Saving The Game

Collin Balester was struggling. Staked to an early four run lead, Our Number 40 found himself in a jam of his own doing. Joey Votto had led off the top of the 6th inning and FLAT OUT CLUBBED a liner over the centerfield wall. A home run that woke up a slumbering Sunday Matinee Crowd. The First score for The Cincinnati Reds followed by a Brandon Phillips walk and Adam Dunn infield single.

With the score now 4-1 Washington, the tying run was at the plate and Our Manager Manny Acta decided not to let his Rookie Starter be responsible for the loss. Attempting to build confidence in Young Collin, Our Number 14 went to the bullpen for relief. A Re-Set Bullpen now featuring pitchers handling different roles. No longer Chad Cordero closing out the game, nor Big Jon Rauch available out of the pen. No longer Joel Hanarahan to bridge the gap between starter and closer. And the well overused Saul Rivera getting a lesser workload these days--in hopes of not destroying his pitching arm.

Manny was in fresh territory. The opportunity to give another young hurler HIS CHANCE to make a difference. Steven Shell grew up in The Angels of Los Angeles and Anaheim's System, never had he tasted a whiff of Regular Season Baseball at The Major League Level--at least not until Our Washington Nationals came a calling. Now 25 years old and like most Minor League Veterans, Our Number 59 came to DC--only hoping, WANTING for his moment to pitch in The Big Leagues.

After throwing outstanding ball at AAA Columbus earlier this season, Shell was given his first call up to DC. For the most part--Steven has been pretty effective so far. The Baltimore Orioles and The Florida Marlins hit Our Number 59 hard during his first few appearances in a Washington Uniform, but entering this afternoon's affair--Steven carried to the mound a 1.82 ERA and the record holder for the very first and RARE Three Inning save for Our Washington Nationals back on July 11th against The Houston Astros on South Capitol Street.

Handed the baseball by Our Manager with the game on the line, Steven was now in a position to be the difference. What every single player in the game wants. Opportunity had arisen. This was HIS TIME. With all the injuries, trades, poor showings by many other moundsmen before him this 2008 Season for Washington, Shell was being trusted, given responsibility, to keep Our Washington Nationals, not only in this now close game, but ahead. Do not relinquish the lead--Manny told him.

Up stepped The Reds--Edwin Encarnacion, Cincinnati's Third Baseman. Remember, there was only one out here in the top of the sixth, runners on first and second base. And Encarnacion is a Fastball Slugging Hitter. Steven Shell made sure Edwin didn't see a single heater. He played him by the book. Feeding him off speed stuff--three sliders and one curveball later--Our Number 59 had FROZEN The Reds Third Sacker for out number two. A crucial retiring that found the faithful in the announced crowd of 32,939 applauding their approval and Encarnacion looking out over to the mound at this Number 59 Guy--who he had never faced previously. Edwin Encarnacion had been beaten and Shell's Catcher Wil Nieves punched his glove directly at Steven in appreciation of his following the game plan.

The approach which Shell must continue to stay on top of Corey Patterson now stepping into the Batter's Box. The speedy Patterson is also a fastball hitter and over the course of his career never has been able to reach the heights many scouts believed his talent should bring. A Number One Pick by The Chicago Cubs. Eventually, traded to The Baltimore Orioles. Now, a journeyman looking to re-establish HIS PLACE IN THE GAME. The same prolonging Steven Shell is wishing to extend in Major League Baseball.

Two players, of different backgrounds, both looking to survive. One to renew his career (Patterson). The other (Shell) to find his base to improve on.

This game was coming down to who wanted it more. The Veteran or The Rookie. Again, not throwing a single fastball, Steven Shell again came out on top. Pressing and trying to be the difference, Corey Patterson only failed, again, when he weakly grounded out to Emilio Bonifacio on the second pitch of this crucial At-Bat for the final out of the inning. Washington still on top, 4-1. Youthful exuberance had won over experience. And Wil Nieves ran over to congratulate Shell on his triumph. Slapping gloves with his catcher in joy, Steven knew his performance was a job well done. With The Cincinnati Reds hoping to take control of this game--Our Manager Manny Acta had TRUSTED HIM WITH THE BALL. And he had not disappointed. Gaining confidence through experience--Steven Shell proudly walked off the mound knowing--He Can Pitch In The Major Leagues Successfully. Thoughtfully, he was given a Standing Ovation by the crowd. He had earned their respect. Steven Shell had SAVED THIS GAME.

Moments later the entire contingent of Our Washington Nationals Dugout met him at the home steps in thanks. Our Number 59 had maintained the lead, kept The Cincinnati Reds from getting back into the affair and gave Our Number 14, for the future, another strong option to use with any game on the line.

Later, Manny would send Steven Shell out to also complete The 7th inning, which he perfected in 1-2-3 fashion. Our Number 59 then handed the baseball over to Charlie Manning who pitched a scoreless 8th, who then passed the baseball on to Joel Hanrahan, our new closer, who--despite being touched by Corey Patterson--on a fastball I might add--for a home run--was able to close the door, and receive his very first save for Our Washington Nationals. All three pitchers combining to give Collin Balester his second career win as a Major League Baseball Player.

But even Our Number 40 understood, this Curly "W" would not have occurred, if not for Steven Shell's 2nd "Hold" of his Major League Career.

Final Score before a still rejuvenated home crowd and GORGEOUSLY COMFORTABLE New Nationals Park--Our Washington Nationals 4 and The Cincinnati Reds 2. If all summer days in the swamp that is known as The District of Columbia could be so humidity free?! I don't believe the weather has EVER been better for Any Day Game played thus far on South Capitol Street.

Curly "W" Number 41 completed an unlikely three game sweep at the hands of The Cincinnati Reds. The Bang!! Zoom!! of The Fireworks!! providing relief from the unlikeliest of heroes. No, not just our two new middle infielders (Emilio Bonifacio and Alberto Gonzalez who have sparked over the past three days), but hurlers never considered in the running for bullpen positions when Our Washington Nationals first went to camp--this past spring in Viera, Florida. No one better this afternoon on the mound than Steven Shell--who single handedly saved this game, although he did not receive the OFFICIAL CREDIT.

Game Notes & Highlights

Despite struggling throughout his five plus innings on the mound--Balester still was able to get key outs when he needed them--at least until Steven Shell replaced him in the sixth. First and second, one out against him in the top of the second--Collin quickly turned and threw to the sneaking in Gonzales from shortstop to nab a sleeping Brandon Phillips roaming too far off second base. First and second, nobody out in the top of the 4th--Balester induced a clean 6-4-3 Double Play to help extinguish another Reds Rally. And in the fifth, Collin allowed a leadoff single to Patterson (again on a fastball I might add) before settling down to retire Cincinnati again. He was not sharp, but Our Number 40 was learning how to pitch in The Big Leagues, surviving on pitching, not necessarily on his throwing talent.

Washington jumped all over Johnny Cueto in the bottom of the first--after Cueto had struck out Bonifacio and Willie Harris to begin the game. Five batters later, Our Home Team had scored four runs, on a Blast of a Home Run by Lastings Milledge to the left field stands, three consecutive singles by Austin Kearns, Kory Casto and Pete Orr. The last hit of which was poorly played by Adam Dunn in leftfield for Cincinnati. Dunn let the baseball get past him allowing not only Kearns but Casto to score--Orr now standing on third base. Our Number 4 would score Washington 4th and as it turned out final run of this game, when Wil Nieves slapped the 5th straight hit of the home frame on a bloop single to right.

As Section 218 Seatmate Jim mention after Adam Dunn's miscue: "It sure is nice to see the other team screw up in the field like we've been doing most all year!!" Sohna, about to state the exact same thing, and I just laughed. It was SO TRUE, and enjoyable to witness from the opposing side.

Bonifacio continues to be a spark plug. He didn't score any runs this afternoon, but he had two hits, one of which was TOTAL SPEED. In the bottom of the 7th, Our Number 6 would slap a DRIBBLER just down the first base line--on the grass--in fair territory. A play that Our Previous Second Baseman, that man called FLop, would have most likely just given up on and trotted down the line until the out was recorded. Not giving up on this play and full well knowing he has The SPEED to beat any lumbering First Baseman--Emilio TOOK OFF and when The Reds Joey Votto picked up the baseball and attempted to tag Bonifacio out--all Our New Leadoff Hitter did, was turn on the AFTERBURNERS and run around the tag--without running outside the baseline.

His Agility was Awesome, and Emilio Bonifacio's Speed Officially Became A Game Factor. For three consecutive games, he had used his God Given Ability to make a difference. Something every single opponent of Our Washington Nationals will always face, every single game, with him on Our Roster. That Young Man Is EXCITING TO WATCH!! What were The Diamondbacks thinking when they traded him to Washington? Far Better than expected--so far.

The Top of the 7th inning provided this day's flashy defensive leather. Cincinnati's Cody Ross slammed a first pitch fastball from Steven Hill down the left field line. Today's starting Left Fielder for Our Washington Nationals--the speedy Willie Harris--ran hard all the way toward and near the line. Tracking the sinking baseball all the way, Our Number One dove to his right, extended his glove hand, his left hand, and picked off the ball, moments before it hit the grass. Until that moment, the finest defensive play this game. At least until--Alberto Gonzalez did Harris one better--moments later.

Andy Phillips was pinch hitting for Johnny Cueto. This right handed batter would slap a hard grounder into the hole, between second and third bases. Our Number 12 would range all the way over to his right, dive straight out, extending his left glove hand to snare the hard bouncing baseball--then have enough presence to right himself, set himself, and throw ONE FABULOUS HARD TOSS ACROSS THE DIAMOND to a stationary Kory Casto at first base to retire Phillips. The Defensive Play of This Game was an effort that you could be pretty darn sure--"The Guz" does not make. Cristian Guzman does not have Gonzalez's range. Our Number 15 hardly ever dives for a baseball. For "The Guz" to make the same play that Alberto pulled--Guzman would have to be well positioned. On athletic ability in the field--Our Number 12 seems to have the instincts over Our Number 15.

And I want to be clear, this is not a complaint at Cristian Guzman. What these two infielders do--is complement each other and give Our Manager Manny Acta better options at crucial defensive points in games. Like pitching, you can never have enough defense. We now have a luxury and the ability to use those talents to our advantage. That's a good thing.

Interestingly, the final out of this top of the 7th was a defensive gem too. Bonifacio scooted in a slow roller to his left off the bat of Jeff Keppinger. Moving swiftly, Emilio scooped the baseball and tossed to Kory Casto--just in time to retire the hard charging Cincinnati Leadoff Hitter. Our Number 6 had also made a fine play. The little things that add up over time.

Austin Kearns had three hits today, all singles, nothing stroked hard, one a broken bat fly. He's raising his average, but "Bluegrass" needs to start hitting for power. Sitting in The Cleanup Spot in Our Batting Order, Our Number 25 is not hitting Home Runs, nor Doubles, not driving in enough runs. I understand Manny has fewer options right now--but Kearns is slightly overmatched batting 4th at this moment. Maybe Elijah Dukes should bat in that spot--at least on a temporary basis.

Take a look at the above photo with The Reds Adam Dunn at the plate. If the goal of every single Major League Player was to be the best HE CAN BE--would you not think that The Reds Leftfielder would make the defense play him a little more honest. A few scratch hits down the left field line, a few slaps to third--would do wonders for his batting average and open up the field of play more to his strong points. I can never understand why some players are just so stubborn. In the long run--adjusting could only help his talents as a professional.

Still, Sohna and I can't get over that fresh feeling of joy many Fans of Our Washington Nationals are experiencing over the past three days. Yes, The Cincinnati Reds are another last place team. But, you can't deny the fact that New Nationals Park has been jumping during these first three days of August. Hope is arising, despite Washington still being 29 Games below .500. Who would have thought Our Two New Middle Infielders would provide such a glimmer of hope? Contagious winning can be and the very sight of members of Our Washington Nationals, not only running out onto the field to thank each other after each of the past three wins, but some JUMPING over the protective screen to reach their teammates as soon as possible--Wonderful To See. Like Our Fans, Our Players are again experiencing the excitement. The Joys That Winning Brings.

After the game conclusion--Kids 12 & Under ran the bases. The Usual Sunday Afternoon Custom at New Nationals Park.





Finally, today was Panda Webkinz Giveaway Day. In cooperation with The National Zoo in Washington, DC, Ushers and Supervisors for Our Washington Nationals handed out to each child 12 and under a special Webkinz Panda Plush Doll and matching Tai Shan (The Nationals Zoo locally born Panda) Washington Nationals Trading Card. As you can see from the pictures--receiving the toy was huge for many of the kids.

Teddy of course lost The 4th Inning Presidents Race again--this time after being Distracted by a Life Size Panda Webkinz. Abe won again in convincing style.

Today's InGame Photos--(AP) Nick Wass
All Other Photos--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Winning Back Fan Support

Sorry for the late post--Sohna and I had some personal things take care of this morning--so I could not write the gamer last night.
The energy tonight inside The New Ballyard on South Capitol Street was intoxicating. New Nationals Park was ROCKING for the first time--in a long time. A new look version of Our Washington Nationals was mesmerizing the home crowd. The excitement at New Nationals Park reminiscent of the high times at The Old Ballyard on East Capitol Street of year's past. 30,970 were in a jovial mood. They had just witnessed Washington fighting back from their largest deficit this long season against The Cincinnati Reds.

Two games into August A New Look Washington Team has taken the field. A battling lineup. A hustling group of players making the effort in the field and at the plate. Far from perfect and with a long way to go to be deemed respectable, the spark provided by newcomers Emilio Bonifacio and Alberto Gonzalez has jumped started Our Washington Nationals. A combined 5 for 10 at the plate scoring three runs this evening. Our New Number's 6 & 12 in your scorecard displaying fine fielding skills, as well. Bonifacio making a spectacular lung, dive, roll, eventual grab on a hard hit grounder to his left, and throw out of The Reds Brandon Phillips late in this game--easily The Defensive Play of This Game.

But those two players were not the only contributors this evening.

This 10-6 come from behind victory was a team effort.

Down 5-2, then 6-2, in the bottom of the sixth to The Cincinnati Reds--Ronnie Belliard got this affair back on track when he absolutely HAMMERED A TWO RUN PINCH HIT HOME RUN off Former Washington National--Bill Bray. A No Doubt Liner over the left field wall that found Our Number 10 strutting, hand slapping and enjoying his trip around the bases and into the home dugout. A turnabout moment that found Our Friend Pat, kind enough to invite The African Queen and I to sit with him tonight in Presidents Club stating: "We are going to win this game."

Yeah, we were. Because the August 2008 Version of Our Washington Nationals shows little resemblance to The July 2008 and earlier versions. Speed, agility, that fighting spirit to not give up displayed over the past two days--exhilarating. The Home Faithful loving every minute. Fans jumping up and down in the aisles, high fiving, hugging and downright whooping it up.

Feeling the pain of the so many losses of late--Our Washington Nationals were winning back their fan support. None more so than in the key bottom of the 7th. A walk to Lastings Milledge leading off the inning, allowed by The Reds Mike Lincoln, led to back to back to back singles by Austin Kearns, Kory Casto (scoring Milledge) and Alberto Gonzalez loading up the bases with Washington now down by one. And Cincinnati Manager Dusty Baker deciding to call on another Former Washington National, Gary Majewski.

"Big Tex" as Gary is known, with the assist from Former Montreal Expos Top Prospect Brandon Phillips--would blow this game wide open--to the assembled masses GREAT DELIGHT.

Pinch Hitter Elijah Dukes would slam a hard hit, but routine possible inning ending double play grounder directly at Phillips. The slick fielding second sacker seeing "Speedy Gonzalez" rushing toward second base directly in front of him--was distracted and bobbled the baseball. The crowd, first moaning the possible end to this Big Washington Threat now stood excited over this change in fortune. Brandon Phillips now had no play at second base. And as it turned out--he had no play at first base too. Our Number 34 hustled all the way down the line and was ruled, JUST SAFE, by First Base Umpire Mike Estabrook.

Austin Kearns scoring the game tying run. The Home Faithful on its feet applauding the efforts. Many on hand now realizing--Yeah, Our Washington Nationals were going to win this ball game. And when Pinch Hitter Pete Orr stood patiently at the plate, waiting for a Majewski pitch to drive--Our Number 4 was rewarded with a lacing liner to left field, scoring Casto with the Go Ahead Run, scoring Gonzalez with an important insurance run. And scoring some serious points for the now SCREAMING CROWD CHEERING ON THIS UNLIKELIEST OF COMEBACKS. An effort, many would say--Our Washington Nationals were incapable of delivering earlier this week. This Game Was Enjoyable--on so many levels. But the sight of so many fans living in the moment--made this night--So Worthwhile.

Milledge would add a NO DOUBT BLAST to the Cincinnati Bullpen in left off Majewski in the eight for his 8th Home Run of 2008. And Austin Kearns would turn a routine single into a three base error when The Reds Jay Bruce misplayed his liner to right. A mistake that found "Bluegrass" trotting home freely on a wild pitch thrown--also by "Big Tex". No this was not a good Homecoming for one of The 2005 Inaugural Season Members of Our Washington Nationals. Looking to impress again, Gary Majewski only faltered--to Washington's benefit.

Final Score from raucous New Nationals Park--Our Washington Nationals 10 and The Cincinnati Reds 6 in one of the most impressive wins of the season. The Bang!! Zoom!! of The Fireworks!! signaling that Fighting Spirit, Fresh Energy goes along way in affecting a teams makeup. Curly "W" Number 40 of 2008 found Our New Look Washington Nationals playing hard, making the effort, not giving up and most importantly--Winning Back Their Fan Support.

August 2nd, 2008 may well be The Most Important Home Date This Season. The Tide is turning--Our Washington Nationals and Their Fans are finally getting onto The Same Page. Nothing better than that.

A GREAT NIGHT AT NEW NATIONALS PARK. That Place Was Hoping--Rightfully so.

Game Notes & Highlights

Jason Bergmann got absolutely tagged by The Reds in the top of the second inning, allowing a two run homer to Jay Bruce and a three run double to Joey Votto--putting Washington down early 5-2. Between innings, MASN showed Our Pitching Coach Randy St.Claire giving our Number 57 the business on the bench. A disconsolate Bergmann listening intently. His words must have worked--as Jason would complete six full innings tonight--although he was not involved with a decision.

Charlie Manning received his first win of his Major League Career. The Pitcher of record in the 7th, when Elijah Dukes pinch hit for him. The game deciding inning that sent the faithful home happy.

Emilio Bonifacio led off the bottom of the first inning with almost a slap bunt swing that lofted a pitch from Josh Fogg just over third base and down the left field line. Our Number 6 so fast--he was nearly on second base STANDING, by the time the ball had hit the ground. Of course--he would score Washington's first run of the night. Later in the 6th--Emilio would lace a liner down the right field line--AND THE RACE WAS ON. His blazing speed had EVERYONE UP ON THEIR FEET ROARING. As The Reds Jay Bruce tracked down the baseball in the corner--Bonifacio whipped around the bases--sliding easily into third with a triple. That was some exciting stuff. Pat stating: "Nothing like speed, changes the game." So true.

Later, in a brief conversation with Our Team President, Stan Kasten mentioned that during batting practice Emilio Bonifacio works on his swinging slap bunt routine displayed in the first inning tonight. It's a part of his offensive arsenal. Impressive that young man has been in two games.

The same for Alberto Gonzalez. You would think he was an All-Star after his first two games. But at least he has shown--Our New Number 12 has the talent to stick around in The Majors. He's got some talent and will be more than just a backup infielder.

Elijah Dukes was pulled from the starting lineup for showing up late at New Nationals Park. Our Manager Manny Acta stated rules are rules and if you don't come on time--you do not start. Later Dukes worried the crowd and Our Team when he pulled up lame running out a grounder to first base in the 8th. As it turned out, Our Number 34 had his bat hit is leg upon leaving the batters box and he cramped. Fortunately, he was OK. You could feel the excitement bubble bursting at New Nationals Park for the briefest of moment--many understanding how ANOTHER INJURY was just not wanted.


"Rookie of The Year" was the movie shown tonight after the game at New Nationals Park. The Saturday Night Movie promotion which will run throughout the remainder of the season after Home Games on South Capitol Street.

Many thanks again to Pat for hosting The African Queen and I tonight. We all had a great watching a wonderful game and sharing baseball--Washington Nationals Style.

Tonight's InGame Photo (AP) Chris Dharapak

For A Good Cause

“It was astonishing for me to learn that 33% of America’s 4th graders can’t read at the basic level," stated UPS Store Owner Mariana Huberman. Ms. Huberman was standing inside her MacArthur Boulevard Store along with Our Washington Nationals Ryan Langerhans, his wife Shari, and Master Sargent Tim Butler representing The United States Marines Toys For Tots Literacy Program. Together, The UPS Stores, Our Washington Nationals and Toys For Tots were joining forces to promote this weekend's 2nd Annual Back To School Drive at New Nationals Park.

"What we are doing this weekend is collecting these school supplies, as well as the books, and cash donations at the gate," continued Ms. Huberman. " And if you can’t make it this weekend, any UPS Store will collect donations from you as well, anywhere across the country—actually.”


All school supplies, books and cash donations collected this weekend at The Center Field Gate near Half & N Streets, SE will be donated to a District School this fall. Also, in partnership with The Heart of America Foundation, all books collected will be used to build a Reading Corner for children in a DC Public School.


“Those dollars we raise are going to buy a book for a child," said Ms. Huberman. "Every dollar donated will buy a book to give to one of these needy kids. You can help put a book into the hand of a child and help to unlock so much potential for them. I think it is the greatest gift you can give to a child, the ability to read. It ignites their passion for learning, it ignites their imagination and all the things they can do from there are just incredible.”

We are looking for pens, pencils, markers, lunchboxes, backpacks, new school supplies for the kids--anything like that," commented Shari Langerhans. "Additionally, we really want people to bring new children’s books so when the donations are presented, later this fall, that new Reading Corner can be put in place at the DC School selected."

“We started this last year. The turnout was amazing. Talking to the fans and parents and seeing how much it means to them was important. Some of their kids here in this area are the ones who will be receiving these donations and it’s going to be benefiting their kids. So, that opened my eyes to the need by just meeting some of those who would be receiving these supplies. It’s right here, it’s local and that’s a big deal to everyone. A lot of these kids are going to stay here. They are going to grow up here, get jobs here, just to be able to be a part of that to make a difference means a lot to not only me, but anyone that lives here,” concluded Mrs. Langerhans.

Her husband--Ryan--supports his wife's efforts: “Like all the guys on the team, we are very excited about what The First Ladies are doing with this project. We care about the kids in the community and anything that is donated, whether it’s a dollar here or books, anything to help the kids in the community is worthwhile....I am excited that Shari is involved with the program because I know I feel, as well as the rest of the guys (on The Nationals) feel the same way that we can reach out and be active in the community. Education is something that is so important to help give the kids a chance to be successful down the road."

You grew up an avid reader? (SBF)

“I was. I was very active. Both my parents were teachers. So, my mom always had a book in my hands. I really didn’t have a choice (everyone busting out laughing). But, it was something I really enjoyed growing up and has stayed with me my entire life.”

Master Sargent Butler: "One of the important points to understand: If funds are donated within a community, right here in Washington, DC—those funds, toys, supplies and books are going to stay in Washington, DC. If someone in Idaho donates to The UPS Store, that money stays in that community to support that literacy program. That is one of the big benefits of having a big corporate sponsorship like UPS. They have mall stores all over the nation. We can’t ask for more than that. It’s one of the most wonderful things in the world. So, if I could ask the pubic for a favor: Please come out to see The Nationals play baseball this weekend, bring us a book, school supplies, something we can use and please visit UPS Stores and make your donations there. Help out the communities in which you live in—that is what this is all about. We have changed our focus a little bit in The Toys For Tots Foundation. We are focused now a little more on literacy in partnership with The UPS Store. But a lot of folks don’t know this but Toys For Tots has been giving away books for quite some time. We are very passionate about this.”

Shari Langerhans pointed out: “We ended up with 13 bins of school supplies last year. We really want to beat that goal this year and we want to bring in a lot more school supplies. Last year was incredible, but we just want to top that mark. Last year was the first year, there are more fans coming to the games now—and with partnering with everyone here—we should have a good turnout. I don’t have a specific goal, because I have no clue how much we are going to get. So, just as much as possible. Hopefully, our involvement (Nationals Players & Family) influences others to do the same and get their families involved. This strengthens our bond and everybody should do their part to make a difference.”

"And if you can’t come into a store," reminded Mariana Huberman, "if you can’t make it to the games this weekend, you can also go to www. Toysfortotsliteracy.org and learn more about the foundation as well as make a donation online.” Every single UPS Store in America is participating in their local community.

Master Sargent Butler gets the final words: ‘I think we as a nation are growing. We understand the importance of focusing on our children, because our children are our future. Along with Baseball, The Washington Nationals, American Pie (chuckling)—this partnership works. We are very fortunate to have these large, very powerful organizations all coming together to help promote in receiving Back to School Supplies for the children that may not get that great start in life. And that is what we are really after. We want the kids to have hope.”

If you wish to participate, The First Ladies of Our Washington Nationals, The U.S. Marines representing The Toys For Tots Literacy Program, and The UPS Store will be on hand at New Nationals Park this weekend when Our Washington Nationals take on The Cincinnati Reds. Donations will be accepted beginning 2 hours and 30 minutes before each game and until the end of the 4th inning each day. Don't forget, if you can't make it to the ballpark this weekend, but still wish to participate--you can go online at www. Toysfortotsliteracy.org or visit any UPS Store.


This effort is for a good cause and shows once again that a Major League Baseball Team, Our Washington Nationals, can help influence and spirit growth within the very community in which it exists. Help the kids out this weekend--if you can.

A New Day Arrives

"Good riddance to July," Our Manager Manny Acta said. "It was a July to forget. August started good. It was only a day, but I already feel better than July...It feels like a huge load has been lifted off of all of us." This comment in the post game press conference.

What A Difference--ONE DAY MAKES.

Tonight, when Our Washington Nationals RAN, and I mean RAN onto the field to begin this affair--the contrast in feeling was stark. Fans at New Nationals Park witnessed an energetic starting nine. Three of whom were not even on The 25 Man Roster on July 31st--YESTERDAY.

Elijah Dukes had returned from his knee operation--quicker than anybody expected. And produced again--restarting just where he left his talents off--a few short weeks ago in Cincinnati. That man CAN PLAY!! One single, one double, two rbi and one run scored by Our Number 34.

Emilio Bonifacio, showing speed and wisdom at the Keystone Position, Our New Number 6 may well have Turned Over The FINEST DOUBLE PLAY RELAY OF THE SEASON for Washington--in his very first game in a Nationals Uniform. He was exciting to watch. Acrobatic in the field. At the plate, one single, one run scored, one RBI.

And as for Alberto Gonzalez--picked up late yesterday afternoon from The New York Yankees--to be Our New Shortstop and Utility Infielder--The Cincinnati Reds could not get him out all evening--at least until The Cincinnati Reds Jay Bruce made one FANTASTIC CATCH LATE. Apparently known for his defense--Alberto was an offensive spark plug in his first game in Washington. A double, two walks, one run scored and a sure RBI Single to right taken away by that Bruce fellow.

No--it's certainly not going to be this enjoyable every upcoming night for the remainder of this season--but did these three players ever re-ignite the fire within Washington's Team tonight. We played LIKE A TEAM, like a ballclub that knows it can compete. Did the 30,572 in attendance EVER APPRECIATE THE EFFORT. Standing Ovations throughout the night.

How refreshing. Watching Major League Baseball That Was Fun Again. As Sohna and I realized early on: We had a chance.

And The Second Inning Tonight said it all.

Gonzalez leadoff double down the right field line. Odalis Perez (A Washington Nationals Pitcher I remind you) actually laying down a good bunt to advance Our New Number 12 to third. Bonifacio ripping a single to center, scoring "AG". Emilio running on the perfectly timed 1-0 count to Willie Harris--stealing second. Harris eventually walking, putting runners on 1st and 2nd. And Dukes with the table set in front of him, RIPPING a drive down the left field line, off Homer Bailey--into no man's land, the corner--a sure bases clearing double putting Our Washington Nationals up 5-0 after just 12 hitters in this game.

Five Washington Batters had participated in this bottom of the second inning at this juncture. This quintet playing some quality baseball. In a space of 10 Minutes, Our Manager's Boys had provided exuberance not seen, neither at home, nor on the road for nearly two weeks. Our Washington Nationals were playing aggressive. They were looking forward, not behind themselves. Manny had been given THE GREEN LIGHT. He had put the youngsters out there to see what they can do--successfully so.

As of this moment in time--Our Team that plays of South Capitol Street now fields The Youngest Club In The Game--27 Years, 197 Days to be exact, according to The Elias Sports Bureau. That's pretty refreshing too.

Young Blood provided New Leadership--and others followed. Odalis Perez must have been JUICED--now with that defensive lineup behind him tonight--and was into this game. Did Our Number 45 pitch His Game Of The Year. Perez would hold serve into the 8th. He was throwing that cut fastball for strikes. He was in command. And even when Manny stepped out to replace him when Jolbert Cabrera tripled on a drive to the wall in left centerfield--Perez was PISSED to be removed from the game. Odalis wanted to go the distance. The Fire was burning in his belly again. He was competing, not complaining. How compelling.

Odalis had understood--times were a changing. Thankfully, as he walked off the field to A STANDING OVATION--Perez waved to the crowd in gratitude for their appreciation. The VERY FIRST TIME ALL SEASON--A STARTER FOR OUR WASHINGTON NATIONALS had shown respect to the home faithful. For all of his struggles this season--that one moment of recognition by Our Number 45--meant alot to The African Queen and I. Sohna always wants Our Starting Pitcher to give Our Crowd its due--for supporting their work. We enjoyed that wave from Odalis Perez to the assembled masses. We had waited all season long for Our Fans to be recognized by Our Team.

Saul Rivera (who amazingly was called on for the first time in five days and only the second time in nine) combined with Joel Hanrahan to finish out the victory.

Final Score from Rejuvenated New Nationals Park--Our Washington Nationals 5 and The Cincinnati Reds 2. The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! extinguishing a Nine Game Losing Streak. The Fresh Faces added to Our Roster helping to relieve The Pall and Drudgery that has existed over Our Franchise this past month of July. Curly "W" Number 39 providing New Faces, New Attitudes, Players WANTING TO BE HERE. A new frame of mind which was the difference tonight at New Nationals Park. Our Washington Nationals played like a team--HUNGRY for victory. Starving for the chance to prove that they are INDEED Major League Baseball Players. When you are 38-70 heading into this game, everyone knows they got alot to account for.

Manny was correct in his post game comments. One Day into August, 2008--A Fresh Outlook appeared on the horizon for Our Washington Nationals. Sure, they have a long way to go, but at least for one night--Our Nats showed they can compete. They can hustle. They can MAKE THE EFFORT to ensure that this 2008 Season IS NOT A TOTAL WASTE.

Finally, a light was seen, shining brightly, from the end of that long dark tunnel this evening. A New Day Had Finally Arrived. The Question: Can Our Washington Nationals reach the brightness by September 28 and head into the offseason with New Found Respect--And Hope?

Major League Baseball in Washington was fun again tonight. Can we keep the enjoyment going over the next 60 Days?

Game Notes & Highlights

If Odalis Perez pitched like he did tonight, myself and others would not be calling for his release. He was pretty outstanding, allowing just six baserunners and striking out five. Easily, Odalis Perez pitched his finest game of this season. So has JimBo passed him through waivers yet? Setting up a trade?

After Harris and Dukes singled in the bottom of the 1st inning off Homer Bailey, Jesus Flores continued his hot hand with a rope single to left field. The Reds Adam Dunn made a poor throw off line to home plate. A toss that probably didn't matter as Our Number 1 trotted home from third and Our Number 34 ran hard--all the way from second base (where he had advanced previously on a wild pitch) to plate Washington's first two runs of the evening. Our Number 3 with his Team Leading 46 & 47th Runs Batted In.

The Flash of Leather began in the top of the 7th inning. With Adam Dunn on first base after a walk, Cincinnati's Edwin Encarnacion would RIP a grounder down the third base line. Willie Harris, manning the bag in place of the injured Ryan Zimmerman, produced a Vintage "Z" Move. Diving to his right, Our Number 1 snagged the baseball, recovered and threw out the lumbering Dunn at second base. Encarnacion safe at first on the fielders choice. This terrific effort by Harris was immediately followed by Reds First Baseman Andy Phillip grounding into the hole at short. Alberto Gonzalez ranged over, scooped up the baseball and overhand fired to Emilio Bonifacio covering at second. Our Number 12's toss was on the money and in time to retire Encarnacion. But what happened next was MIND BOGGLING. With Phillip's charging hard to first base, Our New Number 6 pivoted over top of the sliding Cincinnati Runner and FLAT OUT FIRED A STRIKE to Kory Casto at 1st for a FABULOUS 6-4-3 Double Play. The Pivot was great, the throw accurate--HIS RELEASE WAS UNCANNY. Maybe the quickest draw ever seen in a Major League Game since Baseball's Return to Washington. That, and I mean, That Release & Throw was UNBELIEVABLE.

And incredibly it still was not The Defensive Play Of This Game. That honor goes to The Reds Jay Bruce who ROBBED Gonzalez of his perfect night at the plate when he dove to his right, face forward, left glove hand extended on a sinking liner stroked by Alberto in the bottom of the 8th. A Excellent Defensive Play from a Stellar Young Talent. Jay Bruce had taken away a sure hit by Our Number 12 and killed any chance for a 6th run of the evening for Washington. Lastings Milledge was standing on third base, waiting to score--if Jay had not caught the baseball. Of course Bruce not only produced the Defensive Play of This Game, but was rewarded in kind by The Baseball Gods. By catching the last out in miraculous style--he led off the the top of the ninth and hammered a Joel Hanrahan 0-2 offering deep into the right centerfield bleachers for his 8th Home Run this year.



A reminder--for both Saturday and Sunday--The First Ladies of Our Washington Nationals will be on hand at The Center Field Gate to receive all your donations for their 2nd Annual Back To School Drive. All new school supplies for children are welcome. Donations will be accepted beginning two and one half hours before each game and up until the end of the 4th inning. Additionally, The United States Marines Toys For Tots Literacy Program will at New Nationals Park to collect any New Book Donations for the kids in Washington, DC. UPS Stores in DC are also sponsoring this event. More on this effort coming in a later post, but this afternoon, Ryan Langerhans, his wife Shari, The US Marines and The DC UPS Stores staged a promotion for the event at The UPS Store on MacArthur Boulevard in Northwest, Washington. The participants on hand to let everyone know that 33% of all fourth graders in the United States are illiterate. The kids need your help. Their efforts a good cause in assisting the end to this blight in society. As a reminder, all donations ARE DISSEMINATED in Washington, DC. Your gifts are never sent outside the area.

Finally, just in case we don't see him before his summer vacation in Washington, DC ends this coming Monday, The African Queen and I took pictures with Our Good Friend, Young Jim, avid fan of Our Washington Nationals. Since school has been out for the summer, this young man has vacationed here in the Washington, DC Area with his family. Sohna and I have enjoyed getting to know him. Jim is quite the character and we wanted to wish him the best in his coming school year. Come Monday, Jim must head back home--to Tampa.

Tonight's InGame Photos (AP) Pablo Martinez Monsivais
All Other Photos, Nats320 (All Rights Reserved)

Panda Webkinz Day At The National Zoo

To help promote this Sunday's Panda Webkinz Day at New National Park, Pete Orr and Charlie Manning from Our Washington Nationals headed to The Washington National Zoo yesterday meet and sign autographs for the many fans and children on hand near The Zoo's Giant Panda Habitat.




For over one hour--the two players greeted hundreds of kids, taking pictures and basically having a pretty good time. When Washington takes on The Cincinnati Reds this coming August 3rd--each child 12 Years of Age and Under--the first 10,000 of whom entering New Nationals Park will--receive a Free Panda Webkinz Plush Doll along with a special baseball card featuring statistics of Tai Shan--the three year old Giant Panda--now in residence at The National Zoo.

All Webkinz contain a special code that allows kids to play with a virtual version of the pet online.



The turnout yesterday was quite remarkable. I could only stay for about 20 minutes, but the lines did not stop filling up with those interested in meeting the players for a few moments. After the meet and greet, Pete Orr and Charlie Manning took a brief tour of The Zoo--including a visit to see Tai Shan.