for just this same reason--being inconsistent in the strike zone and losing ballgames late. Brad Lidge was doing just that tonight--despite his terrific start to his 2008 Season. He could not command the strike zone and Our Washington Nationals were slowly chipping away at his mistakes.

The Crowd Noise was now at an all time high for the evening. The Dueling Chants from the fans of the opposing sides--filling New Nationals Park. With Felipe Lopez coming to the plate with runners on 1st and 3rd with two outs--in the bottom of the 9th--Our Washington Nationals found themselves in the position to win. Who didn't think Harris would possibly attempt to steal second and get himself in scoring position. Patience at the plate--was all Washington needed to set up the winning score.

All FLop had to do was take a pitch. A toss to help his team. A throw to find out whether Brad Lidge was losing it and was ultimately going to cost Philadelphia this game.

With great anticipation hanging in the air--Brad Lidge looked in for the sign from his Catcher Carlos Ruiz. Our Number 2 set himself. Willie Harris took his lead--hoping to move to second base. Finally, Lidge set himself and fired--not a 96 MPH Fastball, but an off speed slider--an 86 MPH toss that FLop INCREDIBLY swung at?!!

Like why?

Fooled badly on the pitch by Brad Lidge--Felipe Lopez meekly grounded out to Chase Utley at second base. A rally killing and DEFLATING final out of this game. Not often do you witness--first hand--a complete turnabout of emotions--in a split second.

Just like that--the balloon had busted for Fans of Our Washington Nationals and those Phillie Fans now proudly pumped their fists and chests in jubilation over their fortune. Moments away from losing the slimmest of leads and possibly receiving a loss in the standings--The Philadelphia Phillies had now defeated Our Washington Nationals 1-0 because with the game on the line--Felipe Lopez did not have patience. The forethought to allow Harris to scoot to second base. The tolerance to wait a struggling pitcher out.

Game Number 47 of the 2008 Season was a hard loss to swallow--and not just because of the manner the final out was executed. But, because Jason Bergmann pitched another GREAT GAME TONIGHT--seven innings of shutout ball. Since his return from AAA Columbus--Our Number 57 has yet to allow one single opposing runner to score.
Of course--his counterpart on the mound tonight for The Phillies--was equally OUTSTANDING. Cole Hamels is one mighty impressive southpaw--too.

Game Notes & Highlights

John Lannan this past Sunday, Tim Redding last night and Jason Bergmann this evening. Over 20 innings pitched by these three starters and just one run scored off of them. Not many times that has happened with Our Starters in the three plus years since baseball's return to Washington. Our Starting Pitchers a backbone on this 2008 Version. In fact, until Big Jon Rauch allowed the only scored run tonight in the top of the 9th--Washington Pitchers had thrown 18 consecutive scoreless innings--the most since last July (21 Innings total from July 20-24, 2007)

Swing and a miss; called strike three; WHIFF!!--Cole Hamels was powering his way through Washington's Starting Lineup. 4 hits allowed and two walks--but did he ever Strike Out Our Washington Nationals--a plenty--tonight. 11 times for Hamels and 13 overall this evening--a Washington Batter dejectedly walked back to the home dugout with the bat still on his shoulders--having K'd. Using mostly fastballs and changeups--Hamels fooled Washington's hitters all night long. Cole Hamels--enjoyable to watch pitch--even if he does play for Philadelphia.

The only run of the evening--off "The Wookie"--was the result of a leadoff double by Pedro Feliz down the left field line in the top of the 9th. The game changing hit that eventually plated Feliz's pinch runner--Eric Bruntlett--on a bloop single to center by Pinch Hitter Greg Dobbs--one of the finest pinch hitters in the game. But not before Lastings Milledge, Cristian Guzman and Jesus Flores combined to perform The Defensive Play of This Game.
With two outs and that one Philadelphia run already in--Shane Victorino got a hold of another Rauch pitch and set the baseball flying over Milledge and to the wall in centerfield. Clearly--this smash looked to easily score Dobbs from first base as he was sent home by The Phillies Third Base Coach Steve Smith. As Dobbs rounded third base and head for home--"The Guz" did not even have the heave back into the infield by Milledge in his hand. And looking with the naked eye--it clearly appeared that Our Number 15 had NO CHANCE of throwing out Dobbs. Catching the baseball and turning--Cristian Guzman threw a PERFECT STRIKE to Jesus Flores at home. An on time arrival--that found Our Number 3 tagging Dobbs--and Home Plate Umpire Phil Cuzzi--giving the dramatic OUT CALL--for this final unexpected out of the inning.

What a relay toss by "The GUZ"--which reminded me of a conversation I had with Nationals Radio Broadcaster Charlie Slowes this afternoon at The ESPN ZONE in Washington, DC. On site to attend the Lastings Milledge Q & A hosted by Charlie--we were discussing how valuable Cristian Guzman has been for Our Washington Nationals all season long--maybe our most consistent player and All-Star Candidate for 2008. Charlie saying that last year's freak injury on Guzman's thumb after slamming into a Cleveland runner's helmet at Second Base--may well have benefited him in the long run. Two years ago--Our Number 15 had surgery for a slap tear in his throwing shoulder. An injury that may well have not sent him back on the field for--2007--100% healthy.

Now--Charlie believes--last year's unexpected early ending to Guzman's Season helped his shoulder to return to the strong health we have witnessed all 2008 season long. "The Guz" is making throws from deep in the hole--and even getting the speedy runners--with time to spare. Proof today, Cristian Guzman made a FABULOUS TOSS to Jesus Flores from short left centerfield for The Defensive Play of This Game.

In the top of the 3rd inning--reigning National League MVP--Jimmy Rollins--popped a foul down the 3rd baseline. Ryan Zimmerman ran hard and a long way--but caught the baseball right on the railing near the stands. Another fine defensive gem from--consistently--the best third sacker in the game.

When Big Jon Rauch allowed tonight's game winning run--it was the first score he had allowed in 12 innings of relief appearances.

What is it with Phillie Fans? They RIP their very own players throughout the game. And they RIP!! Washington Players throughout the game. Even Jimmy Rollins was treated like crap by a handful of Philadelphia Fans sitting a couple rows behind us tonight. Then, once their team wins--all seems forgiven--for then--they can RIP!! Our Fans. There is something wrong with some of these folks. Sohna, most of all--doesn't understand their odd ways.

Finally--Sohna and I just cracked up when we saw one our good friends--Usher Supervisor Jimmy--handing out Tee-Shirts to fans as they entered the Centerfield Gate. The Man who always says "WELCOME HOME!!" to The African Queen and I--it's a running joke--was seen actually DOING something tonight--and that's a JOKE TOO. We all had a good laugh. Jimmy is really fun--each and every time we meet up with him at New Nationals Park. We both must have laughed for good five minutes over this picture.

Tonight's InGame Photos--(AP) Lawrence Jackson
All Others Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

impACTA Kids Donates Baseball Cleats to District Youths

“And the fact is that when I die, I don’t want to be remembered as the guy who won a championship for The Washington Nationals. Or, the guy who caught the first pitch from President Bush here (at New Nationals Park) in 2008. I want to be remembered as the guy who built a complex--which 100 years from now—the kids where I come from—instead of being involved in wrongdoings—they will be playing baseball. That is the way I want to be remembered from where I come from.”

“I am a little different, that’s me. That is the way I am. Very few things impress me.”

Our Manager Manny Acta was sitting in The Press Interview Room at New Nationals Park--it was Monday, May 19th at 11:30AM. He was on hand to discuss a major step in his impACTA Kids Foundation. Formed just six short months ago--impACTA Kids is dedicated to helping youths in his Native Dominican Republic and here in The United States. The goal--to give the kids of today a better chance of succeeding in life. A task that was difficult for Our Manager--growing up in a land with little to offer him--at the time of his youth.

Joining Manny at the Press Conference were his sister--Anayma--and Jeff Locklear--Senior Marketing Manager of Under Armour.


Manny was speaking to a select group of 12 District Of Columbia High School Baseball Teams and their coaches. All gathered for the announcement that The ImpACTA Kids Foundation was donating 180 pairs of Baseball Cleats, courtesy of Under Armour, to the many District High School Players in need.


But this event was more than just about handing out shoes. Manny's a proud man and wanted to emphasize to these youngsters that there is more to life than sports. At times--Our Manager wasn't mincing words.
“I grew up in a little dinky town in The Dominican Republic. Don’t tell me how tough it is where you come from. In front of the house (which he grew up), there is still a dirt road which you don’t have here (in DC) and a sugar cane field right in the backyard. That’s how I grew up. No shoes, no nothing. We would play baseball by grabbing a milk carton and making that the base and we just played. Some of the baseballs we throw away during batting practice right here (at Nationals Park) would be the ones we use on Sundays over there to play a doubleheader.”

“So, don’t tell me you had it rough. We had it worse over there.”

As the many kids on hand listened with rapt attention, Manny explained the goals of his Foundation. His first major initiative is to build a baseball complex in his Native Dominican Republic--in his hometown of Ingenio Consuelo--included will be three Little League Fields. Currently--impACTA Kids is working with the Government of The Dominican Republic to secure the land and file the proper paperwork for his Baseball Academy. In the meantime--as impACTA Kids raises money through their website and other donations--Manny started and funded--thanks to Under Armour--his own Little League program in Consuelo. Additionally--his foundation is working to help raise awareness of children in The United States. And that's where yesterday's announcement for High School Baseball Players receiving baseball cleats comes into play.

Manny continued: “But, I am also part of this community (DC)—at least for seven to eight months out of the year. And who knows for how long. But, I thought it was appropriate that I do something for you guys (High School Baseball Players). And this is just a start.”

“Today, thanks to my sponsor—we (impActa Kids) are going to be able to provide you High School players shoes (cleats). I know that a lot of you guys like basketball, but I am not giving away sneakers. Baseball is my game and I want to get some of you guys involved in baseball. It’s a beautiful game. It’s a good game. And a lot of you guys are good athletes. You can handle this and we are hoping we can get some of you guys to embrace the game.”

Frazier O'Leary--Head Baseball Coach of Cardozo High School stating: “This is just wonderful to me. Anything to help the kids become baseball players is wonderful. I really like what he (Manny) said about being available to help come tutor our students in baseball. That is one of the biggest problems we have as coaches—is that a lot of our players come to us having never played baseball before. We grew up playing baseball as little kids. Our kids don’t do that. That's been a problem."

But before these kids where handed their new shoes--Manny Acta had some things to tell them about responsibility.

“The main thing is that everyone in here—regardless of where you come from—has a choice in life—which is the number one thing to remember in life. We are able to make choices. That is the biggest power we have. A plant can not make a choice. You can chop it down anytime you want and not water it down.”

“We have the power to make a choice—whether we want to take the right road or the wrong one. Everyday in the morning—when you wake up—you have a choice to either have a good attitude or a BAD ATTITUDE. It’s not genetic. So save it—if you want to tell me you have a bad attitude because your grandpa had a bad attitude 200 years ago.

"You can’t put school aside. You can’t get out of school. You have to stay in school. School helped me to get where I am right now—believe it or not. I went to High School, started to go to College. I was able to play baseball. And just because school helped me develop my brain—I came over to this country (USA) when I was 18 years old and I could not say ‘water’ in English. But, I picked it up quickly.”

“I made the adjustment over here. I knew The United States was not going to adjust to me. This is the greatest country in the world, but everything happened (to me) because of school. Not everyone in this room is going to be Ryan Zimmerman or Dmitri Young. Not everyone in here is going be Agent Zero (Gilbert Arenas—Wizards) or Caron Butler (Wizards). But there is a need for lawyers. There is a need for doctors, dentists. There is a need for financial advisers. And we need nurses and teachers in the community too.”

So, everyone in here has a choice. And the choices that you make today—it’s going to reflect on our life later on. So—think about what you are going to do. Not everyone is destined to be a superstar. You can have a lot of money, but this is a country where you don’t really have to be rich--to lead a nice comfortable life.”

With that--Our Manager Manny Acta handed out many of the 180 Baseball Cleats to the assembled High School Baseball Players and their coaches. Manny saying this project is the first of many to come for District Youths. Later, after the kids had left the Briefing Room for lunch in The Lexus President's Club and a Tour of New Nationals Park--Our Manager told me: “I get frustrated by young people that are disrespectful--that have no goals in life and are violent. They are the type of people that really frustrate me in life. And hopefully—some of these kids can go in the right direction. That’s why we are here—to try to pass on that message. It's important to be there and make the effort to help someone. You have to try."
Our Manager Manny Acta is the most Charismatic of Men and he also has a Heart. If you wish to help Our Number 14 in his quest to help children in his Native Dominican Republic, as well as, here in The States and The District of Columbia--you can donate through his website: www.impACTAkids.org
Beginning in just a few short weeks--impACTA Kids Foundation Tee-Shirts will be available at all Team Stores and Souvenir Shops throughout New Nationals Park. All money raised going directly to Manny's core programs of his Foundation.


The 12 District Schools represented at the press conference to receive baseball cleats from Manny Acta's impACTA Kids Foundation were:

Anacostia High School
Ballou High School
Bell Multicultural High School
Cardozo High School
Coolidge High School
Dunbar High School
McKinley Tech High School
Roosevelt High School
Spingarn High School
School Without Walls
Wilson High School
H.D. Woodson High School

Finally--when Manny was handing out the baseball cleats and taking photos with the various school team members--the kids from the School Without Walls stepped over to meet Manny. Hearing the announcement of their school name--Our Manager smiles and says: "School Without Walls!! Now, that's the type of school I WISH I HAD A CHOICE TO ATTEND!! Very cool!!"
Of course--Manny Acta stayed around until each and every child wanting--received an autograph from him.