Facing Adversity

Before Adam Dunn jacked out his second smash of the evening at Nationals Park, Luis Atilano was facing adversity in the top of the 6th inning. Making his Big League Debut, the soon to be 25-Year Old was cruising through his first Major League Start. Called up today to replace the injured Jason Marquis, Atilano was handed the duty of facing a decent Los Angeles Dodgers lineup--minus Manny Ramirez.

And for nearly six complete innings, Luis--now wearing Number 56 on your scorecard--was keeping everything low in the strike zone. Pudge Rodriguez NEVER signaled for any pitch to be tossed anywhere but--at the knees. Atilano nearly never missed that target. From the get-go, he was sharp. Known for his sinker, Washington's Rookie Pitcher had complete command of that pitch and was in control tonight--until Nyjer Morgan misplayed a line drive to left center by L.A.'s Blake Dewitt in the key 6th frame.

Washington was only leading 2-1 at the time, mostly thanks to arguably the longest and deepest hit home run in the HISTORY OF NATIONALS PARK. Dunn's titanic blast off Dodgers' Knuckleball Pitcher Charlie Haeger, in the bottom of the 4th, had that majestic flight that you can only look at in awe. Adam socked Haeger's pitch so high, and so deep to right field--the baseball bounced off the facade of the 3rd Deck in front of Section 236. The true nose bleed seats on South Capitol Street. The Phillies Ryan Howard has socked a few goodies in our ballpark--so has Ryan Zimmerman. Albert Pujols just missed Center Field Plaza last year. And Ian Desmond's debut homer deep into the Red Porch comes to mind as well. But Our Number 44's liftoff this evening has to be the longest in the ballpark's history. If the facade did not stop the ball's flight--it would have landed on the Scoreboard Walk Walkway.

No One has ever hit a baseball there before tonight in either a regular season or exhibition game.

Yet as far as that baseball traveled, Dunn's homer only counted for one run and Washington only held a slim one run lead (2-1) when Atilano found himself in trouble in the top of the 6th. Most any young hurler making their Big League Debut probably has the advantage over the opposing hitters because the batters have mostly never seen the pitcher before. But once those same professional hitters had seen Our New Number 56 the first and second time around--they were beginning to figure him out.

And this is where the real story begins.

With two outs in that top of the 6th--The African Queen's former "Lucky Number 10", Ronnie Belliard, lashed a single up the middle. Only the 4th hit The Dodgers had recorded off Atilano at that point in the game. Then, Dewitt followed and stroked another liner into left centerfield. One of those "should I dive for the ball and make the great defensive play?" Or, "Should I play it safe and let the ball drop and give up the single?"

Nyjer Morgan doesn't appear to play anything safe and on this evening his decision to dive and miss Dewitt's drive proved costly for Our Washington Nationals when ball flew past him--putting Belliard on 3rd and Dewitt now on 2nd. Not one Washington reliever was warming up at the time. And as the phone rang in the bullpen, Tyler Clippard quickly got up to throw. Pitching Coach Steve McCatty then proceeded slowly, and I mean slowly, to walk to the mound for a conversion.

No amount of Minor League Experience is quite the same as The Big Leagues. McCatty knew it. Our Manager Jim Riggleman knew it. Even Our General Manager Mike Rizzo sitting in the front row next to Washington's Dugout knew it. Probably most all watching in the announced crowd of 23,859 knew that as well. But what everyone wanted to know was whether Luis Atilano had the wherewithal to solve his own problems?

Was He Ready For The Big Leagues?

Looking to bide time as Clippard loosened up, McCatty went out to get a feel for Atilano's mindset. Luis had pitched extremely well to this point in the game. Yet there was now a distinct possibility he might end up on the losing side. Not something you want to see after starting so well. Whatever Luis said to Steve McCatty must have assured Our Manager as well--as Jim Riggleman left Atilano in the game to face The Dodgers' catcher A.J. Ellis.

The decision setting up the final turning point to this game. As the righthanded hitting Ellis stepped into the batter's box--Atilano greeted him with an 89 MPH sinker for called strike one. The pitch that had served the young man well all night. Then, Luis followed with a fastball just off the plate for a called ball one. Atilano was proving he wasn't backing down. He also wasn't giving in. Aggressiveness which set Ellis up for the 3rd pitch--a 77 MPH slider that A.J. Ellis didn't really expect. The result? A well hit ground ball--but right at Cristian Guzman playing shortstop. "The Guz" cleanly fielding the hit baseball and throwing to first base to retire Ellis and The Dodgers during this crucial top of the 6th.

Playing in his very first Major League Baseball game; facing adversity for the very first time; handed the reigns to bring his new team home--Luis Atilano trotted off the field for the final time tonight--a trusted man. GM Mike Rizzo nodding approvingly toward Jim Riggleman as Atilano was greeted by his new teammates in the home side dugout. Finished for the night, The Puerto Rican Hurler well knew he was not finished pitching in the Big Leagues for 2010.

He made his mark in a remarkable performance--under the circumstances.

Final Score from Nationals Park where a young man no one really knew about made his Major League Debut tonight and sparkled: Our Washington Nationals 5 and The Los Angeles Dodgers 2. Curly "W" Number 9 of 2010 featured a sinker ball pitcher who came out strong, pitched confidently and when facing adversity--didn't back down. And The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! signaling that Luis Atilano was not only ready for The Major Leagues, but he's added to the refreshing outlook for Washington Baseball. Playing competitively against some of The National League's best teams so far this early in the season, Washington is finding different heros throughout their schedule. Tonight, Atilano and Adam Dunn--with his two homers.

And as each day passes, more and more, Our Washington Nationals are beginning to look like a team. One that can face adversity while raising expectations. The hopes of which every fan can't wait to see--a winning Major League Baseball Team in The Nation's Capital.

Game Notes & Highlights


Luis Atilano completed six innings, allowed five hits, two walks and one run in his Major League Debut. He rarely reached above 90-91 on any of his pitches--but they were all well placed. And the young man showed composure on the mound. He didn't get flustered in the 4th inning when a Nyjer Morgan error eventually cost him one run. And he didn't back down after Dewitt's double in the 6th. Fallen off the radar and mostly considered as a reliever these past few years in Washington's Minor League System--Luis Atilano's debut was stunning. A remarkable story of a pitcher throwing for seven years in the minors, having Tommy John Surgery in 2006 and still making it to the Majors after all the struggles. And getting the personal victory. After all Luis Atilano has been through, today had to be a dream come true. Of course, Atilano got the customary shaving cream pie in the face after the game.

Achievement is also what Tyler Clippard brings to the mound each and every time Jim Riggleman hands him the baseball. Again tonight, "No Nonsense" Clippard bridged the distance in the game with two spectacular innings of relief. The Man With The Great Goggles struck out four. He didn't allow a hit. He didn't allow a walk. And when he records the final out of every inning and double fist pumps to himself--Tyler Clippard shows a tenacity in his game that needs to be bottled. That man can pitch and Our Washington Nationals have found his calling.

Just for the record--Luis Atilano was acquired from The Atlanta Braves by Former GM Jim Bowden for Daryle Ward in 2006. Bowden acquired Tyler Clippard from The New York Yankees for Jonathan Abaladejo before Spring Training 2008.


The knuckleball of The Dodgers Charlie Haeger must have looked like a beachball coming in from the mound to Adam Dunn. Our Number 44's two home runs this evening became the first multiple home run game by any National this season. After a prolonged April slump, Dunn appeared to be taking out his month long frustrations at the plate--all in one night. You can't say he's back just yet, but his two smacks and three rbi's were the first real positive signs of 2010 for Adam.

Nyjer Morgan tripled in the 1st inning and scored on an Adam Kennedy single to left. Morgan knocked in Justin Maxwell (who had walked) in the bottom of the 7th on a ripped double down the right field line. L.A.'s Andre Ethier had retrieved the baseball in the corner, but the speedy J-Maxx scored easily. Morgan with two hits, one run and one rbi on the evening.

The Defensive Play Of This Game was, maybe, the oddest double play in Nationals Park's history. Something most everyone watching had never seen before. With the bases loaded and one out in the bottom of the 8th, Willie Harris raps a grounder right at The Dodgers' James Loney manning 1st Base. Loney never touched the bag before throwing home to his catcher A.J. Ellis. Ellis, not knowing if Loney had placed his foot on 1st base before throwing home, first attempted to tag Cristian Guzman out at home. But when Home Plate Umpire Chris Guccione signaled out--Ellis realized the force was on. He had touched home plate, but Loney had not touched 1st Base.

As Our Manager Jim Riggleman came out of the dugout to argue the foot placement of Ellis, both Guccione and 1st Base Umpire Jerry Crawford ignored him. Why? Because play was still on. Willie Harris thought he was called out on his hit ground ball and was walking back to Washington's Dugout. First Base Coach Dan Radison apparently didn't say a word to Harris that he was safe. As The Dodgers Ronnie Belliard realized what was happening--that Willie had abandoned the base--Ronnie called for the baseball from A.J. Ellis--who threw the ball to Belliard standing on 1st base. With play still active, Jerry Crawford called Willie Harris out for leaving the base. Total confusion around Nationals Park as The Defensive Play Of This Game was as odd as they come. Jim Riggleman argued the call, but later stated the umpires had correctly made the call.

Radio Broadcaster Dave Jageler mentioned to Sohna and I after the game that when Los Angeles made a series of defensive changes in the bottom of the 6th--every person involved was an Ex-National. Ronnie Belliard moved from 3rd Base to 2nd Base. Jamey Carroll entered and played 3rd. Ramon Ortiz went to the mound to pitch. Dave first stated this fact during his broadcast tonight.

Speaking of Carroll, he was wearing Uniform Number 14. It's hard to believe The Dodgers haven't retired the number worn by Gil Hodges during his wonderful career played in Brooklyn. Hodges was one of the Brooklyn Dodgers greatest players and he transferred with the team to Los Angeles in 1958. Stunning actually. How is Gil Hodges not deserving of the honor?


Teddy attempted to ride a Segway to victory in the 4th inning Presidents Race. But Abe still ran him down and won going away.

And finally--Sohna's "Lucky Number 10" visited with us. Ronnie Belliard was one of The African Queen's favorite Nationals over the past four years. They are still close today. It was great meeting up with "The Ballplayer" again after the game.

Tonight's In-Game Photos--Luis M. Alvarez (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Optimal Performance

Ubaldo Jimenez and Livan Hernandez are two completely different pitchers. Yet at the same time, they are very similar. Each has a free and easy windup motion. Each knows how to get opposing hitters out. And both expend very little energy while pitching from the mound.

That's why The Colorado Rockies' rising star can throw 122 pitches of shutout ball--five days after throwing a no-hitter.

And that's why Our Washington Nationals Big Cuban can toss a baseball as if he has a string attached before pulling it away from a batter's wood bat.

One throws a fastball nearly 100 MPH. The other barely 85. But each knows how to pitch.

How perfect that these two hooked up for the 40th Anniversary Celebration of Earth Day at Nationals Park late this afternoon. If reducing energy costs while maintaining optimal performance is a goal in sustainable resources--then Ubaldo Jimenez's and Livan Hernandez's Carbon Footprints displayed on South Capitol Street perfectly summed this important day.

For nearly eight innings, Jimenez mowed right threw Washington's Lineup. His 97 MPH fastball sinks like few in the game. And Our Manager's Lineup today could muster few hits and virtually no rallies against that flowing electricity. And with an injured Ryan Zimmerman not available, Jim Riggleman sent out a lineup of slap hitters in hopes of finding a new sustainable design. A force not reckoned with before. New energy found from Riggleman's own available renewable resources. That fresh power which Ubaldo Jimenez ultimately shutdown all day long.

As for Livo, he really was his typical self. Renewal energy is really what he's all about. If not for the fact Our Manager had to pinch hit for Livan in the bottom of the 8th inning, Ole Number 61 would have gone the distance again. Getting His Green On, Livan Hernandez was exerting himself in his usual way--like with no strain at all. Once again, going deep into a ball game--saving any excess depletion from Washington's Strained Bullpen.

Energy Management is what Ubaldo Jimenez and Livan Hernandez are all about. And for over two hours this afternoon at America's First Certified Green Ballpark they hooked up for an Earth Day extravaganza worthy of the celebration. Yeah, Livo gave up the two solo home runs that proved costly, but this marquee matchup provided for an atmosphere filled with potential. Strength and endurance was shown by both pitchers--toughness and tact under pressure as well.

Lessening their impact on the environment, you might go all year long and not see a better pitched baseball game from two competing sides. And as baseball fans that needs to be appreciated--despite the final outcome for the home side. In many respects, this get together was so reminiscent of one of the finest thrown ball games since baseball returned to Washington. The 56th game ever played by Our Washington Nationals which took place on June 3, 2005 at RFK Stadium. 29,439 witnessed the greatest pitcher's duel of past six seasons. Nothing comes close to that particular night.

Until today.

And Livan Hernandez was one of the stars then as well.

Facing The Florida Marlins, Ole Number 61 threw 150 pitches that hot and humid night. Yes, that's right, 150 pitches toward The Florida Marlins that stepped to the plate!! Even intentionally walking Paul LoDuca to load the bases with the score tied at 2-2 in the top of the 8th--just to pitch to Damian Easley and record the final out. There was never a greater cheer for gamesmanship at any Nationals game than that evening after Easley popped out to Nick Johnson to end the rally.

If you there, you well know--that moment was SPECIAL. Especially, when Livan Hernandez pitched into the 10th inning.

The Fish countered with Josh Beckett that June 3rd, 2005 evening. And for 8 strong innings, Beckett threw non-stop heat. 106 of hardest thrown pitches you might ever see.

Washington eventually won in 11 innings, 4-3, and neither Hernandez nor Beckett were involved in the final decision. But each had pitched optimal performances on the same night, in the same game. Effort not really seen again in these parts until today's Jimenez/Livo duel at Nationals Park.

You can have all the 11-8 or 9-7 games you want, we'll take the well pitched, well defended game each time.

Nearly six years ago in 2005, a tremendous Major League Baseball Game was pitched by both sides at The Old Ballyard on East Capitol Street. One of the highlight games for anyone that respects good competition. Another worthy successor took place on South Capitol Street this cool spring late Thursday afternoon between The Rox and Nats. Yeah, Washington lost, but The African Queen and I didn't leave without a smile on our faces. When this one was said and done--It didn't matter the teams--because that was just a really well pitched ball game.

Final Score from Nationals Park where both Ubaldo Jimenez and Livan Hernandez were able to recycle their rather impressive talents again--fittingly on the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day: The Colorado Rockies 2 and Our Washington Nationals Zero. The former coming off the first thrown no-hitter of the 2010 season. The latter having thrown just the 4th complete game in D.C.'s short history. Each pitched well in their own unique ways. And in doing so provided an educational resource for fans wishing to learn about the sustainable design of pitching.

What Jimenez and Hernandez displayed today was not how hard or soft you throw the baseball. It's really all about renewing your energy to provide for optimal performance.

Game Notes & Highlights

Miguel Olivo took Livan Hernandez over the wall in the top of the 2nd inning for his solo home run. The first run allowed by Livo all season--one out away from recording 18 straight scoreless innings to start the season. Ian Stewart added his homer in the 7th off Hernandez. A no doubter into the bleachers above the right field scoreboard wall. The only other run scored today. Livan Hernandez still only gave up four hits in 8 innings. And left the game for a pinch hitter in the 8th with a stellar ERA of 0.75. He pitched well enough to win.

Only that Ubaldo Jimenez was better. There could be few pitchers in the game that can throw so hard whose windup is so slow and deliberate. Really, it looks like Jimenez is going to soft toss the baseball. Then--WHAM!!--it's delivered to the plate. A fastball consistently clocked at 97 MPH. In recording 22 outs this afternoon, only one--ONE--Washington Batter hit a fly ball out. 15 ground ball outs, five strikeouts. That's IMPRESSIVE!! Most Impressive.

Ubaldo Jimenez was so on top of his game that when Colorado Manager Jim Tracy came to the mound to replace him with one out in the bottom of the 7th and 122 pitches thrown--you had to stand and cheer--that The Rox were taking him out of the game. Hopefully, Washington would do better against their bullpen. But as it turned out, Joe Beimel and Franklin Morales were just as effective.

Willie Harris did have a game changing opportunity present itself in the bottom of the 7th when Alberto Gonzalez stood on 3rd and Cristian Guzman on 1st with two outs--down by two runs. Harris was looking for a fastball from Beimel to drive--which he got--but Willie didn't hit the ball squarely. The stroked baseball went high and deep to right--but short of the wall where Colorado's Carlos Gonzalez grabbed it for the final out.

In a well pitched game, there are always a few good defensive plays. Washington turned two beauties. With The Rox Dexter Fowler on 1st base and one out in the top of the 6th, Colorado's Todd Helton hits a one hopper back to the mound. Livan Hernandez, being the professional he is--immediately turns toward second base after picking the ball--and without hesitating throws a perfect strike to Ian Desmond cutting across the bag. Only thing was, the speedy Fowler was already on top of him sliding into the base. Off-balance and almost sideways--Desmond leaps into the air--leaning right, with his left leg kicking sideways--even higher left. Almost prone to the ground but airborne--Ian throws a one-hopper across to 1st Base where Adam Dunn makes a very nice reaching scoop to record the inning ending double play.

The Defensive Play Of This Game on most nights until Adam Kennedy--playing second base--ran blind--with his back to a pop up by Olivo in the top of the 7th--lofted between the infield and right field where "The Guz" was playing. Guzman either couldn't find the ball, or didn't think he would get there. Kennedy ran full bore--looking over his head--looking over his head--looking over his head--until it appeared he had NO CHANCE of catching the baseball. The Rockies Ryan Spilborghs on 1st base felt Kennedy had no chance as well and kept running to 3rd Base. With no one expecting Our Number 20 to retrieve the baseball in the air--Adam reached out, basket style--and made one of prettiest over the shoulder, over the head catches ever seen at Nationals Park!! That Defensive Play Of The Game was a GEM!! Worthy of the eventual inning ending double play on Spilborghs and the standing ovation given by just about every single person in the park. Kennedy also made a nice back stab stop of a grounder hit up the middle to his right and threw out Carlos Gonzalez in the 3rd. Adam Kennedy is not fancy in many respects--but he's a pretty competent professional that knows how to position himself and play the game.





For Earth Day, fans were encouraged to bring recyclable containers to Nationals Park and receive discount ticket vouchers to Monday through Thursday Games in May & June. Special announcements were made between innings promoting ways to Get Your Green On. The African Queen and I wore our Green Curly "W" Caps given out in 2008 at Nationals Park in support of the effort.



Teddy also participated in Earth Day by planting a tree during the 4th inning Presidents Race--not racing in it. Of course, his friends ran the tree over rushing past and George took the checkered flag for his 3rd victory of 2010.


And finally, we've always appreciated the end of the 3rd inning "Welcome Home" Salute that Our Washington Nationals hold for rehabbing military members and their families at Nationals Park. And it's always nice to see the visiting teams participate by clapping and engaging themselves in the tribute. Colorado's 1st Base Coach Glen Allen Hill stopped each of the past four days behind home plate, bowed and took off his batting helmet in respect. But what has become VERY SPECIAL is Washington's Pudge Rodriguez turning around after warming up each and every pitcher this season during the salute and applaud and applaud and applaud. Then point at the soldiers with their families. Ivan Rodriguez is one classy man and continues to show that each and every day he dons a uniform for Our Washington Nationals. Watching Pudge today partake in the ritual was bone chilling good.

Today's In-Game Photos--Nick Wass (AP)
All Other Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

The Zone

Willie Harris settles in under the final out in the top of the 8th inning. A routine fly ball to leftfield off the bat of The Colorado Rockies' Carlos Gonzalez. As Willie makes the catch, he and his other teammates from Our Washington Nationals begin to trot off the field toward the home side dugout. All except for Craig Stammen.

Washington's pitcher of record doesn't realize the frame is over. Instead, Our Number 35 heads to the rear of the mound looking to get the baseball back to face another hitter--until Ryan Zimmerman comes by and clearly states: "Inning Over." They both begin to laugh. You see, Craig Stammen had found "The Zone". That psychological edge that happens in sports where you can do little wrong--for one game--or one event--or for an extended period of time.

Basketball players enter The Zone on those nights when every basketball shot from their hands sees nothing but the bottom of the net. When golfers enter the zone, they will make every drive off the tee perfectly. And sink every putt no matter how difficult. A football quarterback will hit every single receiver thrown a pass in The Zone--even while scrambling from the pocket. And distance runners in The Zone feel like they can run forever.

In The Zone, there is a feeling a new boundary as been reached. Something out of this world has touched you. Mindless becomes the thought pattern. Every single decision you make is right. Invincible might be too strong of a word, but untouchable might describe the experience perfectly. And you don't want it to end.

NBA Great & Hall Of Famer, Michael Jordan, probably entered The Zone during his illustrious career more consistently than any sports figure EVER. Arguably, no other player in sport has elevated their game more than MJ. But The Zone is not reserved for just the great players. Every athlete, sometime during their career, will enter The Zone at least once. And Craig Stammen found himself in that expanse tonight at Nationals Park.

He was in total control the deeper into this game he pitched.

Relaxed, not over throwing, showing no beads of sweat--the Former Dayton Flyer was just playing ball. Whether Stammen was pitching in a sandlot pickup game back home, or pitching in a playoff game, or in this case--the 13th of 162 scheduled Major League Baseball Games for Our Washington Nationals in 2010--no one was really going to touch him.

Stammen's Washington teammates put five runs on the board in support. And for his final five innings on the mound--Craig was protecting just a three run lead. But on this chilly evening at Nationals Park, that lead might have well been 30 runs. Unconsciously, Stammen was throwing to a quality hitting lineup named The Colorado Rockies--that really had no chance against him. D.C.'s starter tonight allowed two runs on five hits while walking just one. He was in The Zone so deep, Craig even singled his first time up to the plate. And drilled a liner to right in the bottom of the 6th that would have been a sure single too--his second base hit of the evening--if not for a fine sliding catch by Colorado's Brad Hawpe.

Having pitched one of the worst games of his career the last time out, Craig Stammen rebounded and found the nerve, the drive and the stamina to turn his game around. No athlete ever knows when they will enter The Zone. That tall righthander wearing uniform number 35 did tonight and in doing so encountered one of those nearly indescribable feelings.

Final Score from Nationals Park where Craig Stammen found out his athletic ability had no limitations this evening: Our Washington Nationals 5 and The Colorado Rockies 2. Curly "W" Number Seven of 2010 proved that when a player is in The Zone, he is virtually untouchable. The pressure doesn't matter. The competition doesn't matter. All that really matters is the feeling you can't be beat. And The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! signaling that Washington's Team might be entering The Zone as well. They've battled back after bad outings. They've never given up even when down big. And after playing poorly at times through these first few weeks of the new season--D.C.'s Team still has a winning record of seven wins and six losses.

The Zone is that psychological edge, a mindset, that Our Washington Nationals are finding can make themselves capable of defeating just about anyone.

Game Notes & Highlights

You could see it in his face all evening, Craig Stammen was enjoying himself on the mound. He wasn't nervous. He was just performing up to his capabilities--and then some. It's hard to believe that during his last start, Our Number 35 only lasted 1.1 innings--giving up seven runs. Craig Stammen was the pitcher everyone saw at Spring Training in Florida tonight--dominant at times and worthy of his starting rotation position once again.

Matt Capps was sent to the mound by Our Manager Jim Riggleman for the top of the 9th inning. Capps finished off his sixth save in as many chances.

Washington jumped all over Colorado Starter Aaron Cook early. Willie Harris with the key blow--a three run homer into the bullpen in right field--in the bottom of the 2nd. Harris knocking in his fourth run of the evening on a sacrifice fly to center with the bases loaded in the 3rd--scoring Dunn. And Nyjer Morgan finishing off Washington's 5th tally with an rbi single moments later. Considering that 17 D.C. hitters faced Cook in the 2nd and 3rd innings alone--it was surprising Our Washington Nationals didn't score more.

There was a really nice moment when Harris knocked home Adam Dunn with that 4th run on the sacrifice fly in the 3rd. Pudge Rodriguez was standing on 1st base--having singled right before Willie. After Our Number 22 turned, after the catch was made, and proceeded to walk back to Washington's Dugout, our fans stood clapping from the stands. What was even better, was the sight of Pudge still standing on 1st base--but yelling and pointing toward Willie Harris vociferously. Rodriguez proceeding to clap and cheer for Willie as well--for giving himself up for the team. That's leadership from Pudge Rodriguez. That's letting your teammates know--the little things count. You don't have to step to the plate and hit the ball out of the park every time. You just have to be professional and attempt to give your team another opportunity to win. In the five plus years of Nationals Baseball, we don't ever recall any player wildly cheering on their teammate--FOR MAKING AN OUT. A Future Hall Of Famer was letting Willie Harris know he appreciated the effort. That briefest moment tonight--a big step in the development of Our Washington Nationals.

Interesting post-game stat: Willie Harris is 4th on the career leader board for home runs at Nationals Park with 12. Ryan Zimmerman has 24, Adam Dunn 20 and Elijah Dukes 13.

There were a few nice defensive gems tonight. Two from Miguel Olivo--The Rox Catcher. In the bottom of the 6th inning, he threw out the speedy Nyjer Morgan attempting to steal second base. Then, in the 7th, Olivo did himself one better and threw out the very speedy Willy Taveras attempting to steal second base. Both, beautiful and strong throws. But the best defensive play of the night came from the athletic speed and skill of Ian Desmond.

In the top of the 8th, Colorado's Manager Jim Tracy sent Dexter Fowler to pinch hit for their pitcher Matt Daley against Craig Stammen. The lefty swinging Fowler slams the first pitch thrown toward the middle of the diamond--shortstop side of second base. With virtually a split second to decide what to do, Ian Desmond lunges and dives to his left while the baseball has actually short-hopped, almost past, his now prone body. But somehow, Our Number 6 has positioned his fielding glove lower than his body to the ground--giving himself just enough leverage to OLE' scoop the baseball, fall down, quickly get up--and throw Dexter Fowler out at 1st Base--just in time. The Defensive Play Of This Game that was spectacular to watch in person.


11,623 the announced crowd tonight at Nationals Park. And it seemed like less. When the game's first pitch was thrown at 7:04PM, there were few folks sitting around us in the Stars & Stripes Club.




Teddy again came out of the gate with the lead in the 4th inning Presidents Race. But after a tussle in the corner turn, Tom pulled away to take the checkered flag.


And finally, while walking around the ballpark during the game, every other television set in the seating bowl area was tuned to The Capitals/Canadiens NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Hockey Game.

Tonight's In-Game Photos--Haraz N. Ganbari (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Time To Get Your Green On Again

It's time to get your green on again at Nationals Park.

In celebration of the 40th Earth Day, Our Washington Nationals will pay tribute with a series of events surrounding this coming Thursday afternoon's game against The Colorado Rockies. On April 22nd, 2010, the first professional sports venue to be LEED silver certified--Nationals Park--will host Earth Day's National Coordinator, Denis Hayes, and Winter Olympics Nordic Combined Gold Medalist, Billy Demong (Athletes for Earth Ambassador), during special pre-game ceremonies. And the Earth Day Network will be on hand to disseminate information on how everyone can reduce their personal carbon footprint.

Additionally--a new Special Green Tour of Nationals Park will be announced. The opportunity for those interested in looking at the South Capitol Street Ballpark in a new green light. And those fans who present a Metro or Smart Trip Card at Our Washington Nationals Box Offices will receive a $3 discount off any ticket priced greater than $10 that day. Bring a recyclable container and receive a 50% off voucher for tickets to ANY Monday through Thursday Nationals home game in May or June.

Yes, this Thursday, April 22nd at Nationals Park--Time To Get Your Green On Again!!

Here is the complete press release from the team:

Washington Nationals Celebrate 40th Anniversary of Earth Day

Earth Day Network and Olympic Gold Medalist Billy Demong to take part in festivities

Washington Nationals fans are invited to celebrate Earth Day at Nationals Park, America’s first green ballpark! In honor of the fortieth anniversary of Earth Day, the Nationals will pay tribute to Mother Earth on Thursday, April 22 when they face the Colorado Rockies at 4:35 p.m., a day game that was specifically scheduled in an effort to reduce energy costs.

The Earth Day Network will be on hand encouraging fans to take part in a Carbon Footprint Quiz while distributing information on lessening their impact on the environment. Earth Day National Coordinator Denis Hayes and Athletes for Earth Ambassador/ Nordic Combined Olympic Gold Medalist Billy Demong will also be in attendance and take part in pre-game ceremonies.

In addition to the festivities surrounding the game, Earth Day will mark the start of the Green Tour at Nationals Park, a behind-the-scenes look at the various environmentally-friendly design elements incorporated into the ballpark’s construction. As the nation's first major professional sports venue to become LEED Silver Certified by the U.S. Green Building Council, Nationals Park is the ultimate educational resource for fans interested in learning about sustainable design.

The tour will offer a unique perspective on the importance of limiting waste and reducing energy use. Topics covered include:
o Green history and the LEED movement
o Storm water filtration systems, including an overview of the baseball field
o Energy and atmosphere, sustainable sites and the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood green development
o Energy management systems, local transportation options and in-house recycling plans

Information on the tour will be available throughout Thursday’s game next to the Earth Day Network table on the Main Concourse level of the ballpark.

TICKETS: The Nationals will offer two special Earth Day Ticket Promotions for the game:

Fans who present their Metro farecard or SmarTrip card at the Nationals Park Box Offices will receive $3 off any ticket priced at $10 or more*

Fans who bring a recyclable container (plastic, glass, aluminum) will receive a ticket voucher courtesy of Coca-Cola (printed on recycled paper) for 50% off select tickets for that game or any Monday through Thursday home game in May or June.**

WHEN: Thursday, April 22
2:00 p.m. Center Field Gates Open
4:20 p.m. Pregame Ceremonies Begin
4:35 p.m. First Pitch

WHERE: Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol Street, SE Washington, DC

* Tickets must be purchased at the box office on the day of game. Limit of 1 ticket per Metro fare card. Subject to availability.
**Collection time is from CF gate open to the end of the 3rd inning. Offer good in select seating locations only. Subject to availability.

Money Back Guarantee

With his eyes looking straight down as he walked toward the home dugout, Jason Marquis exited an embarrassed man this Sunday afternoon. The boos were raining down from throughout Nationals Park. The time was 1:54PM. During the 16 minutes Marquis had pitched from the very start of today's game for Our Washington Nationals, not one Milwaukee Brewer had recorded a single out.

Not one.

A fan sitting to the left of us asked: "Now, how much are we paying this guy?"

SBF: "$15 million over two years."

The African Queen: "Do you want your money back?"

Fan: "Yeah, is the 30-Day Money Back Guarantee still in effect?"

If such a return was in place, most in the announced crowd of 18,789 probably would have at least checked with their customer service representatives after watching this performance. Seven Brewers stepped to the plate in the top of the first inning to bat against Washington's Starter--four singled, one walked and two (yes, two) were hit by pitch. Three of whom scored before Our Number 21 was summarily removed from the game by Our Manager Jim Riggleman.

Pitching Coach Steve McCatty made an appearance after just four batters in an attempt to settle down Marquis. Three hitters later, Riggleman was asking for the ball. The hook was given. And Jason was gone from the game.

Yet believe it or not--these dire consequences only got worse after his departure. Yeah, it really did.

In setting a new Washington Nationals high of runs allowed in any inning--The Milwaukee Brewers continued their own best first inning record pace in their team history with an infield single, a sacrifice fly, another walk and then the knock out blow--a Grand Slam off the bat of Craig Counsell--all with Miguel Batista on the mound for Washington.

32 minutes into this affair, the scoreboard read Milwaukee 10 and Our Washington Nationals Zero. Never since baseball returned to The Nation's Capital had any previous versions of D.C.'s Teams given up so many runs in ANY INNING--let alone the first. The previous record--eight. The last time that happened--June 26th, 2009 at Camden Yards in Baltimore.

Marquis' inability to pitch effectively and Batista's failure to control the early damage--spelled defeat for Our Washington Nationals not 35 minutes after the 1:38PM start. With such a large deficit, there was plenty of time to recover--which Washington did thanks to the continued hot hitting of Pudge Rodriquez, especially. But as it turned out, those 10 runs posted on the board to begin this game by The Milwaukee Brewers proved far too many to overcome.

Our Washington Nationals did battle back all the remainder of this afternoon. They pulled within three runs at one point and even had two decent chances to possibly tie. But when the final out was recorded at 5:07PM Washington's offensive production was not the story. Jason Marquis' third straight poor starting assignment since the beginning of the regular season was. From the moment Jason began throwing in Spring Training, 2010--he's not been his old self. No consistency in his work, almost a flustered appearance on the mound. Having no idea what Jason Marquis problem may be right now--it's clear that something must be done about it. But there is just no way Baseball Management is not going to give Jason every opportunity to right himself.

To their credit, Our Washington Nationals never gave up until that 27th and final out was recorded on South Capitol this chilly and cold day. And in fact, Jim Riggleman actually disputed a call at 2nd base in the bottom of the 9th with Washington down by four with two outs. A display of pride worth recognizing, but their first inning follies, began by Marquis' inadequate start, doomed any hope of a Washington Curly "W".

Final Score from Nationals Park where any thoughts of a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee in Major League Baseball on any contractual issue was at least fun to contemplate--The Milwaukee Brewers 11 and Our Washington Nationals 7. Jason Marquis was a big disappointment again today. A major off-season free agent signing expected to be the mainstay at the top of the Washington's pitching rotation--has been anything but. Needing to pull himself together, Marquis will assuredly be given more chances. Although Jim Riggleman can't continue to expect his batting lineup to continually over compensate for what has been through the first 12 games of 2010--a shaky starting rotation.

Good thing Livan's been on top of his game.

As mentioned previously, you can't win consistently giving up 9 runs per game to The Philadelphia Phillies. And you may never win ANY BALLGAME allowing 10 runs to The Milwaukee Brewers before your very own side has even taken their very first hacks at the plate. Everyone knows wins are never promised and no one is going to be giving any money back for failure, but it sure would help if our starting pitching would provide better support to keep Our Washington Nationals into most every game they play.

Solid & consistent pitching is the only way to guarantee continued success.

Game Notes & Highlights

Jason Marquis' numbers speak for themselves: 0 Innings Pitched, 4 hits, 1 walk, 2 hit by pitch, 7 earned runs. Marquis' ERA after three starts--a mind boggling 20.25.

After giving up the grand slam to Counsell, Miguel Batista completed five full innings. He provided the necessary distance that allowed Washington to pull back into this game--if only momentarily. Batista wasn't great, three runs on three hits and four walks prove that. But what Our Number 43 did was slow down the game and let his teammates attempt a miracle comeback--which fell short.

Every single time Washington scored today, Pudge Rodriguez was right in the middle of the action. Hot to start the season, Pudge was on fire again today. Three hits, 2 runs scored and 1 rbi. For the second consecutive day he was on the cusp of another huge day at the plate, until he grounded out with Josh Willingham on second to end this game. Rodriguez scored Washington's first run in the 2nd; sustained a four run rally in the 5th with an rbi single scoring Cristian Guzman. And doubled in the 7th while eventually scoring Washington's final run of this game on a beautifully stroked double down the leftfield line by Ian Desmond.

Desmond's double which brought the score to this game to its closest margin after the 1st frame was played (10-7)--set up The Defensive Play Of This Game. With Washington rallying in the 7th, Adam Kennedy slashed a slicing single to centerfield off a pitch from Milwaukee's Manny Parra. As 3rd Base Coach Pat Listach waved the speedy Desmond home with two outs--The Brewers' Centerfielder--Carlos Gomez--swiftly moved in on the baseball charging in his direction. As Ian headed for home, Carlos scooped up the baseball and unfurled a marvelous one-hop throw to his catcher Gregg Zaun. Only problem, Desmond arrived at the same time as the ball. With everyone rising in anticipation of the impending collision, Zaun corralled the baseball in his catcher's mitt, smothered it with his right hand--AND THEN GOT BARRELED OVER BY IAN DESMOND. Without delay, Home Plate Umpire Mike Everitt with the definitive "OUT CALL!!" Desmond had run over Zaun, but Gregg had not dropped the baseball. The 7th inning over. The Rally over. And as it turned, any further comeback by Our Washington Nationals this day over as well--thanks to The Defensive Play Of This Game.

Speaking of Gomez, having never seen him play before--the young Milwaukee Centerfielder really impressed this weekend. Great arm, deft skills tracking fly balls and a little on the reckless side (in a good way). Carlos Gomez gives up his body to make plays in the field. He was good. He really was.

Adam Dunn continues to struggle at the plate. Today, 0-5 at the plate including two big outs in the 5th and 7th when any type of hit off his rather strong bat would have been keys to continuing Washington rallies. The 16 Washington base hits today were a season high--just not enough in bunches with runners in scoring position.

Milwaukee's Rickie Weeks--if his dreadlocks were just a bit longer--and you put him in Uniform Number 85 for The Pittsburgh Pirates, The African Queen and I believe he could double as a twin for Lastings Milledge. Weeks is bigger in size, but their physical similarities are striking.


Loved it when Weeks dropped the baseball attempting to transfer the ball from his glove hand to his throwing hand for a potential game ending double play off the bat of Josh Willingham and Riggleman protested the out call. 2nd Base Umpire Adrian Johnson made the right ruling but having Our Manager trot out there on the field with two outs and down four runs spoke volumes about his competitiveness. Jim Riggleman does not give up. And neither did his team today after being 10 runs down. Maybe, the best feeling to take from today's loss.


It was cold today at Nationals Park. We were bundled up, but nothing like this lady sitting one section over from us. Her fur parka a wise decision for sitting in the shade.




We love The Presidents Race, but as Sohna said today--it needs something fresher. Today again, the Un-Racing Sausages were on hand. Again, they got run down. Again, a President not named Teddy won. The Popular 4th Inning Race needs to do something different. It really does. Just our thoughts.



Finally, today was the first "Kids Run The Bases" Sunday of the season. The chance for parents to bring their children down on the field to run from 1st base to home while greeting The Racing Presidents and Screech. After every Sunday home game throughout the 2010 Season--"Kids Run The Bases".

Today's In-Game Photos--Cliff Owen (AP)
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved