One Mistake, One Miscue, One Mental Error

For nearly five innings tonight Our Washington Nationals played a fairly tight game. They were in the lead, up one run against The Colorado Rockies, and Tim Redding was putting up a representative outing on the mound. As Our Starter, he was even on the receiving end of some keys hits from his teammates. Our Offense was scoring a few runs--early. And for the first time in over one week--Washington was possibly closing in on a win.




All on the night--Sohna and I spent the entire game visiting with Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler in their Broadcast Booth--WAY UP TOP and Nearly OVER TOP--New Nationals Park. Man!! Those Boys Sit HIGH ABOVE THE PLAYING FIELD!! A get together that has been in the planning stages for some time. We had a blast!!

Then--just like that--One Big Mistake, Miscue, Mental Error, by Washington unraveled this game. No, it never fails. When things are going bad, one little slip up can prove costly. With Two Outs and one runner on base in the top of the 5th inning at New Nationals Park--that moment came. Quickly, and decisively.

Our Number 17 held a 2-1 lead before allowing a two out single up the middle to The Rockies--Seth Smith. Still, Redding needed just one more out to get out of this frame unscathed. Unfortunately, he had to face perennial All Star Left Fielder Matt Holliday. A tough task that Tim seemed to have under his control, at least, until Holliday uncorked on the 4th pitch of this game changing At-Bat--and sent a screaming liner to dead centerfield--right at Lastings Milledge. A hard stroked ball--but playable.

Easily caught--until Our Number 44 misplayed his read on the ball. Instead of backing up a few steps to catch the stroked baseball--Lastings misjudged the arc and ran in. Big Mistake, and he knew it--right away. Attempting to readjust and use his athletic talents to his best ability--even Milledge could see--he could not overcome this misplay. As Lastings Milledge leaped as high as his back running legs would take him--in an attempt snare the hit--the baseball sailed Right Over His Glove. An eventual ruled double that scored Smith all the way from first with the game tying run. And had many in the Home Faithful Crowd of 27,965 Moaning and Groaning over whether Our Washington Nationals were about to throw away another winnable game.

One batter later--that belief came true.

Brad Hawpe would UNLOAD on a Tim Redding fastball just over the centerfield wall for a two run homer. In a mere matter of minutes--a one time one run lead, was now a one run deficit in favor of Colorado. Our Washington Nationals had found a way to fall behind again--by not helping themselves make the routine plays. Lastings Milledge had make the first gaffe and Tim Redding made the second. Washington should have been out of the inning--easily. Instead--they had put themselves out of this game.

How quickly things changed. How fast Our Offense shut down for the remainder of the night. Washington would add one more run to the tally board in the bottom of the 6th by manufacturing their third score--but they never really threatened again. Hope had turned to dismay when Lastings Milledge did not catch Matt Holliday's drive. And all was lost when Tim Redding gave up the game winning home run. All three runs for The Rockies Scoring--after Washington SHOULD HAVE BEEN OUT OF THE INNING--sitting in their dugout--heading to home plate--to bat. Not still standing in the field, wondering, what should have been.

Since it was raining when The Colorado Rockies began this Two Out Rally--maybe The Baseball Gods were also crying--upset over whether Our Washington Nationals can pull themselves back together again in 2008. This loss was sad--because it did not have to be. Now losers of 8 Straight and 18 out of 24, Loss Number 79 came on a cool wet evening when Washington proved that when things are not going well--something always seemingly happens--to take even the slightest chance of winning away.

One Mistake, One Miscue, One Mental Error--proved costly.

Final score from a disappointed New Nationals Park--The Colorado Rockies 4 and Our Washington Nationals 3. Just 39 Games Remaining In This Season--can Washington possibly avoid 100 loses?

No--we didn't get to hear Charlie Slowes BELLOW OUT "Bang!! Zoom!! Go The Fireworks!!" or "Another Curly 'W' is in the BOOKS!!" As badly as we wanted to hear him shout those two FAMOUS CALLS OUT IN PERSON--LIVE!! But it did not take the fun away from one terrific night hanging out with two of the best Baseball Broadcasters in the business. Really, we love those guys. And of Course the now Infamous--The Jack Of All Things--Jack Hicks. No Nats Radio Broadcast is ever the same without Charlie and Dave's Chief Engineer on the scene--making everything work--and adding to their hilarity.

There will be MUCH, MUCH MORE on Our Special Night with Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler at New Nationals Park coming up in a later posting. Interviews, a little play by play action, and some comedy--some really funny stuff. Along with Jack Hicks, they are as professional as can be, and hilarious beyond belief in person--just like on the radio. They let it all hang out tonight--for our benefit. They were great hosts.

Game Notes & Highlights

Tim Redding became noticeably bothered after Lastings Milledge's miscue in centerfield on Matt Holliday's drive. Our Number 44 made a mental mistake, something he will hopefully learn from. But Redding should have known better--pitching to a dangerous and powerful lefthanded slugger in Hawpe. In the top of the 3rd, The Rockies shortstop, Troy Tulowitzki also took Redding deep to left for a homer--Colorado's first run of this game.

Two pitches into the game--Our Washington Nationals had a one run lead. Emilio Bonifacio slashed the first pitch he saw from Jorge De La Rosa and ripped it down the left field line. Ronnie Belliard followed with another first pitch drive to right field scoring Bonifacio easily. But with Colorado Rightfielder Brad Hawpe playing the baseball well--Our Number 10 attempted to stretch his RBI Single into a Double. HUGE MISTAKE. Hawpe easily threw out Belliard at second base. Ryan Zimmerman followed with a two pitch At-Bat before grounding out and Milledge followed with a first pitch flyout to center. Five minutes into the bottom of the 1st--and after only five pitches total were thrown--Washington led 1-0.

Washington scored their second run when Belliard walked, moved to second on a Wild Pitch and scored when Ryan Zimmerman ripped an opposite field drive to right for his 32nd RBI of his injury shortened season. Hitting well of late for average--Our Number 11 still not hitting for much power.

Austin Kearns was hit by pitch to lead off the bottom of the sixth--advanced to second on a wild pitch by De La Rosa and moved to third on a Jesus Flores flyout to center. Eventually, Our Number 25 would score Washington's final run of this affair on a ground out to shortstop by Aaron Boone. Routine, except for the fine defensive play made by Tulowitzki. Boone would hit a sharply hit grounder to The Rox's Shortstop--to his right side. Ranging over, Tulowitzki backhanded the baseball into his glove hand, then LEAPED off his front foot and threw a terrific toss to Garrett Atkins at first base. As Charlie and Dave praised the effort on the air--Dave concluded, even Derek Jeter doesn't make that play and throw--maybe ever in his career. And Jeter is one of the best Yankee Shortstops Ever--possible Hall of Famer. Troy Tulowitzki shows some terrific range and arm to retire Our Number 8.

But Aaron Boone got the last laugh. With Colorado runners on 1st and 3rd with two outs in the top of the 7th, "The Human Rain Delay" on the mound for Washington and the very dangerous Matt Holliday at the plate--Jesus Colome forced Holliday to pop a foul fly near the first base stands, and the camera well next to Our Washington Nationals Dugout. Aaron did not give up on the play and made a fabulous over the railing catch to retire Holliday, The Rockies and keep Washington into a one run game. Aaron Boone with The Defensive Play Of This Game.

Emilio Bonifacio may well have slammed the very first pitch of the night from Jorge De La Rosa for a double down the left field line. Our Number 7 may well have scored Washington's first run of the evening, as well. But, for the remainder of this game, Bonifacio was not a factor--offensively. Striking out four times, The Golden Sombrero, including once with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 4th to quell a rally. And finally, to end this ball game on the final out. Emilio has shown little patience at the plate--like none whatsoever.

As Charlie mentioned on the radio--Aaron Boone might have given Washington some hope to get back into this game with his Defensive Play Of This Game. But, what his effort also proved was that for the first time, in some time, Our Washington Nationals actually have a player that can man first base and play the position well. Kory Casto and Ronnie Belliard have had their moments--but they don't have the skills to play first base. Both are exposed on a regular basis.

There was a very odd moment around 10:10PM tonight at New Nationals Park. While the game was progressing, nothing particular was actually happening at that time. But, out of nowhere came this HUGE CHEER RISING UP FROM BELOW. Sitting next to Dave Jageler while Charlie Slowes was doing play by play--Dave looked at me shrugging his shoulders in the "What's Up?" signal. Looking up at a TV Monitor above our heads--I pointed to what was on the television. Michael Phelps had just won his 7th Gold Medal at the 2008 Bejing Olympic Games in the Butterfly--but just barely. As Dave mentioned on air--apparently the cheering came from the many Suite Holders watching the event while at the baseball game. Funny and odd at the same time. The Noise Was Loud. You had to wonder what the players thought of the interruption?

Finally, from high above in the Radio Broadcast Booth, you have got to give Charlie & Dave some serious credit for their play by play calling. Every fly ball looks like it is going out of the park. Every hard hit grounder or liner in the infield--is difficult to determine. You really can't tell, until you see the movement of the players. Jokingly--Dave Jageler asked The African Queen and I if we would mind switching our seats in Row A of Section 218 with them--so they can broadcast a ball game and see the action up close. Call the game right. On second thought, Dave might have been serious. Those guys need to be closer to the field. They really do.


Charlie and Dave both did interviews with Sohna and I this evening. And, we have the entire broadcast, with all fun and excitement they provided for us to write about. Much more coming later on Our Evening With "The Jack Of All Things!!"

Sorry Charlie--I just couldn't help myself on that one.

Effort & Execution

Playing short rightfield, Emilio Bonifacio raced over to his left to retrieve a hard hit grounder by Carlos Delgado. The New York Mets supposed pull hitter had whacked this latest Joel Hanrahan pitch with two outs and bases loaded in a mostly already decided ball game. Our Number 7's hustle, his effort, was there. He picked up the ball without any problems. But, as it turned out--his execution had failed.

Down 7-3 at this point in the top of the 9th inning at New Nationals Park--Emilio deftly moved over and scooped up the baseball with his glove and calmly threw to Aaron Boone at First Base--BUT MISSED OUR NUMBER 8 by a good foot. It wasn't even close. The ball sailing to Boone's left. An error of simple execution that had The African Queen and I dropping our heads in dismay.

Two more New York Mets runs scored bringing The New York Faithful up on their feet, standing and cheering over the latest mistake by Our Washington Nationals this evening at New Nationals Park. And Our Fans, at least those still remaining on South Capitol Street, trying to salvage something out of what was sure to be another discouraging defeat.

Washington's 7th in a row. August, which began so brightly with a revamped squad--now seen struggling as much as the past months of this 2008 Season.

All night long--Our Team, The one that calls DC's it's very home--made the physical effort on the field of play. What they continually failed to do--was execute.

Emilio Bonifacio's gaffe had just put the icing on the cake.

Inexperience always shows itself--under pressure. And Our Washington Nationals displayed plenty of that tonight.

Our Starter Collin Balester--all of 22 Years Old--could not get past The New York Mets--the second time around he faced them in the batting order. He couldn't locate most every pitch in his arsenal. And a good hitting team, which The Mets are, are going to take advantage of every mistake. Even Brian Schneider--Our Former Captain--who flat out HAMMERED a fastball by Our Number 40 to deep centerfield for a two run shot in the top of the 5th inning. A Home Run by Our Former Number 23 that went along way, not only in distance, but in explaining how much farther Collin Balester must come to be a quality Major League Starter.

Schneider has handled Balester before--behind the plate. And Brian knows what Collin can do. Our Former Starting Catcher realized Our Number 40 has yet to learn how to survive in The Big Leagues. That takes time and more setbacks, like the very one Balester experienced tonight. For three innings--he did well. But once The New York Mets batted around the first time--Collin had no answer for their adjustments.

A key double given up to the very good David Wright directly led to two runs for New York in the 4th. Schneider's blast in the 5th added two more. And Carlos Delgado--he of the ultimate pull hitting swing--LAUNCHED an opposite field blast over the left field wall in the top of the 6th off Balester. A drive that Willie Harris make A GREAT ATTEMPT to catch. Our Number 1 CLIMBING THE WALL--his spikes taking him above the Double "XX's" in The EXXON MOBIL SIGN. But Harris' effort could not overcome Collin's Pitch Performance.

One again--effort was there--but the execution had failed.

A theory played out all night long.

When Our Washington Nationals finally fought back into this game--with a three run 7th--they did so by getting the job done. A single here, a walk there and a pinch hit triple by Pinch Hitter Pete Orr. An unexpected blast off the right field wall scoreboard that brought New Nationals Park alive for the first real time tonight. And had the 31,058, some of whom were actually cheering for Our Washington Nationals--on their feet in great surprise and joy. Applause that turned to hope when Bonifacio laid down a pretty good bunt toward the slow moving and poor fielding Delgado manning first base for New York. An eventual infield single executed perfectly--scoring Orr with Our Washington Nationals 3rd run of the game. And putting The Mets on notice that this game was not over yet.

At least not until Our Team placed runners on 1st and 2nd with one out in the bottom of the 8th. Already, Washington had ran The Mets Starter-lefthander Oliver Perez from the game in the previous frame. Now, side arm throwing Joe Smith was on the mound. The same Joe Smith who had made Lastings Milledge look silly, batting against him just two nights ago. This evening, Our Number 44 learned from his clueless strike out swings of Tuesday against this pitcher--and professionally walked on seven pitches. An good effort that Austin Kearns followed by doing the same.

The New York Mets were in trouble. Our Washington Nationals had understood how to bat against a side arm/under hand throwing pitcher. And The Mets Manager Jerry Manuel rightfully decided he needed a fresh face to confuse Our Batting Order--once again. He chose wisely by calling for one time hard throwing, but now junk ball pitching (thanks to injury) Duaner Sanchez. A few years back, Sanchez was one of the hottest young pitchers in the game. A rising star with The Los Angeles Dodgers--but eventually traded to The Mets--where he threw out his shoulder and has never been the same power pitcher since.

Throwing mostly off speed and nothing reaching more than the low 90's, Sanchez was able to get kill Our Washington Nationals rally. Thanks to the very fact Our Batters did not adjust to the pitcher or his pitches at hand. Aaron Boone would strike out--awfully--on a change up so slow--Boone could have possibly swung twice at the offering. And Wil Nieves would ground out to David Wright at third base to end, what just two batters previously, was Washington's Final Chance to get back into this game.

Instead--once again--the execution had failed and Our Washington Nationals were going down to defeat. Yes, the top of the 9th Inning was nothing more than frustrating to watch. Joel Hanrahan trotted out in a 5-3 ball game and looked lost on the mound. Eventually giving up four more runs--thanks to Bonifacio's mental throwing mistake. But showing--that The Team That Calls The Nation's Capital it's home--has so many inexperienced players on the field--nothing short of a PERFECTLY PLAYED BALLGAME will bring a victory home.

Final Score after a disappointing three game home sweep at the hands of The Boys From Queens--The New York Mets 9 and Our Washington Nationals 3. Our Team had again made the effort, but time after time--they could not execute--successfully. Loss Number 78 of 2008 looked a whole lot like many of the previous defeats this season--sadly.

Game Notes & Highlights

He may well have lasted six innings, but Collin Balester really couldn't find the plate. Giving up more walks (5) to hits (4), he might have been a little lucky. But then again--he might well have learned something too--about pitching from behind, without your best command.

As rough of a start that Our Number 40 experienced this evening--Joel Hanrahan was much worse. From the moment he threw his first pitch, in basically a mop up role in the 9th, Our Number 38 DID NOT HAVE IT. Thanks to Bonifacio's late miscue--Hanrahan would record the 3rd out of the inning--but not before giving up 4 additional runs on 4 hits and that key error. Joel Hanrahan looked lost. Which made The African Queen ponder how much we miss "The Chief". Chad Cordero certainly had his moments in a Washington Uniform late in games--but at least "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" delivered most of the time. Our Number 38 does not give off such a good vibe--at least not yet--his pitches are all over the place.

In the top of the 8th inning--David Wright would lace a fast dropping liner to right centerfield. Lastings Milledge would get a good jump on the baseball, run to his left, slightly in on the grass, then dive at the very last moment, his left glove hand extended to catch the baseball--a split second before it hit the ground. 2B Umpire Rob Drake with the flamboyant "OUT" call for Our Number 44's nice catch. The Defensive Play of This Game.

Returning from The Disabled List--Aaron Boone also made a nice play on a smash down the right field line by Brian Schneider in the top of the 6th. With the hit baseball about to go past him, Our Number 8 dove to his left and caught the ball in his glove--DIRECTLY ON TOP OF FIRST BASE--to record the final out the frame. A nice effort--worth mentioning.

The Funny Moment Of The Night. When The New York Mets sent Aaron Heilman to the mound for mop up duty in the bottom of the 9th inning, the majority of New York Fans still in attendance ACTUALLY BOOED HIM--pretty unmercifully. You had to laugh how New Yorker's are just unforgiving. What a tough market to play sports.

Nick Johnson was in the house tonight. Sitting in Our Washington Nationals Dugout--in uniform. Must be here for a checkup on his surgically repaired wrist.

Presidents Club looked like a Sellout Tonight. Not many empty seats throughout the first seven innings of the game. I don't recall seeing so many on hand there all year.

Teddy lost again tonight in The Presidents Race. Leading early, ABE, now winner of 35 races this season--came from behind to win handily. It was not much of a competition.

The Taxi Stand at New Nationals Park has moved again--for the third time this year. Now--patrons wishing to hail a taxi for a ride home after any game--must exit the Center Field Gate, turn left and take your first right turn onto Van Street. Van Street runs north and south, between N Street, SE and M Street, SE.




Thursday Night was Party Night at New Nationals Park--In the Stars and Stripes Club. The Patron Tequila Folks were on hand near The Homestead Grays Bar (perfectly located by Our Seats in Section 218) with Four Tequila Samples and Pyrat Rum. Good Stuff, and quite the atmosphere. Included was a special drawing. Drop your business card into the fish bowl and enter to receive a Manny Acta Autographed Jersey. Pyrat Rum--HIGHLY RECOMMENDED--by just about anyone that sampled it. This was the third tasting this year. Earlier, there was a wine tasting and also a rum tasting.





Finally--The African Queen got the evening started by attending the second and last Ladies Night of 2008. Nearly 1000 women signed up and attended a special party on the Roof Top Party Deck of Garage B. Included in your price of admission to the ball game, was Wine Tastings, Beer Samplings, Tons of Food, Dancing, Plenty of Vendors selling their wares and a special appearance by Lastings Milledge and Willie Harris from Our Washington Nationals--who both brought the house down with an impromptu dance on the dance floor. THIS WAS TERRIFIC!!

Much more coming later on this very nice event. For $30 Bucks Ladies Night is a terrific deal. Three times Our Washington Nationals have now hosted this evening get together. And each time it gets better and better.

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

John Lannan ESPN Zone

The fourth ESPN Zone "Meet & Greet" with a player from Our Washington Nationals was special. John Lannan was called on to "Pinch Hit" as Radio Broadcaster and Lunch Time Host Charlie Slowes mentioned yesterday afternoon. Aaron Boone was originally scheduled to attend. But, with Our Number 8 still rehabbing from injury at AAA Columbus--Our Number 31 was happy to fill in.

John Lannan didn't disappoint. He was poised, ready to talk and share about his budding Major League Career. For nearly 30 Minutes, he took questions from Charlie and the audience--then signed autographs and took pictures with anyone wanting at The ESPN Zone.

Here are most of the questions, answers and comments from August 13th, 2008 at The ESPN Zone in Downtown, Washington, DC. And you must read Charlie's comments about Philly Fans. Did he EVER get on a roll about their attitude.

With that--Here we go:

Charlie: What are you doing on your days off between starts?

“Normal routine. Just hanging out, working out, running and enjoying good baseball.”

Charlie: Tough one last night, good ballgame, good crowd, right there with the chants to the very end.

“Definitely looked like that ball (pitched to Damian Easley) hit his bat, but it hit him in the helmet. That was definitely a game changer, but it was a good game to the very end.”

Charlie: Also, the play earlier, I thought, and replays indicated that (Cristian) Guzman beat out the throw to first base from Jose Reyes at shortstop and on that play, The Nationals would have scored a third run.

“I was right there (watching from The Dugout). He was definitely safe. It was a tough break, what more can I say.”

Charlie: Your thoughts on how you have been pitching? You’ve had some really good starts. I know it’s been a tough year. Walking in here today, we were talking about the Quality Start Rule—six innings, three runs or less—considered a Quality Start. But, John does not consider that a Quality Start. In fact, if he had pitched every single game, six innings, three runs or less, most likely he would lose because he needs to pitch at least seven innings and no runs given up to win.”

“Based on Quality Starts standards, six innings and three runs do not always get the job done. So, I am always going out there to go nine innings. I am trying to learn each time I go out there and keep the team in the ball game.”

Question: The start you had against Barry Bonds, your second or third start I believe. You were thrown from Minor League Ball to this amazing situation that very few pitchers have ever been in—what was your mindset? What was going through your head? How did you go about preparing? I was impressed with the way you attacked Barry Bonds, you didn’t look like you were going to pitch around him?

“Last year was definitely a whirlwind. The whole season was—especially coming up in that situation. Those first three starts were really different, I guess you could say. I got ejected (against The Phillies for hitting Chase Utley), then I got my first win, then I got to face Barry Bonds and The Giants—when he was going for that (Home Run) record. It is something I will never forget and it was just a great experience. I didn’t want to give it up (The Record Home Run), but I also did not want to pitch around him. So, I thought of him as just a regular batter, and I am not saying Barry Bonds is a regular batter. I just tried to keep it in the back of my mind—not think too much of it that he was going for the record.”

Charlie: Even before that and now it’s sort of a distant memory. You had all the researchers, all the baseball people having to dig when you were ejected from your first game for hitting (Ryan) Howard and Utley back to back (in Philadelphia). In your wildest dreams, in your roller coaster ride from A Ball to The Big Leagues, did you have to call people or get calls from people to say: “Yeah, I got ejected from my first Big League Game.”

“I am pretty sure everybody who was a friend with me knew that I got ejected.”

Charlie: It was kind of a lead story on SportsCenter, wasn’t it?

“Yeah, and I can have some friends tell you too, they weren’t too happy.” (Laughing)

Question: Tell us about your background. How you got started in Baseball? How you developed to where you are now?


“My Dad has been a big influence on my life, especially baseball. He’s been my coach since I started playing, when I was six (years old). Basically, I have been a late bloomer, you might say. In High School, I did not get my feet wet until by junior or senior year. Then, I really didn’t get scouted that much for college. So, I went to Siena College up in Albany, New York—a small D-1 School. My Freshman and Sophomore years I went through my growing pains. Then, my junior year, I had my breakout year—and I broke a couple of school records.”

“I got noticed by a couple of teams and The Nationals picked me up in their first year. So, once again, when I came up with The Nationals my first professional season—I was getting my feet wet in ’05 & ’06. Definitely, it was a humbling experience. I am starting to get a little comfortable right now and having a lot more fun.”

Question: What’s it like to be a Nationals Pitcher?

“It feels great. To be a Big League Pitcher has been a dream probably since I was your age. (A young child asked the question). It’s a dream come true and I feel blessed every single day.”

Charlie: How old are you? (To the kid)

Kid: “Eight”

Charlie: Do you want to pitch or play in The Big Leagues?

Kid: “Yes”

Charlie: Alright John, tell him what he’s got to do?

“Listen to your parents, stay in school and do a lot of hard work.”

Question: John, since you grew up in New York, which teams do you like more—Mets or Yankees?

“The Yankees. Definitely, The Yankees, although I went to some Mets Games when I was younger. The Yankees were definitely the team I liked the most, ever since ’96. That is the team I really started to go to baseball heaven with.”

Charlie: “Well, they were pretty good. (Four straight World Series Championships)

“They were pretty good, it’s probably why I liked them so much.”

Charlie: Who is or was your pitcher role model? Your favorite pitcher?

“Andy Pettite. And I loved Don Mattingly. But he left by then (1996). ’95 was his last year. That whole team. I loved Bernie Williams. All those guys definitely paved the way for my baseball career.”

Charlie: John, being a Native New Yorker—you asked him which team he liked. And I knew he wasn’t going to say—“I like both teams.” Because you can’t do that in New York. That’s a good why to get beaten up in New York by saying you like both teams.

“Yes, it’s either the Yankees or the Mets, or Jets or Giants, or Islander or Rangers—then you have The Knicks. But, they are struggling right now.”

Charlie: Also being from New York, I know that people have no respect for you if you can’t pick a team. And that is your team—you can’t like both.

“You can be a baseball fan and in The Subway Series—you definitely have to follow one. But, if The Mets were in the playoffs—you have to have some New York Pride.”

Charlie: So, were you Jets or Giants? Give us the whole lineup (of favorite teams)?

“I didn’t want to be a front runner when the (Football) Giants won, because I would watch football during the season and they were not playing too well. But, I am a Giants Fan and I am a Rangers Fan. One of my friends has season tickets, so I went to a lot of Rangers Games.”

Charlie: So figure that. You grew up on Long Island. The Islanders had won their four Stanley Cups probably before you started watching hockey seriously. And you live on Long Island, but you are a Rangers Fan. I guess that is the case with a lot of folks.

“When The Rangers won (The Stanley Cup) in ’94, that’s when I started to become a huge Rangers Fan. But, I have kind of dwindled off. Lately, I have started to get back into it, during the off season.”

Question: How does it feel to play in really cool parks like Wrigley Field and Busch Stadium—your first time?

“My first start this year was at Busch Stadium. The Fans there are great, not as great as you guys, but they really have baseball knowledge. That place is unbelievable. I am going to Wrigley Field (on an upcoming road trip) and I am really excited. I get to miss Philly, because of the rainout in Colorado and now I get Wrigley. And I am glad to miss Philly because I won’t have to get booed. (Chuckling). And I get to pitch at Wrigley which is one of the best baseball parks—I think.”

Charlie: Do you feel like a target in Philadelphia because of what happened there last year when Chase Utley had his hand broken?

“I hope not, but I don’t think those fans forget.”

Charlie: They (Philly Fans) are mean—aren’t they? Philly Fans are downright nasty and mean. (Clapping at ESPN ZONE) They are not only mean to players, but they find out where the players families sit and then they go and be mean to them.

“I have no problem with them being mean to mean, because they love their Phillies. But, being mean to my family—that is just not right. And they were definitely mean to my family in my debut.”

Charlie: A couple of years ago my wife —Mike O’Connor’s family was sitting with her. How they know, and who is apart of what family, it’s just not nice. They can be meaner than any fans in sports—even at their own players—on their own teams when things are not going well.

“But, they just want to win and they know what they want. I can’t blame them for that.”

Question: What team do you have a rivalry with—is it New York? The Mets? Or The Phillies? What team have you developed a rivalry with? And I think Phillie Fans are mean too.

“Well, we had The Battle of The Beltways—so I think that is building a little by little. Any NL East Team that’s competing, I think is considered a rival.”

Charlie: Now since I talked about it and it’s going to be written about online and in blogs—I might be a target for Philly Fans. They might be spitting at the (broadcast) booth.

“I have nothing against Philly Fans.”

Charlie: You guys got my back. You going to stand up for me? (Yeah, is the reply)? All right!! (Clapping) I need all the help I can get. (Laughing)

“Yeah” (also chuckling)

Question: Who is it in the clubhouse that makes The Nationals, The Nationals?

“I think it is a mix of everybody, everybody brings something to the table. Right now, Willie Harris is definitely gives a lot of life. Ronnie Belliard also does. All those veteran guys that have been around for some time—they mold us young people, young players. And it’s great to have those types of guys in the clubhouse. I think we have a great clubhouse because everyone seriously gets along. It’s just a great clubhouse.”

Charlie: Is Willie Harris a fun guy to watch?

“That play he made (Tuesday Night) was unbelievable. It was awesome to watch.”

Charlie: And then to get the double play!!

“Exactly".

Charlie: He’s been like that. We were doing the broadcast and I would say that most every day he plays; he does something that stands out to help his team win. And, as hard as runs the bases, as hard as he goes trying to run out grounders, seemingly, he never makes a mistake in the outfield. Wherever you play him, he like makes a good play for you.

“Yes, he is dedicated to going out there and getting the job done. You can see it when he plays. It’s just great to watch.

Charlie: When you see a guy like that, and I always see him in the clubhouse early, he always watches video. He always has a mindset and an approach to how he’s going to go against the starting pitcher that night. He is a great example for the young players. He’s prepared to play every day.”


“Exactly, and you really have to watch him to learn. There are a bunch of guys like that. They all get there early and work hard—no matter what—whether they are struggling or not. They go out there and know what they have to do and keep on battling.”

Charlie: One of the things I love about watching you, going back to a start earlier this year, where you didn’t have a good one at home. You were knocked out early; most guys would sit there through the end of the inning and then go inside the clubhouse. The trainer is going to get them iced down and may come back to the clubhouse later. But, you didn’t leave the dugout. You weren’t gone for very long. And when you did go inside, you made sure you were right back out there sitting next to Tim Redding, sitting next to the veterans. And you told me after, when I asked you about this—you were talking about what went wrong that day. A lot of guys would just brood about it, be inside, maybe even watch TV or tape of what happened. You felt it was more valuable to be in the dugout and talking with your fellow pitchers.

“There is only so much TV you can watch. You learn the most in your losses. You learn some things from your wins, but you learn the most from when you lose. Definitely, you want to be around guys that have been in that same spot—and you watch the game. I was out in the third or fourth inning (that day) and I just didn’t feel like being in the clubhouse. I just wanted to still be out there cheering the team on. Hopefully, we can come back. But, I definitely learn more from sitting there (on the bench) taking in everything.”

Charlie: As Pitchers, Starting Pitchers especially, if you are not charting for the next day—now since that is done inside in the video room because of the technology—and you might get to listen to us (on the radio with Dave Jageler) botch whatever pitch call we make that day (chuckling). But, you can sit next to Tim Redding and say, “Hey, I know I was off. What did you see?” You can pick his brain about what he might have saw that was different about what might have been different about you that day than in other starts?

“Not really. It’s just based on what he has gone through. We are such different pitchers. He is more of a power guy. I have to work on my command. But, it’s just based on how I react after a start and how to forget about what just happened—move on. And that is the toughest part—not to dwell on bad things—but to improve and just get better. (Tim Redding) has really helped me out with that.”

Charlie: Part of your success has been that back door slider that you started to throw at a game in New York—earlier—with Wil Nieves catching you. You had never thrown that pitch, that way before.

“Yeah, that was the first game I ever threw like that. I just woke up that morning and said (to himself) that looks like a good idea against these guys. I went out there and threw it. I kind of got away from it in the last couple of games. But, I still got that slider working. So, I am continuing to move forward with what works.”

Charlie: It’s interesting. If you watch a pitcher change an approach and do something they have not done and the hitter is so locked in on what they saw in video of previous games—if you do something different—you see a lot of guys just stand there and take the pitch.

“That’s just adapting. That’s just something you need to do because these hitters are good.”

Question: Since you pitched and played with just about everyone throughout virtually the entire organization last year—is there one particular teammate that stands out to you that is not currently on the Major League Roster?

“There is a ton. But, one of my good friends, Craig Stammen, he’s climbing the ladder too. He started at Potomac (Single A) and now he is in Columbus (AAA). He’s a hard worker, great kid. There are a lot of different guys. Marco Estrada is another pitcher. And Corey Van Allen. I have never played with him, but he’s one of my best friends too. He is definitely a great lefty pitcher coming up through the ranks. There are a lot of guys and I need a couple of minutes to really think about it.”

Question: Who are the toughest batters for you to face? Who do you really not want to see standing in the batters box?

“The usual guys. The great guys of the game. Albert Pujols—although I have not faced him in situation yet. Lance Berkman is tough. Ian Stewart is tough, recently (chuckling). Chipper Jones—all those big name guys. They are tough and that’s what they get paid for because that is what they do. They have been doing it for years.”

Charlie: How hard was that start in Colorado? You are having a great start, one pitch changes it there and the game got out of hand in the next inning?

“Yes, that start was a little tough to take. That one pitch and he (Stewart) hit it a long way (game tying home run). You have to give credit to the hitter, but it’s tough when you have one of your very last pitches be a home run.”

Charlie: Some guys have the type of year you are having. You pitch well, but you don’t get the run support and you can’t win those games. Then, there was one time this year where you got a win when you thought you were horrible—you threw more balls than strikes and I remember you telling me “I was terrible”.

“Yeah, you can have those start and still get the win. That’s why I don’t really concentrate on wins and losses because it doesn’t really say how you did that game. But wins are great. I’ll take a couple more wins.”

Charlie: I know it’s tough to have double-digit losses. I am sure have said to you—a couple of really good pitchers lost a lot of games their first year or two in the Big Leagues—Tom Glavine, who you have been compared to the way you pitch; Greg Maddux, even John Smoltz lost a lot of games early in his career.

“It’s too early to say (about me). Those guys are just great. 300 Wins is unbelievable. 3000 Strikeouts is unbelievable. Those guys are what I strive to be—some day.”

Charlie: When you get to see these guys who you saw growing up, now sitting in the opposing dugout—is that a little bit of a mind blow?

“Yes, definitely. To pitch against John Smoltz when he was going for his 3000th Strikeout was definitely cool. Then, I met Tom Glavine and he even signed an autograph for me. Those guys are just great in games and its fun to watch them pitch.”

Charlie: What was it like to pitch in New York for the first time?

“I love it just because my family was there—people who had not had the chance to see me in DC. They all came out and it was great for them. I just happy for them to be there and see me pitch.”

Question: What is your best pitch?

“My best pitch is a strike!! (Everyone laughing) But that is the best pitch in the game (seriously). A strike is the best pitch in the game. But a fastball is definitely what I live by.”

Final Question from Charlie: You are pitching at Potomac last year—lights out. They tell you that you are going up to the next level. Then, you are not there very long at Double A and on you go to AAA and by late July—it’s The Big Leagues. Were you shocked each time they told you, you were moving up?

“I was most shocked moving up to Double A. I was most nervous moving up to Double A. Just because I had never been above Single A ball. That was definitely the most nerve racking. I was the most nervous then.”

“Don’t get me wrong that I was not nervous getting the call to The Big Leagues. (AAA Manager) John Stearns called me into his office and told me I was going to pitch in Philly—I was definitely very nervous. But, there was talk about me going up, so I was mentally building myself up. But when I got called up to Double A, I had no clue. And they (The Organization) just threw it on me and I said—Wow!”


With that answer the Q & A Session of The ESPN Zone "Meet & Greet" with John Lannan came to an end. Our Number 31 then signed autographs and took pictures with those attending. There will be one more Lunch Time "Meet and Greet" in September--date and player to be announced.

Save-A-Life Blood Drive

This Saturday, August 16th, Our Washington Nationals and The American Red Cross are teaming up for their Annual "Saturday Save-A-Life Blood Drive. WTTG-TV 5 and WDCA-TV 20 are also participating. From 8AM to 2PM, anyone wishing to donate blood to The American Red Cross may do so at New Nationals Park inside The Conference Center.

Our Manager Manny Acta and Our Third Baseman Ryan Zimmerman will be on hand to greet donors from 12:30PM until 1:30PM that day. Anyone participating in the Blood Drive will also receive two free tickets to an upcoming September Home Game.

Complete Details in The Press Release:

Washington Nationals, WTTG-TV Fox 5 and WDCA-TV My20 Host Fourth Annual Save-A-Life Saturday Blood Drive to Benefit the American Red Cross

WHAT: The Washington Nationals, WTTG-TV FOX 5 and WDCA-TV My20 are teaming up with the American Red Cross for the Fourth Annual “Save-A-Life Saturday” to save lives through blood donation. All participants will receive two tickets to a Washington Nationals home game in September, an American Red Cross T-shirt and the knowledge that they’ve helped save a life. The 2007 Save-A-Life Saturday drive collected 140 pints of useable blood.

WHO: Washington Nationals second-year Manager Manny Acta, and WTTG-TV anchors Sue Palka and Tony Perkins taped television and in-stadium Public Service Announcements (PSA’s) to promote “Save-A-Life Saturday.”

Nationals Manager Manny Acta and Third Baseman Ryan Zimmerman will greet donors from 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm to thank them for their contribution. WTTG-TV anchor Will Thomas will be on-site from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm to promote the event. Nationals Mascot “Screech” will also make an appearance.

WHEN: Saturday, August 16, 2008

8:00 am – 2:00 pm

Washington Nationals vs. Colorado Rockies

First Pitch – 7:10 pm

WHERE: Nationals Park

Conference Center 1500 South Capitol St, SE

Blood donors may enter Nationals Park through the Third Base Gate, located on South Capitol Street in between N St & Potomac Ave, SE .

For more information and/or to schedule your donation appointment, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE.

Junior Nationals Club

“I just know from personal experience as a young kid, having my first interaction with a professional sports team or a specific player is something I have remembered forever," stated Sydney Golden, Marketing and Promotions Assistant for Our Washington Nationals. "And it’s something I have remembered for my life. So, that is our main goal. We want to make sure we reach out to our younger fans, get them involved and let them know they are important to Our Organization.”

Recently, Ms. Golden and I were discussing The Junior Nats Club, a program sponsored by Our Washington Nationals, Harris Teeter Grocery Stores and Dasani Water (A Coca Cola Product). Open to children 12 Years Old and Under, membership has already reached nearly 2000 kids in number. This topic came up for discussion after Sohna and I noticed a Father with his Daughter carrying a special Junior Nationals Club Lunchbox at a recent home game at New Nationals Park.

As it turns out--The Jr. Nats Club has two memberships. One is complimentary and includes a Membership Card, an Autographed Photo of Screech, and a few special email invitations to a Meet & Greet with The Racing Presidents and Screech during the season.

And then there is the more exclusive MVP Membership.

Sydney Golden explains: "The MVP Membership for $15 gives you a whole bunch of options and great benefits. One of which is that great Lunch Box you saw. And inside the Lunch Box is a Membership Card, Autographed Photo of Screech, Stickers and best of all—a ticket booklet for Buy One/Get One Free Tickets for ALL SUNDAY HOME GAMES and 10% off at The Team Store (at New Nationals Park) on any sort of merchandise. Plus, all Kids in this particular Membership Program get a special MVP Line for ‘Kids Run The Bases’ Sundays after the Nationals play their scheduled game. This exclusive line goes onto the field first—before everyone else. So, these MVP Kids do not have to wait as long.”

“Also, these kids receive a special invitation to participate in a special (baseball) clinic on the field and all their names are included in special drawings throughout the season to be a part of ‘The Starting 9’ (When kids take the field with players for Our Washington Nationals right before a home game begins) and another to say ‘Play Ball!!’ before the start of selected games.”

Parents can sign their children up online at Nationals.com,--at New Nationals Park during every Sunday Home Game throughout the season--or by filling out and mailing in registration forms available at Harris Teeter Grocery Stores in the DC Area. The MVP Membership, including The Lunch Box, can be picked up at any Sunday Home Game at the specially marked table set up near The Kids Strike Zone. Our Washington Nationals can make special arrangements for parents who might not be able to attend an upcoming Sunday Game to pick up the Membership Kit from the team at other home games.

And just because the 2008 Baseball Season is winding down does not mean the MVP benefits of any kid joining The Junior Nationals Club are not as worthwhile for signing up right now.


“No, definitely not," says Ms. Golden. " We still have a few more on field activities planned, and the lunch box itself is something the kids really enjoy as it can be used year round. Remember, you still get the stickers and the autographed photos, the special line for Kids Run The Bases. So no, it’s not a waste of $15 and I really believe it’s a small fee for the benefits received in return. The Lunch Box by itself is a great gift. A very nice item. Obviously, the ticket discounts still are in effect for the remainder of the Sunday Home Games and ‘Kids Run The Bases’ will occur for three more home dates.”

There is one more date scheduled for Junior Nats Club Members to take the field as The Starting 9 and call out 'Play Ball'. The Buy One/Get One Coupons for Sunday Home Games are available for any price range ticket at New Nationals Park, except for Premium Seats--Presidents Club and Diamond Club.

"We are actually quite proud of that 2000 number (of Jr. Nats Members) and it’s growing all the time," concluded Ms. Golden. "We definitely make the effort to get our younger fans involved and The Nationals believe the great fan experience, especially for kids, comes from giving them the opportunity, to maybe do a Meet & Greet, have that special fan experience they will remember. This is really beneficial for them and helps The Nationals build a relationship with younger fans.”

Once a child enrolls in the Junior Nats Program, parents are encouraged to leave an email address for contact. Our Washington Nationals send out a mass email to all upcoming events, or in rare case a Meet & Greet or Kids Run The Bases Event is cancelled or the date moved. Parents can be notified. And Sydney Golden says Our Team does not use the email addresses to solicit more spam in your inbox--all email addresses for The Jr. Nats Club are only used to inform about planned activities. Membership runs on a Yearly Basis, so if you join now--your child's membership will expire on December 31st of 2008. But, Ms. Golden says Our Washington Nationals are looking into having a few events this fall for members after the conclusion of the 2008 Baseball Schedule.

2009 Membership in The Junior Nationals Club will be available around the beginning of Spring Training next February or March.

Here is the link for further information to The Junior Nationals Club.