Jason Bergmann: Bridge Guy

Ryan Zimmerman, Cristian Guzman and Jason Bergmann are the only three players that have been on Our Washington Nationals Major League Roster every season since baseball returned to Washington, D.C. in 2005. For Bergmann, 2010 is a pivotal year. He is out of options and competing for a job in middle relief as a "Bridge Guy" in Jim Riggleman's bullpen.

We caught up with Jason after practice yesterday. As always, Bergmann is open to most any question about himself and his team. With that here is Our Conversation With Jason Bergmann.

This is a pivotal year for your Nationals’ career, is it not?

“Yeah, but I think every year is that way, right?”

But you are out of options?

“Yes.”

Does that put more pressure on you?

“No. I don’t feel any more pressure than any other year. Every year has been pretty much the same in trying to make the team. It’s the same camp in that respect.”

And each year the competition gets better.

“Isn’t that good though? (Yeah) Because I think that’s fantastic.”

But does that help you?

“Yeah, I guess. Competition should bring out the best in everybody. In previous years, we’ve always had position battles, but this year we probably have five positions open (on the pitching staff) at most. So a lot of guys will be battling for spots.”

You moved around in your role with this team--long man, starter, middle relief...

“And I think that makes this a little easier for me as I have done all those roles at this level. The difference this year is that I have a full year of doing one thing under my belt and not being bounced back and forth. I know what that is like. It’s not fun. Last year, I had to ask what position I was going for. This year, I know what position I am going for.”

You believe Jim Riggleman has found the role you can excel at in the Major Leagues?

“Yes. But he can put me in any situation. I just have to get the job done. Last year, I was pleased he had enough confidence to do that with me. I enjoyed it very much. The whole attitude of the team changed (when Riggleman was named manager). We started picking up the pace, winning some ball games after that dreadful start. But we finished pretty strong with a lot of the guys who were there the whole season.”

You like the fact the attitude has changed?

“The attitude changed when Riggleman took over, but more than anything, this off-season, they (management) did a good job of acquiring talented guys, guys with proven track records. And potential is not the word of camp--it’s what guys have done. Their careers and track records speak for themselves.”

You definitely feel this is a vastly improved ball club?

“I think you can say that. The bullpen has been stabilized a bit. The rotation has been stabilized. That’s good thing for John Lannan who has carried the brunt of the team weight on his shoulders when he goes out there. A guy like (Jason) Marquis can come out and take the pressure off of John. That also gives us two solid starters at the top of the rotation. We can then go from there. A lot of guys have a lot of experience this year. Now, you are looking at guys who are fighting for a spot or two with a full-year of Nationals experience. And some with a good solid half-year last season. At the beginning of the second half (of 2009), we had four straight starters who began the year at Triple A (Syracuse). They all can use that experience to fight for the team.”

“When you add guys with experience like Pudge, it forces Jesus Flores to be better. It forces (Wil) Nieves to be better. When you throw a guy like Adam Kennedy in there, all of a sudden guys are fighting for a spot to back up on a Major League Team and no longer being moved up just because you are the only guy that plays that position.”

There is depth in this organization that has not existed previously.

“Yeah, that is what Rizzo’s done. He brought guys in to fill the top which trickles guys down throughout the entire system. When you have a set infield, a set catcher, a set few spots in the bullpen and rotation, you are talking about a lot of guys being unhappy heading back to Triple A this year.”

So where do you see yourself fitting in that mix?

“Pretty much the same as last year. I’d like to be a bridge guy. I realize the back end of our bullpen is probably pretty settled. I want to be to guy who comes in, just gets the outs, bridge from the starter--who may go five and 2/3rd’s or six innings--come in and get us through the 7th inning. I would love to be a part of that. And I would love to be a part of this team when we win.”

We are confident the team is going to be competitive.

“I am really happy with what is going on. The direction is so much more positive than in the past. Each year you could have written the same things, but this year it’s different. We are more excited about the upcoming season. We can easily forget about last year because so many of these guys weren’t even here last year. We were alternating catchers last year between (Josh) Bard & Nieves. Pudge is a Hall Of Famer to be, a World Series Champion. You can’t get that experience anywhere else. To be able to have him in our lineup and have Adam Kennedy at second base. Last year, I think, we had five or six guys play second base. This move allows Ian Desmond to grow.”

Last question--first thoughts on Stephen Strasburg?

“He’s being treated like any other guy around here. There is the occasional joke or two about Super Strasburg. But he’s bringing fans out which makes it a better situation for everybody else. He’s a team player. He’s a great guy. He wants to learn. The hype is there in the media, but here he is just another player, a teammate and a great to be around.”

With that final answer Our Conversation With Jason Bergmann concluded.

Bergmann Photo Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Matt Capps Is Happy Chris Duncan Is Now A Teammate

Since the very day Matt Capps was introduced as a member of Our Washington Nationals, he has been nothing short of gracious and giving with his time. Today was no different. Matt personally came over to chat with us after completing his personal training drills and proceeded to tell us a fabulous story about his competitive baseball relationship with now teammate Chris Duncan. A good example of the oddities of the game when players switch teams in professional sports.

With that here is Our Conversation With Matt Capps.

How strange is it to be in a new camp with a team that you’ve never been with before?

“It’s really not been too bad. The guys have been good to me. They have helped me feel right at home from the first day. And having Nyjer (Morgan) and Burney (Sean Burnett) here, even though this is also their first camps--they were with The Nats at the end of last year. So we are kind of going through all of this together. But everybody has really made me feel right at home. I feel like I am a part of it, so it hasn’t been that much of an adjustment for me after all.”

Do you actually find yourself walking around the locker room introducing yourself to those you do not know?

(smiling and shaking his head up and down) “Yeah, the first couple of days you do. It’s like the first day of school. You see someone standing at their locker and you go up and say: ‘Hey, I’m Matt Capps, nice to meet ya.’ It’s definitely different in that regard. But I have now played against enough of these guys that I’ve gotten comfortable with them over the years. We are just all now wearing the same jersey.”

Is there anyone now a teammate that in the past you have a history with--good or bad?

“Oh yeah. Like Chris Duncan has owned me!! (laughing) I think he is like nine for 11 hitting against me (everyone busting out laughing). And the two times I actually got him out, he hit rockets to the centerfielder that just happened to land in a glove on the fly. (gotta love the humor here). Yeah, that kind of breaks the ice too, when it comes to meeting new teammates.”

So what did you say to Duncan when you first saw him?

“He was talking to Rick Eckstein (Hitting Coach). They were talking about hitting or whatever. I was walking by and I said to Eck: ‘Just tell him to do whatever he does when I am pitching and he will be a Hall Of Famer!!” (everyone busting out laughing)

“That actually happened and was a nice ice breaker and made everything a little more comfortable for me.”

From your standpoint as a veteran--do you help out the new guys that have never been to a big league camp before?

You better believe it. I remember my first camp. I don’t think I said three words the entire month and a half I was there. (laughing) I was just soaking it in, keeping my mouth shut and enjoying it. But it’s fun. It’s an exciting time for anyone. And hopefully the beginning of a long career. It’s why we all are here, to be big league players.”

This is the first day of a six week process. How long does it take you to get ready?

“It really depends. There are days you come out here and you are ready physically. Then there are days like today that your legs are a little heavy, your back is sore and everything is more like getting back into the swing of it all. It really doesn’t matter what you do in the off-season. Even if you are in great shape, you are going to be sore the first week by just being on your feet all day. And in wearing spikes, there is always a transition period. But for me personally, I like to stretch it out and throw two or three innings so that the one inning is not that difficult. I felt good throwing my BP today. I’ve certainly got a long way to go before the season gets here and there are a lot of things I need to work on. That is what we are here for.”

With that being said, last year was more difficult for you than any previous major league season. What is it that you must work on to get back to where you were two years ago?

“I just need to keep the ball down. That was the biggest thing last year. I was elevating the ball too much. It doesn’t matter how hard you throw in this league. The hitters are good. If you keep the ball up around the belt, they are going to hit it and the ball is going to fall in. Then runners are going to get on base and the solo homer becomes a two or three run job. And that’s what beats you.”

In your job, it really is all about limiting damage, isn’t it?

“Oh yeah, that is my sole job. I need to get the hitter out. But, I also understand these guys are going to get their hits. I need to keep the ball in the ballpark-- maybe limit that double to a single. When your team is trouble it is my job to get the game back under control. It’s why I am called into the game. It’s why I am here getting ready for the season.”

With that final answer Our Conversation With Matt Capps concluded. In a short period of time, Washington's new designated closer has become one of our favorites on the team. Matt Capps has a great attitude, always friendly and just terrific with every single fan we've seen him come across over the past few months.

Photo Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Nice 'Do

There was this wonderful little boy walking between the practice fields at Space Coast Stadium this morning with his father taking in the first Full Squad Workout of 2010. He was sporting this terrific teal hairdo seen in the picture above. While receiving an autograph from Matt Capps--Matt says the following to him:

Matt: "Hey, nice 'do!!"

Child: "Thank you, it's different."

Matt: "But you should make the color red next time."

Child: "OK, but I've first got to ask my dad."

Child looks over to dad.

Dad: "How about red, white & blue next time?"

Matt: "Great, even better."

Everyone laughs.

Livan Talking Playoffs & He's Serious

“It doesn’t matter if he’s been here for eight years or two days, Livan is the same guy," said Jason Bergmann. "He’s the same guy every day. Everybody loves him. He is a very charismatic guy, his reputation over the years preceeds him. He’s really a great guy to be around, a terrific teammate. He’s someone who is a bulldog out there on the mound. He gives you innings and doesn’t really care if he throws 84 or 85 miles per hour anymore. He just gets the job done. And that’s why we like him so much.”

Livan Hernandez is returning to Our Washington Nationals for the third time in his career. Ole' Number 61 signed to a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training. Today was Livo's first full day in Viera, Florida for 2010 and after practice he stopped to talk with The African Queen and I about his love of the team. But not before immediately mentioning playoffs.

Yeah, he really did. With that, here is Our Conversation With Livan Hernandez. And he was as entertaining as always:

Washington means a lot to you doesn’t it? (Nats320)

“We were a big part of bringing baseball back to Washington after thirty something years (in 2005). It was really nice and I felt good about it then and it’s wonderful to be back here and playing again for The Nationals. It is a great city. I think the fans are as good as any I’ve been with in baseball. They (management) have put together a good team this year and I hope to be able to give a playoff team to the people of D.C.”

That would be good, but the playoffs? You serious? (Nats320)

“Yeah, I’m serious. We have a very talented team. I would expect nothing less. (as we look at Livan sort of sideways wondering about that statement). Be positive man, that’s the only way to be (chuckling).”

(And Livo is telling Nats320 to be positive?--that made the comment even better)

You know you are beloved in this town? You know that, right? (Nats320)

“I really like D.C. It is a great city. A great city for sports and a great city to have a baseball team. So what we have got to do is play well for them and try to make the playoffs. We want and the city wants for people to be coming to the new stadium. They will give us the support if we win. That’s important for any player, any team and any fan.”

But many love you? (Nats320)

“Yeah, it’s flattering. We did a lot of good stuff over there those first two seasons. I love the fans too. And when you do something that people appreciate, you feel the love back. That’s enamoring. That’s why I love the city so much.”

Did that make it tough to leave after being traded to Arizona in mid-2006? (Nats320)

“It was tough but it was a different situation. It was hard for me as I had given everything I had that year. In 2005, my knee hurt but I stayed out there the whole year because they needed me. They asked me to (go out there) and I did. I don’t want to sit at home. I want to pitch. I love the game. Then in 2006, I got traded to Arizona, and that was hard because we weren’t going the right way. I wanted to stay, but I had no say in the matter.”

So, does that make it heartwarming for you to come back? (Nats320)

“Yes, definitely. Last year was great, in fact, fun. And to come now this year is special. I have always wanted to play here. Like I said, it’s a great city, a great organization and the ballpark is beautiful.”

Would you like to retire as a Washington National? (Nats320)

“Yes, if they give the chance (chuckling). But I’ve got a long way to go. I still need to make the team. I still need to show them I can get the job done. I’ve spent the entire off-season working to stay in shape. That would be really nice.”

I have got to ask you this. You are so relaxed on the mound. I have never seen anyone so fearless. It doesn’t matter if the bases are loaded and the biggest slugger in the game is at the plate--you can focus. (Nats320)

“Yeah, that’s the way I am.”

Randy St.Claire told us once that if he came to the mound in such a situation and put his hand on your heart--your’s would be beating normally. How do you do that? (Nats320)

“I have always believed the more you think on the mound, the more trouble you get yourself in and the more difficulty you bring upon yourself. So I like to remain calm, stay down, and just do what I have got to do to get out of trouble. It’s worked for me, always.”

You have now played for a number of teams. You just mentioned playoffs. What’s your gut feeling about this team? (Nats320)

“Mike Rizzo did a great job this off-season pulling things together and I want to be a part of it. Alot of people always say things about this team, but I got to tell you (again)--I’m thinking playoffs.”

Really?! (Nats320)

“Yeah, I’m thinking that way.”

That’s a huge jump in the standings and a good attitude to have. (Nats320)

“Be positive baby, that’s all that counts, and you will get there!!” (SMILING BROADLY)

With that final answer Our Conversation With Livan Hernandez concluded. Jason Bergmann was standing by at the time and enjoying the give and take. "He is who he is," concluded Our Number 57 to Sohna and I. "and there is nothing wrong with that."

2010 First Full Squad Workout

"Boy, it sure is quiet out here!!" shouted Adam Dunn while fielding grounders at 1st Base on the practice fields in Viera, Florida this morning. A new look version of Our Washington Nationals were participating in their very first full-squad practice of 2010 and everything surrounding the 2 & 1/2 hour training session was serious. Smiling faces all around, but not a lot of fooling around. A determination that business was at hand.

"There is a completely different feel to this camp than any I have participated in over the past four seasons," stated Jason Bergmann. "Mike Rizzo, (Our General Manager) has done a wonderful job of changing the landscape here. I've never been more excited for spring training to begin."




On this Friday, February 26th, 35 pitchers, 6 catchers, 10 infielders, 9 outfielders alongside 20 Coaches & Managers worked through the first Full Spring Workout of Washington's 2010 roster. There was precision to the operation today that was not lost on The African Queen and I. From stretching, to warming up, the infield drills, the bullpen sessions followed by live batting practice--Our Manager Jim Riggleman stood watching like a general in charge--moving around--letting his trusted lieutenants conduct the lessons--all the while keeping a firm grip on the day's proceedings. The African Queen and I can't really describe how different today was than anything we witnessed over the past three seasons attending spring training. But it was noticed by most everyone we talked to. Getting the bunt down, doing your running, making sure a fielder is covering the bag--those little things seemed to matter today.

Nationals Fans Darlene & Dave from Manassas noticed the difference.

Even a wily old veteran commented on the atmosphere.

"I've been to many a training camps in my career," Eddie Guardado offered up to Sohna. "This one is as serious as any I've been a part of for the first week. Even the guys that have been around this team for a while are getting right down to business. I respect that as I believe in the same approach."



On and on it went this morning at Our Washington Nationals Spring Training Facility in Central Florida--the pop of baseball hitting a mitt, the crack of the bat and the yell of "I've Got It!!" all set the scene. Major League Baseball was back in full swing and The African Queen and I were having a wonderful time just catching up with many that we haven't seen over the winter months.



As has always been the case at Nationals Spring Training--the access to players for autographs and pictures was terrific. A few new rules have been set in place to make the workouts conducive for both players and fans. Stephen Strasburg signed autographs for fans after practice concluded along the first base side of field number one. Many more waited for Pudge Rodriguez but after a TV interview--he jumped in a golf cart and was driven back to the clubhouse. The sight of about 50 folks waiting in line patiently for their few moments with a player--really nice to see. No pushing, shoving, and getting in each other's way. Additionally, there are temporary rope lines now set up to allow players to move from field to field between sessions. But once the workouts begin anew--the ropes comes down and free access to the field perimeters continue.

Of course, those rope lines didn't deter a funny personal moment. Nyjer Morgan is jogging with Justin Maxwell between fields when he spots Sohna standing behind a dugout. He momentarily stops and bellows out--"There she is!! There she is!! There's The African Queen!! He, he!!"--while pointing excitedly at her. "We'll catch up later!!" Then proceeds to chuckle all the way over to field number two. Tony Plush was a fan favorite for EVERYONE today. He never turns off the smile with fans around.

Other anecdotes from today's first full squad workout:



Livan Hernandez actually look liked he's lost some weight. He threw a bullpen session today and later stopped on this way back to Space Coast Stadium for a good five minute chat with us. And reeled off one of the best lines we heard all day. That conversation transcript coming up later this evening. Additionally, Livo signed autographs for EVERYONE!! So did Matt Capps, Jason Bergmann, Wil Nieves, Jordan Zimmermann, Jesus Flores and even Strasburg--among those we witnessed. Our Young Number 37 probably spent a good 10 minutes pleasing those on hand--under watchful eye of communications staff. Good for him.

Speaking of Strasburg--wherever he went, the fans followed. The Pied Pipper of Our Washington Nationals.



We watched Scott Olsen, John Lannan, Eddie Guardado, Jason Bergmann and Garrett Mock throw batting practice. Olsen was throwing free and easy--not hard as he's coming back from surgery--but he looked comfortable on the mound. That's a good start for a potential number three starter in 2010.

Ross Detwiler was clearly disappointed over his recent hip surgery. Our Number 48 was hobbling around on crutches watching the action on the fields. "I was really taken back when the diagnosis came. My hip was hurting for a long time. I just didn't realize how bad things were. Once I got here, things didn't get any better." Detwiler went on to say he's already rehabbing but will not be doing any baseball activities for a good six weeks. "Hopefully, in three months, I can be back on the mound and ready to go. I've lost some time, but I'm not out." But Ross Dewiler was definitely disappointed in the setback.

Sohna and I loved meeting Don from New Brunswick, Canada. A life long Montreal Expos Fan who has never forgotten his team and now has come to Viera each of the past two seasons to watch Nationals Spring Training. "They are my team and I've never lost sight of that." Don will spend one full month watching spring training and 17 Nationals games in March. His wife will join him later this weekend. A really pleasant man and dedicated reader of Nats320. With his trusty sitting stool in tow, Don moved around from field to field intently watching the action.

Finally--The Quote Of The Day.

While chatting with Jason Bergmann for a interview to be posted later, John Dever--Senior Director of Baseball Communications stops by. "You know this man (Jason) is the answer to a terrific trivia question: Who is the career pitching strikeout leader for The Washington Nationals? Few would know that."

Sure enough, It's true. Jason Bergmann is the answer. Our Number 57 smiles a little sheepishly and says: "Yeah, but I want to be known for more than that."


Speaking of more, that Livan Hernandez chat and a few more interviews coming later this evening from day one of the Full Squad Workout from Viera, Florida.

All pictures copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Fake Nats320 Twitter Account

The hatefulness of some people is beyond comprehension. Apparently, some will go out of their way to make any attempt to humiliate and make fun of all our hard work and enjoyment with Our Washington Nationals. We've always just ignored the noise as static because we enjoy each and every day of Nationals Baseball.

And we are proud of our undying efforts. There is no question many love our devotion to the team.

But today, someone has taken all the meanness way too far. Sohna and I were informed this afternoon a fake Nats320_SBF twitter account has been started in our names. Obviously, the goal of the hater(s) is to find a more public way to continue their childish, rude and immature behavior--by pretending to be us. Apparently, it's not enough for the these people to not like someone's work--there must be an attempt to destroy everything someone has accomplished.

We will not back down.

No way.

We will not let anyone take our life, our fun and our enjoyment we share together each and every day away.

That account needs to come down immediately.

The person, or persons, responsible for this fake twitter account can attempt to hide anonymously all they want. You've reached a new low in classlessness. But make no mistake about it, Sohna and I will find you and come against you and fight back to the fullest extent of the law.

This is the downside of social media when someone attempts to steal your very own identity while attempting to destroy you in the process. Decent people should not stand for this hatefulness. We hope everyone out there who appreciates and respects decency and hard work, will stand with us against this person, or persons, whom are trying to destroy our good names.

We Are Back For More Fun!!

You try traversing 12 times zones over three days--then without much sleep--get on the road for the 13-hour journey down I-95 from Alexandria, Virginia to Viera, Florida (the home office fully packed)--only to be diverted to Sea World Orlando for the Killer Whale Story?

No, it doesn't get much more hectic than that.

Nevertheless, we are back for more fun!! The African Queen and I arrived for our fourth Spring Training with Our Washington Nationals on Thursday. A little more late than planned, very tired, but ready for some baseball. We made a quick drive-by of Space Coast Stadium early yesterday evening, but way too late to see any action. Then of all things, not 10 minutes later, ran into Jesus Flores at a local store--where we all talked for a good 10 minutes.

A good chat too.

So today (Friday-February 26th) will our first day of watching the action on the practice fields in Viera. And as always, we will attempt to provide our different approach and coverage to Spring Training.

The very place where Our Washington Nationals are now stating: "We're On Our Way..."

Please check back for our usual full Nats320 coverage.

All Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

The Bobblehead Fan Vote

Update: Out at dinner last night, Agent 99 realized we forgot to mention the Charlie Slowes/Dave Jageler Bobblehead Set. Talkers of course with "Bang!! Zoom!! Go The Fireworks!!" and other famous calls from Washington's radio broadcasters.

The Fan Vote Bobblehead Sweepstakes winner should be a player or team official that has a long-term future with Our Washington Nationals--not someone that may just be passing through town or a figure already produced.

Our take on the nominees placed on the official ballot:

Pudge Rodriguez is nice, but he's probably not going to be remembered for his Hall Of Fame career wearing the Curly "W".

Teddy was done in 2007.

Jim Riggleman is in the first year of a new contract. No one really knows his long-term future with the team right now. Jim would be good choice after his first full season.

Jesus Flores would be an outstanding choice, if he hadn't been so injury prone the past two seasons.

John Lannan--as solid as they come--popular, well liked, and definitely in Washington's plans.

Of those five actually named on the Fan Vote Bobblehead Ballot, Lannan is probably the best bet.

But we also believe there are some solid possibilities for write-in votes:

Stephen Strasburg--no question that bobblehead would be as popular as one can get.

Mike Rizzo--Our GM has transformed the look, feel and respect of Our Washington Nationals. A bobblehead of Mr. Rizzo wearing the Red Nationals Gamer Jacket would be terrific.

Even better if there is a two-person set: Ryan Zimmerman handing Strasburg his Number 37 Jersey at Stephen's August Introductory Press conference at Nationals Park. That would be a cool set.

The African Queen wants to see a Team President Stan Kasten Bobblehead. Of course, this one would have to be a talker!!

And eventually--I would like to see a Walter Johnson Bobblehead. We have to always remember Washington's Baseball History--especially one of the greatest pitchers of all-time.

As far as that second Ryan Zimmerman Bobblehead coming on June 19th? Here's hoping it's The Z-Man holding his Silver Slugger and Gold Glove Awards from 2009. The Washington Capitals did a similar production with Alexander Ovechkin last season. Sohna and I happened to attend that hockey game and really liked that particular style.

The Return

Returning to town after a whirlwind four days on assignment, The African Queen and I just started chuckling when we first heard that Our Washington Nationals had returned Livan Hernandez to their roster by signing him to a minor league contract. A deal that includes an invitation to Major League Camp in Spring Training. There is no question, we will always hold a soft spot in our hearts for that big Cuban because there is an entertainment factor to any of his appearances that goes well beyond the actual game itself. He's fun to watch, win or lose.

It is also safe to say Livo is on the down side of his professional career. But his signing should not hinder another Washington prospect's development.

"Livan may be old," Sohna believes, "but he could help out in some way. What is he suppose to do? Roll over and play dead?"

I love that statement because despite what some may believe, Livan's not going to take away a job from any youngster's promise. What Livan Hernandez will do is push them and, hopefully, make each of them better. As stated the other day--to be a Major League Baseball player and have success--you must have confidence in yourself. If any of these "Young Guns" are afraid of that challenge--from an aging veteran--then they better start looking inwardly at themselves and find the proper strength to move forward with their own careers.

Livan Hernandez will not hinder any of them, only help them in their development.

Old Number 61 was signed to a non-guaranteed contract. That's a return well worth taking a flyer on.

Photo Credit--Rex Arbogast (AP)

The Rising Sun

Today, approximately 75 people came to the minor league practice fields of Our Washington Nationals in Viera, Florida, to witness Stephen Strasburg throw his first 37 pitches of Spring Training--including reporters and photographers from ESPN, The New York Times and The Philadelphia Inquirer. And that bullpen session came after Strasburg appeared for a feature on ESPN's Baseball Tonight.

This past Friday, the introduction of Chien-Ming Wang in a Nationals Jersey and Red Curly "W" Cap drew approximately 40 reporters and photogs--mostly from China and Chinese Tapei. Washington's newly signed Taiwanese National is a hero is his native land and has become sort of a folk hero--much like Ichiro is in Japan.

Then Saturday morning, while watching the replay of MLB Networks--"Hot Stove"--baseball's network devoted nearly 10 solid minutes to Our Washington Nationals, including a five minute chat with Our Manager Jim Riggleman. The interesting information coming from analysts Al Leiter and Dan Plesac. Here are two guys with a combined 37 years of Major League experience. Each has played on good teams and on bad teams--and each has turned their knowledge of the game into key roles discussing Major League baseball today. During "Hot Stove", Leiter & Plesac both stated how Washington is becoming legitimate and worth watching closely in 2010.

From Wang's Presser; to MLB Network's coverage; to ESPN's Baseball Tonight; on to a simple "bullpen" thrown by Stephen Strasburg this Sunday morning--there is a completely different feel when it comes to version 6.0 of Our Washington Nationals. People are paying attention to D.C. Baseball and it's for good reasons. No longer is there just focus on basically on one star guy. This day finds more complete media coverage outside the local markets and it's not about what's wrong with Our Washington Nationals?

As Al Leiter mentioned on MLB Networks--(paraphrasing here): "It's teams like Washington that sneak up on people and then everyone starts wondering--where did they come from?"

That commentary was pleasing to hear because over the past few months, Our General Manager Mike Rizzo has consistently stated that he's never "satisfied" when it comes to rebuilding this ball club. But it sure is satisfying to witness extended coverage of Nationals Baseball in a positive light. Even though the sun is just beginning to rise on a new season, there is a media buzz over Our Washington Nationals that hopefully once set in 2010--will bring the dawning of some exciting new days to D.C. Baseball for years to come.

Strasburg Photo Credit--Rob Carr (AP)
Wang Press Conference Photo Credit-Reinhold Matay (AP)

Just Speak Up

Ross Detwiler is the latest.

Before him--Craig Stammen, Cristian Guzman, Shawn Hill, Chad Cordero, I think even John Patterson, never initially said a word about any apparent injury problem. They all remained quiet until the situation got worse. I am sure there are more, but that's just off the top of my head.

What's with not speaking up when your health is in question? Playing with pain for the team only goes so far.

I just don't get that. Every professional organization has a host of medical advisers at their disposal that can diagnose, determine and advise any athlete on virtually any ailment--big and small.

Come on guys, just speak up--it's for your own benefit. And Our Washington Nationals as well.

When it comes to injuries, silence is never golden.

ziMS Foundation 2nd Annual Flip-Flop Retreat

Thanks to the generous support of family, friends & corporate sponsors in 2009, The ziMS Foundation, this past February 13th & 14th, funded their 2nd Annual Flip-Flop Workshops By The Seashore in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Organized and conducted by The Hampton Roads Chapter of Multiple Sclerosis--over 200 MS patients, family members and caregivers were on hand at The Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel (the same resort which hosted the 2009 ziMS Foundation Gala) for a weekend get together in hopes of learning more about caring for MS and to also just let attendees enjoy a nice, relaxing weekend--and hopefully make some new friends along the way.

All thanks to a $37,000 donation given by The ziMS Foundation.

As most fans of Our Washington Nationals know, Ryan Zimmerman's Mom, Cheryl, was diagnosed with MS in 1995 and over the past four years, Ryan's family and countless others have given their time, money and resources to assist The ziMS Foundation in making a difference fighting MS. The ultimate goal--to find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis.

The Director of The James Q. Miller MS Clinic at The University of Virginia--Dr. Myla D. Goldman, MD, MS--was the keynote speaker for this Flip-Flop Retreat. Additionally, Dr. Goldman spoke during breakfast breakout sessions and brought along some of her staff from The Neurological Center at UVA in Charlottesville to be as through and helpful as possible.

Additionally, as part of the weekend's fun, comedian Anthony Griffith was on hand for the entire event to spread some joy and provide laughter. ziMS Foundation staff informing Nats320 that Mr. Griffith was 'hilarious'.

Since it's founding in 2006, The ziMS Foundation has raised over $250,000 for beneficiaries.

The 3rd Annual Flip-Flop Retreat will be held in February, 2011.

PS: Below--a few more pictures from last weekend's event:

Volunteer Bunky Manley with Cheryl Zimmerman

Volunteer Debbie Ballard on hand to answer questions at The ziMS Foundation Table.


All Photos Courtesy of The ziMS Foundation

Injury Bug Strikes Early

The fact that the first formal workout of spring has yet to take place and one of Our Washington Nationals prized young pitchers--not named Stephen Strasburg--has gone down to an injury is stunning. When I read that Ross Detwiler had surgery three days ago in Vail, Colorado to repair a torn hip flexor--it just brought back memories of Washington's ever rotating injury list of players that have come before him these past five years.

Too many to name, too sad to really hash over again.

Injuries happen and only patience can be shown for those players in recovery, but from inside the fish bowl watching--why has it always seemed as if Our Washington Nationals players come down with more injuries than other teams? Of course, it was also reported today that former National Joel Hanrahan will have further diagnosis on a recurring elbow strain to his right pitching arm. An issue that will cost Hanrahan his entire spring training and an Opening Day roster spot with The Pittsburgh Pirates. So yes, every team does have injuries.

As for Ross--Detwiler now out of baseball mode for a good three months. And to think, this could have been Ross' first real season to shine. His ray of hope now dimmed and placed on the back burner to rehab. But remember, every injury loss gives opportunity for someone else to rise and be noticed. That's the only glimmer of hope to take from anyone's misfortune.

The Injury Bug Strikes Early this season--hopefully few others to follow.

Sohna and I are keeping our fingers crossed.

Photo Credit--Nats320--All Rights Reserved