Read For The Record

"We’ve found out that one in three kids, when they go to school, have never been read to," said Kathy Hurley, Senior Vice-President Strategic Partnerships for The Pearson Foundation. "And this is going to affect them their entire life. So, we really believe in early literacy."

The "Read For The Record" Program was underway for the 4th consecutive year. National Park again one of the venues this morning to get parents, professionals, servicemen and servicewomen, along with volunteers from all over the world, to read the very same book to pre-schoolers, on the very same day: October 8th, 2009. An awareness opportunity to get the word out that education success begins in a child's early years--not after kindergarten begins.

The goal today to set a new world's record of over 1 million kids and adults reading "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle.

"'Live to Learn' is our motto," believes Ms. Hurley. "And with our partners we are truly taking that to heart."


Since 2006, Pearson, The USO and United Through Reading have partnered with Jumpstart, to hold group readings throughout the United States. The USO providing facilities, both in country and abroad, which allow serving military personnel to be involved remotely from their stationed bases. Our Washington Nationals supplying the setting and reading volunteers in the Nation's Capital for the third consecutive year.


“The USO decided a couple of years ago that we really wanted to do a big push on literacy for children," stated Steven Missimer, Vice-President Operations Programs & Services USO. "Specifically, military children. A lot of our kids are dealing with separation from their parents who are deployed and this is just another way for them to stay connected because we are also a partner with United Through Reading and that gives our deployed members an opportunity to record a book for their child when they are about to be deployed, or while they are deployed with their units. That book, the DVD, is then packaged up and we send it back home to the families. The spouse can then put it in the DVD player and they can see their Mom or Dad on TV reading the book to them.”

Sally Zoll, CEO--United Through Reading: "So, if you are in a tent in Iraq or Afghanistan, or a ship in The Gulf Of Aden, and you want to read a storybook to your child--we provide the opportunity for you to do just that. What we do is provide opportunities for families that are separated to read aloud together--in order to get that warm loving situation."

"The response has been awesome. In fact, great!" smiled Mr. Missimer.

The Pearson Foundation has raised over $4 Million for Jumpstart and donated over 300,000 books to pre-schoolers. The USO has recorded over 50,000 DVD's for families. And now produces over 3,700 readings by military personnel to their children each month. United Through Reading provides the bond bringing all these worthwhile groups together along with Our Washington Nationals.







Through USO Centers, School Districts, Governments and venues like Nationals Park, Pre-Schoolers were all read "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" this day. On South Capitol Street this morning, Team President Stan Kasten lead off the program with introductory remarks, followed a few minutes later by Bettina Deynes (Vice-President of Human Resources for The Nationals) and Brian van de Graaf (Meteorologist from ABC 7) reading the book to the children. Deynes in Spanish, van de Graaf in English.


30 uniformed service members, many representing The United States Air Force, were on hand at Nationals Park today to participate. The children came from Fort Meade in Maryland and The District of Columbia. Other group reading sessions took place this morning in Fairfax County and The City of Alexandria in Virginia, as well as Prince Georges, Anne Arundel & Baltimore Counties in Maryland.







After the reading was completed, the program was far from over. Thanks to Our Washington Nationals Front Office Staff volunteering, baseball skills sessions were taught on the playing field at Nationals Park--hitting off a tee, running the bases, throwing a pitch, and catching a baseball all included. At the same time, three more reading stations were set up in the rotation--two in the outfield and one in the Visitors Dugout.





“Anything centered around reading is worthwhile," concluded Kathy Hurley. "We want to make sure that the kids are going to be successful throughout their lives and early reading is so important. Yes, it’s about literacy, but it’s also about getting the kids outside and learning in a fun atmosphere. And what's more fun than having young kids play on a baseball field and being educated at the same time."


PS--Of course, My Best Friend!! Screech!! was there as well, having a good time with all the kids in attendance.

All Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved

What Could Have Been?

When Manager Joe Torre sends his Los Angeles Dodgers lineup out on the field tomorrow night to begin Game 1 of The National League Division Series against The St. Louis Cardinals--remember this one time great player and now certain Hall Of Famer as Manager--could have been a Washington Senator.

Yeah, one of Our Greats--In The American League.

Just like Jim "Catfish" Hunter possibly could have been too.

Craig Nettles as Washington's 3rd Baseman.

Possibly, a young Nolan Ryan starting every 4th day wearing the Curly "W" (four man rotations back then folks).

Tug McGraw as closer.

Hard to believe now in retrospect, but all five of those players were offered to Bob Short, the carpetbagger owner of The Expansion Washington Senators in the late 1960's. The very man that took Frank Howard and the rest of what was left of DC's decimated ballclub to Arlington, Texas in 1972, to become The Rangers. The saddest day of my childhood.

In 1969, Rookie Manager Ted Williams transformed a stumbling but talented young group by coaching and coercing this Nation's Capital's Team to a winning record for the first time in 17 years (and only 2nd time since 1945). The greater Washington, D.C area embraced The Senators. These Nats were a hot commodity--finishing 6th in attendance that season and 10 games over .500. Their success garnered looks from throughout Major League Baseball. Something special was happening and other teams wished to seriously trade for their talent.

The problem was that Bob Short was his own General Manager. He wasn't a baseball guy. In fact, a politician. Mr. Short had no idea what potential his team really had on the field 40 years ago. Only seeing stardom, Bob Short never understood how to build a team. Ask those Washington Redskins Fans these days how they feel about that type of ownership?

With The Senators Of My Youth becoming a viable product--The Oakland Athletics came shopping. Their Owner, Charlie O'Finley (never one to want to pay a high salary), came looking for a power hitting first baseman to add to his already burgeoning young lineup which then featured Reggie Jackson, Sal Bando and Rick Monday--Joe Rudi waiting in the wings. The A's needed Mike Epstein, Washington's young power hitting 1st Sacker who slammed out 30 home runs that '69 Season to replace the aging Danny Cater (good rbi guy, with limited power).

Mr. Finley offered Mr. Short--Jim "Catfish" Hunter--after the 1969 Season Concluded.

Bob Short turned the deal down. Real baseball people would have taken that deal--and probably got Cater too.

Eventual Hall of Fame Pitcher Hunter was 23-Years Old four decades ago when this trade was discussed. One year removed from pitching a Perfect Game at Minnesota in 1968. And one year away from becoming one of the greatest pitchers in the game for seven straight seasons.

Former Original Washington Senators Owner, Cal Griffith (Nephew of long-time owner and Hall of Famer Clark Griffith), was then the Owner of The Minnesota Twins (the transplanted Original Senators of Walter Johnson, Bucky Harris & Sam Rice. etc). Mr. Griffith was infatuated with Brant Alyea, a power right hitting young slugger with limited defensive skills in the Expansion Senators' outfield. Cal offered Bob--Craig Nettles. The very same Gold Glove 3rd Baseman who became a cornerstone of The New York Yankees great teams of the mid-1970's.

If Mr. Short had not shorted himself and hired REAL BASEBALL MANAGEMENT, he would have realized Alyea for Nettles was a no brainer--especially on the heels of The New York Mets offering one of these two players for his current 3rd Baseman--Ken McMullen. McMullen was a solid 3rd Baseman with good power. A team player. Some would call Washington's Captain. Old Number 2 was respected.

But Bob Short had no respect for the fan base in Washington, D.C. All he saw were dollar signs. And he turned down The '69 Amazin' Mets AMAZING OFFER--Tug McGraw or Nolan Ryan for Ken McMullen.

Sorry, you don't turn down that trade. A young 3rd baseman not yet in his prime. A fireballing hurler destined for greatness.

Sure, no one knew for sure back then. But Baseball People make those trades. Politicians, always cautious and looking at image, do not. Short would eventually trade McMullen to The California Angels for 3rd Baseman Aurelio Rodriguez and Outfielder Rick Reichardt in 1970. But later traded both of them away as well--for nothing in return.

Yet, that was not all. Before the 1969 Season even began--during Spring Training--before Mr. Short was offered and turned down Mike Epstein for "Catfish" Hunter months later, he was offered another great opportunity. The Atlanta Braves were looking to solidify their team in the new NL Western Division for the first year of post-season playoffs in Major League Baseball Baseball. MLB had expanded in '69 with the Seattle Pilots, Kansas City Royals, Montreal Expos & San Diego Padres. No longer did the first place teams in each league automatically advance to The World Series. The now 24 Teams split, Six Franchises apiece, into the Eastern & Western Divisions of The American and National Leagues. And Atlanta wanted Washington's Catcher Paul Casanova & Epstein too. The Braves offered Joe Torre.

Bob Short, never one to realize a good player trade, turned that offer down too. Torre was then traded to The St.Louis Cardinals for eventual Hall Of Famer Orlando Cepeda late in Spring Training, 1969.

Sadly, Mr. Short didn't turn down the one trade he well should have--Pitchers Joe Coleman, Jim Hannan along with 3rd Baseman Aurelio Rodriguez and Shortstop Eddie Brinkman to The Detroit Tigers for a suspended Denny McLain and three warm bodies during the World Series of 1970. The trade which gave The Tigers the 1972 AL East Title and doomed Washington's franchise--setting everything bad in motion--and leading to The Senators eventual move to Texas.

"Catfish" Hunter & Nolan Ryan became Hall of Famers AFTER being offered to Washington.

Tug McGraw would become an ace closer after being offered to Washington (although Nolan Ryan was the better choice in any trade for Epstein).

Craig Nettles would become an MVP Candidate and Gold Glove Award Winner after being offered to Washington.

Joe Torre would win The National League MVP and Batting Title after being offered to Washington. And he would drive in 100 runs three more times in his career. Torre & Hondo back to back would have been nice.

No matter which players The Washington Senators had agreed to take in those deals offered in 1969, there is no question the franchise would have been transformed and become a solid contender.

Playing General Manager Of The 1969 Washington Senators and considering the offers--Hunter over Torre. Ryan over McGraw--this would be your 1970 Washington Senators Lineup. A Roster befitting the slogan used by The Nats back then in Washington, D.C.: "It's A Whole New Ball Game!!"

Paul Casanova behind the plate
"Hondo" at first base
Bernie Allen/Tim Cullen at second base
Eddie Brinkman at shortstop
Craig Nettles at 3rd base
Del Unser/Lee Maye/Hank Allen & Ed Stroud in the outfield

Starters: "Catfish" Hunter, Nolan Ryan, Joe Coleman, Dick Bosman, Casey Cox and Jim Hannan. Not many teams could rival that pitching rotation. Two Hall Of Famers, three All-Stars and one ERA Leader (Bosman). The Orioles, Cardinals, Mets and Dodgers all had great rotations back then. The Giants too. Washington's would have been right up there with them.

Bullpen: Darold Knowles was already developing into one of the games great closers. Horacio Pina (who was really good for a short period of time), Bob Humphreys, Jim Shellenback and Cox were decent alongside him out of the pen.

That's a good team to build upon. If you win baseball games with pitching and defense--that fantasy version of the 1969/1970 Washington Senators would have been great to watch. And it was easily attainable if only The Expansion Washington Senators had professional baseball people making the proper decisions. Instead, The Nation's Capital was left without a team from 1972--thanks to Bob Short's shortcomings--until 2005 when The Montreal Expos relocated to Washington, D.C.

What that fantasy Senators Club would be missing is another slugger and rbi guy--which Joe Torre could provide--if Mike Epstein & Casanova are traded to Atlanta in the first offering for Esptein--instead of the later one for Jim "Catfish" Hunter.

Either way--What Could Have Been is fascinating to think about. And clearly the momentum of that transformed lineup would have saved Major League Baseball In Washington from all the pain of nearly 34 Years without hearing the words "PLAY BALL!!"

PS--All this information is contained in this wonderful book I just completed reading called: The Washington Senators (1901-1971) by Tom Deveaux.

Deserving Of The Gold Glove

Ryan Zimmerman had 20 more fielding chances than any of his fellow 3rd Basemen in The Major Leagues in 2009. Zimmy possesses the finest range and reflexes of any one out there. I doubt anyone would question that fact.At 25 Years of Age, Our Number 11 rounded himself, this season, into the finest 3rd Baseman in The Big Leagues.

There should be no question about it. The Z-Man is deserving of The Gold Glove Award in The National League.

Anything less would be a disgrace.

Just take a look at some of these defensive plays Ryan Zimmerman made this past season.

Most everybody that follows Our Washington Nationals remembers this defensive gem by Ryan Zimmerman at Citizens Bank Park. The young man is fearless and runs hard down the line in foul territory better than any 3rd Baseman in the game.

Some probably remember this rush in on a beautifully laid down bunt by The Mets' Luis Castillo at Citi Field. Just not well enough placed to keep Our Number 11 from recording the out.

Then there is this one on Chipper Jones.

Colorado's Dexter Fowler experienced The Z-Man's Glove Work.

The Cubs too.

The Astros.

The Yankees.

Even the Pirates.

Reflex action on The Mets' Carlos Beltran.

Ryan Zimmerman is a nightly highlight reel.

Those were all great plays. But this one is our favorite defensive play of the year turned by Ryan Zimmerman. A smashed baseball that bounces off his body with the bases loaded and two out in the top of the 3rd on August 5th. He doesn't give up on it as the ball moves farther and farther away from him--toward the pitchers mound. And with The Florida Marlins' Cody Ross hustling to first base, Zimmy picks up the baseball barehanded and launches himself into the air. A perfect toss to Adam Dunn at 1st Base--just in time--while FACE PLANTING himself in the turf.

That one play demonstrated all his skills--quickness, reflex action and athletic ability all under pressure . The all-around performer Ryan Zimmerman has become. A great young player Deserving of The 2009 Gold Glove Award at 3rd Base in the National League.

No one else comes close--no matter how the mainstream media attempts to spin it.

All the video from MLB.com Archives

Long Days Journey Into Night

The final game of 2009 at Turner Field this afternoon set Our Washington Nationals off on that long day's journey into night. 15 innings of baseball, mostly with players you don't normally see getting quality time on the field. In fact, a starting lineup fully composed of Syracuse Chiefs from this past summer in The International League. AAA Ball. Yes, Game Number 162 found Ryan Zimmerman, Adam Dunn, Josh Willingham all on the bench for DC's Team. Chipper Jones too for The Atlanta Braves.

An arduous affair as it turned out--and fitting for two teams finishing out their seasons--both looking to transform themselves over the coming winter and make themselves better. The Hot Stove League officially began at 5:48 PM Eastern Time when Logan Kensing struck out Brooks Conrad to complete Our Washington Nationals Season. Another win to complete the schedule. An accomplishment and occurrence never before seen in the modern game. One of the dubious variety--losers of their first seven games of 2009--Washington now winners of their last seven.

Great!

But that's not an achievement to be proud of unless those Curly "W's" at the end of the season mean--WE MADE THE PLAYOFFS.

Which we obviously didn't.

Unfortunately, Our Washington Nationals are still some ways from that goal. But first on their list as this off-season begins, Baseball Operations needs to get their affairs in order. A manager needs to be found. He may be here already, but before Jim Riggleman is even close to being announced as the 3rd (or 4th depending on your perspective) Manager of DC's Team, there better be a thorough search and discovery of who exactly is out there. And who exactly is the best fit for Our Nation's Capital as our team moves forward.

This is a crucial time.

Washington needs a good hire here. A strong personality who can both protect his players and get the most out of them. Someone that expects professionalism at all times--while still maintaining the fun and camaraderie of the clubhouse. The person eventually hired doesn't have to be a Big Name. A known personality that has built a big reputation elsewhere but was fired anyway. Unless you are named Joe Torre or Tony LaRussa--retreads don't normally work out.

And if they do--not for long.

Our Washington Nationals need a manager that can not only grow with our team, but get the most of them at all times. Watching The Minnesota Twins Sunday night giving their farewells to The Metrodome in a STIRRING CEREMONY in Minneapolis was poignant (If you don't have the MLB Season Ticket Package on DirecTV you really missed out--IT WAS GREAT!!). Outside of the fine tribute to the late Kirby Puckett, the re-introduction of the beloved manager of those two Twins World Series Championships--Tom Kelly--proves a point. Not many had ever heard of Kelly before Minnesota hired him.

No one of importance other than The Minnesota Twins.

And yet, Mr. Kelly became one of the most respected managers in the game.

Washington needs to find that type of persona to bring to their game. Not necessarily someone just looking to stay in the game.

No question we also need some starting pitching. Concerns which General Manager Mike Rizzo has repeatedly addressed over the past six weeks since being named GM. Washington needs to take a hard look at their bullpen as well. Mr. "No Nonsense", Tyler Clippard, has really been a nice find. That trade with The New York Yankees for Jonathan Abaladejo may well be a steal after all. Sean Burnett proved to be a solid lefty out of the bullpen upon coming over from Pittsburgh in a trade. Jason Bergmann was effective when finally given a role. And Mike MacDougal was a decent caretaker closer with Drew Storen rising in his shadow.

But other than that--Our Pitching Staff needs more retrofitting. If John Lannan was to be joined by Stephen Strasburg and Jordan Zimmermann for 2010--those young guns would have been in good company on a burgeoning staff looking to breakout in The Major Leagues. Instead, JZ is gone until, mostly likely, 2011 due to elbow surgery. And Strasburg--along with Storen--will be brought up to The Big Leagues ONLY WHEN THEY ARE READY.

That leaves Ross Detwiler, Craig Stammen and J.D. Martin among the rookies looking to make the roster out of Viera next season. Depending on who Mr. Rizzo is able to land on the veteran side, all three of these guys may well be fighting for just one spot--possibly two. Detwiler pitched an excellent September & October. J.D. Martin was the most consistent--despite not being a hard thrower. Craig Stammen showed potential to be an innings eater--but now is also recovering from loose deposits in his elbow.

No one knows what Washington is going to get out of those three. And that is why two solid pitchers with veteran presence are needed come next season. Just like out of the bullpen. Our Relief Pitchers were used far too much again this past season because Our Starters couldn't get past five innings on many nights. Livo did and that was too little, too late. A demand that wore down arms and exposed weaknesses. DC's Bullpen was Washington's strongest asset in the early days after Baseball Returned to Washington. Now it is one of our Achilles Heals. This situation needs to be addressed this off-season.

A transformation needs to take place.

That sort of radical change which Nyjer Morgan added to Washington's Lineup upon starting his first game on July 3rd. He became the catalyst that made Washington competitive on offense. No longer dependent on the three run homer to score any runs. Our Number 1 could steal bases, worry opposing pitchers, while playing a terrific centerfield. The Table Setter that made Cristian Guzman, Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Dunn better hitters coming behind him. When any hurler fears a stolen base, those batting at the plate will see more fastballs. And each of our batters from the 2nd spot through 5th benefited from Nyjer Morgan hitting in front of them.

A more complete lineup now still missing one of its most important parts--a starting catcher. Surgery on Jesus Flores has hindered any development behind the plate--both for Our Number 3's career and Our Washington Nationals. Flores will not be ready to fully train until approximately Opening Day. A loss felt throughout Our Organization that needs to be addressed this coming winter. Wil Nieves and Josh Bard are decent backups, but not starters. Exposed both were when placed in the lineup on a regular basis. Not a criticism of what they can't do. Just the fact that DC's Team needs more from that position.

Not knowing if Jesus Flores will fully recover by May 2010, Mike Rizzo needs to look long and hard at the backstop position this off-season. Washington is short on talent there and all options must be discussed. They are in a quandary. Flores is Washington's Catcher Of The Future--just maybe not over the first two to three months of next season.

With Strasburg, Storen, Zimmerman, Dunn, Josh Willingham, Ian Desmond, Cristian Guzman, Justin Maxwell and Nyjer Morgan all locked for next year--most all for a few years to come--the catching dilemma may be Washington's most important adjustment between now and April 5th--Opening Day next season.

Except for middle infield.

Defense at 2nd Base & Shortstop has been an issue all this past season--too many errors. Yet, despite what some like to proclaim--"The Guz" is a pretty serviceable shortstop. He may well have hurt his throwing arm late, but he makes some very nice plays. I get a kick out some so-called analysts proclaiming that Cristian Guzman has lost so much range and can't go in such a direction effectively. Then, every single other pundit jumps on board saying the same thing without really watching. Piling it on--so much so--that after a while, it's assumed the truth.

The fact is that Our Number 15 is an average shortstop, nothing less. He's no longer of All-Star Caliber in the field, but it doesn't make him a poor player. Guzman struggled down the stretch thanks to an arm ailment not disclosed until late. Hopefully, Our Washington Nationals will realize not one player that has played in DC since 2005 has hustled more in the field than "The Guz". He's a GREAT baserunner, though not patient at the plate--but still a decent hitter. A free-swinger. Whether he moves to 2nd Base or stays at Shortstop with Desmond positioned next to him isn't the point. The reality is that Cristian Guzman has been a good player over the past few seasons for Washington. His 2005 year was atypical. What everyone has witnessed since 2007 is a pretty decent Major League Player.

A contributor.

Supporters which Our Washington Nationals will need many of to overcome what today concluded as the second straight season with just 59 wins and 103 losses (102 in 2008). But The Final Score this year (2-1 in 15 Innings) signaled there is a new regime being built in The Nation's Capital. The latest Curly "W" just another number for the official record book. A figure that The African Queen and I believe will not be seen in these parts for some time.

That long journey to end the 2009 Championship Season ended this day for Our Washington Nationals. Night coming without any quit from those on the active roster. And not without thanks to Our General Manager, Mike Rizzo, who is righting a once listing ship and directing a new course--setting sail for winning campaigns in 2010 and beyond.

While The Hot Stove Season has officially begun, Sohna and I are not going to make any bold predictions of who will be traded for; or who Washington will sign. The African Queen and I trust Mr. Rizzo to make those decisions--in consultations with management. The results we will wait to see when Full Camp meets at Spring Training in Viera, Florida this coming February.

No doubt, we will be anticipating some exciting news this October 2009 through February 2010.

And remember--every step of the way--Sohna and I have been there since 2005. And we will continue to support Our Washington Nationals in 2010 and beyond. They are Our Team. It's why we go to Spring Training and provide coverage. It's why we go to every single home game, and any away game within reason, while still reporting about it. It's why we attend virtually every single off the field activity to inform you.

Our Washington Nationals are a part of our lives and Nats320 is an extension of who we are.

Today's Long Days Journey Into Night began the off-season, which could be just as interesting as this just completed schedule.

PS--For the second year in a row at Nationals Park--The African Queen made it to every single inning of every single game played on South Capitol Street. She's even outdone me in that regard. I have to salute Sohna for that wonderful accomplishment and for being a great fan!!

Today's InGame Photo--John Amis (AP)

Hope & Conviction

Hope is what Justin Maxwell and Ian Desmond have brought to the field for Our Washington Nationals since being recalled in September. Conviction is what they have given The African Queen and I with their play. The confidence there are a few position players in Our Farm System that can help DC's Team in 2010 and beyond.

Because if Maxwell and Desmond haven't earned legitimate chances to secure roster spots for Our Washington Nationals after today's thriller in Atlanta, they never will. Again this afternoon, J-Max with the game winning home run. A two run shot in the top of the 11th inning that gave Washington back the lead after Zack Segovia had blown a save and a two run lead in the bottom of the 10th.

Desmond with his 4th home run since early September, this time off The Atlanta Braves' talented starter, Jair Jurrjens, leading off the bottom of the 4th. Add that effort to Ian's two terrific fielding gems on stroked baseball's off the bat of Garret Anderson--and you got one really impressive young shortstop. The first of his defensive plays a looping fly ball over his head and into short left centerfield that Our Number 6 raced down in the bottom of the 2nd. Followed in the bottom of the 5th, by a diving catch on a soft liner by The Braves' Leftfielder.

The more Ian Desmond plays at shortstop.

The more At-Bats he's received in The Major Leagues.

The more Our New Number 6 has shown the capability of playing alongside of, and competing against, the very best in the game. The same statement which can be said for Justin Maxwell. Reportedly, Hitting Coach Rick Eckstein has worked with J-Max to relax his hands and place them lower in the set position while at the plate. A new batting stance which has resulted in, not only more power, but the ability to fight off more two strike pitches and--as was the case today--drive the ball the opposite way. Justin's game winning home run drilled down the right field line and over the wall at Turner Field. A 95 MPH heater thrown from the right arm of Atlanta's Manny Acosta.

Good feelings all around after this win because Ryan Zimmerman rapped out three hits, scored one and knocked in one run--attempting to finish the year strong. Cristian Guzman slashed a two out pinch hit double in the top of the 10th to plate Zimmy and Adam Dunn with what then appeared to be the game winning runs--before Segovia lost control and the momentum, momentarily.

Ross Detwiller pitched a decent five innings of shut out ball. The Rookie Lefty walked four Braves Batters, but he induced two key double plays and--unlike earlier in the year when in trouble--didn't get rattled. Much like all of Ross' performances since Detwiler was recalled in September.

For the second consecutive night, Jason Bergmann was called out of the bullpen with Washington in trouble, this time in the bottom of the 8th and Nate McLouth standing on second for Atlanta representing the go ahead run with just one out. And proceeded to mow down both Martin Prado and Chipper Jones. Two consecutive K's that had Our Number 57 fist pumping himself for a job well done. Bergmann may have some of the best stuff and movement on a baseball as anyone on Our Pitching Staff. Talent which Interim Manager Jim Riggleman has used to give Jason a role to play this last half of 2009. A position needed with a game on the line. And for the most part--he has pitched well out of the pen. Except for a tough stretch for about 10 days in mid to late August, Jason Bergmann has been very effective.

In fact, this was such a good victory--even Logan Kensing was able to garner his first Major League Save of 2009. Logan just threw strikes and got outs. A 1-2-3 bottom of the 11th.

Final Score from Turner Field where, once again, those same young players--all looking to be key components of DC's Roster Next Season--continued to put on a winning show: Our Washington Nationals 6 and The Atlanta Braves 4 in 11 fun innings. Curly "W" Number 58 was Washington's sixth win in a row with just one more to be played in 2009. And The Brav-OS 5th consecutive loss after rallying back into playoff contention during the month of September. Hope now lost for Atlanta, but looking ever so brighter for Our Team which is ending the season strong. The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! signaling that no one wearing a Washington Uniform has quit just yet. And with Final Game Number 162 to be played tomorrow afternoon--hard as it may seem to believe--DC's Team can match last season's win mark. A level no one thought possible just one short week ago.

Considering Washington was just recently staring down 110 losses--we will take that.

Really, it's been quite impressive watching Our Washington Nationals battle down to the final out of 2009. Doing so in a way that gives the belief that 2010 can be a Whole New Ballgame. The competitive juices are still flowing out there on the diamond and that desire and spirit can carryover to next February in Viera, Florida--where a completely different version 6.0 of DC's will take the field.

One not just filled on HOPES of doing well. But with the CONVICTION they can.

Big Difference.

And Good Win Today.

Today's InGame Photos--John Amis (AP)

Contributors All

The common denominator over this now current five game winning streak by Our Washington Nationals has been the contributions from all those young players General Manager Mike Rizzo needs to evaluate for 2010. Everyone knows Ryan Zimmerman is the Gold Standard--setting the bar high. And in doing so is helping to raise the level of those others playing alongside him. In some cases, inexperienced but talented teammates (like Ian Desmond or justin Maxwell) need to learn how to play Major League Baseball from example. For others--guys that once were highly touted but faltered (like Mike MacDougal), are now looking to resurrect their careers.

So, just take a look at each and every game since this past Monday Night beginning with The New York Mets at Nationals Park.

September 28th--Seven strong innings from Ross Detwiler, his first Major League Win. MacDougal his 17th save. Desmond, Maxwell and Mike Morse all big contributors at the plate combining for all seven Washington hits and both runs--including Morse's third homer in as many days.

September 29th--Strong outing from J.D. Martin--Tyler Clippard and MacDougal pitching three innings of shutout relief. Our Number 54 with his 18th save. Elijah Dukes and Desmond with four of Washington's 8 hits. Ian with his second home run and Ryan Zimmerman with his 103rd RBI in a 4-3 win over The Mets. Of course, Dukes with arguably The Defensive Play Of This Year to end the game.

September 30th--to be remembered for some time. Justin Maxwell's Grand Slam with two out and Washington down to their last strike against The Mets' Francisco Rodriguez in the final home game of 2009. Zimmerman with his 33rd Home Run earlier in the game. And maybe forgotten, a very solid seven innings from John Lannan. A total team effort by a DC's Team that did not give up--AGAINST ALL ODDS.

October 1st--Garrett Mock with a solid six innings of work. Clippard with nearly three full innings of relief. MacDougal with his 19th Save by recording the final out--thanks to a nice diving stop and throw to 2nd Base by Ryan Zimmerman. The Z-Man with two key doubles, with one rbi and the scoring of the winning run--knocked in on a single by Pete Orr.

And then tonight, October 2nd--Livan Hernandez making it into the 7th, recording his 2nd win in six decisions since joining Washington (and 9th overall). Mike MacDougal with his 20th save in 21 attempts in just four months playing in DC. Desmond again a catalyst with a home run and triple, two runs scored and three rbi. Maxwell with two additional hits. Zimmerman with one hit, two walks and two runs scored. Even Adam Dunn broke out of his slump with two doubles.

Every single one of those players mentioned is hoping to play a major role with Our Washington Nationals come 2010. Contributors All over the last few weeks of 2009. The perfect time to showcase yourself to Baseball Operations. Staff examining and deciding the True Value of the current talent on Our Roster. By not sitting the youngsters down and letting those veterans needing to find their way one final chance--General Manager Mike Rizzo is truly getting an understanding of what Our Washington Nationals have in house right now. And what they need to search for outside the organization to improve themselves this off-season.

The common denominator is that all the above mentioned players are hungry, not complacent--not set in their ways. Each striving, some might say determined to get better. And many probably inspired by Our Standard Bearer--yes Ryan Zimmerman--who by his actions alone--is helping to mold Washington into a better team. This current group needs to learn, and to build confidence. Success which only becomes by throwing people out on the diamond in pressure situations and letting them find their way--get more comfortable.

As stated many times--Baseball is a team game--and Our Washington Nationals found out this past week what happens when you get contributions from all--including those who didn't have the faith in oneself beforehand.

You Win.

And it doesn't matter that some may call these games meaningless. These experiences count and so does the maturation process that comes along with it.

Tonight's InGame Photo--John Amis (AP)

The At-Bat Of The Year

All inning long the crowd at Nationals Park was ROARING. Most all of 23,944 had stayed till the very end. And each and every one on them was announcing their presence. South Capitol Street was ROCKING. The True 10th Man was being a difference. Major League Baseball's schedule was ending in The Nation's Capital for 2009 and no one rooting for Our Washington Nationals wanted anything less than a Curly "W" being put in the books.

If you don't believe the HEART shown in the bottom of the 9th inning today, both on the field and in the stands, was nothing short of endearing--then you will never be a fan of Our Washington Nationals. Never has Our New Ballpark buzzed so much--so consistently for one entire frame. Never has everyone been on the same page since this new ballyard opened on South Capitol Street. Never had anyone following DC's Team lived this type of moment which occurred at 7:42PM Eastern Time on September 30th, 2009 from someone not name Zimmerman--exactly 38 Years since The Washington Senators played their final game in 1971 at the old ballyard on East Capitol Street.

And thanks to Justin Maxwell there is now officially recorded another great finish since Baseball Returned To Washington in 2005.

The bases were loaded with Nationals and two were out. Justin Maxwell was stepping to the plate--a late inning replacement for Josh Willingham. Adam Dunn had just drawn a crucial full count walk off K-Rod, Francisco Rodriguez, The New York Mets Closer to inch Washington JUST a bit closer--but still down by one at 4-3. Those exhilarated supporters buoyed by yet another chance to win.

Certainly, no one really knew what to expect next. K-Rod can be dominating at times--overpowering and impressive. But in this incredible bottom of the 9th--he was anything but. You could feel it in the crowd. Tension turned from home side to visiting side. Not many sitting down for most of this frame while the noise level was simply off the charts. Impressive was the encouragement. The best all season in fact--with the very best on the field to come--momentarily.

Maxwell stepped in and took ball one, then proceeded to take called strike one and called strike two from Home Plate Umpire Kerwin Danley. Down to his last strike now, hope was still not lost. Those still cheering among the faithful would not let go to the belief that J-Max could do it. Just a single was all anyone wanted. What everyone got was unbelievable--no less than stirring.

Playing like a veteran, Justin dug in realizing that Rodriguez would attempt to get him to swing away at something in the dirt. Off the plate crap that less experienced hitters dive for and get themselves out with. Game ending pitches you see all the time, most every day of any baseball season. Fortunately, Maxwell had learned that lesson on this early evening and was not falling for it. And when Our Number 30 took ball two and then fouled off ball three--a battle ensued.

The focus now directed toward the pitcher on the mound and a young man batting at the plate.

No one watching was going home just yet. This was just too exciting. Not until J-Max took his full set of cuts.

Nerves were now on display. The pressure that comes with any game on the line--before a supportive home crowd encouraging their very best. No professional player will ever tell you anything different--THEY LIVE FOR THIS MOMENT. The chance to shine. The opportunity to be a difference maker.

The hero where the spotlight first glared down on Francisco Rodriguez. But, panned over to Justin when he took ball three on the 6th pitch of this At-Bat. One of those tosses that had everyone sighing in relief that Umpire Kerwin Danley did not call STRIKE THREE! Maybe to close to take, but far enough away that Danley gave Maxwell extended life.

Staying alive for another pitch which J-Max successfully fouled off behind home plate into The Stars & Stripes Club. Followed by another foul ball--this time down the right field line--that JUST made it off the field and into the stands. One of those "GET OUT!! GET OUT!! GET OUT OF PLAY!! screams by everyone rooting for Washington. Blowing with all their collective breaths to push the ball into the crowd. A successful wish when the baseball landed safely in the hands of a fan.

THE MOST EXCITING AT-BAT OF THE SEASON was now at its climax. The 9th & final pitch of 2009 was about to take place.

Everybody now transfixed, standing and watching the proceedings. The hollering in support of Our Washington Nationals as loud as ITS EVER BEEN!!. "Let Go Nats!! Lets Go Nats!! Lets Go Nats!! This for a home team having lost 103 games this season. While others may have lost faith, The African Queen and I had not, and neither had the thousands standing alongside us giving their all.

WANTING FOR A WIN!!

As K-Rod looked in for the sign and Maxwell set himself--this moment in time--was about to begin. The scoreboard clock struck 7:42PM and Justin Maxwell struck his finest blow as a Major League Baseball Player. Swinging hard on The Mets Closer's 92 MPH Fastball, Our Number 30 connected solidly and slammed the baseball DEEP into left field. The Entire Crowd yelling in excitement. The stroked baseball heading toward the wall--and in what seemed like an ETERNITY--never seemed to come down as New York's Leftfielder, Angel Pagan rushed back to the wall.

Would it go over the wall? Would it bounce off of it? Or, would Pagan catch it?

No one quite knew until Angel Pagan leaped--AND DIDN'T COME DOWN WITH THE BASEBALL IN HIS GLOVE.

Bedlam at Nationals Park!! A Grand Slam For Justin Maxwell!! You would have thought Our Washington Nationals had just won The National League East Title? A two out, two strike, nine pitch At- Bat in the bottom of the 9th inning, in the final home game of 2009, had set off a celebration unlike any in the two short years of Our Ballpark. Literally, fans were jumping all over themselves in joy. And Our Washington Nationals were jumping all over Justin Maxwell at home plate. The party was on and J-Max had provided all the favors.

Final Score from Nationals Park where The At-Bat Of The Year sent everyone rooting for DC's Team home as happy as anyone had been all year: Our Washington Nationals 7 and The New York Mets 4. Curly "W" Number 55 was for all Our Fans on Fan Appreciation Day. As General Manager Mike Rizzo stated to The African Queen and I shortly after this game ended: "I have never seen anything like it. Fans were standing and cheering and encouraging our players to the very end." And The Bang!! Zoom!! Of The Fireworks!! signaling once and for all: When Our Washington Nationals become a contender--Nationals Park will have a home field advantage like few others. The 10th Man exhibited their fighting spirit tonight and Justin Maxwell quenched everyone's thirst for victory with a dramatic game ending home run that will not be forgotten for years to come.

A positive direction for Our Fans to kick off the upcoming Hot Stove Season. And a high note to hopefully kick off the career of the young and talented Justin Maxwell. No one deserved the opportunity to shine better than J-Max this day. He needed that blast. Just an amazing ending and three game sweep at the hands of The New York Mets--completed on the very last swing, on the very last pitch, of the very last game of 2009 at Nationals Park.

Worth repeating yet again: "Don't Ever Leave Early!!"

Game Notes & Highlights

Unfortunately, John Lannan did not get his 10th win of 2009. A no-decision again not of his wrong doing. Our Number 31 pitched another solid 7 innings, allowed three runs (two earned thanks to a Ryan Zimmerman error) and finished his season with an ERA of 3.88. Ron Villone became the pitcher of record when Washington rallied for 5 runs in the bottom of the 9th off K-Rod. Villone's 5th win against 6 losses.

Lannan's good friend, Tim Redding, went another six strong innings against his former team, allowing just one run and four hits. He was not involved in the decision. K-Rod simply blew up for The Mets and lost his sixth game of the year and was charged with his 7th blown save.

Ryan Zimmerman crushed a fastball from Bobby Parnell in the bottom of the 8th to the deepest part of Nationals Park--centerfield. His 33rd Home Run of the season was also 104th RBI. Now tied with Adam Dunn for the team lead in runs batted in.

The game deciding bottom of the 9th frame played out in this fashion against Francisco Rodriguez. Leadoff infield single from Alberto Gonzalez hit to shortstop. Single up the middle by Mike Morse (Jorge Padilla then pinch running). Willie Harris sacrifice bunt. Elijah Dukes walk. Ryan Zimmerman strikeout. Adam Dunn full count walk to score Gonzalez. Justin Maxwell Grand Slam.




While Abe, Tom and Teddy ran the normal Presidents Race this evening, George took off toward left field and around the third base foul line. As it turned out, GW made the right move as The Finish Line for the final race of 2009 ended near the leftfield foul line. Abe & Tom upset over the course change. Teddy didn't seem to mind.

The final giveaway of 2009 was a Red Curly "W" Fleece Blanket given to the first 20,000 fans in attendance.






Being the last home game of the season, Sohna and I took the opportunity to say goodbye for a few months to some of our friends in and around Nationals Park. Folks that make the experience of attending each and every home game an enjoyable experience for us.


And finally, My Best Friend!! Screech!! stopped by to see us in Section 218 for one final time. We took the opportunity to watch the game together and take this classic picture. Many surrounding us got a real kick out of it.

Tonight's InGame Photos--Manuel Balce Ceneta (AP)
All Other Photos Copyrighted--Nats320--All Rights Reserved