The Night My Washington Senators Died

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Growing up in Alexandria, Virginia, I had really never felt pain during my younger years. Yeah, I got cuts and scrapes here and there--that's a part of being an active child. But, no one close to me, whether family or friends, passed away throughout my childhood. I played all the sports, some well, some not so well, loved school, really was having a great time, even had a great siblling rivalry with my brother (one year older than me). Then, at the age of 12, out of nowhere, swooping in with his reputation well in tact, The Devil, in the name of Robert Short fulfilled his destiny, The Grim Reaper himself, came my way, riping my heart out. It was September 30, 1971, The Night My Washington Senators Died. The Day My Childhood Ended.


In December, 1968, Short had outbid famous comedian, Bob Hope, to purchase the floudering Washington Senators Franchise. Short, had previously owned the Minneapolis Lakers, moving them to Los Angeles in 1960 and eventually selling, one of the NBA's Greatest Franchises, to of all people, Jack Kent Cooke, later the Owner of The Washington Redskins during their GLORY DAYS of the 1980's and early 1990's.



























Short, then, The Treasurer of the Democratic National Committee, came out of the gate strong as Owner of The Senators--bringing Boston Red Sox Great and Hall of Famer, Ted Williams, out of retirement to Manage Washington's American League Team. It worked at first, as the once moribund franchise rebounded, many Washington batters under Williams tuteledge had career years. The young pitching Staff under, pitching coach, Sid Hudson was at times, stellar. The Senators finished the 1969 season 86-76--competitive all season long--and it looked like Washington might have a contender for years to come. Frank Howard was the power hitting star, but the Senators had some solid young pitchers in Dick Bosman (1969 ERA Leader); flame throwing righthanded starter Joe Coleman; Closer--Lefthander, Darold Knowles; Two More Power Hitters--First Baseman, Mike Epstein and 3rd Baseman Ken McMullen--slick fielding shortstop, Eddie Brinkman, All Star Catcher Paul Casanova, and promising rookie Centerfielder, Del Unser. This team had talent--talent that only needed to grow together. But, Bob Short never allowed it to happen. Impatient to the bitter end--Short would trade the veteran, McMullen (the heart and sole of the team, for some), to the California Angels in early 1970 for two more youngsters--third baseman--Aurelio Rodriguez and outfielder Rick Reichardt. It was the beginning of the end for 71 years of Baseball in Washington for the next 34 years.



Short had money problems--he had leveraged the team into financial debt to become majority owner. And, despite the 1969 Wonder Season, the Nats drawing nearly 1 Million Fans to see them play, The Senators, at RFK Stadium, had some of the most expensive ticket prices in the game. At that time, you could sit in the bleachers at Old Memorial Stadium in Baltimore for 50 Cents, Upper Deck Outfield Seats at RFK cost $3.50. Yes, that's right, $3.50--- more expensive than a 2006 Upper Deck seat for Our Washington Nationals at RFK under The Lerner Group. The Senators had the highest average ticket price in the game, $6--even the NEW YORK YANKEES had lower prices. Remember this was 1971--the average player salary was $12,750. You could pay $2000 for a car, then, and buy a house for $20,000.



With his financial problems mounting, Short, without the approval of Ted Williams or any of his baseball executives, traded his top young pitcher, Coleman, along with the entire left side of the Senators Starting infield, Eddie Brinkman and Aurelio Rodriguez (two stellar defensive players) to the Detroit Tigers for the much ballyhooed, party king, suspended for gambling, Pitcher Denny McLain, after the 1970 season (there were a few other nobodies thrown in from both sides). Short, like current Washington Redskins Owner, Daniel Snyder, was his own teams General Manager-believing his fantasy knowledge was better than the experienced pros. McLain had won 30 games during the 1968 World Series Championship Year for the Tigers, but, since then, had always been in and out of trouble. Then Commissioner of Baseball--Bowie Kuhn, had suspended McLain for entire 1970 season. Short believed that the one time CY Young Award Winner, and still today, the very last pitcher to win 30 games in a season--would flourish again in Washington--and drop fannies into the seats on East Capitol Street.

Boy, was Short ever wrong. A malcontent and convicted criminal today--Denny McLain was well over, and near the bottom of the downward slope in his baseball career. Going 10-22 in his only season on the mound for Washington.


Additionally, Short would sign Curt Flood--also, then on the outside of baseball. Flood, a Gold Glove Winning Centerfielder for the St. Lous Cardinals in the 60's, was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies after the 1969 season. Flood refused to play for the Phillies, claiming he should have the right to play for whomever he chooses. Major League Baseball contending Flood had no rights under its Reserve Clause. The Reserve Clause granted Major League Teams the right to control all players, without that players consent. Flood considered that tantamount to slavery. He fought it, tooth and nail--destroying his decent Major League Career, sitting out the entire 1970 season. Eventually, Flood would be successful, years later--leading to the the millions of dollars that players are granted each year in Free Agency. Unfortunately, Curt Flood would never reap the joys of his victory--only the thousands of baseball players that followed him would. It makes you wonder whether Alfonso Soriano really understands today, what Curt Flood gave up 36 years ago, so Alfonso could live his lavish lifestyle today. I doubt it, and I doubt many of the other players today do likewise.

Flood would sign a one year contract with The Washington Senators for $110,000 in 1971. His skills had eroded badly. Ted Williams knew Curt didn't have it anymore. But, Bob Short would not let Flood go--figuring Curt would also draw fans. This grand plan lasted one month into the season--when Flood, now a lost soul and uninterested in baseball, did not show up for a night game at RFK Stadium--instead boarding a plane to Barcelona, Spain at JFK Airport in New York--Never to be heard from again in baseball. Sadly, Flood would become an alcoholic and die at the age of 66 of Liver Disease--never fully appreciated for what he stood up for, and accomplished.


All this turmoil surrounded the struggling franchise known as The Washington Senators in 1971. With Short selling off and trading the best parts of team, to save cash, the Senators plunged to the bottom of the standings early in the '71 season, never to right themselves. The Nats played a bunch of rookies--two of which, Outfielder, Jeff Burroughs and Shortstop, Toby Harrah, would go on to have very good Major League Careers. Also, longtime Texas Rangers General Manager, Tom Grieve, would play his rookie season for The Senators in 1971. In 1971 though--all three were not much help.

This team stunk, badly--even Frank Howard began to show his age--knocking only 26 Home Runs. Hondo would retire after 2 more seasons, with 383 Career Home Runs. But, despite all the negativity surrounding my team, it did not keep me away from the ballpark. Enthused about baseball as much then as today, I was still able to make 10 Home games in 1971. The Senators were my team, MY TEAM!!. Then, on June 1 of that year--The Washington Star Newspaper reported that Bob Short was looking to move the Senators to Dallas--and I WAS CRUSHED!!

Eventually on September 21, 1971--Major League Owners, in a 10-2 vote, would approve the Washington Senators to relocate to Arlington, Texas and become THE TEXAS RANGERS, setting up the very last game in Washington Senators History, September 30, 1971 against The New York Yankees.

My parents both knew, that this last game meant alot to me. MY TEAM, MY WASHINGTON SENATORS WERE LEAVING!! The game was set for a Thursday Night, a School Night. But, without any argument--My brother Michael, our friends Dave, Tim, Nick and I, were allowed to attend the finale. Nick's Dad drove us-to lot 8, as usual. We bought 6 seats, in the lower Bowl, Section 111--first base side--six rows back from the Senators Dugout. Nick's Dad paid the freight--"ITS THE LEAST I COULD DO FOR YOU" I recall--I thanked him, profusely. To this day, I don't think anyway understood my love for The Senators then, more than Nick's Dad. My parent's just thought it strange, but OK--"He's just a kid", they would remark.

I wore my Senators Script White Tee with Red Nats Plastic Batting Helmet from an earlier team giveaway (STILL HAVE THAT HELMET). As amazing as it seems today, you could not buy a MLB TEAM CAP back them. There was NO MARKETING, no selling of uniforms, and very little memorabilia. Merchandising was not too important to MLB. Upon arrival at RFK--you could tell some folks were in a pissed off mood--Fans were standing outside The Gate A Entrance--then also the site of the Senators Team Offices. Many looking for Bob Short. If police would let it happen, a lynching might occur tonight. It was getting nasty--early.

As we entered the Stadium, there were tables filled with leftover giveaways from games past. Batting Helmets, The Ted Williams Autobiography "My Turn At Bat", amazingly a few Thompson Dairy Senators Bat Day Bats (Didn't anyone realized that some might actually use those tonight to make some serious trouble??), baseballs, team photo pack, programs, yearbooks, and my favorite giveaway of all time---PANTYHOSE!!, among others. In 1971, pantyhose were a fairly extraordinary new product--and The Washington Senators actually had PantyHose Night. Giving out the stockings in a plastic egg with the Senators Logo on them, to ladies. I vividly remember my brother, Michael, calling me "A FAG" when I picked up two of those plastic eggs--along with the Book (autographed by Ted Williams), Bat, photo pack, yearbook and Baseball--everything I could get my hands on.. He and our friends laughed at me to no end. Nick's Dad told me not to worry about, take whatever you can get, you will remember this for years to come. We found a bag and put all the stuff in it. Well, Guess whose laughing now. I still have BOTH OF THOSE PANTYHOSE EGGS. I would doubt many, if any, exist today, except those in my possession.

14,460 showed up for this wake--and they were rowdy before the game even started. Banners and Signs waved and hung throughout the upper deck, or, were walked around the lower bowl ring of seats by distressed Senator Fans--all venomous, spewed directly at Washington's Owner, Bob Short-- a coward, not brave enough to face the music on this horrible night. Many youngsters, looking for blood--the blood of Mr. Short. Right in front of us, as The Senators and Yankees were ending their pregame soft tosses, two teenagers--a few years older than me--were hoisted on top of the Senators First Base Dugout by other fans, --with a Gigantic White BedSheet Banner with Green Lettering reading " How Dare You Sell Us SHORT!!" The Crowd went NUTS!!!!! Senators Pitchers, Casey Cox, Horacio Pina and Jim Shellenback stood on the field, directly in front of them, clapping for the banner. Outfielder Elliot Maddox gave the Black Power Fist Salute with his batting glove on--to the youngsters--to great admiration from the fans. Youngsters, and some adults crying in the stands. I was wailing away.

That sign was the harbinger of things to come. Tonight's Grand Finale would get very nasty--and everyone could sense it.

Throughout the early part of the game, various banners and signs would appear around RFK. Many with four letter words, some with F**K Y*U Short, S**T, on and on it went. The very vocal crowd responding vigilently to each and every one. Booing Metropolitan Police as they confiscated or destroyed every signage, per demands of Bob Short. Trash, torn up programs, litter, you name it, was constantly thrown from the Upper Deck onto the field during the game. Protest and Demonstration after another, it did not stop.

We stayed in our seats, cheering every single Senator like they were Best Friends and Hall of Famers. My brother would yell out (showing our innocence) to Nats Starter, Dick Bosman, as he trotted off the field after the top of the first inning: "Why don't you guys refuse to go to Texas" Bosman stopped suddenly--yelling back "That's a terrific idea (raising both hands above his head)--but as so many know--we don't have a choice in this game." Everyone cheered his response--nonetheless. If our Senators were going to go down, at least we were going to make it personal.

As my MAIN MAN!!--Frank Howard stepped out of the dugout to the On Deck circle in the bottom of the first--I yelled out "I Gonna Miss You--Frank Howard!! You're My Favorite Player!!" Hondo--kneeling in the circle--stopped swinging his bat, in mid-motion, looking to see where that child's voice came from. Standing now, I got his attention--"Its ME!! ME!! Hondo would point his bat directly at me--yelling out "I'll miss you even more!!" And, I began to cry, again. Toby Harrah--batting second tonight, would single, sending Hondo to the plate, immediately after his comment. Wanting badly for a Home Run, I yelled out "HIT ONE FOR ME!!! PLEASE!! Big Frank would walk on 5 pitches, to my dissapointment. Then, Hondo was retired on catcher Dick Billings inning ending Double Play grounder.

Bosman didn't have it from the start. Giving up two runs in the first on a homer by New York's Rusty Torres, a run scoring single by John Ellis and, in the 2nd inning a rocket shot liner, two run homer, to right by Bobby Murcer. 4-0 Yankees. Our Senators would score an unearned run in the second, when New York Shortstop, Frank Baker, would boot a routine grounder to his right--Washington Third Baseman, Dave Nelson (Brewers current first base coach) scoring the first Senators run of the evening. Nelson was quite the speed demon early in his career. And, would go on to have a decent, if average, Major League Career. The score was now 4-1 Yanks--the chanting, bitching and flat out yelling for Bob Short's head, continued.

But, it was In the 3rd inning, the most FAMOUS BANNER of the night was unfurled in Left Centerfield, from the upper deck. A vertical twin bedsheet banner with the wording "SHORT STINKS!!" Cheered on loudly by the faithful. Immortalized in a now famous photo from that night--Dick Bosman on the mound for the Senators, Toby Harrah at shortstop. "Short Stinks!!" had a lifespan of about 10 minutes, before Metropolitan Police took it away--to a chorus of boos--but it lives on today--remembered fondly by all those Senators Fans in attendance. That one banner--really said it all!!

Then, Hondo would pop to short during his at-bat in the bottom of the 3rd-- my sadness growing.

Later, in the fifth, New York's Centerfielder, Roy White, would homer to right off Bosman, the opposite field--for, what seemed, an insurmountable 5-1 Yankees lead. Yanks starter, Mike Kekich, was cruising through the Senators Lineup. No one from Washington really seemed to be in the game, and who could blame them. Kekich, realizing a funeral had began--The Senators the mourned.


In the bottom of the sixth--all that anger and venom, on display throughout the night, would shift to great joy and admiration--Frank Howard would step to the plate--and THE MOMENT IN TIME OF MY CHILDHOOD, would begin. Number 33 for Our Washington Senators swinging that size 44 piece of lumber--the biggest bat in the game, at that time. Badly, I wanted for Howard to jack one. Hondo stating afterwards he wished to hit one out--hopefully a MONSTER SHOT, for all the good fans of Washington. A city he loved to play for, and live. Washington was down 5-1, there was no hope in the stadium. The Yankees' Kekich, was standing on the mound--not oblivious, in any way--to the turmoil of the night. Knowing how much it would mean to the Fans and Hondo and, New York, well in the lead of a meaningless game--Kekich (as later written in the book "Kiss It Goodbye") would throw a first pitch fast ball, right down the middle of the plate to Frank. Right before the pitch, New York Catcher, Thurman Munson, would quickly nod to Hondo and say "Here it comes". Howard was prepared--AND HE CRUSHED IT!!! Banging the ball off the upper part of the leftfield green wall at RFK--just missing the mezzanine. The Crowd Delirious At RFK STADIUM!! The fans bonkers!! I jumped so hard up and down, my batting helmet flew off and landed two rows behind me--Becoming the most cherished baseball moment of my childhood. My hero, favorite player of all-time--Frank Howard, had homered, and, as far as I was concerned--he did it all for me!! Nick's dad looking at me--tears streaming down my cheeks--uncontrollably. "What's wrong?" he asked, "you should be happy?", grabbing my shoulder. "Nothing", I replied," I am happy! I Just Love Frank Howard, I am going to miss him!" Nick's dad gave me a huge embrace. The tears continuing to flow.

Hondo would tip his Red Batting Cap to the very happy crowd, as he slowly rounded the bases. Me, recovering my dropped batting helmet and tipping mine back to Hondo. Howard twirling the helmet as he rounded 3rd base--Fans still on their feet screaming. Mike Kekich standing on the mound nodding his approval. Munson forming a fist with his hand down low, saluting Our Best Player as Big Frank crossed the plate--giving thanks to a Senator GREAT. Number 33 was SMILING BROADLY and would then, upon reaching the dugout, take in all the adulation--GLOWING IN HIS MOMENT FOR THE FANS then, gladly tossed his game cap into the stands, the cap landing no more than 10 feet to our left--the melee for rights to his Curly W hat--too large to jump for myself, without seriously breaking an arm or leg. The Entire Moment to be cherished, by me--FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE!!

The Senators would then rally, scoring 3 more times in the inning to tie the game at 5 on an Elliot Maddox Double. The rambunktous crowd roaring its approval. Then, through all miracles, Washington would take the final lead in the bottom of the 8th on a sacrifice fly by Maddox. 7-5 Senators. There was now a chance to go out with a win. I was very excited, so where many others, but sadly, that win would not come. The ugliness of the night came on-FULL FORCE.

With just the top of the ninth yet to be played, the crowd returned to its earlier hardened state of mind. "We Want Short" was the warrior cry. And, it grew throughout the stadium. . Fans were streaming down from other portions of RFK toward the field. Nick's Dad warning all of us to stay close. Do not move with the hoard toward the field. More and more fans were lining the railings surrounding the playing field. The "WE WANT SHORT" Chant getting louder and louder. Venom now at its all time high for the night. Both the Yankees and Senators were trying to finish out the game, but you could see, there was fear is some players eyes. Fielders looking around, outfielders wondering whether they could make it safely to the dugout if pandemonium ensued. The Stadium Announcer warning all to stay off the field, pleading for the fans to allow the game to end peacefully.

It was not to be.



Some fans had run onto the field, the PA announcer forcefully stating "THIS MAY LEAD TO A FORFEIT!". Few paid attention to the warning. Journeyman Lefthander, Joe Grzenda was on the mound, attempting to close out this funeral for Washington. Play had continued through some minor incursions by fans. Ironically, in retrospect, the future longtime Montreal Expos (Now Our Nationals) Manager, Felipe Alou, would ground out, for the Yankees, pitcher to first, for out number 1 in the 9th. Bobby Murcer then grounded out, also pitcher to first for the second out of the inning, one out to go--Washington still up 7-5. Grzenda retrieved the ball from, again of all folks, Tom McCraw--The Inaugural Nationals hitting coach. McCraw a defensive replacement at first for Frank Howard during the faitful ninth. McCraw would also slap the very last hit in Washington Senators History, pinch hitting for Washington Reliever, Paul Lindblad, in the eighth. His single was the go ahead run making the score then, 6-5 Senators.

That final out would never come--Like a cat in the night, this one young fan jumped over the railing, just to the right of the Senators First BaseDugout, no police stopped him---on a dead run to first base--the fan pulled up the bag--to great cheers from the crowd--and the Pandemonium BEGAN!! Thousands of fans STORMED THE FIELD. Grabbing anything they could get their grubby hands on. All the bases went first, then, other fans climbed the fence in right--taking the scoreboard numbers, others grabbed dirt and grass. The Senators Players running for their lives--holding their caps and gloves close to their chests. A Rugby Match had begun--making it safely to the first base dugout--the goal line. Left Fielder, Jeff Burroughs, never made it to the home dugout--instead, he jumped into the Yankees Third Base Dugout. The Batboys--frantically attempting to put the helmets, bats and baseball gear into bags and safely move them to the clubhouses--all under protection from Armed MPD.

Four Metropolitan Police Officers stood around home plate, protecting it, while the grounds crew, with shovels, pulled up the treasured jewel of the field. It was all surreal. The Stadium PA announced the game was now a forfeit. Final Score, 9-0 New York Yankees. The Crowd continued to TEAR UP THE FIELD!!! It was out of control. For over 15 minutes the insanity of the moment continued--then, everyone on the field realized, there was nothing more to do--Baseball in Washington was now gone--FOREVER, as far as I was concerned. Sadly, we all left RFK Stadium for the very last time. Walking to Lot 8 there were many upset folks. Youngsters crying, parents consoling--some anger still being spewed. I remember our friends, Dave, Tim and Nick, along with Michael, more into the riotous ways of the evening, laughing about the game all the way home in the back seats of the station wagon--while I cryed my eyes out, sitting shotgun, next to Nick's Dad--this fine man consoling me all the way home--understanding my pain. I was the youngest, and by far, biggest baseball fan among all our friends.

I had experienced Death for the first time in my life. My Washington Senators Died. I had lost my closest friend, the only team I had ever known and cheered. The remorse was awful. For weeks, I couldn't concentrate on any school work. Eventually, over time, I would recover, but not until we all went to see The Texas Rangers play The Baltimore Orioles at Memorial Stadium in their first visit to the area in May, 1972. Hondo's recognition of me that night, set me free, and is a story all its own.


Senators Pitcher, Joe Grzenda, standing on the mound with the game ball, as the riot began on the field, kept that ball, in his possession for 34 years. On the night of the Inaugural Washington Nationals Opener on April 14, 2005, Grzenda was introduced, where he presented that exact same ball to President George W Bush. President Bush used the ball for his Presidential First Pitch. The President then giving the famous ball back to Grzenda, for safe keeping.

Hiring Friends

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27 years I have worked in Television News, working under some of the most extreme working conditions imaginable--sharing those many experiences, both good and bad, with others, and through it all, you develop tight friendships, with many talented people. You come to trust some, others not, and, you want those trusted by your side, when it counts the most and the situation demands it. But, that doesn't mean you hire all your friends, immediately upon receiving a new gig.

Its a topic that been discussed before, surrounding our Washington Nationals, hiring folks to work with you, people you are familiar with, from your past. And, Our Washington Nationals have done it, once again. Manny Acta rounding out his 2007 Coaching Staff with Hires--some colleagues that helped him along in his baseball career--maybe, not necessarily the best choices of those available.

Pitching Coach, Randy St.Claire was already returning, we all knew that. Now--its official; well liked hitting coach, Mitchell Paige, will return for his second season with Washington, both excellent hires and both, well deserving.


One new choice, I see as a big improvement. The Nationals yesterday hired long time--Atlanta Braves Bench Coach (Manager Bobby Cox's righthand man) away from the Braves to be Manny's new bench coach. Corrales comes with a ton of experience--and a familiarity with Team President, Stan Kasten. 49 years in the game--I can actually remember him playing for the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1967 World Series (that's how old I'm getting). As hot of a name as Acta has been this off season-he still hasn't managed a single game in the Majors. Corrales has, for many seasons, and has sat on the bench, next to Cox, for thousands more. He has, most likely, seen it all, and then some. Not a bad pickup to compliment a rookie manager. A manager that may need some help, when certain situations arise, as they always do, each and every season.

And, one time Montreal Expos first base coach, Jerry Morales, returns as 1st base coach and outfield coordinator. One time All-Star Morales, a veteran of 15 years of Major League Experience, brings respected experience, both on and off the field to Washington.

But, its the remainder of the coaches hired that has me concerned. Granted, I don't know much about newly appointed third base coach, Tim Tolman or bullpen Coach, Rick Aponte--they have been in the game for some time. Tolman played in the Majors during the 1980's and has stuck around, ever since, as Scout, Minor League Manager, Minor League Field Coordinator, first with the Astros, then Tigers and finally, the Cleveland Indians. Aponte--has spent his entire 32 year professional career with the Houston Astros-coaching on the minor league level--throughout their system and Managing in the Dominican League. Both, most importantly to Manny Acta--recognized Manny's potential as a leader, off the field--and directed him toward coaching and managing--eventually resulting in his hire last week as The Washington Nationals new Manager. Both Tolman and Aponte are over 50 years old, something deep down inside tells me there's a reason why they have never made it to the Big League as Coaches. I may be wrong, and way off base, but are they really the best choices?

This manner of hiring has been the mantra for our infant Nationals.

Nationals General Manager, Jim Bowden, has filled his Front Office command structure with many from his days running the ship in Cincinnati--Bob Boone, Barry Larkin, Jose Cardinal and Jose Rijo, among others. Since the first days Jimbo has taken control--most every move, both on and off the field, centers around the Reds--Just look at the latest rumor of Bowden possibly discussing trading "The Chief", Chad Cordero, to Boston for his former Red--Willy Mo Pena. That trade is a non-starter. If our GM is discussing this seriously-someone needs to check out his marbles. The GM's penchant for all things Cincinnati has got to stop.

But, Jimbo's not the only one hiring his people. New Assistant GM--VP of Baseball Operations, Mike Rizzo--came over from the Arizona Diamondbacks. Rizzo, immediately pushed the Livan Hernandez Trade for Matt Chico and Garrett Mock, then hired his former Scout from Arizona, Bill Singer, for Washington. The Livan trade may well work out--but the trend continued with our Nationals, looking to friends first.

Team President, Stan Kasten, has also brought on board, a few he's comfortable with, running the business management side of the Nationals. That does not bother me in the least. Business is business when it comes to money and operating with it. Whether its Baseball, A Grocery Chain, Publisher, Home Building, etc--its a financial risk, but its all the same, a business, and you need money folks you trust in financial management.

The Baseball side of game, though, should not be treated in the same manner. Many times, throughout our lifetimes, we have promised others something good, if we succeed, whether or not, they deserve it--just because they were there when it all began. Tolman and Aponte are "THANK YOU" Hires. A few years back, I did the same for someone, I was close to in television news--hiring him for a major assignment. Now--5 years later, we don't speak.

Its fine to go into battle with those you like--its better to go into battle with those you, not only trust, but have the proper experience and know how. I learned the hard way, I hope our Washington Nationals are not learning that same hard lesson.


The African Queen and I wish EVERYONE a SAFE AND HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

What A Year With Soriano

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He arrived in a Firestorm of Controversy. Refusing to take the field in an exhibition game--unwilling to play the new position demanded of him by, his employer, Our Washington Nationals. Eventually, he would succumb, play the outfield and, in 2006, become Washington's most BELOVED AND EXCITING player. Swinging a strong bat, stealing bases-making every outfield play an adventure, all its own--Alfonso Soriano was truly an ALL Star. No Player in recent memory comes to the plate to jack the ball out of the park--each and every at bat. The first baseball player, in the history of the game, to Slam 40 Homers, Steal 40 Bases, hit 40 Doubles--and even record 20 Outfield assists. No matter what the score was in any Nats Game--when Alfonso stepped to the plate, everyone stopped to look. He was MUST SEE. Many fans wanted the team to resign Alfonso, including me (Just for the sanctity of my household--The African Queen,a HUGE Alfonso supporter). Number 12 stating how much he Loved Washington, Loved His Teammates,and Loved The Fans. Alfonso Soriano brought a tremendous amount of excitement to RFK Stadium.


And, now he's gone. Despite all the talk about how much he enjoyed playing in The Nation's Capitol--Money talked and Won, like it almost always does, over Heart--Soriano signing a, MONSTER, 8 year, $136 Million (supposedly NO Trade Clause) contract with The Chicago Cubs. Our Nationals, unwilling to get into a bidding war, locking themselves into spending a ton of cash--with so many more holes to fill.

Fully understanding why Washington let him walk, and agreeing with the decision--it still hurts to see such an Outstanding Player--probable Hall Of Famer--depart. You never really knew what Alfonso was going to do in any game, from inning to inning. He may well jack the ball right out of the park, slamming it off the centerfield green wall at RFK--or, he might strikeout, showing no patience, with the bases loaded--swinging at everything. And, you would scratch your head in amazement--at both those feats. Soriano is an intoxicating player.


The Alfonso!! SORIANO!!! Cheer, the focal point for all the noise in Section 320 during the 2006 sesaon. Enjoyed immensely among the Section 320 Faithful, the chant became wildly popular among other fans sitting along the 3rd base line, throughout the season. Soriano, personally acknowledging the cheer to me on the night of September 28/morning of September 29th, the famous Midnight Start Game against the Phillies--when rain delayed the beginning of the game, but MLB insisting the game be played due to its playoff implications. During the 7th inning stretch, The NatPack invited me up on top of the Nationals 3rd Base Dugout to sing "Take Me Out To The Ballgame" and throw Tee-Shirts to the sparse crowd of no more than 250 fans. I took the opportunity to turn around, place my hand, palm up, toward Alfonso--leaning against the dugout railing--yelling out "Alfonso!!" Number 12 immediately slapping my hand and replying--"SORIANO!!" Me--pointing at him--"YOU THE MAN!" Soriano saying "YEAH BABY!!"--laughing the entire time. Austin Kearns and Mike O'Connor--standing next to him--enjoying the moment. That cheer alone--worth so many goods times during this past completed season. Its going to be hard to replace that chant.

It didn't take long for Alfonso to prove to Jose Guillen and Jose Vidro, that, YES, you can hit homers at RFK Stadium. Soriano slamming 3 homers, on one night, last April 21st--two off Atlanta's John Smoltz. His bat was hot--most all season long--until September. Slamming a titanic blast, on May 9th, off Cincinnati's Brian Shakelford, that went over the Black Batters Eye Building in Deep Centerfield at The Great American Ballpark--and bouncing, on two hops--into the Ohio River. Knocking a Grand Slam in Milwaukee on June 4th to complete a 3 Game Sweep of the Brewers, Flat Out Clubbing a Huge Shot into Ashburn Alley to Deep Centerfield on August 18 at Citizens Bank Park, in Philadelphia--A game The African Queen and I witnessed. And, then, pounding a game tying bottom of the 9th--2 run shot, off Arizona's, Jorge Julio (The Perfect Storm Setup of the season)--this on September 2nd--a daytime makeup game on a dreary, murky day--after torrential downpours in the DC area, cancelled the game from the night before.

But, his play was not all about the big stick--Alfonso runs like a loping deer--just fast enough to get to where he's heading--and he uses that God Given talent to play game changer on the basepaths. Once Soriano reaches any base, he's a threat to steal. So much so--more often than not--the opposing teams catcher was planted, back on his heels, worried--that Alfonso might take off--on just about every single pitch. That worry, usually brought disaster to catchers making a rushed toss, the ball scooting through to centerfield or down the left field line--Alfonso scoring a run, without the help of any of his teammates. I can't tell you how much I witnessed this at RFK in 2006. It seemed to happen most every game.

Soriano was a disaster in the field at the start of the season. Unwilling to make a total fool of himself, he would play so far back, near the warning track, that routine blooping knocks, usually easily caught--would drop in for singles. As the season progressed, he became more comfortable, reacting more instinctively to liners and drives hit his way. His Graduation Day coming on May 25th, at RFK Stadium, against the Astros, a 8-5 win, more famous for Frank Robinson crying after the game for taking struggling catcher, Matt LeCroy, out of the game, in mid at bat. LeCroy having a terrible day behind the plate.

As I posted that day, with Morgan Ensberg at the plate, Brad Ausmus at first--Ensberg DRILLS a line drive that is going DIRECTLY OVER SORIANO'S HEAD. He mis-reads the track and comes IN ON THE BALL. Its OVER HIS HEAD. He realizes it, at the last moment,jumps back toward the ball AND AT THE VERY LAST SPLIT SECOND, LOOKING LIKE MICHAEL JORDAN SILHOUETTED IN HIS PRIME AS ONLY A GREAT ATHLETE CAN DO, SNARES THE BALL WITH A SNOWCONE CATCH!!!!!! Ausmus, believing, like everyone AT RFK that it was a clear double, had already passed 2nd and was going to 3rd. Soriano, ON THE FLY!! THROWS TO ROYCE CLAYTON WHO RELAYS TO NICK JOHNSON AT FIRST TO DOUBLE HIM OFF BASE AND END THE THREAT!! It was absolutely one of the most amazing sequences in baseball I have EVERY WITNESSED.

Soriano became a legitimate outfielder that day--trusting his athletic ability to get the job done. Yeah, he would still make some mind boggling errors over the course of the season--at times show little interest in the game while standing out in left--but, Alfonso used his Strong Arm to throw out daring runners--and his skill to track down balls. No longer would he fear chasing a hard hit ball to the wall, or down the left field line, foul territory--near the stands.

When Alfonso Soriano steps to the podium in Chicago at his Cubs Introductory News Conference--he better thank THE WASHINGTON NATIONALS--who, in demanding that he change position--have righted his career--making him a most valuable player--one of the top wage earners in the history of the game.

With The Nationals well out of contention this past September, Alfonso totally turned toward the personal goals--40/40 Club, 20 Outfield Assists and 100 Runs Batted In. The more he pressed, the less he produced. Soriano's September was downright awful--he struggled all month long. But, it did not take away from his Glorous Night, September 16, against the Brewers, at RFK Stadium, when an entire contingent of Family & Friends joined Section 320 for the evening. Number 12 would lead off the bottom of the first and single off Milwaukee Starter, Dave Bush. Then, on a 2-0 count to Felipe Lopez, Alfonso took off for second--sliding head first into second. No throw from the Brewers catcher, Mike Rivera. Soriano had stolen his 40th base of the season--reaching a cherished goal--member of the 40 Home Run/40 Steals Club. And, the party began!!--especially in Section 320. The noise so loud from Alfonso's Family and Section 320 regulars, the two troops combining for so much noise, everyone along the 3rd base side turned to look. Alfonso flashing his Pearly Whites, joyfully relishing HIS MOMENT!!


Alfonso Soriano would finish his one year in Washington, batting .277, Smashing 46 Homers, Knocking in 95 Runs, Stroking 46 doubles and stealing 41 bases. And, just for show, threw out 22 baserunners around the diamond. He had a SPECTACULAR SEASON.

All this, after arriving inflamed in controversy, announcing he had no intention of moving from his preferred 2nd base to left field. And, when he refused to step on the field in Viera, Florida, this past March, General Manager, Jim Bowden threatened to put Soriano on the Disqualified List, taking away his entire $10 Million Paycheck for the season. Baseball Authorities, throughout the game, were stunned by Soriano's decision, The Media let loose on him--calling Alfonso idiotic and downright selfish--and, most importantly-- ALFONSO WAS, IMMEDIATELY, HATED BY JUST ABOUT EVERY SINGLE WASHINGTON NATIONALS FAN. Fans that had yet to see him step to the plate, one single time. No doubt--I was in the majority on this rant.

Jimbo looked like an idiot, trading away a popular, but, fairly above average player in Brad Wilkerson, along with outfielder, Terrmel Sledge and minor league pitcher Armando Gallaraga. Bowden's trade with the Texas Rangers smelled like someone looking to make the BIG SPLASH--another self promoter looking at himself first--the Nationals second. And, sure enough, when Jimbo was publicly seeking the Boston Red Sox General Manager's position last winter--no one could have thought otherwise.

Cooler heads would, eventually prevail. The Red Sox wanted no part of Bowden and Soriano--after refusing to step on the field that March night--and seeing the entire baseball world against him--smilingly agreed to the move to Left Field.


When it was all said and done--Alfonso Soriano had a MAGICAL SEASON with Our Washington Nationals. A fan favorite like no other--the most hated player in DC last March--was able to turn around the fan base--and in leaving town--a fan base, now, mourning his loss. Many good and great players may well don a Nationals Home Jersey in the years to come--But, I doubt we will see such a Dynamic and Charismatic Personality.


Though missing Alfonso greatly, I will recover from his loss, but, for The African Queen, THE GAMES WILL NEVER BE THE SAME. For her, a DEATH has come--the mourning just beginning.

Soriano, a Cub?

As we all expect, Alfonso Soriano will not be wearing a Washington Nationals uniform next year. Despite our biggest hopes that the Lerners will fufill our desires, and seats in the stadium, by signing one of the most dynamic players out there, the reality is that #12 for the Nationals will not be Alfonso Soriano. It appears that we will be able to see him play next year. MLB.com is reporting that Alfonso Soriano will be a Chicago Cub next year. An announcement is expected Monday that he has been inked to an 8 year, $135 million contract. This comes after the Cubs re-signed Aramis Ramirez, Kerry Wood, Henry Blanco, signed Mark DeRosa and traded for Neal Cotts. I know the African Queen will be greatly disappointed by this, however I hope to still see her at games nest season. As you all know the regulars of section 320 make the games as much fun as the Nats do (and sometimes more fun depending on how the team is playing).

Catching Up With Screech

Nats320
I was pleased to read that Our Washington Nationals are opening up 2 new Team Stores in the Washington, DC area. The One and only Team Store, at RFK Stadium, is a bit out of the way, both during the normal business day, and even on non-game weekends. With the new outlets at White Flint Mall in Rockville, Maryland and the second at The Washington Square Office/Retail Complex at 1050 Connecticut Ave. NW (Conn. & L Streets), The Nationals need to add one to Northern Virginia to complete the trifecta and grow from there. Not surprisingly, both new stores are on properties owned by The Nats Ownership, The Lerners.

In fact, the Downtown DC location is right across Farragut Square from The Orioles Team Store that no one apparently shops, since the former Montreal Expos moved to our Nation's Capitol in 2005. That Orioles Store will close its doors, forever, very soon. The Washington Square Nats Store with open this Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving. The opening of additional new Team Stores, is, yet, another sign that Our Washington Nationals are becoming an entity all their own, and away from the vagabond days of MLB Ownership.


The first of the new stores opened at White Flint, near Bloomingdales on the Second Level of the Mall, yesterday. The African Queen and I were out on Saturday, like just about everyone else in America, getting prepared for the Thanksgiving Feast. The Queen can cook like no other, and we needed to load up on the goodies. As it turned out, we had to pick up something in Rockville, and since Screech and The Racing Presidents were posting up at the White Flint Store to promote the Grand Opening, we just couldn't pass up the opportunity to see MY BEST FRIEND.


As we walked into White Flint, near Bloomingdales on the first level, no Team Store was in site, but, once we looked up, to the next level, lo and behold, there was George Washington standing tall against the upper railing, and we knew we had found the spot. GW recognized us right away as The Section 320's--shaking our hands and inviting us into the Team Store. Screech, at first, was nowhere to be found--apparently off on one of those personal breaks. Then, Tom, from the NatPack came out from the back of the store--pleased to see us. Tom, a favorite of the Section 320 faithful. Later, NatPacker Kenny would join the conversation.


Finally, Screech returned, coming out to greet a young lady visitor. That youngster shyly backing away from Screech as he approached her for a hug. As Screech turned to pickup and autograph a picture for the girl, he took a double take--seeing both The African Queen and I standing there, for the first time--stunned that we made the effort to visit. Screech going into tears, the belly wobble, and the big hugs began--then the pictures--then the catching up on whats been going on during the off season.



5 employees were working the store, 2 lovely young ladies and 3 other, older adults. The Young Ladies were getting a total kick out of the pantomime conversation Screech was having with our audible questions/answers. The Adults looked at us like we were CRAZY!! SCREEEEEEEEECH!!!!, I yelled out, at one point, in the Team Store--I thought the older employees were going to die!!--Screech took in the love, and everybody else got a kick out of it. The conversation went on for about 20 minutes. GW and Abe Lincoln hung out for pictures, then the young lovelies took Screech out for a stroll around the Mall. Sohna and I took the opportunity to chat with Tom and Kenny.




As Screech returned, we said our goodbyes--having to finish off the shopping. Screech telling us that he may well be at the Washington Square Opening on Wednesday afternoon. If work doesn't tie us up, we told him, we would make the effort to attend. Screech giving up the goodbye hugs, waves and gestures--and we were off.




Laughing as we exited Bloomingdales, heading to our car, Sohna and I came across THE SCREECH MOBILE--parked just outside the door. It was just too good. The only thing missing was SCREECH. To have a picture of me driving His Best Friend around would be fabulous. But, we were fortunate enough to get access to the vehicle and snap off some shots. We were told that, now since The Racing Presidents were traveling around with Screech for Public Appearances--The Screech Mobile might be retired for a much larger vehicle. But, we are hoping The Nationals keep this car too, because Screech still needs something to drive around the Warning Track at RFK, before games.

It was good catching up with Screech, Tom & Kenny from The NatPack--My Best Friend thrilled to hear about a Special Christmas/Holiday Gift coming, not only to Section 320's, from us, but also, to Screech and some fortunate others. The African Queen and I were pleased to see a few of our RFK Stadium friends again--reminding both of us, how much we miss attending games at RFK during the off season.