The Before And After

First came this comment: "He reminds me of Derek Jeter," Our Former General Manager Jim Bowden said at the time, "except those were Ian Desmond plays, not Derek Jeter plays."

Then came this one: "We put him over his head," said Bob Boone, the Nationals' vice president of player development. "We knew we were putting him over his head, but with what we saw defensively -- especially that spring before -- we said, 'Ah, let's give it a try.' "

Player's response: "I know I can play," Ian Desmond said. "There's no doubt. But over the last few years, my confidence has been up and down."

Upon Mike Rizzo taking charge as first the Interim General Manager of Our Washington Nationals :"...I am not one to rush players through the system. I think he should master a level before he moves. That’s not to say if you master a level, you can’t skip the next level. But, we feel that with where we are at here on The Big League Level, it gives us a little bit more time to really develop our players in the correct time frame.”

And finally this thought from Mark Scialabba--Assistant Director of Player Development: “Ian is a very exciting player. You look at him and you think—Big Leaguer. He is very exciting. He has plus range both ways. He has an outstanding arm and amongst all the managers throughout the leagues and Baseball America--they have rated his arm tops during the past few years--Carolina League, Eastern League. He’s a guy whose bat has taken some time to develop. He’s hit some rough patches. Earlier in his career, we promoted him too quickly and he struggled. For a young kid that was in Big League Camp and people are throwing out names like Derek Jeter—you get a lot of pressure put on you."

The before and after is really quite striking in those comments. Whereas JimBo would rush unproven but talented prospects through our Minor League System to make a splash, the overall effect was usually a negative one for the youngster. Now, under new management, there is a different mindset approach. Harnessing talent is one thing, but building confidence--the mental aspects of the game--is considered more important.

With that in mind--Ian Desmond promoted for the first time to The Big Leagues and to be in uniform for Our Washington Nationals at Nationals Park when The Philadelphia Phillies come to The Nation's Capital this evening. Deemed nearly ready now--five years after those "Derek Jeter" comments by Bowden during Washington's very first Spring Training ever in Viera--distracted and hindered his career. The bar set so high for the then 19-Year Old Teenager, pressure would not allow him to succeed.

Before, Ian Desmond was far from ready. After realizing their mistake in advancing him before his time--Our Washington Nationals left the young man alone and did not give up on him.

And to Ian's great credit he did not give up on himself. He overcame the hype, settled in while improving his batting skills and tweaking his defensive capabilities. Desmond will begin to show this evening whether he's developed far enough to be a Major League Player on a full-time basis in 2010.

The only position player called up from AAA Syracuse to Washington after the conclusion of The Chief's season yesterday. Ross Detwiler, Marco Estrada, Logan Kensing and Zack Segovia brought on board to add pitching depth to a fairly depleted staff. Syracuse Chief's Manager Tim Foli also added to the Major League Coaching Staff to help out over the final few weeks of 2009.

The Z-Man Had Done It Again

Maybe more improbable than his dramatic bottom of the 9th home run off Chien Ming Wang of The New York Yankees in 2006 at RFK Stadium.

More fun than his Fourth Of July Fireworks game winning drive in the bottom of the 9th off Joe Borowski of The Florida Marlins just a few shorts weeks later during that second year of Our Washington Nationals existence.

Not as bone chilling, but certainly as exciting as his GRAND SLAM off Jorge Julio (MY BOY!!) on Mother's Day. The AFTER morning at 1:42AM witnessed by 76 folks at RFK Stadium in 2007.

Certainly more dramatic than his WALK-OFF HOME RUN on Opening Night at Nationals Park.

And for the record--NOW OFFICIALLY--THE GREATEST MOMENT IN NATIONAL PARK'S YOUNG HISTORY--even better than Ronnie Belliard's walk-off home run against The Baltimore Orioles on June 29th, 2008.

Yes, Ryan Zimmerman had done it again in the bottom of the 9th with nobody out and Our Washington Nationals down one run to The Florida Marlins. The very team The Z-Man has tormented over most of his entire young career. Yet, this tremendous moment enriched because it came after so much anguish. With potential victory at hand--twice previously--heart's were ripped out thanks to blown and wasted chances by DC's Team. Elation followed by sorrow that when finally overcome can lead to incredible jubilation. The perfect setup this gorgeous Sunday afternoon on South Capitol Street for Our Franchise Player.

No, it doesn't really get much better than this. The very sight of those who had faithfully waited until the climatic end reveling in the stands. Witnesses to a game winning drive by Zimmy not be forgotten. Simply because the prologue was equally as heart stomping as the ending. The twisting plot to reach the finish mind boggling.

For nearly eight complete innings Our Washington Nationals had been totally controlled by The Florida Marlins. No offense to speak of, just enough pitching to be left behind by a two to nothing score. And not much hope of ending our latest losing streak--a season high eight games. Yet, when many in the announced crowd of 22,325 had walked out of the park, giving up, feeling this Sunday affair was all but over--the two most exciting innings in Our South Capitol Street Ballpark's History played out.

The very reason why The African Queen and I will NEVER LEAVE ANY GAME EARLY.

A two out rally by Washington in the bottom of the 8th started by a simple walk taken by Elijah Dukes now found the bases loaded for Mike Morse. The free swinging pinch hitter that Interim Manager Jim Riggleman sent to the plate. The very right decision as it turned out when Our Number 28 ripped a single up the middle sending Dukes and pinch runner Jorge Padilla home with the game tying runs. Sending Nationals Park into a frenzy, then nearly into disgust, when the attempted toss home to get Jorge by Florida's Cameron Maybin scooted past their catcher, Ronny Paulino, scooted past their pitcher Kiko Calero which then found Morse scooting for second base--advancing into scoring position. Only problem, Wil Nieves running in front of him had not scooted to third. Two men standing on the same base does not a rally make. And just as quickly as Our Washington Nationals had risen to the occasion, tied this game and were positioning themselves for a win, they had just as swiftly ended and scooted themselves right out of the inning. The sight of First Base Coach Marquis Grissom walking backwards into the dugout lecturing Morse on his baseruning blunder giving the impression Grissom wanted to scoot Mike Morse right in his rear end.

An indescribable reaction from the crowd. Disbelief turned to even more sorrow when Mike MacDougal trotted out for the top of the 9th and proceeded to give up two runs--thanks to a Nick Johnson two out single. Gut wrenching because just one play earlier Willie Harris had seemingly saved the day again for Washington--nailing the ever speedy and flashy Emilio Bonifacio at the plate. Our Number 22 rushing in from second base on a grounder by Chris Coghlan and Bonifacio running on contact. With the infield drawn in, Harris snared the hard hit grounder in his glove, then snapped a perfect throw to the plate, handled deftly by Nieves--who was barreled over by Bonificio. Home Plate Umpire Andy Fletcher with the definitive OUT CALL!! And Our Fans in the stands with the definitive Standing Ovation for The Defensive Play Of This Game.

The Ups & Downs that only baseball can provide. Jubilation and distress when you least expect it--many times--at the same time. The very reason why baseball is The Greatest Game.

Now down 4-2 heading to the bottom of the ninth, who would have figured Our Washington Nationals had The Florida Marlins right where they wanted them? Willie Harris starting Rally Time!! by slugging out the very first offering by Florida's Closer--Leo Nunez. A jacked shot into Section 237 of the Scoreboard Walk that re-invigorated the crowd, brought Washington back to within one run. And got everyone back on their feet, and truly stomping when "The Guz" followed that home run by hitting a hard hit grounder on Leo's very next pitch up the middle--to the second base side of the bag. Hustling all the way, Cristian Guzman JUST beat a jump toss thrown by The Marlins' 2nd Baseman Dan Uggla. SAFE!! Safe at first!!

The heart throbbing moments continuing and with now The Z-Man stepping to the plate.

Could Ryan Zimmerman possibly do it again?

Bottom of the 9th, game on the line, on a holiday weekend no less.

Pressure which no other player donning a jersey representing Our Washington Nationals has so consistently excelled.

And he didn't disappoint.

No, it didn't matter that Our Number 11 was hitless in four previous At-Bats this day.

It didn't matter that Zimmy had been beaten all afternoon on changeups and off-speed pitches.

And it didn't matter that Leo Nunez blew a 96 MPH fastball right past him in this crucial At-Bat.

What mattered was that Ryan Zimmerman knew what he wanted to hit.

Exactly what The Florida Marlins had been getting him out on all this very game.

The Change Up which Changed Up this very game for one final time and led to one spectacular finish.

As everyone stood, waiting, clapping, roaring in anticipation, Leo Nunez rared back and tossed in that 88 MPH Change Up.

Expecting it, wanting it, Ryan Zimmerman then downright SLUGGED IT OUT OF THE PARK. Zimmy standing momentarily at Home Plate watching his majestically launched flight. And before that rocket even landed in The Red Porch seats, Our Washington Nationals were jumping out of the dugout. The Florida Marlins were just as quickly jumping off the field. And the faithful known as The Fans of Our Washington Nationals were jumping all over themselves.

NATIONALS PARK ERUPTING IN JOY LIKE NOT SEEN IN SOME TIME!! The roar so loud, the jumping up and down so great--the concrete actually shook below our feet in Club Level. Pandemonium--reminiscent of RFK Stadium--The Good Old Days.

Incredibly, The Z-Man had done it again!! A Walk-Off Two Run Homer in the bottom 9th to BEAT THE MARLINS.

Picture Perfect On A Perfect Late Summer's Day Afternoon.

Sohna and I have not gone home happier all season.

Final Score from Nationals Park where Ryan Zimmerman treated a Labor Day Weekend Crowd to The Finest Moment of 2009: Our Washington Nationals 5 and The Florida Marlins 4. Before the decisive blow, DC's Team had saved this game late twice, then blown this game late twice--making Curly "W" Number 47 as exhilarating a victory of any in the previous five years since Baseball Returned to Washington. And the Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! signaling that The Z-Man is truly one of the finest players in this game. And although Chad Cordero may no longer play for DC's Team, his most famous moniker given him right here on Nats320 now has been given caretaker status into those most trusted hands of Ryan Zimmerman: "The New Most Thrilling Closer In The Game".

Yeah, that was one great finish, because the battle to reach this great ending in Our Washington Nationals History was as excruciating and as exasperating as any rollercoaster ride that has ever played with our minds before.

Game Notes & Highlights


J.D. Martin pitched very admirably this afternoon. Nearly finishing seven complete, the rookie hurler managed a good hitting Florida lineup well. Allowing a solo homer to Nats Killer Hanley Ramirez in the 4th (Hanley's 100th Career Home Run) and one more when Ron Villone relieved him with two outs and proceeded to give up a line drive single to right field scoring Cameron Maybin in that 7th frame. Martin did a fine job and left to a standing ovation from the faithful. J.D. wasn't involved in the final decision but he flashed the moxie of a young pitcher with a better understanding of The Big League Game.

Thanks to Zimmerman's heroics--Mike MacDougal got lucky and received a personal victory instead of a loss. Our Number 54 did not pitch well and was gifted one of those Thank God I am not to totally blame--thank you very much wins--due to Our Number 11.

Florida's Anabel Sanchez pitched much like the rookie that threw a No-Hitter in 2006 before having shoulder surgery. On the repair most of the past three seasons, The Marlins Fire Baller was reaching 94 MPH on his fastball this afternoon and pitched quite a fine game for six innings. Shutout ball while striking out five Washington hitters. He also wasn't involved in the final decision as his bullpen let him down.

There were enough hits this afternoon, but not much offense--at least until the final 1 and 1/2 innings were played. 20 combined base hits by Washington and Florida this day--nine walks granted also. A surprising low scoring affair until the final six outs were recorded.

In the top of the 5th inning, Sanchez roped a liner near the right field line. Elijah Dukes moved speedily to the ball and when it began to drop--Elijah turned over his glove hand--palm up--and made a really nice running one handed catch. The Defensive Play Of This Game, at least until Willie Harris--playing second base late--threw out the ever speedy Emilio Bonifacio on that ground ball hit by Chris Coghlan at the plate in the top of the 9th. A terrific play to retire a dangerous runner moments before Nick Johnson singled in The Marlins two go ahead runs that seemingly put Washington in their final hole.

Speaking of Dukes, he is starting to take more pitches at the plate again. Two more hits, one walk, raising his average to .260 from .237 just a week or so ago. Our Number 34 still is too aggressive at the plate at times, but Elijah is more importantly now laying off the sliders and off-speed stuff thrown well off the plate. Pitches which he has consistently been getting himself out on in the past.




Teddy was back and racing during the 4th Inning Presidents Race this afternoon. His "Day To Day" status due to injury not a bother. But still Our Lovable Loser could not finish first in the race as George and Tom battled head to head to the finish with George taking the honors--by what amounted to--his one very large nose.


Pups In The Park II Day brought 75 more Dogs and their Owners to Nationals Park in Section 201. The special event so popular, there is talk of extending the program for 2010 for at least one home game per month. Again, a dog was named Fan Of The Game, this time accompanied by an owner/parent with a baby. A winning combination in anyone's league.

And finally--"Hey!! How you guys doing!!" exclaimed a smiling Nick Johnson to Sohna and I. Since his trade from Our Washington Nationals to The Florida Marlins on July 31st, The African Queen and I have not had the proper opportunity to thank him for his efforts in a DC Uniform. And we wanted to wish Nicky well in his future. Thankfully, we had that opportunity after today's game--the very last time The Marlins come to Our Nation's Capital in 2009. "We miss you so much," stated The African Queen (and she does). "Thank you for all your support," responded Nick while hugging Sohna. It was a nice moment shared with a baseball player we respect for his demeanor and effort given--both on and off the field of play.

Today's InGame Photos--Haraz N. Ghanbari (AP)
All Other Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

One More Defeat

Victor Garate's first pitch thrown in his Major League Career was a strike. The third pitch he threw was swatted out of Nationals Park for a home run by Brett Hayes leading off the top of the 6th inning. Considering the very person he was traded for from Our Washington Nationals to Los Angeles Dodgers last week--Ronnie Belliard--swatted out a home run in HIS very first at bat at Dodger Stadium for his new team--I guess you can call that trade even--at least for now.

If you were looking for a bright spot this evening on South Capitol Street that paradoxical moment might well have been the highlight. Excited to witness LIVO!! return to the very town The African Queen and I believe still loves him--Ole' Number 61 wearing the home white, red & gold of Our Washington Nationals quickly turned anticipation to disappointment when Livan Hernandez laid one of those eggs, not of the golden kind, he's known to do from time to time. 35 Pitches to finish the bottom of the 1st frame resulting in three runs for The Florida Marlins. And by the time Livan had completed five complete The Big Cuban had thrown 107 pitches--half of which were balls. Many batted all over and one out of Nationals Park for six runs by The Fish--to the great discouragement of the majority of the 18,111 wishing to say to Hernandez: Welcome Home!!

No, this was a Homecoming to forget. On the very night--what was once old was new again--defeat continued to mount--reaching eight in a row by night's end. Even breaking out my vintage Ole' Number 61 Red Nationals Tee in commemoration of good times before, now renewed, was not nearly enough to help. Sadly, Livo having his worst performance since signing with Washington in late August.

Such a big hole down 8-1 after six complete that not even a three run rally in the bottom the 7th served enough impetus to spark a comeback. Not this evening when Our Washington Nationals continued to struggle on the mound and at the plate. Five runs on most nights should be enough to win most ball games. Just like six scores last evening should garner a Curly "W" In The Books as well. But when your team stalls at inopportune times--probability then becomes chance. Risk which is always in doubt.

DC's Team is certainly not a complete team yet and while Our Franchise determines over the remainder of the 2009 schedule who should stay and who should go for 2010--every poorly thrown pitch, every error and every runner in scoring position not plated hurts. The saga of a continuing learning process on how to win. The potential growth of raw ability maturing into Major League Talent.

That is why Victor Garate was summoned to the mound in the 6th for his Big League Debut.

That is why Justin Maxwell pinch hit and played out the final three innings in Centerfield--replacing Willie Harris and eventually singling and scoring Washington's last run.

That is why Elijah Dukes has been given an extended look in right field since being recalled from Triple A Syracuse.

And that is why Pete Orr has gone from afterthought--buried within The Chiefs Minor League Squad in Upper State New York all season--but given showcase moments as August turned to September. Featured, like Alberto Gonzalez these past six weeks to determine whether Our Number 12 is capable or exposed.

This is Our Washington Nationals for better and for worse right now. And outside of Nyjer Morgan, Ryan Zimmerman, Adam Dunn, Josh Willingham and John Lannan--every single other player, whether on the 40-Man Roster or current active 25-Man Roster is auditioning for 2010. Sure, "The Guz" has a guaranteed contract for next year. In fact, so does Willie Harris. But that doesn't mean Cristian Guzman will start at shortstop or Our Number 22 will remain in the mix. Everyone's current job is on the line outside of the five players mentioned previously in this paragraph. And whether someone dons that Curly "W" proudly next year or not--depends tremendously over their work ethic these final four weeks of 2009.

No, tonight's game is not worth talking about much because the attention should turn to the Current Building Blocks For Our Washington Nationals? Who do we know, for sure, is a keeper? Not, whether another Curly "W" In The Books will give Washington a slightly higher winning percentage as Game 162 nears. The signal lights are being flashed informing a reshuffling is presently in motion--not only in the clubhouse--but in The Baseball Operations Office. And the resultant effect should more clearly state the intentions of Our Ball Club--from the Instructional League Level right up to Our Major League Squad.

Under new management and attempting to get on the same page, a new formula for success is being written. The search for a winning tradition for DC, accepted and expected from The New York Yankees, The St. Louis Cardinals, The Los Angeles Dodgers and, of late, The Boston Red Sox and The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Each of those teams follow a specific plan. A consistent pattern and approach to the game which Our Washington Nationals have set out to realize. But as night's like this one prove--building a team is never that easy of a road to follow. The guide map never openly presents the adversity to come. DC's team is presently grading their wins and losses on a curve right now, while striving to find their useful and winning parts.

Final Score from Nationals Park where Welcome Home!! was on The African Queen's and my mind upon seeing Livan Hernandez warm up wearing The Curly "W" again in person: The Florida Marlins 9 and Our Washington Nationals 5. Loss Number 90 in 136 Games a stoic reminder that DC's Team still has some ways to go. Determinations are being made on who moves forward and who is left behind. And the new boss in town named Mike Rizzo is taking full charge of the situation. Under the circumstances, one more defeat really doesn't alter Our Future.

Game Notes & Highlights

Livan Hernandez just couldn't find the plate early tonight. Even Pitching Coach Steve McCatty headed out to talk with Livo 24 pitches into his first inning. Which had me wondering what would Former Pitching Coach Randy St.Claire have told Hernandez in the same situation. St.Claire knew Livan well. McCatty just starting. Not making any judgement, just curious, but whatever McCatty said Ole' Number 61 responded and struck out the next batter faced to end that very long top half of the 1st. Livan Hernandez only going five innings while allowing six runs--all earned. He wasn't sharp and it showed on every hard hit baseball The Fish smacked off of him. Hernandez now standing with a 7-10 personal record for this season, split between The Mets and Nationals.

Garate did make his Major League debut and it was a dubious one. Hayes with his first Major League home run off Victor to greet him to The Big Leagues. And Our New Number 56 giving up one more run when Jorge Cantu drilled a double to left center scoring Cameron Maybin with The Marlin's 8th run of this affair. Nervousness maybe, but Garate should have retired Hayes when he had him down 0-2 in the count.

Speaking of Maybin--in the bottom of the 3rd inning--Cristian Guzman (batting lefthanded) sliced an opposite field liner into the left-centerfield gap. Cameron, the speedy Florida Centerfielder with gazelle speed moved swiftly to cut off the stroked baseball. And as the fast moving object was slicing to the ground, Cameron Maybin dove to his right--left glove hand extended--face planted himself and caught the baseball in his mitt for The Defensive Play Of This Game. A really nice effort that helped get his teammate--starter Josh Johnson--through five complete frames and record his 14th win against just 4 losses.

10 hits by Washington's Lineup this evening. Josh Bard with a two run RBI Pinch Hit Double in the bottom of the 7th. Elijah Dukes with a triple and subsequent run scored too. But overall, DC's Team couldn't sustain many rallies, especially with Ryan Zimmerman and Livan Hernandez grounding into two key double plays.

And doesn't it seem like Hanley Ramirez hammers out at least one home run in every series played between these two teams? Again this evening, a two run shot off Livan which was Hanley's 20th for the season and 99th of his Major League Career. Also, Former Nationals Pitcher Brian Sanches finished off tonight's game on the mound for The Marlins. A completely different pitcher than seen last year at Nationals Park--Brian attacks the strike zone and challenges hitters. Something, he apparently didn't have confidence in during his Inaugural Season at Nationals Park.

The Home Plate Umpire tonight was veteran Crew Chief Tim McClelland. From our vantage point in Section 218 behind Washington's Dugout--we can pretty accurately tell whether any pitch is high or low in the strike zone. But whether that ball is over the plate or not is a completely different matter. Still, this evening it was clear most every pitcher--from both teams--were mighty upset with McClelland's ball and strike calls. Everyone was complaining and the disbelieving looks from Nationals & Marlins Pitchers quite entertaining to watch.






Pups In The Park night brought 75 Pets & Their Owners to Nationals Park in Section 201. A small grass field was laid down on the nearby ramp overlooking the leftfield line. The sight of the dogs sitting in their seats actually quite entertaining. And as one person mentioned to me while taking in the moment: "These dogs are better behaved than some of the kids in attendance!!" One dog was even named "Fan Of The Game". An event worth repeating this Sunday at Nationals Park during the conclusion of this three game set with The Marlins.





Additionally, The Washington Humane Society brought a handful of dogs to Nationals Park looking for new homes. Fans were invited to Centerfield Plaza near the Exxon Kids Zone to view, handle and decide whether their love was good enough for the pets. Staff was available to answer any questions and set up any adoption for completion.





The Washington Nationals Dream Foundation auctioned off some seriously nice jerseys and memorabilia this evening on South Capitol Street. Frank Robinson, Adam Dunn and Willie Harris signed uniform tops. 2006 Nationals signed team bat. Home Plate signed by Jesus Flores, Wil Nieves & Josh Bard. Baseball signed by Stephen Strasburg and other signed baseballs. Additionally, Blasts From The Past!! were back. Jerseys & Baseballs signed by players no longer under contract to Washington. This evening, Sohna and I picked up an Aaron Boone perfectly signed baseball. Total dollar amount raised for Saturday's Auction Items: $2335.00.

CareFirst Blue Cross and Blue Shield presented a $25,000 Check to The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington. A donation in response to the "K for Kids" program which grows each time a Washington Nationals Pitcher strikes out an opposing batter in every single baseball game. Elijah Dukes & Justin Maxwell participated in the pre-game presentation.



Teddy sat out tonight's 4th Inning Presidents Race. Official word being Number 26 pulled a hamstring warming up before the race and is listed as "DAY TO DAY"--words well known by any fan of Our Washington Nationals. As for the event itself, George just sort of ran away easily to victory. Abe and Tom not threats this evening especially after Abe stumbled over a barrier placed in his path by George.

And finally--Chicken Man--you know Hugh--who always sits behind Our Washington Nationals Dugout waving his rubber chicken. Tonight, he was sporting his new "Tony Plush" Number 1 Jersey for his enjoyment of Nyjer Morgan--out for the season with a broken left hand.

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

4th Annual ziMS Foundation Gala & Golf Tournament

"We are very excited about what we have been able to do in 3 years," said Cheryl Zimmerman. "What started as a grass roots effort in 2006 is beginning to have a positive effect."

Formed in 2006 by Our Washington Nationals Ryan Zimmerman, The ziMS Foundation is dedicated to raising funds to help treat and hopefully find the ultimate cure for Multiple Sclerosis. The neurological disease that affects over 400,000 folks in The United States and specifically one person close to Our Number 11's heart. Ryan's mom, Cheryl, was diagnosed with MS in 1995. And even Ryan has said it has been difficult for him "to see such a vibrant, athletic, energetic family member sidelined and unable to enjoy her many passions."

With those thoughts heavy on his mind, Ryan Zimmerman--along with his parents--Cheryl & Keith--started The ziMS Foundation. And over the past three years have raised over $200,000. Funds now being distributed to needy organizations looking to offset the devastation of a disease that affects the central nervous system. Not only is the ziMS Foundation helping those near their very own Virginia Beach, Virginia community, but also is branching out to The University of Virginia's Neurological MS Clinic and The Arlington YMCA. Gifts have been granted to The Hampton Roads Chapter of Multiple Sclerosis, The Yoga Program (for MS Patients) at The Arlington "Y", as well as, The ziMS Foundation fully funding a "Flip Flop Retreat" in Virginia Beach for those with MS and their caregivers--in cooperation with The Hampton Roads MS Chapter.

Specifically to help The UVA Neurological MS Clinic, Wintergreen Resort in Virginia will host a special Golf Tournament this October 23rd to benefit the ziMS Foundation. And in fact, Ryan Zimmerman and his parents are matching whatever dollars are raised--up to $15,000--to be directly donated to the UVA Clinic.

Which brings us to The Main Event. The 4th ziMS Foundation Annual Gala and Golf Tournament to be held in Virginia Beach on November 6th and 7th. You may recall, Sohna and I attended last year's events which raised over $105,000 for charity. And this year's event is expected to be even bigger and better. If you are looking to participate in the event by attending or donating-- now is the time to sign up. The Gala & Golf Tournament is just over two months away from happening.

"But I have to tell you though," Cheryl Zimmerman said to me the other day on the phone, "The Golf Tournament Foursomes have sold out, all 144 spots, which has really pleased us that everyone felt it important to confirm their plans early. So, now we are pushing the Gala Tickets which are limited to a total number of 250 at $95 per person."

Here are the complete details

On Friday November 6th, The Gala will be held at The Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort. Those $95 Gala Tickets are limited and on a first come/first served basis. On that evening--beginning at 6pm--a silent auction with Hors d'ouevres and entertainment provided will take place at the Oceanfront Resort--followed at 8:30PM by the live auction where Ryan Zimmerman personally participates. Silent auction items in the past have included, not only autographed sports memorabilia from many of Ryan's friends, family and businesses who generously donate, but weekend getaways and special dinners. The Live Auction has included dinner/lunch with Ryan Zimmerman, Golf Outings and other weekend getaways in the past.

The now sold out Saturday Golf Tournament held at the Virginia Beach RedWing Lake Golf Course may well be the highlight of the entire weekend where all participants are provided food, beverages and golfers gift bags to go along with the tournament prizes and tickets to the Friday Night Gala. Ryan makes every effort to visit or play a hole or two with every single foursome participating. And although the tournament has no official spots left open, Cheryl Zimmerman did state: "If someone wants to come on board and become a major sponsor, then we would certainly find a spot for their foursome."

So come on down to Virginia Beach, Virginia on November 6th & 7th to support Our Washington Nationals Ryan Zimmerman and his parents for a worthy cause to help find a cure for the debilitating disease Multiple Sclerosis close to Our Number 11's heart.

Here are the necessary links:

For hotel reservations at the Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort click on this link and make sure you ask for the special ziMS Foundation Room Rates set for the weekend.

For 4th Annual Gala Tickets on November 6th here at $95 per person, first come-first served.

And here is The Gala & Golf Tournament home page for complete event details.

And the ziMS Foundation Home Page to browse the work accomplished since 2006 and looking forward to the years to come.