Changes In The Works At Nationals Park

Attending The Avon Walk Expo yesterday at Nationals Park, gave The African Queen and I the chance to check out some changes to The South Capitol Street Ballpark as Our Washington Nationals prepare to host Season Two of Major League Baseball there.





Starting Outside--White Triangular Pennant Style Banners have been placed at the Grand Staircase (First Base) Entrance to Nationals Park on Potomac Avenue. Both banners are white in color--one contains a Red Curly "W" and the other depicts The Nationals Park Logo used during The Inaugural Season. But for Season Two--the wording has been changed. Instead of "2008 Inaugural Season", the updated logo reads "Home Of The National Pastime In The Nation's Capital." I am glad they kept the ballpark artwork, with The U.S.Capitol and Washington Monument in the background. I really like that ballpark logo and I hope they keep it for a long time. All of last year's banners depicting players for Our Washington Nationals have been taken down.





Just inside that First Base Entrance Gate--The Walter Kravitz Mobile "The Ball Game" is in final preparation for the 2009 Season. Walter's Engineer, Gary Floyd, was on hand hanging, stringing, balancing and making sure the final piece will be safely hung on the main concourse--first base side. This display is going to be huge when completed. There is still more work to be done--including the final music from "Take Me Out To The Ballgame", but everything seems to be on track for an on time finish before Opening Day--possibly even for the exhibition game on April 4th versus The Baltimore Orioles.




The Red Porch Restaurant is under heavy re-construction in Centerfield Plaza. The north walls to the eatery have been blown out, expanding the seating area with what appears to be window seats looking out on the plaza. We couldn't see well inside the work zone, but it does appears as if the interior of the Red Porch has been completely redesigned. For 2009, The Red Porch will provide more upscale offerings, not just the basic ballpark fare. Our Washington Nationals looking to make The Red Porch a go-to destination during any ballgame--much like what The Red Loft Bar above became for many in 2008.


In The Stars & Stripes Club--better and more durable carpeting has been placed in the heavy traffic areas. Last year, the seams in the original carpet tore and shredded within a few weeks of the very first games played at Nationals Park. This new stuff looks and appears better suited for wear and tear.

No sign yet of the pedestals being placed in Centerfield Plaza to hold the three statues of Walter Johnson, Josh Gibson and Frank Howard. Although we were told yesterday, all three are on track to be unveiled during the first week to ten days of April--before Opening Day on April 13th.

And the concrete walkway between The Lexus Presidents Club and The President Club Seats is being refurbished.

We are sure there are more changes in the works. But those are the ones that stood out yesterday on our visit to Nationals Park.

Avon Walk For Breast Cancer Expo

“Anything The Nationals can do to join in this fight is very, very important to our family, as well as everyone else's." stated Helen Kasten, the wife of Our Washington Nationals Team President Stan Kasten to the few hundred on hand today on South Capitol Street. Mrs. Kasten, a breast cancer survivor, was The Guest of Honor today at The Avon Walk Expo at Nationals Park. A precursor to the upcoming Avon Walk for Breast Cancer to be held in Washington, DC on the weekend of May 2nd and May 3rd, 2009.

“I know The Nationals have provided tickets to be sold so you can help raise funds to meet your goals and join in this walk. I hope you sell a lot of tickets because we need that too. Not only are our fans very important to us—but the more people we can see on that day of recognition ( Monday, May 4th)--the more pink we can put in the stands--the more awareness we will have for our cause. And then even more people will be exposed next year so we can all raise a lot more money and find an end to this dreadful thing (Breast Cancer)!”

And in support of their breast cancer surviving mom today--Helen & Mr. Kasten's Children--Alana and Jay were on hand for the event--along with Mr & Mrs. Kasten's Grandson--Devin.

In an average year, nearly 180,000 women in The United States will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Over 40,000 will die. Yet despite those grim statistics, there are currently over two and one/half million breast cancer survivors in The United States. And that is the reason for The Avon Walk For Breast Cancer.

To Find A Cure.

To Make People Well Again.

To Give Life, When Hearts Have Been Lost.




Today, Our Washington Nationals hosted The Avon Walk Expo in The Stars & Stripes Club at Nationals Park. The opportunity for registrants, survivors and supporters to learn more about awareness, health options available, nutrition and fundraising. An all encompassing event to publicly get the word out that Breast Cancer Can Be Beat. Included in today's festivities was the opportunity for any DC Avon Walk participant to sell discounted tickets to three upcoming 2009 Games involving Our Washington Nationals on South Capitol Street. Charity tickets that can be sold for profit, as long as the proceeds go directly to The Avon Walk For Breast Cancer.

“We do this for a lot of charities. We have done this with many of the organizations that have worked with us through community relations," said Chartese Burnett, Vice President of Communications for Our Washington Nationals. "When you are a non-profit organization, you can set up a business-to-business link. So the charity organization will set up a link on their website--in this case to Nationals.com/(name of the initiative). So what we do is have a discounted ticket that we sell to non-profit organizations and large groups that want to have a fundraising component to their efforts. And then we sell those tickets at a discount to the organization. In this case, Avon will be able to sell those tickets at face value with the difference being the money that will go toward their fundraising efforts. In fact, you are going to see us (The Washington Nationals) do a lot more of that type of work this coming year as we really start to spread our wings more aggressively with non-profit organizations.”

Three games have been chosen as fundraising events for The Avon Walk. Monday May 4th when Washington takes on The Houston Astros is the first. On that particular evening, participants will also be honored at Nationals Park. Wednesday, May 20th against The Pittsburgh Pirates and Friday, June 19th against The Toronto Blue Jays are the two other discounted ticket nights for the charity. $10 Tickets to those games are being offered to Avon Walk participants for $7. Those supporters can then sell those tickets at the price of their choosing--as long as all those extra costs go directly to the fundraiser.

One of the recipients of the raised dollars is Food & Friends--a DC Based Organization that assists those with life threatening illnesses in the DC Area.

“Foods & Friends is a beneficiary of The Avon Walk," stated Ellen Root, Associate Development Director for Food & Friends. "A certain percentage of money from all the walkers here today from The Avon Walk will help our mission and breast cancer clients. The very fact that The Nationals are hosting the Expo is a nice benefit. As you know, they (The Nationals) have come over to our mission in the past. We had Screech over packing bags of food, packing the groceries, and some other players as well. They were great in seeing the meals were coming out and putting them in the right bags--so they can be delivered to the clients. It’s a helpful partnership that raises awareness.”

“Food & Friends provides meals and nutritional counseling for people that live in DC and the surrounding counties in Maryland and Virginia that are suffering with HIV Aids, Cancers and all other life challenging illnesses. We have many referral programs throughout the community which help clients find us. And we are able to deliver these meals six days per week.”

Throughout the May 2nd and 3rd Avon Walk For Breast Cancer--Food & Friends will be on site cheering and providing support for the participants. At the conclusion of the two-day walk, Food & Friends will provide a lunch for all those walkers and support staff. And considering the economic environment that exists today in The United States, Food & Friends is pleased that there are still organizations out there--willing to help their cause.

“Honestly, we have a small wait list at this time, given the challenges in terms of fundraising. But we try to serve as many people as we can that are medically eligible. It’s regardless of income. It’s regardless of any other situation. You just have to qualify on the basis of your illness. But thankfully, there are those out there willing to help and assist and we are very thankful."


Also on hand in The Stars & Stripes Club today was The Capital Breast Care Center of Washington, DC. A provider of breast care screenings and services. An organization which provides support for those in need.

If you wish to participate in The Avon Walk For Breast Cancer, you can sign up at the official website. And if you want to fundraise for the event--with all proceeds going to The Avon Walk--you can contact Michael Benko with Our Washington Nationals to take advantage of the ticket sales opportunities. You can reach Michael at michael.benko@nationals.com or 202-640-7648.

Of course today's activities would not be complete without speaking with Helen Kasten. A 7-Year Survivor of Breast Cancer, she kindly spoke with The African Queen and I during today's Avon Walk Expo at Nationals Park. Her family story is quite touching.

How did you get involved with this event? (The African Queen)

“With this, I think when Stan (Kasten) heard The Nationals were going to be involved in partnership with The Avon Walk, he told me there is going to be something in DC about breast cancer and you might want to be involved as he knew I was interested in all this stuff. So, that is how I found out about it and I made sure I could be here today for the Expo.”

Can you explain why this is so personal to you? (SBF)

“I am a breast cancer survivor, seven years. And it’s affected both sides of our family. My family side and my daughter in-laws side, her mother-in-law, passed away from breast cancer about five years ago at a very early age. She fought it for 10 good years and then it got her. My sister is also a breast cancer survivor so we are very much involved in trying to find a cure and bringing awareness. My biggest concern is trying to make sure that woman that are underserved, medically, actually have exposure and can get the same type of care as woman who have good health care, good support systems. There is a big discrepancy between the care of low-income women as opposed to women of higher incomes.”

How did you first find out you had breast cancer? (The African Queen)

“Self awareness, self examination. I was pretty well along on a good size cancer, but I was very fortunate it did not involve my nodes. So it was a good prognosis. With that, even though the tumor was large, I had extremely good care and support. I did a mastectomy and reconstruction, then chemotherapy and radiation. That took about nine months to go through the whole thing. After that, I just have tried to stay healthy and be aware of my body and keeping up on getting to know myself. Even if you know yourself really, really well, it can still get you. But at least if you are aware, and you are not shy about things, you need to know that it’s a killer and you need to know about those things.”

That must be frightening. How did your family deal with it and how were you able to deal with it personally? (The African Queen)

“I think there is a lot of self-defense things that come into play. I was more concerned about how my kids would react? How Stan would be? How my mother, God Bless, would handle this. So, I was more in the mode of: ‘How am I going to tell this one? How am I going to tell that one? How will I make it not so horrible for them?’ I already knew what I was going to do. I had already seen my doctor and knew what procedure I needed. And it was in my head that I was not dying. I was going to take care of this. I think getting out of the ‘Why Me’ thing helped. I thought on the lines of how am I going to manage this with my family and my kids and my mom. My dad died of cancer at 50. I was 48 (when diagnosed with breast cancer). It was just too close.”

“I had great support. My mom came in. My sisters came in. My cousins--everybody took a week off to come and help with the kids, drive carpool, take care of the household. Stan was tremendous. He immediately started doing research and finding the best doctors, getting opinions. Really, the first couple of days after I found out, I just cried for days. It was just horrible. But he (Stan) did all the groundwork. He got the doctors. He got the names and he really swung into gear and really had my back the whole time. He was extremely supporting.”

“I was concerned about how he was feeling? And because Stan was so busy, he seemed OK to me. He seemed like he was OK. But he really wasn’t. He really needed a lot of support. I didn’t know that until after things calmed down. People told me he (Mr. Kasten) wasn’t OK. But he had great humor--that helps. My sister, my mom came before my surgery. We just laughed and had a good old time.”

“Then, three weeks later, my sister was diagnosed with cancer, with breast cancer. That again was tough—poor mom. That was really traumatic, even more traumatic I think because then you get into the whole genetic part of the equation. As it turned out, it wasn’t.”

Is she OK? (The African Queen)

“She is fine today. She’s a survivor too—so far. So far, we are here and that’s the best we can hope for.”

Would you say the key to surviving is early detection? (The African Queen)

“Yes, and don’t be shy. Don’t be scared. Don’t be shy. It more scarier waiting and finding out later--than going in and they tell you to come back in six months—we don’t think it is anything. You have got to know your body. You have got to listen to your intuition and if you feel there is something not right—pick up the phone and make an appointment. Don’t wait six months to see what’s going to happen because those couple of months can kill you.”

Clearly, people do survive? (The African Queen)

“Yes, if you find it early you survive. It depends upon the type and the strain of the tumor and all that—but yeah I hope to die a really old lady some day!! Maybe riding my bike hit by a car!! (Laughing)

You mentioned a point earlier on that is really important about why we are here today. People without the means may not have the resources to find out if they have breast cancer. What do these people need to do to get help? (SBF)

“Yes, absolutely correct. Here in DC, there is The Capital Breast Care Center. It is a tremendous organization. They even have a van, I understand, that will go and pick people up and bring them to their office for appointments. They have a whole network of breast care health people. And people need to know they are there. That’s the hardest thing. People don’t know they are there to go for the health screening.”

“Additionally, we are putting a whole lot of money into research, medicines and awareness. But we really need to save the woman who don’t have the resources.”

The scariest part is for those women who don’t have health insurance and doctors? They don’t have the means to even be diagnosed. (The African Queen)

“It's really like 60 years ago when people didn’t know until it was too late and there is no reason for that anymore. There is no excuse for that. People still have to know when to go in and a lot of people don’t like to talk about their breasts. They are embarrassed. It’s going to bring their family down. And yeah, it’s going to bring your family down, but if you die it’s a lot worse. In America, people don’t like to talk about breasts and that’s the truth. It’s really a lot of the hang up.”

You will always be called a survivor. Do you feel you have beaten breast cancer? (SBF)

“I am not confident. (Really? SBF). No. I am a seven-year survivor. I am confident that I am healthy. But it just takes a little microbe of nothing to attach itself somewhere. The chemo tries to kill all that. I hope it did along with the radiation. It doesn’t mean that you will not get sick from something else or get some other type of cancer. I have had skin cancer type of things. There is stuff that can get you, but if there is one thing you can watch for—this (breast cancer) is one of the things. You have to be pro-active. You really have to be pro-active."

With that final answer--Our Conversation With Helen Kasten concluded. The Avon Walk For Breast Cancer is a good cause. If you would like to participate or support the effort in any way, please click on the links above or contact Our Washington Nationals for more information. And remember, it is still true--sometimes the efforts off the field are more important than the wins and losses of baseball.

In this case, lives may depend on it.

All Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Julian Tavarez

Our Washington Nationals have signed "Ancient" Pitcher Julian Tavarez to a Minor League Contract with an invitation to Spring Training. The 35 Year Old right handed reliever, who seems to have been around FOREVER, is just one more arm to throw out there to see if he has anything left in the tank. Assistant GM Mike Rizzo told the media this evening he doesn't want those currently looking for a bullpen roster spot in Washington's Relief Corp to be comfortable with their current efforts. No one is guaranteed a spot. I actually like that comment alot. And although Tavarez never really developed into the top talent many expected 14 years ago, he has had a decent, if unspectacular career, with some interesting and emotional moments.

None more memorable to me than one that I have carried in my mind since the very day it happened--for the life of me I can't find a picture of the moment--but it did occur.

In 1995, Tavarez was a hot rookie pitcher for The Cleveland Indians. The very year The Indians won The American League Pennant and played The Atlanta Braves in The World Series. Pitching in a tight 1-0 game in Game 6, Tavarez was taken out after relieving in the 8th inning, but not completing the frame. Julian continued to watch the remainder of this tight World Series affair from the bench at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium. Eventually, The Braves would go on to win Game 6, by that same 1-0 score and claim the World Series Title that same night--4 Games to 2. As The Atlanta Braves celebrated their Championship on the field, and their fans were whooping it up in the stands, Tavarez was shown on television crying on the bench--uncontrollably.

I have never forgotten it.

Julian was downright sobbing, upset and devastated that his Cleveland Indians had come so close, yet had lost The World Championship. If you did see this scene, you would never forget it too.

It is still one of my favorite and most memorable moments watching sports as an adult. Tavarez was young then, just 22 Years Old, Hard Throwing and Impressionable, but he really cared about the game. Julian Tavarez wanted to win, and I have always appreciated his emotion shown that late October night in 1995.

It's why we play the games.

Emotion, when controlled, can be an asset in many walks of life. And having no idea if Julian Tavarez is still able to be an effective reliever--I would like to see if he can light a fire under the feet of his new bullpen competitors in Washington and make us better.

Here is the complete press release from the team:

WASHINGTON NATIONALS AGREE TO TERMS WITH RIGHT-HANDED RELIEVER JULIAN TAVAREZ

The Washington Nationals today agreed to terms with right-handed relief pitcher Julian Tavarez on a non-guaranteed minor-league contract and Spring Training invitation. Nationals Assistant General Manager and Vice President of Baseball Operations Mike Rizzo made the announcement.

Tavarez, 35, is 85-75 with 22 saves and a 4.45 ERA (677 ER/1369.1 IP) in 786 games (108 starts) spanning 16 seasons with Cleveland, San Francisco, Colorado, Chicago (NL), Florida, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Boston, Milwaukee and Atlanta.

A veteran of five post-seasons, including two World Series (2004 with St. Louis, 1995 with Cleveland), Tavarez’s 150 career holds rank fourth among active players behind only Arthur Rhodes (193), Alan Embree (187) and Bob Howry (165). Tavarez’s 678 relief appearances rank ninth among active pitchers. He is also a four-time (1995, ‘00-02) double-digit winner at the big league level.

Last season, Tavarez combined to go 1-5 with six holds and a 5.10 ERA in 52 appearances for Boston, Milwaukee and Atlanta. He recently worked 1.1 scoreless innings for the Dominican Republic in the 2009 World Baseball Classic.

Chad Cordero--A Seattle Mariner

The phone call came late this evening to our house.

Chad Cordero had signed with The Seattle Mariners.

"The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" no longer a Washington National. Our hearts sort of sunk. Yeah, we had been expecting this news for some time, but once the reality hit--it still was difficult to take. The African Queen loves "The Chief" and Chad Cordero had been very kind to us.

The negotiations had come down to three serious offers. The Mariners, The Texas Rangers and The Los Angeles Dodgers were all in the running. The rumored Minnesota Twins were never in serious pursuit--neither were Our Washington Nationals. The New York Mets, Milwaukee Brewers, Los Angeles Angels and Arizona Diamondbacks never made solid offers. As it turns out, Number 32 took the lesser of the three final offers--a non guaranteed $750,000 plus incentives, an invitation to Major League Camp and the opportunity to pitch in The Majors this season. Chad Cordero in line now to become The Closer for the rebuilding Mariners. No other team offered such a role. The Dodgers had offered more money over two days ago. The Rangers a little less, although neither guaranteeing any Major League Position--only a promise they would consider Cordero in their bullpen sometime in the future.

Chad Cordero wanting to play in the Major Leagues this year, in a closer role, on a one-year deal. Cordero to report to camp in Peoria, Arizona Friday.

Deep down, The African Queen and I really wanted to see Chad return to Our Washington Nationals. Washington needs some bullpen help right now. But we understand the business aspect of the game and we wish him well. Best thing about this deal--Sohna's cousins live in Seattle. We will be heading out to Washington State sometime this year to watch "The Most Thrilling Closer In The Game" pitch again for his new Home Team.

Chad Cordero believes he can be pitching in a Major League Game by May. How different might this outcome have been if Our Former General Manager had not verbally non-tendered Chad on the radio last summer?

Pleasant Surprise In The 2009 Season Ticket Package

The 2009 Season Ticket Holder Ticket Package was delivered to our house this morning. Similar in design to last season, the perforated ticket books were sent inside a blue with red trim cardboard display box with Washington Nationals Logo. Included with the tickets is a welcome/thank you letter from Team President Stan Kasten and an advertising flyer explaining how to sell your excess tickets on StubHub!



Each individual game ticket for 2009 features a different scene from Nationals Park. Some are game action shots, others show The Presidents Race, In-Game Entertainment and many fans and kids who attended the events on South Capitol Street in 2008. The look on The African Queen's face when she noticed she is prominently featured--was Priceless. On September 25th, when Our Washington Nationals take on The Atlanta Braves--The African Queen (AKA--Agent 99) and Jason Bergmann are posed together on the Season Ticket for that particular game.

To say Sohna was thrilled is an understatement. We are quite appreciative that Our Washington Nationals featured her on one of the 82 Game Tickets specially produced for Season Ticket Holders this season. It's a nice gesture, especially since she attended every single home game during The Inaugural Season of New Nationals Park.
The Larger Opening Day Ticket is laminated and depicts Ryan Zimmerman being mobbed by his teammates after hitting his game winning home run against The Atlanta Braves on Opening Night at Nationals Park in 2008.

The Letter from Mr. Kasten (click on the picture to enlarge & read) mentions the EXXON Strike Zone will now feature Life-Size Bobbleheads of Our Racing Presidents. The Red Porch Expansion is taking place, the unveiling of the Walter Johnson, Josh Gibson and Frank Howard statues is coming soon and that Levy Restaurants was brought on board in 2009, replacing Centerplate, to provide not only regular ballpark fare, but also more upscale items.

The arrival of the 2009 Season Ticket Package contained a very pleasant surprise indeed. We would imagine the other lucky fans featured would also feel the same way.

Totally An Insurance Claim

Nothing to get excited about, but Our Washington Nationals signed veteran right handed pitcher Kip Wells to a non-guaranteed minor league deal today. A journeyman by every stretch of the imagination--Wells has 10 Years of Major League Service under his belt. I recall Wells having a blood clot in his throwing arm in 2006 and having surgery to fix the issue. Then, a flare-up last year. A low-risk signing that is really an insurance claim in case someone else goes down injured on Our Pitching Staff. Kip does score points though, from not having ever been in The Cincinnati Organization--or even The Diamondbacks.

Nothing to loose here--only a gain. A typical move that many teams take just to see if someone has anything left in the tank. You never know and if he surprises--so be it. If not, Kip Wells doesn't cost you anything.

Kip Wells is also a very good example of a former 1st Round Pick (16th Overall) taken in the 1998 Entry Draft that never really panned out--thinking back to yesterday's post about Ross Detwiler. So, not fully blossoming does happen, more times than many may believe.

Here is the complete press release from the team:

NATIONALS AGREE TO TERMS WITH RHP KIP WELLS

The Washington Nationals today agreed to terms on a non-guaranteed minor-league contract with right-handed pitcher Kip Wells. Nationals Vice President of Baseball Operations and Assistant General Manager Mike Rizzo made this announcement.

The 31-year-old Wells is 65-94 with a 4.67 ERA in 256 games (205 starts) spanning 10 big league seasons with Chicago-AL (1999-2001), Pittsburgh (2002-06), Texas (2006), St. Louis (2007), Colorado (2008) and Kansas City (2008). Wells won a career-high 12 games with Pittsburgh in 2002. He pitched in 25 games last season with Colorado and Kansas City.

Free GameDay Audio Kicks In

Every Season Ticket Holder for Our Washington Nationals was promised free MLB GameDay Audio for the entire 2009 Season if they renewed their package and paid at least one payment online at nationals.com. That incentive kicked in on Monday as The African Queen and I received the link to activate our account. With the WFED 1500AM signal not the best in our house and the very likelihood of no FM Signal for 2009--The MLB GameDay Audio is the perfect solution to our situation.

Routing the sound system in our home through an Airport Wireless Router and Speaker System--we can know be virtually anywhere in our house and hear Charlie Slowes & Dave Jageler broadcasting the baseball games of Our Washington Nationals. Also, we now have access to the home and away broadcasters of every single scheduled game this season, approximately 100 Pre-Season Games and all archival files to go back and listen in again.

MLB GameDay Audio normally costs $14.95 for the year. Not costly by any means, but it's very nice to have a clean signal of all broadcasts again in our home--for free.

Not A Good Sign

Ross Detwiler was Our Washington Nationals 1st Round Pick in 2007, 6th Overall in that year's Entry Draft. Coming out of college at Missouri State University--you had to figure Detwiler was more refined--better prepared for The Big Leagues--than many of the other seniors, underclassmen or even high schoolers available at that point in time.

Yet, Ross has done nothing but struggle in his professional career. And today, he paid for a poor 2009 spring showing by being optioned to AA Harrisburg in the first cuts made by Our Washington Nationals. I don't think ANYONE expected Ross Detwiler to make The 25 Man Roster for Opening Day, 2009. But the very fact that Washington moved him away from the Major League Camp on the very first day possible this Spring Training--means Ross Detwiler has a long way to go.

Speaking about Ross--Interim GM Mike Rizzo was quoted by Barry Svrluga: "I'd like to see him take the same step he took from last spring training to this spring training. ... The stuff is there, and it's going to be there. We knew when we drafted him, he wasn't a finished product. He was a stuff guy, and we had to refine his delivery."

Which begs the question for me--if Ross Detwiler's Collegian Delivery was so off--why was he so successful at that point in time? Yet now, with Baseball Development adjusting his mechanics--Detwiler seems completely out of sync? In fact, lost.

When The African Queen and I watched Our Number 48 pitch in Exhibition Play in Viera last week, Ross appeared to be just heaving the baseball to the plate, throwing, not pitching. And to make matters worse, his confidence seems amiss. After following through on each pitch thrown--Detwiler appeared fearful--hopeful the batter will not hit his pitch. That's not the look of a former Number 1 Draft Pick.

Not everybody makes it coming out of college. Bobby Brownlie was a Number 1 Pick in 2002, but shoulder injuries have sidetracked this current Washington Nationals Farmhand for quite a few years. Brownlie might never make it to The Big Leagues. Chad Cordero was drafted by The Montreal Expos in the 1st Round of The 2003 Draft--because he was signable for Baseball's Orphan Franchise and for the same reason as Detwiler--more Major League ready coming out of Cal-State Fullerton. Cordero made it big--until a torn labrum sidetracked his career.

Detwiler has had no such injuries. But he hasn't developed as quickly as expected either. Ross Detwiler is still young of age at 23, a lefthander, with the potential of playing a long time in this game. Yet it just seems that his confidence is shot. And before Our Washington Nationals make any more changes in his delivery--maybe they should find a way to rebuild his heart. Because no matter how good your stuff really is--if you don't trust throwing it for strikes, you not going to have the tenacity to get people out consistently anyway.

So, I would really like to know--was Ross Detwiler's delivery really that bad when he first became a Washington National? Ryan Wagner always says that he was never the same coming out of The University of Houston as The Number One Pick for The Cincinnati Reds--after The Reds Baseball Development Staff insisted he change his delivery. Eventually, Wagner got hurt too in Washington. And only now--after surgery, rehab and a second spring training throwing within his own comfort zone delivery of his youth--does he have his mettle back--confidence in throwing all his pitches.

Should Ross Detwiler go back to his comfort zone and work within his own parameters as well-not what some others may believe he should do? Alot of scouts saw something very good in him back then--what's missing now? They are interesting questions--especially after Our Top Draft Pick in The 2007 Entry Draft is optioned on the very first day of Spring Training Camp Cuts. Ross Detwiler is too young to give up on, but today's roster move was not a good sign for a highly touted prospect.

PS--and yes Chris Marrero was re-assigned too, but Marrero needs to find a position, is coming off a broken ankle and needs more At-Bats to develop his stroke. Still just 20 Years Old, Marrero came to Major League Camp in shape and showed some maturity. He did not look overmatched and played with some confidence.

Here is the complete list of players reassigned or optioned to Minor League Camp today:

NATIONALS TRIM SPRING ROSTER TO 58

The Washington Nationals today re-assigned left-handed pitcher Justin Jones, right-handed pitchers Bobby Brownlie, Preston Larrison and J.D. Martin, catcher Javier Herrera, infielders Chris Marrero and Matt Whitney, and outfielder Destin Hood to minor league camp. The Nationals also optioned left-handed pitcher Mike O’Connor to Triple-A Syracuse and left-handed pitcher Ross Detwiler to Double-A Harrisburg. Nationals Vice President of Baseball Operations and Assistant General Manager Mike Rizzo made this announcement.

After today’s moves, the Nationals’ spring roster stands at 58.

All Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

Dave Florida

When I first read Barry Svrluga's post tonight on Nationals Journal--I thought it was a mistake. An error written while hurrying to give fans an update, while still paying attention to the game at hand. Our Washington Nationals were playing The Houston Astros at Space Coast Stadium. Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler were broadcasting tonight's affair on WFED--1500AM, 820 AM & 1050AM. While listening to them, watching The Netherlands play Puerto Rico in a World Baseball Classic Game on The MLB Network (with the sound down--of course) and browsing the internet for the latest Nats News--Barry posts up the following on NJ: Anyone who's seriously interested in this game is likely listening to the dulcet tones of Charlie Slowes and Dave Florida on WFED-1500 AM, but in case NJ is your only outlet, here you go with an early update.

Dave Florida? In the over three years that Svrluga covered Our Washington Nationals, that name had never crossed my way. Honestly, I don't ever recall that nickname for Dave Jageler. So, I really thought Barry had just made an honest mistake. Until, in the very next inning after his blog goes up--Charlie Slowes is on WFED commenting about Barry writing online about Dave's "Alter Ego".

Dave Jageler immediately replies: "Dave Florida--of course."

Obviously, there is some history with that name. And I got to find out how Dave Jageler came to be known as Dave Florida by Barry Svrluga. You can bet, I will be chatting with them about that moniker. It's a good one, and a moment which made the night listening to Spring Training Baseball on the radio again--all the more enjoyable--with Charlie & Dave at the microphones.

Later, The Boys of Summer would go after Barry on his penchant for eating most all lunches at Panera Bread in Viera while on assignment. Which immediately got Svrluga to write in an update that Dave was wearing a "NIFTY STRIPED SHIRT, Slowes a blue golf shirt..."

This threesome was digging at each other--poking fun--and letting their fans in on all the laughter.

When those covering the team, get along, know each other and still have fun at the same time while working--it makes watching and listening to games for Our Washington Nationals "In Viera--Even Better". Having Barry Svrluga back (with Chico Harlan off for one week) recalls some fond memories of Barry always giving his reports--at all hours on Nationals Journal--on DC Baseball from 2005 through the Mid-2008 Season. He was a tireless worker--well appreciated and respected.

It's nice to have him back--if only for a short return engagement.

PS--Of course Charlie & Dave were in Mid-Season Form. With Dave lamenting how in each of the three seasons he has headed down to Viera for Washington Nationals Spring Training--every single Space Shuttle Launch scheduled during his time on the ground in Central Florida has been scrubbed. That has happened again this week, as the latest delay to March 12th--will not allow for Dave Jageler to see this week's evening launch. Charlie immediately goes into this story about how great those night time launches can be. Recalling a trip with his family on a cruise out of Port Canaveral a few years back. Knowing the shuttle would be launched, the Cruise Ship moved out to sea and anchored--allowing all on board to watch from a very special location on deck. While heading from his cabin with his family, some stranger, a lady with the gift of gab--held them up--chatting at the elevator. When they were finally set free, Charlie opens the door leading to the outer deck, only to see The Space Shuttle already in the sky and heading downstream.

Looking to apologize to his oldest son for missing the take off--his son beats Charlie to the punch with: "Yeah, I know Dad, if it wasn't for that old lady in the elevator we would have seen it all!!" Very funny. Charlie & Dave cracking up on the radio.

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DC Avon Walk For Breast Cancer Expo--This Weekend At Nationals Park

In a continuing trend to help out those in need in the local community, Our Washington Nationals announced this afternoon a partnership with The DC Chapter of The Avon Walk For Breast Cancer. As a prelude to the DC Area event scheduled for the weekend of May 2 & 3rd--Nationals Park will host The Avon Walk Expo this Saturday--March 14th. Fundraising, walk preparation skills and health awareness will be on tap for this Major Yearly Event now involving Our Washington Nationals for the first time.

Team President Stan Kasten's wife, Helen, is a breast cancer survivor and will be The Guest Of Honor at The Avon Walk Expo at Nationals Park on March 14th.

Here is the complete press release from the team.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP WITH THE DC AVON WALK FOR BREAST CANCER

The Nationals Will Host The Avon Walk Expo on Saturday, March 14

The Washington Nationals today announced they have partnered with the 2009 Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Washington, DC. As the Official Sports Team of the two-day trek (May 2 and 3), the Nationals will host the Avon Walk DC Expo at Nationals Park in March, provide a ticket fundraising opportunity for all participants and recognize walkers during a pre-game ceremony at the home game on Monday, May 4 vs. the Houston Astros. The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, DC, one of nine Avon Walks this year, has since 2003 raised nearly $50 million for organizations and institutions conducting breast cancer research and providing treatment and care in the DC metro area and nationwide.

The Avon Walk Expo, which brings together registered and interested walkers and participants, will take place at Nationals Park on Saturday, March 14 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Registered walkers will learn what it takes to complete the 26 to 39 mile journey, meet other walkers and past participants, attend a fundraising clinic to learn the best way to reach their goal and gather information about preparation and what they’ll need on the day of the walk to succeed. Helen Kasten, wife of Nationals Team President Stan Kasten, will be the Guest of Honor at the Expo. Helen is a breast cancer survivor and is active in the community raising both funds and awareness for the cause.

“The Nationals are thrilled to partner with the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Washington, DC,” said Chartese Burnett, Nationals Vice President of Communications and Community Relations. “We are committed to improving the lives of the residents of the D.C. Metropolitan Area through programs and partnerships such as this one. We are hopeful that our support of the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, will help to raise awareness for the disease – and ultimately lead to a cure.”

All Washington, DC walkers will have the opportunity to sell Nationals tickets to help them reach their fundraising goal, which is a minimum of $1,800 per walker. The Nationals will offer discounted tickets to participants for three games, May 4 vs. the Houston Astros, May 20 vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates and June 19 vs. the Toronto Blue Jays. Walkers may purchase the tickets at this discounted rate and sell them for face value, or more, to their supporters, with the difference in the cost of the ticket going towards their fundraising goal. Additional information on the fundraising opportunity may be found at avonwalk.org. Funds raised by the Avon Walk support five areas of the breast cancer cause, including: awareness and education; screening and diagnosis; access to treatment; support services; and, scientific research, with a focus on support for the medically underserved.

Shawn Hill--A Definitive Interview

As The African Queen and I were driving home from Viera, Florida this past Thursday, Nats320 Cub Reporter Tom called from Lakeland. On hand to watch Our Washington Nationals take on The Detroit Tigers in Grapefruit League action, Tom was concerned that Shawn Hill did not make his scheduled start that day. A worry anytime Our Number 41 does not pitch. A red flag rising again that became more bothersome when it was reported that Hill was experiencing more right forearm discomfort in his throwing arm. Another potential setback to his often injured young career.

Talented by any baseball experts stretch of their imagination, but having never been able to pitch 100% healthy in any of his past Major League Seasons--Shawn Hill has yet to reach his potential. Everyone in baseball seems to agree that Hill could make himself a top of the rotation starter, for not only Our Washington Nationals, but many teams in The Major Leagues. He has all the tools, including a terrific sinker. Yet Hill has just never been able to put it all together for one full season. Eventually, Hill was diagnosed on Friday by Dr. James Andrews with inflammation in his right forearm--rest and drugs now prescribed to get him back on track--again. A pitching recovery schedule now in place to find out whether Shawn Hill will make The Starting Rotation in 2009 for Washington.

Since the early days of Our Washington Nationals, Shawn Hill has always been a big favorite of mine. At times, he has been lights out on the mound. He's also been very gracious with his personal time--chatting with The African Queen and I, during each of the three Spring Trainings we have attended in Florida, after rehab starts in Woodbridge, Virginia for The Potomac Nationals, and even after one game at RFK Stadium in 2006.

Getting to know Shawn Hill just a little bit--we've come to understand what he's like. What Shawn Hill is going through year after year. And his gritted determination not to give up--knowing he possesses Major League Pitching Talent. Always fun to chat with--Shawn Hill gave Sohna and I a good 20 minutes of his time after practice in Viera, Florida during our recently completed two week trip there. A few short days before his latest injury flare up.

Shawn Hill is honest, to the point and understands not only the pain he is going through to rehab back to The Major Leagues, but also those frustrations of Our Fans as well everyone else directly worried about his baseball career. Hopefully, this Definitive Interview With Shawn Hill will give you a good reason never to give up on him--because Shawn Hill hasn't given up on himself.

With that here we go with Shawn Hill--A Definitive Interview

So we are doing our annual rite of spring—talking to you. (SBF)

(Everyone laughing) “OK. Let’s go at it.”

You are happy and reportedly healthy in many respects? (SBF)

“Much more so than I was last year. Last year, I wasn’t in pain coming into camp, but I didn’t feel good before camp even started. Then, the more I threw, and early on we throw all the time when it takes more of a toil on some of the guys, and it just wore on me. This year, I've got a little tightness (in his right forearm), but nothing more. It’s just taken me a little more time to get loose. And once I get it loose—and I was tight this morning—I get a lot of heat, a lot of stretching, and by the time I take my first couple of throws it’s tight. By the time I am at 90 feet and I get on the mound---if feels better than at ANY POINT in time last year. So, if it’s one of those things where I need a little more time to loosen up—so be it.”

“I feel better. I am able to throw different pitches and not have to worry about whether it’s going to hurt—different stuff like that.”

No pain? (The African Queen)

“No. No, no pain—its just discomfort in the mornings when I am waking up—stuff like that. But as soon as I loosen up, and I take my time just going through more of a (preparation) routine than I used to have to do. If I do that, I am fine.”

But you are otherwise healthy? (The African Queen)

“Yes. Everything else is great. It’s just a matter of trying to get things straightened out. I feel like the rest of my body is 20 to 25 years old. The arm feels like it’s 50 (laughing). But then I put a little heat on it and once I get it going then it feels like it’s 25 again. (More chuckles from all three of us). It’s just a matter of being deliberate and going through a proper warm up routine—which I never had to do in the past. And if that’s all I have to do to adjust, to be healthy, that's a minor issue.”

Last year, I know we talked about how you were fearful that you would pitch and wake up the very next morning with your right forearm just killing you in pain. You don’t feel that way now? (SBF)

“I am not worried about that. I am trying to be very aware of how I feel just because of the history. I need to be on top of things. And if I am sore tomorrow—we have to figure out why and what we can do to try to get rid of it as quickly as possible. But, I felt good today. I felt like I threw pretty well. I am sure it will be tight tomorrow since I threw, but as long as it’s just normal throwing that everyone gets from throwing—that’s fine. Last year, it was more like I would throw: ‘Please, don’t kill me tomorrow.’ Today, I am of the mindset—‘OK, hopefully it feels good tomorrow.’”

You have command of all your pitches? (SBF)

“Sort of—75 to 80 to 90 percent—somewhere in there. My curveball’s got a little ways to go. It’s always the last thing to come for me each spring. My fastball and changeup are not in mid-season form, but for this time of year I am more than OK with those pitches. My curveball is there, I just need to get it to the release point.”

Many times, when pitchers deal with constant injury or pain—they many times change their delivery. Are you doing the same in any respect? (SBF)

“I am sure I have to a point but my delivery is so simple in the first place—it’s not all kind of wacky where I wouldn’t be able to do certain things. My delivery is just straightforward. I think I have been able to keep it relatively straightforward and the catchers are telling me the pitches are coming out the same—everything looks good. The coaches are telling me everything looks in order and that I look the same as I did before—last year, two years ago, even three and four years ago. So, I don’t think I have changed anything. If it is, it is probably so minute you can’t really tell without going to a slow-motion replay.”

I notice while working with Randy St.Claire today—he was trying to get you to plant your forward foot down in a certain place? (SBF)

“Yes, you are paying attention. That was on my curveball. It’s there (his command) but it’s not there. As soon as he pointed out to me what I was doing—I was quickly able to make the adjustment. Now, it’s just a matter of repeating it and being consistent. For whatever reason, I was getting a little farther (in his stride) and I was going across my body (throwing), just a hair. So, I was coming around (swooping his arm). I shortened my stride to get everything back in place to get my top half (of the delivery) back over the top and throw through. Those little things like that are why it’s great to have him (St.Claire) around. He knows me so well at this point. We have been together for so long at this point. He can see that stuff and say: ‘Hold on, get back to where you need to be.’”

“I like him doing that with me. Some guys take offense with him over those little things. It’s almost as if you have your wife on you again (everyone chuckling). You know what I mean (looking at Sohna). We are allowed to say that. I am married too. (Good round of laughter).

That’s OK!! (The African Queen)

“But to have someone on you all the time to have you focus on the little things. It just helps having him being able to be there for me. Like when I am throwing (Bull)pens in early February—we have a coach down here (in Viera), but he is also catching some of our bullpens. So he can’t focus on all our mechanics all the time. Saint can exclusively look at what I am doing. He knows me. He is able to pick me apart. It’s just that much more beneficial. You can accelerate the process to get your things fine tuned.”

This may be a tougher question. How do you think management looks at you these days? (SBF)

“Me?”

Yeah. (SBF)

“Probably the same way everyone else looks at me. When he is healthy he is fine, in fact good and an asset to the club. When he is not healthy, obviously, he is useless (chuckling—but honest). I think everyone is going to say that.”

But do they have confidence that you can make it? (SBF)

“I would hope so.”

Can you make it? (The African Queen)

“I definitely can. It’s just a matter of a black cloud hanging over my head. The only way I am going to get rid of it so that you two, my teammates, the coaches, management, my family—My Self Even--can kind of say: ‘forget about all that crap.’ Is if I go out there, even if its 20 to 25 games this year—as a stepping block and get shut down at any mark. But ultimately going out there and throwing 30 starts and 200 innings is the only way I get rid of that black cloud--for now.”

“I know it, everybody else knows it. Let me put it this way—I don’t think they (Management) would have brought me back, they could have non-tendered me, and I was going to arbitration. I don’t think they would have brought me back if they didn’t have hope to feel somewhat optimistic that I could get to where they expect me to be and want me to be. Otherwise, they would have cut the ties and said: ‘you know what, we just don’t see it happening.’ That gives me the belief that they are somewhat optimistic and hoping for the best.”

And you are confident you can do it? (SBF)

“Yeah. Right now, and I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself. Today, I felt really good throwing. In between, I try to stay even keel: ‘I am good. I am past the hump. I am healthy and good to go.’ I can’t come out right now and say I am healthy in the sense of—stop asking me that ever again. I don’t know, you don’t know and until I step out there on the mound and do it—day after day after day—then I am going to have to answer these questions. But right now, I feel like I am at least on the right track to do so.”

I remember there was a practice here last year where you were throwing live batting practice and no one could touch you that one day. Everyone was raving. Then, almost the very next day—the complications began anew. (SBF)

“Yeah, if was just two days later. I felt great pitching, doing it that day. And I remember I had some tightness. Coming into camp, I was sore with some tightness. But that was different than what I have this year. It’s a completely different sensation than anything else I am dealing with from last year. In a way that has been good because I have gone through so many different things. I can kind of tell and know whether ‘this’ or ‘that’ is something I need to worry about. And whether ‘this’ is something I need to take care of. Last year it was something I needed to worry about and I tried to push through it. It's really now just a matter of seeing how it plays out. I just have to do it as much as I can to help it along—whatever that may be.”

Some when faced with frustration or disappointment can turn that opportunity around to something good. What have you learned from all this? (SBF)

“The only thing that I can take from this, and it has been frustrating to no end. I read different things—people want to get rid of me. I hear I am useless—all that kind of stuff. I can’t really blame them, because if I was on the other side watching a team stick with a guy this long—regardless of what his talent was—you can get frustrated. But as much as people my believe THEY are frustrated—I HAVE BEEN WAY MORE FRUSTRATED. One—not being able to do what I enjoy. Two—not being able to do what I am capable of doing to prove it.”

“The biggest thing is that having not been 100% healthy for quite some time—the first half of ’07 I felt good. Second half—I felt OK—but I tore my shoulder (on that infamous head first slide back into 3rd base at Dolphin Stadium). I was compensating. It wasn’t terrible. I fell off a little at the end—no excuses. But I still wasn’t 100%. The thing that I have learned out of all this is that I am still able to pitch, even last year while taking two painkillers, two percocets for nine starts. But I was still able to hang there and I did not feel good.”

So, I learned how to deal with certain things. I learned how get by with less than when I am 100%. Now, I kind of look forward to getting to 100%. What can I do then? My off days now, when I felt (terrible) like I did before—I now know how to manage those days. It’s all more beneficial to me. The easier days become fun. The difficult days become manageable. I know how to do that now. So, learning how to pitch through the pain and discomfort and being able to handle it has been important.”

If everything goes well—you expect to make the Opening Day Roster? (SBF)

“If I am healthy, I expect it. It’s certainly not my call by any means (No—SBF). Again, that’s why I think they brought me back. If they didn’t expect me to be healthy—they would have non-tendered me. Then, they would have tried to sign me to an minor league deal. There are different options, but the fact they brought me back tells me that when healthy I have my spot. Now, I have to go out there and earn it still. Then, I have to keep it and prove to them that I can stay healthy. And that’s the thing I go off of. They brought me back for a reason—to pitch.”

I would love to be standing here with you next year and say you are a 15 game winner in The Big Leagues. (SBF)

(Laughing) I would love that too!! I wouldn’t mind 20, but I am not going to be greedy. We will start at 10, get to 15 and work our way from there (Shawn really enjoying the moment).”

How's the atmosphere in this camp, there has been a couple of distractions (Smiley, JimBo)? (The African Queen)

“It’s actually been really good—especially for losing 102 games (in 2008). We got some new faces, which helps. It’s a slightly smaller camp—just a little bit smaller—which makes it nice. You get to know the new guys a little bit quicker. Our Spring Training Staff is brand new and I love Kazu (Tomooka--former Strength & Conditioning Coach). I absolutely loved working with him. But it just wasn’t the right mix for this team. For different reasons, he wasn’t able to get the most out of us and keep everyone healthy. We have new PT (Personal Trainers). They have been helping guys—just attacking things differently. And I think there is more of an optimist’s outlook. We had a lot of injuries last year. If I am healthy, I can help the pitching staff. Chad (Cordero) was hurt last year and that hurt the pitching staff. Somebody else got thrown in that could help the staff this year. We know what we are dealing with. We have to just go out there and show it. Nick (Johnson) is healthy. We have Adam Dunn, (Josh) Willingham, (Scott) Olsen is going to be there. We have all these pieces. If they are all healthy, we are a way better team than we were last year. We are better than what we were in ’07. And I said this last year—and I got pie in my face for it—I still don’t see any reason why, if healthy, with our lineup and pitching staff that we don’t at least get to .500.”

“And we are in a tough division. But we have played with those guys when we were hurting a lot. A lot of those games were close games we lost for different reasons. If we had some big bats in there—different story. If we have the clutch pitching—we win those games. I don’t see how we can’t be the 81 to 85-win team—if we are healthy—if not better. I am trying to be realistic. I don’t want to say we are going to win 100 games and all of a sudden win The World Series. Being realistic, I think we can be a .500 team which, long term, is not what you want—but coming off 59 wins I think a lot of people would be pretty happy with that."

“Overall, it’s a much better atmosphere. Manny (Acta) is a key part of that. He is always positive. I think they are taking a little more of a firm stance as to ‘we need to get this done.’ We have the plan in place, but Manny doesn’t want to win four years from now. He wants to win this year. He probably doesn’t expect to win The World Series this year either, but he wants to win. He wants to field a very competitive team and surprise a lot of people and there is no reason not to.”

With that final answer--Our Definitive Interview with Shawn Hill concluded. Never one to beat around the bush--Our Number 41 just tells it like it is. A refreshing outlook from a Major League Baseball Player honest with his assessment of not only himself, but the game he loves to play.

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