A No Surprise Signing

The very moment The Baltimore Orioles Non-Tendered Daniel Cabrera, you had to figure Our General Manager Jim Bowden was on the phone looking to sign the hard throwing, but erratic, pitcher for Our Washington Nationals. According to Bill Ladson, Washington has accomplished just that--signing him to a one-year deal.

Not a surprise, especially after Washington Non-Tendered Tim Redding. You had to figure JimBo was looking for a higher ceiling arm holding a lesser contract.

And Daniel Cabrera is the perfect reclamation project for Our Pitching Coach Randy St.Claire. A talented, but incredibly inconsistent pitcher throughout his entire Major League Career in Baltimore. Some days, Cabrera is unhittable. On other days, Daniel can't even find the plate. He is one of those guys that frustrate you, but at the same time, hard to turn away from.

There is nothing to lose by signing Cabrera to a contract for Our Washington Nationals. If St.Claire can reproduce his magic again with another lost talent--Washington has slotted a solid starter for the back of their rotation in 2009. A younger, more powerful arm than Redding, although you would have to give the nod to Tim for professionalism and leadership.

All in all, a very good, low key, no surprise signing by Our Washington Nationals.

PS--If you were wondering: Livan Hernandez, Esteban Loaiza, Hector Carrasco, Ramon Ortiz, Billy Traber, Tim Redding and Odalis Perez all were better pitchers than expected after coming over to Washington with their career's basically going down hill, at a turning point, or at the very end. Randy St.Claire affected all of them--positively--and I am not even considering all the youngsters he's dealt with over the past four years in a Washington Uniform.

Picture Of The Day--The American Game

In the earlier days of The Presidential Opener in Washington, DC, The President of The United States tossed the ceremonial first pitch from his box seat, usually located along the first base line at Old Griffith Stadium. And to make matters even more interesting, players from both teams--The Washington Senators and their Opponent--jumped for the thrown pitch. The winning retriever then getting the opportunity to meet The President of The United States and having the souvenir baseball personally signed as a personal memento.

This 1946 Opening Day toss by President Harry Truman to The Senators and Boston Red Sox is significant for a variety of reasons. None bigger than the very fact that April 16th, 1946 marked the first full Major League Baseball Season since the end of World War II. American Soldiers (and therefore Major League Players) had begun to return stateside. And many baseball fans returned to Big League Parks in droves--to see the games and the players they loved--once again.

In fact, these '46 Senators, despite finishing that year in 4th place in The American League and 20 games below .500, still attracted over 1 Million Fans to their Old Ballyard, then located on the current site of Howard University Hospital. A significant number in those days. And still, Washington finished 5th in attendance that season. The Baseball Park was again the place to be in 1946.

Even more interestingly, the 1,027,216 Fans that walked through the turnstiles at Old Griffith Stadium that year would mark THE VERY LAST SEASON any Washington Baseball Team would draw 1 Million Fans--until The Inaugural Season of Our Washington Nationals in 2005 (Sad, but true).

Finally, President Truman's First Pitch would be recorded as the The First Opening Day Toss By A Lefthander. Truman was a southpaw.

Yes, In 1946, baseball was back in all it's glory. Once Again, The American Game.

Photo by Marie Hansen, Copyright: Time Magazine and Time, Inc.

NatsFest & Winter Caravan--2009

UPDATE: It's been brought to my attention that the 2nd NatsFest on April 4th at Nationals Park before Washington takes on Baltimore in an exhibition game will be for "FULL SEASON" Ticket Holders only. More details on that event will be released later.


FanFest, NatsFest, whatever you want to call it--Our Washington Nationals made the announcement today so many of their fans had asked for over the past four seasons. An off-season get together with Our Players, Our Coaches and Our Management, to not only meet and greet, but have face-to-face discussions about DC Baseball.

The Date: Sunday, January 25th. The Time: 1:00PM--5:00PM. The Place: Nationals Park. (Dress Warmly?)

EXACTLY what every fan has desired for the off-season.

For 2009, The Inaugural NATSFEST is a one day event--BUT IT IS FREE for Season Ticket Holders. Non-Season Ticket Holders and any other fan wishing, can attend for an admission charge of $10 for Adults and $5 for Children under 12 Years of Age.

This is just the start. Hopefully, NATSFEST will evolve into THE OFF-SEASON EVENT for Our Washington Nationals every winter with a Major Hotel/Convention Center onboard as the central locale. Together, providing a weekend's worth of activities, games and instruction. These types of events are extremely popular with the fans bases of many, many other Major League Teams.

Additionally, Our Washington Nationals announced an EXPANDED Winter Caravan for 2009. The Touring Show of a handful of players/coaches and management officials that has been in effect each of the past three off-seasons during the last week of January. During The Winter Caravan, the show stops for autographs at selected business', schools or charitable foundations. Interestingly, in an obvious effort to expand the fan base, Martinsburg, West Virginia is a scheduled stop for 2009, as well as, Annapolis--The Capital of The State of Maryland.

Look out Baltimore.


Also, realizing they have fans south of DC, Our Washington Nationals will be returning to The Capital of The Commonwealth of Virginia on Saturday, January 24th. Richmond was a Winter Caravan stop in 2007 and will be so again for 2009. Too bad The Winter Caravan's not hitting Charleston, West Virginia--to add a 3rd State Capital. And while we are at it--why not The Pennsylvania Capital--Harrisburg--it is The Home of Our Washington Nationals AA Affiliate--The Senators? You might as well go for Market Share while you can? Right?


The ESPN Zone will host a Celebrity Cook-Off on Friday, January 23rd. In 2007, Ryan Zimmerman, Nook Logan and Mike O'Connor all participated. Nook was crowned The Champion by a select group of local journalists and food experts.

Finally, The 2009 Winter Caravan will conclude with a visit to The Amidon-Bowen School in SW and a visit to The Nationals Children's Medical Center--where The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation already has a presence.

Nationals Season Ticket Holders should expect to receive an email concerning their free tickets to NatsFest beginning Wednesday, December 17th. Player and Coach Participation, as well as all the activities planned will be released sometime during the week of January 12th.

PS--There is actually a 2nd NatFest planned for 2009. On April 4th, when Our Washington Nationals take on The Baltimore Orioles in their only exhibition game at Nationals Park, A NatsFest will be held that day for all Full Time Season Ticket Holders before the 6PM Start Time--more details to be announced at a later date.

Here is The Complete Press Release from Our Washington Nationals:

WASHINGTON NATIONALS ANNOUNCE 2009 WINTER CARAVAN AND NATSFEST

The Washington Nationals today announced the schedule for their 2009 Winter Caravan, as the team will make several stops throughout the Washington, DC metropolitan area, including visits to Annapolis, MD, Martinsburg, WV, and Richmond, VA. The Winter Caravan will take place Thursday, January 22 through Monday, January 26 and include NatsFest, the first-ever FanFest at Nationals Park, on Sunday, January 25.

The Caravan is an opportunity for the Nationals team members to connect with their fans and the community in the region before they head to Viera, FL for the start of the Spring Training season in mid-February. Nationals players, coaches, front office executives and broadcasters will take part in appearances throughout the city and surrounding areas during the five-day event. The Caravan will begin with a stop in Martinsburg, WV on Thursday, January 22. Players will compete in a celebrity
cook-off at the ESPN Zone in Washington, DC on Friday, January 23. The team will make an appearance in Richmond, VA on Saturday, January 24 and return to the District for Sunday’s NatsFest. The Caravan will conclude on Monday, January 26 with visits to Amidon-Bowen Elementary School in Southwest Washington and Children’s National Medical Center.

NatsFest, which will be open to the public, will take place on Sunday, January 25 from 1:00pm – 5:00pm. Fans will have the opportunity to interact with Nationals players through autograph, photograph and question-and-answer sessions. Nationals executives will also take part in a Q&A with fans. All Nationals Season Ticket Holders are eligible for four complimentary tickets per account. Information on how to receive these tickets will be sent to Season Ticket Holders via an e-mail on Wednesday, December 17. All Nationals fans may purchase tickets beginning Wednesday, December 17 at 10:00am, online at www.nationals.com/natsfest, by calling 1-888-632-NATS (6287) or at the Nationals Park Main Box Office (Monday through Friday, 10:00am-5:00pm). The cost of the event is $10 for adults and $5 for children under the age of 12. The Nationals Park Box Office will be closed from Tuesday, December 23 through Sunday, January 4 while the Nationals Executive Offices are closed for the holidays.

Additional information on the Winter Caravan and NatsFest, including player participation and a full list of Caravan stops, will be released the week of January 12th.

A New Vision

Buster Olney over at ESPN writes today that Our Washington Nationals, and even The Baltimore Orioles, should not be involved in The Mark Teixeira Sweepstakes. In fact, he describes Washington's offer as "LUNACY".

Well, Why Not Make An Offer?

Olney says that Washington should call up Super Agent Scott Boras and tell him that their Winter Meetings offer for his client was a mistake. And that they and Baltimore should not be in the running for ANY TOP PLAYER on the market, as long as both teams are struggling. Besides, Washington is a mid-market franchise, like Minnesota.

Mid-Market Franchise-what in the world is he talking about?

Buster also goes on to say that any big free agent signing will not attract many more fans. No, not now, or anytime before Washington begins to consistently win. So, The Lerners, Mr. Kasten and JimBo are wasting The Boston Red Sox Time and Money. Yes, The BoSox are the writer's choice for a Championship Lineup, if Teixeira signs with anyone. And Olney backs his assumptions by claiming how well he understands the Baltimore Market, since he covered The Orioles for a number of years as a beat writer in Maryland.

Well that's a pretty simple why of looking at it. And the last time I checked, no one has ever won a championship on paper. Everyone still has to play the games first.

Unquestionably, winning breeds success in attendance--just look at The Tampa Bay Rays. But, how is any team going to gain respect in the game, other than by winning, if they are not players at the so-called poker table of Free Agency. At some point in time, EVERY TEAM has to take a stand and find their own comfort zone in the market. Washington's finding their way right now. Yeah, Mark Teixeira may well not sign with Our Washington Nationals, may not even be considering their offer seriously. But, at least Our Franchise is getting the word out--and slowly becoming viable in the hunt for marketable talent.

You have got to be a player.

Nothing wrong with that because one of these days Washington is GOING TO LAND THE BIG HAUL--if not Teixeira over the next couple of weeks. So, who is Buster Olney to say The Red Sox or New York Yankees or Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim should have the sole negotiating rights to Mark Teixeira--and none of the remaining 27 teams in Major League Baseball?

Is that not why it is called a "FREE" Market?

Olney should look at the very team he covered for so many years in Baltimore.

Remember, Camden Yards packed fans in night after night to see a barely above .500 but interesting team in the early to mid-1990's. All because The Ballpark itself was the attraction. But even then, The O's needed more to be competitive on the field and when Baltimore was still far, far away from truly contending--The Orioles went out and purchased on the open market, two of THE PREMIER Free Agents of the mid-90's, Rafael Palmeiro and Roberto Alomar.

Palmeiro and Alomar received HUGE Contracts for those times--both averaging over $5 Million per year. Baltimore had the money, and they spent the money.

Did anyone laugh at The Orioles then? Did Buster Olney, covering The Orioles at that time, write Baltimore had made a couple of poor financial decisions because they were not close to contending? Palmeiro came to Charm City in 1994 when he was 29 Years Old to play alongside Cal Ripken, Jr. Alomar in 1996, when he was 28 Years Old. Don't you believe that Palmeiro's signing raised the profile of The Orioles and eventually led to Roberto following in Rafael's footsteps (and a few other key lesser signings like B.J. Surhoff)?

I'd bet Olney didn't complain then, and by 1997, The Baltimore Orioles were arguably the best team in baseball, alongside The Atlanta Braves. Sidetracked only by two awful playoff appearances by their young and immature reliever Armando Benitez--who blew two games in American League Championship series that season. Yes, even then, The Two Best Teams in Baseball did not meet in The 1997 World Series. The Florida Marlins won their first championship over The Cleveland Indians.

The only "LUNACY" about Our Washington Nationals involvement in The Mark Teixeira Sweepstakes would be NOT PLAYING AT ALL. Palmeiro signed a five year deal with Baltimore and didn't play on a contender until he was 32 Years Old--but he was worth every single penny--when you looked at the complete package he brought to the ballpark every single day (and yeah I know he will be forever soiled by his career ending steroids usage investigation).

Now today, we find Washington Showing The Big Money, stepping up and letting everyone know they are seriously interested in a 28 Year Old slugging first baseman to play alongside Ryan Zimmerman. No, Teixeira's not the final answer, more parts are still needed to build Our First Real Contender--but you have to start somewhere by getting the word out that The Nation's Capital wants to become a perennial Winner in games of Major League Baseball--and that doesn't happen overnight.

You see, these Winter Meetings of 2008/2009 are opening up a new Vision of Our Washington Nationals, even if that view hasn't reached the foresight of Buster Olney.

Nationals Sign 13 Players To Minor League Contracts

No real surprises or unexpected developments, but Our Washington Nationals announced today the signing of 13 Players to Minor League Contracts--12 of whom received invitations to The Major League Spring Training Camp.

Here is the release:

NATIONALS AGREE TO TERMS WITH 13 PLAYERS FOR 2009 SEASON

The Washington Nationals today announced the signing of 13 players who have agreed to minor league contracts. Nationals
Director of Player Development Bobby Williams made the announcement.

The following players have agreed to minor league contracts with invitations to big league camp in spring training: infielders
Freddie Bynum, Brad Eldred, Joel Guzman, Pete Orr and Matt Whitney; outfielders Ryan Langerhans and Jorge Padilla; right-handed pitchers Bobby Brownlie, Preston Larrison, J.D. Martin and Ryan Wagner; left-handed pitcher Justin Jones.

The club also signed outfielder Mike Vento to a minor league contract.

Are These Any Better?

The Boston Red Sox late this week broke from tradition and unveiled a new alternate Blue Jersey with new matching Cap. The Alternate Cap will contain the "Hanging Sox" Logo, not the universally known "B". Also shown was their new Gray Away "Boston" Uniform--a throwback to their earlier days of "Boston" in Navy Blue. The well known "Red Sox" Home White remains unchanged.

I like the throwback away grays, don't care much for the "Hanging Sox" Cap. Just like I have never been a fan of Atlanta's Tomahawk Alternate Cap--especially when The Braves wear it with that hideous Red Alternate Jersey.



So, what do think? Are Boston's Uni's any better or worse than Washington's new ones?

A Couple Of Interesting Moves

Update: Bill Ladson over at Nationals.com is reporting that Willie Harris received a 2-Year, $3 Million Extension

When Our Washington Nationals went late into the afternoon not announcing anything official concerning their six players that needed to be tendered contracts by midnight tonight--you had to figure something was up.

Sure enough--Tim Redding, he of all the Colorado Trade Rumors during the just completed Winter Meetings, now gone.

Sayonara. Good Bye.

Our Now Former Number 17 Non-Tendered. Redding not offered a contract for 2009 to play in Washington.

Although, Ryan Zimmerman, Josh Willingham, Scott Olsen and Shawn Hill were all tendered contracts and are arbitration eligible.

So was Willie Harris, but Our Number 1's offer was more than just a procedural move.

Our Washington Nationals surprised, probably just about everybody, by re-signing Ultra Utility Player Willie Harris to a two year contract extension. No details on the contract numbers. (Update: $3 Million)

Redding being released is a very interesting move because--if you are just giving up on a serviceable, though not great, starting pitcher, Washington must feel far more comfortable with someone already under contract. Or, they have their sights distinctly set on someone else to fill that role. Our Manager Manny Acta mentioned last night on The WFED Winter Meetings Program that he's hoping for two more starters gained over the winter months. This move has to be a set-up for something better, they hope, will come.

As far as Our Number 1 is concerned--it's a good deal. Harris was not only exciting and versatile, but he hustled every single time he stepped out on the baseball diamond. Willie is A Fan's Player that everyone can appreciate. Welcome Back!!

By The Way: The African Queen and I are going to miss "The Human Rain Delay"--also released earlier this week. Jesus Colome was pretty terrific during his first half-season wearing a Washington Uniform in 2007. But after his Buttocks Surgery, he was never quite the same. He had transformed himself from just a hard thrower to decent pitcher. I remember, vividly, Colome striking out Chipper Jones in a game crucial situation early that season. The Atlanta Slugger had never seen Jesus throw such wicked stuff. As Colome walked off the mound, heading to The Nationals Dugout at RFK Stadium--Jones just stood there--staring at Our Number 43--who was at that time--a legitimate All-Star consideration. Of course, NO BODY pitched so slowly between pitches like Colome. I swear I could get up from my seat, head to the restroom and return while Jesus was still pitching to the same hitter. He was downright frustrating to watch at times. Talented, no doubt--Great Arm--but he never could find his form again after returning from The DL in 2007.

Here is Official Press Release from The Team:

NATIONALS NON-TENDER RHP TIM REDDING, OFFER ‘09 CONTACTS TO FOUR OTHERS

The Washington Nationals today announced they did not tender a 2009 contract to right-handed pitcher Tim Redding. The Nationals did offer 2009 contracts to third baseman Ryan Zimmerman, outfielder Josh Willingham, left-handed pitcher Scott Olsen and right-handed pitcher Shawn Hill. Nationals Senior Vice President and General Manager Jim Bowden made the announcements.

Zimmerman, Willingham, Olsen and Hill are the only four Nationals that remain arbitration eligible.

NATIONALS AGREE TO TERMS WITH WILLIE HARRIS ON TWO-YEAR DEAL

The Washington Nationals today agreed to terms with outfielder Willie Harris to a two-year contract. Nationals Senior Vice President and General Manager Jim Bowden made the announcement.

The versatile and durable Harris enjoyed a career year in first season with the Nationals, when set career highs with 13 home runs, 43 RBI and a .417 slugging percentage.

Harris, 30, not only led Washington in most offensive categories in last season’s season half, he played five defensive positions (left field, center field, second base, shortstop, third base) for Manny Acta. He joined Cristian Guzman as the only two position players to maintain a roster spot last season by avoiding a stint on the Disabled List. His 140 games played led all Nationals.

Harris’ 13 home runs ranked third among Nationals and nearly doubled his career total entering the 2008 season. Meanwhile, his 50 walks tied Elijah Dukes for the team lead and were just one shy of his career high. He is a career .248 hitter in eight big league seasons with Washington, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago (AL) and Baltimore.

The Transcript From WFED Tonight

Listening online tonight at 7PM, I roughly transcribed the entire hour of The Nationals Insider--Winter Meetings Edition on WFED. I got a kick out of nearly all the emails sent in were from fellow bloggers. The show moved pretty quickly with so many guests. Craig Heist was at The Bellagio Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. George Wallace was in Studio. Radio Broadcaster Dave Jageler, Our Franchise Player Ryan Zimmerman and Nationals.com's Bill Ladson joined them live for five minutes each. And Heist interviewed Assistant GM Mike Rizzo, Our Manager Manny Acta and Fox Sports Ken Rosenthal for the broadcast.

Here is the rough transcript--typing it down as it played out on my computer--but the details are accurate.

Craig Heist started the commentary:

The biggest thing to come out of it is that ownership showed their fans they were serious. To me this comes down to Teixeira saying in Baltimore when he played there previously that he would love to play for his hometown team. His family is going to be involved in this decision. But, He’s 7 years in the Big Leagues and he wants to win. And he wants to come back to the east coast.

The Nationals have showed their fans they want to win at the Major League Level. The money is going to have to be there after the Sabathia signing by New York. Teixeira’s Agent Scott Boros is not going to take a back seat to anyone. And the O’s have raised their offer to Teixeira as well.

Teixeira still wants to get a deal done by Christmas.

This is a guy (Teixeira) who has never hit less than 26 HR’s in any season. Now he has the chance to make a big splash. It comes down to what he feels most comfortable with?

Will Nats go after Adam Dunn? (Email Question)

You would have to think they would. Make no mistake, JimBo’s made Teixeira his top priority, but Manny Acta has always said he wants a big left handed power bat in the lineup.

This team has got to score more runs and they can’t do that with their present lineup. Injuries helped send this team into the tank last year.

Mike Rizzo was then played from an afternoon interview with The Beat Writers.

Rizzo on Terrell Young—taken by Washington in the Major League Rule 5 Draft today from Cincinnati: Tremendous athlete, 6’3”, Washington Scouts really liked him. He’s a tremendous talent. Fastball can reach 96. Has good stuff, and his walks trend has improved over the past three years. Is known to be wild. Strictly a reliever and he will compete for a bullpen job. You can never have enough power pitchers. He’s really on the upswing. Athletic ability separates him from other pitchers.

More Rizzo on Young: He’s a power pitcher. The secret is whether he will throw enough strikes in the big leagues. We hope his improvement will continue in the big leagues. He’s still going to have to contribute to stay up here though.

Ricardo Nanita the outfielder from The Chicago White Sox Organization was taken to give depth on the AA level. He’s a left handed bat and there to provide inventory in The Minors.

Rizzo on the Winter Meetings: I think we laid a lot of groundwork for what we can do over the winter. We spent a lot of time and hours working. Proof will be in the pudding. We came in and worked diligently with every club. We had a lot of proposals and we are waiting for the fruit to bear.

Rizzo on the non-stop action: Winter Meetings are long hours. We (staff) were together for countless hours. I didn’t have a chance to even eat with a plate for any meal.

Dave Jageler then joined Craig and George Wallace live and mentioned he just returned from a family vacation last night from Mexico.

Dave on keeping up on The Winter Meetings from down south: It’s hard to read ESPN Deportes in Spanish. Left me kind of in the dark in Mexico. Every time I saw Teixeira’s name mentioned with The Nationals, I thought they had signed him. Shows you how good my Spanish is.

Craig Heist cuts in: Jags, there is always Rosetta Stone (The Language Learning Program—Chuckling). Dave responds: My language skills level revolves around “Hola” and “Gracias” (everyone laughing)

Dave on Teixeira: Believes Boros might be using The Nationals because the Red Sox have the resources and they are serious. They need his bat to protect David Ortiz, something Jason Bay did not do coming over from Pittsburgh in the Manny Ramirez trade last summer.

The Nationals Front Office Effort to sign Teixeira speaks volumes. They made a serious and positive step to sign him.

Dave continues: And this reported meeting with Boros and Ted Lerner might help down the line with a potential Stephen Strasburg signing, if Washington chooses The San Diego State Pitcher with the first pick in the 2009 Entry Draft. Boros is Strasburg’s agent too.

Craig Heist mentions: Even if they don’t get Teixeira, the relationship with The Nats and Boros is a great move.

Jageler: It gives them credibility in the marketplace. They are not throwing out money just to do it. The Tigers bought Pudge Rodriguez back in 2003 after that terrible season. No one thought he would sign there and look how he was the key person to The Tigers turnaround.

Dave on starting pitching: As the staff is composed now, I see Scott Olsen as The Number 1 Starter. The Nats don’t want to put too much pressure on John Lannan. Odalis Perez was the opening day starter last year-remember. This is a very odd off-season, everyone is waiting. The teams hold the hammer and there are going to be some pretty good bargains out there that we are not thinking about right now come spring training. We will see about Tim Redding on the team. Jordan Zimmermann--they are still high on.

Dave: Too many outfielders. Wonder what the team was thinking about in the reported Redding trade to Colorado for Wily Tavares. Josh Willingham is set in left. Do you move Lastings Milledge to right? Dukes? Kearns? They have too many outfielders. They are going to have to trade someone before opening day.

Due to the economy, there might be only one-year deals, instead of multiple years for free agents. Adam Dunn certainly is seeing that considering The Diamondbacks gave up two prospects for him and didn’t even offer arbitration—setting him free.

Dave Jageler and Producer Steve Ray have a bet about finding The Syracuse Chiefs Team Song before Opening Day next year. Jageler says Ray will not find it.

Then, Ryan Zimmerman called in and talked with Heist and Wallace.

Asked how he was doing—Zimmerman got off a zinger on Heist: I am not as good as Heist out there at The Bellagio. Heist replies: They are looking for you out here. Ryan: I don’t know if that is a good thing!! (laughing)

Zimmerman on The Winter Meetings: I don’t pay much attention to the winter meetings. There is so much coverage it’s almost like another draft. I am not checking every second, but interested.

On Teixeira: it’s nice that the owners want to do stuff like that (pay the big bucks), It shows they are not messing around. Gets people to work harder now to be better later.

It would be a good spot with me batting behind Teixeira. He’s a pretty good first baseman too.

We (The Nationals) have always had one of the toughest divisions in baseball. The Phillies, Mets and Braves are always competitive. We are young, starting to spend on some money on talent. It’s hard not to spend money if you want to win. It’s the way it is in sports today. You have to pay to get talent and pay to keep that talent. (Great Comment)

Zimmerman on The Nats offer to Teixeira: You could possibly say it’s the most money he’s been offered. It shows they (ownership) are committed to not only us, but to the fans as well.

On the off-season: I don’t do any baseball until really next week. Maybe throw, hit twice a week then. I usually take two weeks off and do nothing right after the season just to relax. I work out on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. But , there is no real off-season. It’s a fun time hanging out. The shoulder is fine. It took a week or two to get it all the way back after returning late in the 2008 season. It ‘s shown no ill effects this off-season. It’s nice to be able to work out when you want to and not have to worry about rehab.

On Olsen & Willingham trade: We are doing a lot of the right things. Willingham is a great player. He was in the same boat as me last year with injury and he’s not a bad outfielder too. Olsen pitched over 200 innings last year. We are getting better.

Zimmerman's time was up and an interview between Heist and Manny Acta was aired.

Manny on The Winter Meetings: We showed we are willing to do what it takes to win. We are going to go after someone that can help this team in the future.

On Terrell Young in the Rule 5 Draft: Our plan is to stockpile young arms and this guy is just that.

On Teixeira: It’s not a secret we need help offensively, especially a left-handed bat. We let everyone know that is what we are looking for. These Winter Meetings plant the seed for conversation throughout the winter.

Remember, a lot can happen over the winter. It’s a non-stop job. A 24/7 job for us. We can’t loose our focus.

On Teixeira being a local guy from Severna Park, Maryland: It’s a factor. He is a special player and everybody wants to be near home. He’s a smart guy and I hope he comes to join us.

Most of the other free agents are waiting for the big guys to sign. So others can follow. That’s the way it always is.

Manny on Pitching: We are working hard at it. We hope to acquire a couple of guys before spring training. Lannan has moxie. He’s legit for us and is going to be good for a long time. Olsen is also good and that was a good trade for us.

We have an abundance of outfielders--but it’s still early. We feel good about having them all. We have depth now, if injuries come up again like last year.

Manny Interview ends and Ken Rosenthal from Fox Sports joins Heist in Las Vegas.

Rosenthal on Teixeira: Boston is the leader in my opinion. Boston is the most competitive team out there for his services. Washington has made an impact with Boros and that’s not a bad thing. Washington needs to grow up as a franchise. You have got to go forward from here. When your TV ratings are that bad and your attendance is disappointing--you have to make a play and they did that here.

The Orioles are in this Teixeira thing too. No one can say they didn’t try—it’s just not going to be enough. It’s a valid effort, but they are playing in a really high stakes game. Should The Orioles lose Teixeira to The Nationals the reaction in Baltimore would be DRASTIC!!

Bill Ladson from Nationals.com came on at the end for a quick Q & A.

Ladson: I was shocked by the offer to Teixeira by The Nationals. But after that offer I would not be surprised to say his signing is 70/30 in Washington’s Favor. You would have to say Washington is in the lead. I don’t know that for a fact, but they made an impact.

When it comes to the Rule V draft, this organization takes it seriously from the time they were in Montreal. They are good at finding little known players.

Email Questions to Bill: Do the Nats plan on bringing back Willie Harris—yes, no question. He was the best player on the team last year not named Guzman.

Chances of Jason Bergmann on the Opening Day Roster: 50/50 and only as a reliever.

Is Anderson Hernandez the real deal at second base? I find it hard to believe that they (Washington) believe Hernandez will be the starting second baseman. Orlando Hudson may be in the works, but I don’t see Hernandez as the everyday second baseman.

Payroll for 2009? With Teixeira, $75 Million. But The Nationals need to get another key player to go along with Teixeira, if they sign Mark. Ladson suggested Brian Fuentes, the closer from Colorado and second baseman Orlando Hudson.

That concluded the one hour Nationals Insider—Winter Meetings Edition on WFED.

Phone Number & Email for Nationals Insider Tonight

Producer Steve Ray is looking for questions tonight for Nationals Insider--Winter Meetings Edition at 7PM on WFED--1500AM & 820 AM

Email questions can be sent to NationalsRadio@gmail.com

Phone Number to call in live: 877-936-9333 starting at 7PM.

Ray also mentions he's working with the WTOP Internet Guru's to have them load up the One-Hour Long Show to the FederalNewsRadio.com website for those that can't tune in tonight.

So give George Wallace, Craig Heist and Steve Ray a call or email tonight about Our Washington Nationals and The Winter Meetings.

Get the word out and tune in.

The Dealings Behind The Deals

"Personally, I won't be unhappy if we move the next phase away from this [Winter Meetings] setting -- I never liked this auction setting with agents all in one place. So next week, when agents are back on the phone, we will talk to them one at a time. That will not be a bad thing." Team President Stan Kasten on Nationals.com this morning.

Love that quote for Our Team President because I am not much for the posturing by Teams and the perceived self-worth of Agents and their Players.

I just want to see progress made which moves Our Washington Nationals in a positive direction--FORWARD.

So rumors like Wily Taveres possibly heading to The Nation's Capital for Tim Redding don't worry me. Call me when something concrete and solid is actually decided. Only then, will the players named by "sources" have meaning.

But in the meantime, taking from Mr. Kasten's quote--What I would like see from the various beat reporters out there in Las Vegas right now covering The Winter Meetings is a sense of HOW BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED. Are Owners, Team Presidents and GM's really scurrying all over The Bellagio Resort & Casino running down each other? Or, is there more a sense of decorum where meetings are set and the various participants head from room to room, looking for the best deal?

Please give me an idea of what's going on out there in the Nevada Desert? How is business conducted? What's JimBo doing throughout the day (and night)? Is Mr. Kasten working something on the side? If Mark Lerner is there, what impact is he having on negotiations? What's Mr. Lerner's role (other than to give the go ahead on a cash outlay)? What's the impression of their teamwork at these Winter Meetings--so far. Are they organized? Are other teams interested in talking with The Nationals? Or, are the conversations totally Washington initiated?

Write About The Dealings Behind The Deals.

Even when there is no movement on the player front, there is always The Scene Setter.

Tell us something more than unsubstantiated rumor. For a moment, step away from the pack journalism.

Atmosphere & Color--Please!!

Virtual 360 Tour of Nationals Park

While everyone of us is waiting for Our Washington Nationals to make some significant noise this week in Las Vegas at The Winter Meetings, you can least sit in front of your computer and imagine what Our Players, whether new or returning, might look like while inside The Team Clubhouse at Nationals Park.

At Nationals.com you can click on a new special link that gives any viewer 360 Views of The South Capitol Street Ballpark. 20 panoramas give looks from not only the stands, but on the field and in The Clubhouse as well. The Tour allows anyone to zoom in, out, up or down or just circle the entire facility. It's quite engaging. I found myself working my way through the entire ballpark online this afternoon while checking for Trade Updates.

Check it out when you have time.

Nationals Insider--Winter Meetings Edition

Steve Ray, the producer for Charlie Slowes & Dave Jageler from Our Washington Nationals Radio Network, got in touch with me over the weekend. He wanted to inform everyone that Craig Heist is on his way to The Major League Baseball Winter Meetings in Las Vegas for WTOP & Nationals Insider. This coming Thursday, December 11th--Heist will be LIVE from Las Vegas with George Wallace in Studio here in Washington, DC.

7PM is the scheduled time for this Nationals Insider Special Edition on WFED-1500 AM and 820AM.

Heist will provide in-depth coverage of the Wheelings and Dealings, The Rule V Draft and everything going on surrounding Our Washington Nationals at The Winter Meetings. MLB.com & Nationals.com Reporter Bill Ladson is also expected to appear on the one-hour program.

You might recall the last time Our Washington Nationals did a special Nationals Insider Radio Program before the start of 2008 World Series Game 1--NO ONE KNEW ABOUT IT. In fact, not a single person called that evening to talk to the many guests.

So we are getting the word out--right here on Nats320. Calls will be taken this Thursday, December 11th at 7PM on WFED--1500AM and 820AM. And when you do call--please tell them--we sent you there!!

Nationals Insider--Winter Meetings Edition LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS!

The Boys & Girls Clubs Of Greater Washington Holiday Party

"Look, it’s not easy today to get kids up early on Saturday Morning," stated Leah Lamb, The Chief Development Officer for The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington. "Just look at the excitement in all their faces in this room. They are happy to be here--so that fact in and of itself tells you just how much this Holiday Party means to them and us.”



Ms. Lamb was standing in The Main Dining Room of The ESPN Zone in Downtown Washington, DC. Nearly 150 kids ranging from ages 5 through 12 were on hand for Our Washington Nationals 3rd Annual Holiday Party for The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington. Our Number 31 himself, John Lannan, was on hand to meet and greet this contingent of excited youngsters. And, My Best Friend!! Screech showed up to provide the light hearted entertainment.





As always, The ESPN Zone donated their setting, food, beverages and their gaming parlor for the children to enjoy themselves this holiday season.





Leah Lamb: "This relationship is just tremendously important. Not just because they (The Nationals) provide financial support to us, but to be able to interact with players like John Lannan today and The Leadership of The Nationals. This all helps the kids understand that they can aspire to be whatever they wish to be--and others are invested in their success. It doesn't get much more important than that from our perspective."


Once all the Boys & Girls Clubs Groups arrived at the 11th & E Street Eatery, The Director of Communications for Our Washington Nationals, Chartese Burnett, welcomed everyone to the scene. Almost immediately, The Party Began!!





John Lannan handed out toys to each and every child in attendance.

Screech!!!!! put on his typical show. And everyone chowed down to a Brunch Style Meal. Once that concluded, it didn't take long for these kids to rush, and I mean RUN, down stairs to the Game Room at ESPN Zone for some more fun.





Our Number 31 and Screech joining in the games--making sure every single child on hand was having an enjoyable time this Holiday Season, courtesy of Our Washington Nationals and The ESPN Zone.

“As the Chief Development Officer," Ms. Lamb concluded. "I am so blessed this opportunity has happened for us. It’s very hard to forge these types of relationships these days. The Nationals had an interest in giving back to the community and they wanted to know who was around to share their resources with. Really, this was just an aligning of the stars which has made this relationship and this partnership successful. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington is so very proud to be associated with Washington’s Major League Baseball Team.”

Happy Holidays to all these fun loving kids. Some of whom--may not have the means to celebrate otherwise.