Monday, May 21, 2012

Game 42: Nats at Phillies

Photo by Mark Zuckerman / NATS INSIDER
Citizens Bank Park welcomes (or something like that) the Nats to town tonight.
PHILADELPHIA -- Hello from the City of Brotherly Love, which probably won't be directing much love toward the visiting team tonight. Not that the Nationals would have it any other way. For perhaps the first time in eight seasons of existence, the Phillies and their fans are taking the Nats seriously. Nothing wrong with that, as long as everyone keeps things clean.

Bryce Harper surely will be the subject of plenty of vitriol, though I'm not sure he's done anything yet to warrant it. We'll see if the kid can once again channel his emotions into something positive on the field.

Harper is batting in what has become his now-regular No. 2 spot in the lineup. He'll be hitting behind Steve Lombardozzi, who gets the chance to leadoff again and play ... left field. How's that for a surprise? Danny Espinosa (who homered and doubled yesterday) will be at second base, batting sixth.

Gio Gonzalez takes the mound against Kyle Kendrick. The forecast is spotty, so check back for weather and game updates throughout...

WASHINGTON NATIONALS at PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES
Where: Citizens Bank Park
Gametime: 7:05 p.m. EDT
TV: MASN, MLB.tv
Radio: WJFK (106.7 FM), WFED (1500 AM), XM 183
Weather: Rain, 69 degrees, Wind 7 mph RF to LF
NATIONALS (24-17)
LF Steve Lombardozzi
RF Bryce Harper
3B Ryan Zimmerman
1B Adam LaRoche
SS Ian Desmond
2B Danny Espinosa
CF Rick Ankiel
C Jesus Flores
LHP Gio Gonzalez

PHILLIES (21-21)
LF Juan Pierre
3B Placido Polanco
CF Shane Victorino
RF Hunter Pence
C Carlos Ruiz
1B John Mayberry Jr.
SS Freddy Galvis
2B Mike Fontenot
RHP Kyle Kendrick

UMPIRES
HP Adrian Johnson, 1B Gary Cederstrom, 2B Lance Barksdale, 3B Fieldin Culbreth

7:06 p.m. -- We are underway with a ball from Kyle Kendrick to Steve Lombardozzi. Sixty-five degrees and dry (for now) in Philly. If you haven't read them already, here's my latest on Stephen Strasburg (who will start as scheduled Saturday in Atlanta) and Chase Hughes' update on Ryan Mattheus (who is dealing with a left foot injury) and Brad Lidge (who is just about ready to head to Viera).

7:12 p.m. -- Bryce Harper was greeted with plenty of boos (but apparently no batteries) when he stepped in for his first plate appearance. Then he sent a five-hopper up the middle for a base hit. He's now hitting .313 over his last eight-plus games. Unfortunately, Ryan Zimmerman grounded into an inning-ending double play. So we go to the bottom of the first.

7:18 p.m. -- You think Gio Gonzalez wants that strikeout leaderboard title back from Strasburg? He K'd both Juan Pierre and Placido Polanco to start the bottom of the first. That gives him 62 for the season, just two behind Strasburg for the NL lead. He also got Shane Victorino to fly out to center, so we are scoreless through one.

7:26 p.m. -- So, how many of you out there, if asked way back on March 1, would have said the Nationals' co-team leaders in home runs at the quarter-pole of the season would be Adam LaRoche and Ian Desmond, with seven apiece? Liars! Desmond just added to his total by hitting a laser just over the center-field fence in the top of the second. And just like that, the Nats take a 1-0 lead.

7:36 p.m. -- Well that didn't take long, did it? Your new NL leader in strikeouts is once again Gio Gonzalez, who walked Hunter Pence to lead off the second but then got Carlos Ruiz, John Mayberry and Freddy Galvis in succession. He's already struck out five of the Phillies' first seven batters tonight, all of them swinging. And he now has 65 for the season, one better than Strasburg, three behind Justin Verlander for the major-league lead.

7:45 p.m. -- A chance for the Nats to add to their lead in the bottom of the second, with Jesus Flores on third base with two outs and Harper at the plate. And when Kendrick's pitch got away from Ruiz, Harper started waving Flores home. He actually appeared to beat the throw to the plate, but his lead foot came up off the ground as Kendrick made the tag. Tough break. Still scoreless through 2 1/2.

7:57 p.m. -- The first time through the Phillies' lineup, Gio struck out seven. Yes, seven. The second time through, however, is looking like a different story. Pierre beat out a chopper over the mound. Polanco singled to left. And Victorino then drew a walk to load the bases with two outs for Pence. Tough spot for Gio, but the left-hander came through and got the Phillies No. 4 hitter to ground into a fielder's choice. So it remains 1-0 Nats through three, but Gio's pitch total is already up to 61 because of all the strikeouts.

8:13 p.m. -- Make it 2-0 Nats as Desmond delivers again with an RBI single to left to score Harper (who singled again and stole second). Desmond is now 5-for-11 with two doubles, a homer and four RBI since moving down to the 5-hole in the lineup. Methinks this may become a long-term thing.

8:23 p.m. -- Fantastic 5-4-3 double play from Zimmerman and Espinosa to end the fourth. You'll be seeing that one replayed a few more times tonight. Still 2-0 after four.

8:38 p.m. -- Things calming down here a bit as Kendrick sets down eight in a row. Though the Nats have essentially controlled this game from the start, it's only a 2-0 lead. And with Gonzalez sitting on 92 pitches through five, Davey Johnson is going to need to get a good number of outs from his bullpen tonight.

8:49 p.m. -- Wow, what a display of defense in the bottom of the sixth to help bail Gio out of a jam. The Phillies had runners on second and third with nobody out and Pence at the plate, but Ankiel came charging in to make a diving catch of Pence's line drive. And since Polanco froze off third base, he wasn't able to tag up. Moments later, LaRoche made a nifty, short-hop stab of Ruiz's smash, then made a perfect throw to the plate to nail Polanco. Throw in a flyout to right, and Gio has made it through six scoreless innings. His pitch count is 108, so that's probably it for him tonight. Nats still lead 2-0.

9:03 p.m. -- It's pouring now as we reach the seventh-inning stretch and Craig Stammen enters for Gonzalez. Gio's final line: 6 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 9 K, 1 HBP, 108 pitches, 65 strikes. His ERA now stands at 1.98.

9:07 p.m. -- And a 1-2-3 seventh from Stammen, who seriously is becoming one of the best relievers in baseball. Who saw that coming? Still 2-0 as we go to the eighth.

9:25 p.m. -- Stammen comes up big again. Given a chance to go two innings in a tight game, he got into a jam with two on, one out and the heart of the lineup up. But he got Pence to popup and Ruiz to groundout. Impressive stuff to preserve the 2-0 lead as we go to the ninth.

9:31 p.m. -- Here comes Henry Rodriguez. Break out the Maalox and bourbon, folks!

9:42 p.m. -- Well, who didn't see that coming? Rodriguez walked Mayberry on four pitches, uncorked two wild pitches and gave up a single to Mike Fontenot. After his second wild pitch, Davey decided he'd seen enough. Sean Burnett has entered with the tying run on second, one out, Ty Wigginton at the plate and a 1-0 count.

9:51 p.m. -- Burnett comes up big and saves the day. The Phillies got one run in, but that was it. The Nats hang on for dear life and win 2-1.

241 comments:

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Tcostant said...

Better win tonight, the Phils pitchers are much harder after tonight... Plan: Win tonight and hope to split one of the remaining two for a series win.

peric said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
peric said...

Seems like a decent lineup. Its good to see Bryce getting moved closer to the top so there is less of a tendency to semi-intentionally walk him. Plus he will get to see the full repertoire of every pitcher and get more AB's up near the top.

Clearly its not a permanent spot for him but I do believe its a good place to start the training of a future all-star slugger.

Given the way they are hitting I like Desmond and Espy where they are. Just wish they'd bring up Corey Brown and bench Ankiel's bat ... not his arm and glove. Too bad there isn't a designated fielder position.

Steady Eddie said...

Interesting putting Lombo in LF. I guess if you're experimenting with novices, may as well go with one who gives you a shot at having something at the plate that the Nats otherwise lack (leadoff hitter, of course). And though there's reason for nervousness about his arm, no reason to think it's any worse than 1B Tyler Moore.

Counting the days until Morse gets back and we can have Harp-Zim-ALR-Beast-Desi at 2-6. That's a pretty decent middle of the order.

Too uncertain to start counting the days until Werth gets back and our 2-7 becomes more than decent.

Steady Eddie said...

Hmmm, looks like decent is the word of the day -- hope it also applies to our outing tonight....

GEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEOOOO! GEEEEEEEEEEEOOOOOO! (I loved chanting that in his Saturday domination of the Phils.)

GYFNG!

Grandstander said...

Strasburg now has a 0.5 WAR in batting (fangraphs), putting him at 7th on the team, ahead of Tracy, Harper, Flores, Ankiel, Bernadina and obviously Espinosa. Zimmerman barely leads him with 0.6.

natsfan1a said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
natsfan1a said...

As did I. That turned out to be one fun game (batteries not included - meaning, you know, the kind that you put in flashlights, not the kind that throw and catch - eh, never mind).

GEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEOOOO! GEEEEEEEEEEEOOOOOO! (I loved chanting that in his Saturday domination of the Phils.)

JD said...

Peric,

I don't think Lombo's bat will be potent enough for LF and we are sort of punting LF defense as well. On the other hand I think Davey realizes that when you always start the game with low OBP guys you rarely score in the 1st inning and this makes a difference.

As you say Corey Brown is intriguing. He is in the top 10 in everything (except for BA) in the international league. I wonder what else he has to do to be called up especially with our struggles at lead off.

RickH said...

Seems like someone here suggested putting Lombo in the outfield a day or two ago. Maybe Davey DOES read us.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

NatsJack, who's in LF tonight. All temporary until Morse comes back but Bryce and Zim need runners on base.

On the other side, when does Adam LaRoche get a night off?

A DC Wonk said...

Is there anybody besides me who thinks that, using the guys on the 25-man, this is the best possible lineup one can construct?

I feel like I've been waiting for this one.

Playing against the NL East -- this is when it starts getting real. I agree with others: must take advantage of their main weak-link: Kendrick.

I just read an interesting story that more runs are scored in the 1st inning than any other. It's time to get with that program . . . this batting order will help.

On the other side, when does Adam LaRoche get a night off?

Yeah -- I've been wondering that, too. Especially because he went oh-for-last weekend, (although he did get 4 walks and and RBI)

Steady Eddie said...

Steve M. said when does Adam LaRoche get a night off?

Seems he already had a couple on Friday and Saturday nights... (rimshot)

He's enough of a vet that I suspect Davey would let him make that call himself. At least his fill-in would be an easy call.

Nats1924 said...

I really like Lombo - I think he'll win the leadoff job

jeffwx said...

except for Ankiel, nice lineup...
but good to have the glove in center to help those less experienced out.

Scott from Burke said...

not a big bob carpenter fan, but watching the saturday game i was shocked by how awful billy ripken was...seemd to constantly try to one up carpenter and came across as rude and a bully...awful

SFNats said...

What Wonk said -- this is the best possible lineup with the current 25-man roster. Hope they can keep swinging and put up 5-6 more runs today.

Gonat said...

A DC Wonk said...
On the other side, when does Adam LaRoche get a night off?

Yeah -- I've been wondering that, too. Especially because he went oh-for-last weekend, (although he did get 4 walks and and RBI)

May 21, 2012 4:52 PM
______________________________

Thinking yesterday would have been the perfect day for a breather. I hope he is ok.

Ron In Reston said...

LaRoche gets a night off on Thursday :)

NatFanBethesda said...

I like this lineup. Certainly the defense of Lombo has to be as good as Moore's in left. Lets Hope Lombo continues to make things happen and Espi keeps regaining his swing.

JD said...

I think when Morse returns there will be more opportunities to give LaRoche a break. Right now he is too big a part of the offense to sit.

NatFanBethesda said...

To Scott: I noticed that too -- I noticed it alot from Bordick who seemed to be giving FP a hard time when FP was trying to be a good guy. Whenever FP would compliment the O's, bordick would agree and not say much about the Nats. I'm glad this combined broadcast stuff is over, for now.

Joe Seamhead said...

Though I understand the logic from an OBPpoint of view, I'm not crazy about Lombo, or Moore for that matter, playing LF. I'd rather see Brown brought up, and Moore sent back down.If you're going to keep Moore up here have him spell ALR for a game now and then.
To Hades with taking 2 out of 3. Dominate them from the top of the 1st and proceed to rub it in until the last out in the bottom of the 9th on Weds! GYFNG,

Candide said...

Bryce Harper surely will be the subject of plenty of vitriol, though I'm not sure he's done anything yet to warrant it.

You're not sure? All I've read is that on the field, he plays hard and respects the game, and off the field, he keeps his nose clean and has shown maturity beyond his chronological age. He hasn't shown up other teams' players (Hamels being the arguable exception, but he when you intentionally hit a batter, don't cry when he steals home on you), hasn't argued balls and strikes or even shown up the umps, AFAIK, hasn't cursed a reporter, hasn't flipped off fans cursing at him from the cheap seats.

No need to hedge, Mark - this kid's good for the Nats and good for baseball. Nobody deserves vitriol for being an asset to the game.

Doc said...

The strange thing about the anti-Hyper hype, is that the Kid hasn't done anything to deserve it.

He didn't hit himself, nor did he charge the mound, or make any untowrd gestures to Hamels. Pete Rose, The Babe, George Brett, and/or a passel of other big leaguers would have let the coward Hamels know how they felt.

Philthy Fans seem to do their best when they are letting their delusions control their behavior.

Doc said...

That should be 'anti-Harper hype, above. I guess I was too hyped up!

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Lets win these next 5 series. Starting tonight win at least 2 of 3 against the Phils. Winning to night and Wednesday as I surely don't want Hamels to get another win.

Gonat said...

JD said...
I think when Morse returns there will be more opportunities to give LaRoche a break. Right now he is too big a part of the offense to sit.

May 21, 2012 5:04 PM
_____________________________

Even the best players need a day-off when they start showing signs of fatigue. Tracy is there for a reason.

Section 222 said...

Just took a quick peek at the comments on Nationals Journal on Kilgore's posting of the lineups for tonights game. I feel like taking a shower. I'm back home and not going back. Sheesh.

Gonat said...

Manny Acta has a player problem. Chris Perez blasted the fans saying when the stands are filled with only 5,000 fans you can hear the boos and what people scream when you're on the mound and he didn't like it or appreciate it. He went as far to suggest that Carlos Beltran wouldn't go to Cleveland becaues of the fanbase and can't believe a 1st place team gets so little support.

http://chronicle.northcoastnow.com/2012/05/21/indians-lofton-responds-to-chris-perez/

Gonat said...

Section 222 said...
Just took a quick peek at the comments on Nationals Journal on Kilgore's posting of the lineups for tonights game. I feel like taking a shower. I'm back home and not going back. Sheesh.

May 21, 2012 5:45 PM
__________________________

Friends don't let friends drive to NJ

JD said...

Gonat,

LaRoche will get a day off on Thursday. Tracy is at his best when he gets 1 at bat in a game. When you already have Ankiel in the lineup it's best to make sure everyone else plays.

Also; didn't LaRocje get 4 walks in yesterday's game? that's pretty productive as far as I am concerned.

Swift Eagle said...

Rollins getting a day off? Pence and Ruiz are usually tough v the Nats. Hope Gio can get off to good start

GYFNG

Gonat said...

JD, no hits in 3 days. Yesterday's walks were great.

Thursday will be a much needed break for everyone.

Gonat said...

Not sure this was mentioned, the Nats/Braves game on Sunday is the nationally televised ESPN Sunday Night Game.

Sunshine_Bobby_Carpenter_Is_Too_Pessimistic_For_Me said...

Looking more and more like Grandpa Davey is a Nats Insider too.

GYFNG!

phil dunton said...

We need to see more of Tracy at first base. Laroche is beginning to slump and could use a day off.

NatFanBethesda said...

I really like this lineup. Lombo can't do worse than Moore out in left and he can make things happen. Meanwhile maybe espinosa keeps getting his swing back. things looking up.

Scott from Burke said...

Doc said... the Kid...didn't hit himself

Actually he hit himself in the face with a bat...i'm sure if an opposing player did same a few nats fans would mention it...with vitriol

Joe Seamhead said...

Sorry to disagree, but Tracy's glove is a brick.

NatsLady said...

As long as LaRoche has played this stretch might as well let him play the next three. He apparently diagnosed his own problem of expanding the strike zone and fixed it. Gotta love veterans!

MicheleS said...

Gonat.. The Wednesday Hammels game is on ESPN too.

Rollins' wife had a baby, that's why he isn't in..

Love the new Lineup! Hi Davey.. Thanks for taking our suggestions!

MicheleS said...

Ex Nat news.. The Twins DFA's Marquis

NatsLady said...

MicheleS, really? The worst team in baseball DFA'd Marquis? He got shafted by you-know-who, and him breaking his leg in Arizona after only three games was tough, and I knew his ERA was high this year--but does that mean his career is over?

MicheleS said...

here is the link on Marquis
Marquis Story

Holden Baroque said...

So, have we gotten around to designating Nat Gio as "The New Smiley Gonzalez"?

djinFl. said...

Empty seats!
Thought I saw empty ones Saturday too.
So much for that love affair, ya bums.

Way to go Harp!

Gonat said...

These 1st innings for the Nats have to start going their way. Zim smashes the ball and right where the Shortstop is standing..........

Candide said...

Odd what happened to Marquis. He was perfectly serviceable after he returned to the Nats from his bone chips surgery, and then went totally to hell the minute he went to the D-Backs.

Section 222 said...

So Placido Polanco is a right handed version of Juan Pierre. Thanks Bob, I'll remember that.

Well Gio did strike them both out.

MicheleS said...

DESI!!!!

Gonat said...

Have I told you a few dozen times how much I like this Desi kid?

Drew said...

Love this lineup -- it rewards Lombo, gets high on-base percentage at the top and follows LaRoche with two guys who have extra-base pop.

Nice going, Davey and thanks for reading!

Look, I'm under no illusions that we influence the skipper's decisions, but I think this lineup gives us our best chance until Morse returns.

Gonat said...

Once Morse is back, the Nats can look to get Lombo more work at 2nd and this lineup will look loaded. Only weak spot will be the 3rd outfielder excluding Morse & Harp.

NatsLady said...

Oh, Gio. I'm in love.

Gonat said...

Early observation, Gio throwing the curveball often and early.

The last 2 games, there must have been a reason he threw it rarely.

Section 222 said...

Holy smokes Gio! Sometimes he looks like a man among boys.

MicheleS said...

Gonat.. he had the hand problems from the flop slide into 3rd, that caused him not to be able to grip the ball right.

Boy that curve ball is nasty....

Gonat said...

NatsLady, so am I. I am more into "stuff" and Gio has it. I'm never impressed with just raw heat if you can't locate it.

Gonat said...

FP talking about "Going deep" and they cut to a picture of Ian D. with his fingers up his nose. Grossssss

Gonat said...

Is Flores that slow or did he not get a good secondary jump?

NatsLady said...

Mattheus on the DL, "hurt his foot conditioning." Why am I not surprised?

Candide said...

Perfect tag... right in the nuts.

MicheleS said...

NatsLady.. the report was Plantar Faciatis (SP?) so far, but they are going to look at more. Finally a major leaguer has an injury that I have had!

Gonat said...

NatsLady said...
Mattheus on the DL, "hurt his foot conditioning." Why am I not surprised?

May 21, 2012 7:45 PM
__________________________

Sounds more like it was a build-up to where the pain got to bad.

NatsLady said...

Oh, I thought Carp said he was on the DL. Must have heard too quickly.

Swift Eagle said...

Gio looks amazing...but these are the Phillies?? Who are these guys? I've never heard of half of them..

Section 222 said...

Plantar Fasciitis. Painful stuff, and not that easy to cure quickly. Mattheus could be the mystery guest who leaves for Wang. Tough break.

Gonat said...

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/plantar-fasciitis-topic-overview

Eugene in Oregon said...

A lot of pitches.

Swift Eagle said...

Has Flores made it home on that wild pitch yet?

Gonat said...

The inning worked out fine but I feel sometimes Flores isn't keeping the tempo right. Call a timeout and slow Gio down. He needed to get Victorino and not load the bases. Again, it worked out. That was close...

Gonat said...

Swift Eagle said...
Has Flores made it home on that wild pitch yet?

May 21, 2012 7:59 PM
_________________________

Strasburg is still on his way also.

MicheleS said...

Lots of empty seats for a sell out....

Swift Eagle said...

So true Michelle, I've seen games at Nats Park with more Phi fans than tonight...Hopefully never again

Faraz Shaikh said...

there are probably making sure at home whether the game is worth going to.

Gonat said...

Wow, Harper beat it and I thought he was going to be called out. That throw was right on the bag.

Swift Eagle said...

If he steals home again, even the Phi fans may cheer for him..

Gonat said...

The bad news is Gio is at 61 pitches and Kendrick just got to 50.

Gonat said...

Have I told you a few dozen times I really like this Desi kid?

Swift Eagle said...

Good coaching by Bo...How was a kid that fast EVER a catcher???

Gonat said...

The Nats have Kendrick on the ropes. Make him WORK

JB said...

Desmond needs to stop swinging at the first pitch. He'll never get results that way...
NatinBeantown

Section 222 said...

Can Ankiel do anything but K in this situation?

Gonat said...

Swift Eagle said...
Good coaching by Bo...How was a kid that fast EVER a catcher???

May 21, 2012 8:07 PM
__________________________

Think about it. He caught as he was growing and light in weight and while he was growing and converted to an outfielder at 18 years old. If he caught for 5 years in the Minors and a few MLB seasons, he would be a few ticks slower for sure.

MicheleS said...

Come on JFLO.. base hit....

jeffwx said...

Good Ankiel is out...now make room for some hitters in Flores and Gio

MicheleS said...

Dang it.. I wanted a hit. We could have started into that bullpen early

jeffwx said...

Why not bat our pitchers 8th ahead of Ankiel if he's only there for his defense

Gonat said...

Ankiel did it to this team again. Choked with a pitcher on the ropes. How many strikes was he thrown in that sequence. Please move him to the bench and only bring him out in the 8th innings when you are ahead.

Gonat said...

Kendrick finished the inning at 63 pitches and Gio starts the bottom of the frame at 61 pitches. Poor job by Ankiel and unfortunately Flores did nothing with the 2nd pitch he saw.

jeffwx said...

Well AROD just struck out with the bases loaded...Ankiel's a lot cheaper K

Anonymous said...

Ankiel is the worst situational hitter on the team. Rally killer.

Swift Eagle said...

Jack...Davey told us years ago how good Desmond was

the Moneyball types will always dislike Desmond and Espi b/c they K often and don't have the high OBP...Davey has always favored the right mixture of using stats and data, without being a slave to them, while also trusting what he sees...Works for me

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

How many times does Ankiel have to K with a man on third and less than 2 outs before he is gone?

Just hit the ball to the outfield.

his real problem he swings way too hard for him to controll. If the advisor would give some advise, maybe he would learn, however, the advisor is waiting for him to ask, so do not expect a change.

Gonat said...

Zim went do or die on that grab off of Galvis. I am sure we all knew he had it all the time.

MicheleS said...

Manassas.. I have a feeling with Morse/DeRosa coming back, Ankiel will head to the bench. Harper will probably play center.

jeffwx said...

Jeeez...RZ continues to amaze...Still arguing in my head whether he's better than Nettles.

Joe Seamhead said...

Wow! DP's like that will slow that pitch count down. Gio has just been a pleasure to watch.

Gonat said...

NatsJack in Florida said...
For those if us that said this easy was the season for Desi to step up or move on.....well he is certainly stepping up.

May 21, 2012 8:11 PM
__________________________

Clearly a situation where a player responds well to his Manager. You could see it start to turn in Mid-August last year with him.

NatsNut said...

It's weird. Ankiel doesn't bother me for some reason. Even with a bunch of Ks, I still generally trust him.

Espinosa should either practice his media answers or stick with cliches because ever since the spring training batter's eye answer, they've been pretty cringe-worthy. Maybe it comes across differently in print than what he means, but he sounds kinda bratty or something.

On the other hand, I can see how Espinosa might be this year's Desmond. Lots of patience from people who know more than us. And he might just be one of those who has never really dealt much with failure and he's trying to figure that out too.

Joe Seamhead said...

NatsJack, I plead guilty as charged regarding saying that this being Desmond's make or break year.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

I am shocked when Ankiel gets an RBI.

As for comparing his K to ARod's I can't compare it. Arod has done plenty over the years, Ankiel has not.

Drew said...

Ankiel's failure in that spot aside, I think this lineup works well. Harper's been on base twice and Desmond has knocked in two.

Before moving to the 5 hole Desmond had 16 RBIs. Now he has 20.

Gio has electric stuff, but sometimes I wish he didn't strike out quite so many hitters, so he could conserve some pitches and go deeper in the game.

Swift Eagle said...

Totally agree NatsNut. I think Espi is in a Soph Slump like so many before him, just have to ride it out

Joe, I've always liked Desmond, but it was fair for you to say this was a make or break year, he's had plenty of time. He still needs to prove he's a core guy over the full season

jeffwx said...

Mannassas Nat, Yeah but Ankiel had a better change up. ;)

MicheleS said...

I thought Zim was supposed to own this guy?

Gonat said...

Swift Eagle said...
Totally agree NatsNut. I think Espi is in a Soph Slump like so many before him, just have to ride it out

May 21, 2012 8:32 PM
_____________________

Not true. He went ice cold last June and with a few 2 week hot spans at the end of last year has not put together anything meaningful.

This is a kid with bad mechanics from the left side and when you couple that with the mental toll the game hands you, it is a recipe for that negative 0.6 WAR you have seen.

Swift Eagle said...

So the 20 HRs by a rookie 2B were a mirage?

jeffwx said...

And Ankiel only had one-two good yearS in the majors offensively. He's forced to play regularly given the numerous injuries.

Wow...Howard would of missed it (but also hit a couple out ;)

Gonat said...

This inning has not started well

NatsNut said...

Like I said, Ankiel doesn't bother me.
;)

Gonat said...

Nice to see Ankiel do something to help his team.

Swift Eagle said...

Ankiel can't hit, but that catch was as good as 2 RBI...

NatsNut said...

Go Defense!

Drew said...

Wow! Freddie Mercury never flashed that much leather.

Joe Seamhead said...

Why is Ankiel still in the line up? Anymore questions?
Also, no way Ramos makes that tag.Come on, Gio! Dig down! Well done, Gio!!!

Section 222 said...

That was one heck of a sequence. Great D, including Flores diving to make the tag one handed. Very impressive.

Of course, if they had plated a few runs the inning before when the bases were juiced with one out, all of these heroic measures wouldn't have been quite as crucial.

NatsNut said...

Charlie and Dave were laughing that even with Ankiel sprawled out on his stomach, they wouldn't run on him.

Gonat said...

Joe Seamhead said...
Also, no way Ramos makes that tag.
May 21, 2012 8:49 PM
____________________________

And you know that how? Just a ridiculous statement. Its like saying Bernadina wouldn't have caught that ball in CF.

This team has plenty of guys who can make plays except for at 1st base as LaRoche is the only one.

Swift Eagle said...

The catch by Ankiel has kept the Nats in the lead, but even if they win 2-0, the catch won't help his "WAR"...but in real life he would have saved the game...Good example of why you still have to watch the games..

NatsNut said...

Experience.


Gonat said...
Joe Seamhead said...
Also, no way Ramos makes that tag.
May 21, 2012 8:49 PM
____________________________

And you know that how?

Gonat said...

Swift Eagle said...
The catch by Ankiel has kept the Nats in the lead, but even if they win 2-0, the catch won't help his "WAR"...but in real life he would have saved the game...Good example of why you still have to watch the games..

May 21, 2012 8:52 PM
____________________________

Again, that is a catch that Bernadina has made before. It was a Web Gem. It was great. It saved at least 1 run.

Candide said...

Uh, are we looking at HRod in the ninth?

Argh.

Swift Eagle said...

Yes, and it wouldn't improve Berni's "WAR" either..my point is that stats are an important tool, but shouldn't be the sole reason for every decision on and off the field...many games are won by plays that can't be quantified (thank goodness!)

MicheleS said...

I hope they put the tarp on the field.

MicheleS said...

Just flipped the channel.. Livo is pitching in relief. Cinci up 4-1 on the braves.

Gonat said...

Swift, I agree with that which is another reason WAR is sometimes under-rated and over-rated.

Ankiel's arm is a registered weapon and teams won't take the extra base against him.

jeffwx said...

Bernadina makes better sense to me in CF...Ankiel as a late inning replacement.

Joe Seamhead said...

Honestly, Gonat, Ramos' sheer bulk would have made it pretty unlikely for him to make the turn. I think the world of Ramos, feel that he has a lot of strengths that Flores doesn't, but I don't think he makes that play.
As to Ankiel, his reputation regarding his arm, and its accuracy, makes 3B coaches think twice about sending runners that they otherwise might send.
Just my ridiculous opinion.

Swift Eagle said...

The arm is great, but you're correct that his ABs are tough to watch... and there's no doubt WAR and other stats are very useful

Another great inning from Stam, did it stop raining?

Eugene in Oregon said...

Swift Eagle,

WAR is calculated somewhat differently by Fangraphs and Baseball-Reference.com, but I'm pretty sure that both would credit Rick Ankiel for ranging pretty far in toward the infield to make that play. I'm not suggesting -- never have, never will -- that stats should be the sole reason for making personnel decisions in baseball, but they can certainly contribute. And in the case of the WAR, it helps balance a player's offensive and defensive contribution in a way the human eye and mind simply can't.

Drew said...

Big crowd, close game, pressure situation...

I'm hoping for three more runs or a monsoon before the bottom of the ninth.

Gonat said...

Joe Seamhead, you said that a lot more politically crrect. Jesus be nimble Jesus not be quick. Yes, Flores is more nimble.

JaneB said...

How many innings notice do you think they gave Livo before they sent him in, Michelle?

It looks like the rain is over. But Stammen is awesome. I'd like to see him back one more inning and then Clip, not, um, Henry. Not tonight.

SonnyG10 said...

I'd take three more runs and a monsoon before the bottom of the ninth.

Section 222 said...

So are FP and Carp right that Clippard is the closer in this game? I'm guessing no. Nor will Stammen finish the game. He sure is pitching the hell out of it though.

MicheleS said...

JaneB.. the Reds hit 3 homers (back to back to back) in the 4th.. I am sure that' when they told him to get up, he came in in the 7th.

Swift Eagle said...

Thanks Eugene. There's no doubt the Stats are an important tool. But the great thing about baseball is that if you rely on stats or on old fashioned instincts, you're still just guessing...

Now back to the game...getting scary

MicheleS said...

Anyone remember how we used to cringe when Stammen would pitch.. nope, me either, completely erased that from the memory banks.

Eugene in Oregon said...

Tempting fate there -- Pence up three times with runners in scoring position and less than two outs. Ruiz up a couple times with RISP. But getting out of it each time. Wow. Reminds me of April.

MicheleS said...

Sunshine.. get the bourbon and the maalox please. Henry is up. We need provisions.

Candide said...

HRod up. Nice time for the batters to put another five or six runs on the scoreboard, just in case.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

MicheleS, again, Stammen came into 2012 on a mission. Best shape of his life. First sign was when he tells you he didn't golf as much this off-season.

Joe Seamhead said...

Oh, boy, which Henry will we see?

MicheleS said...

Yup Ghost, plus he beefed up the booty. Det needs to do that .

Swift Eagle said...

Lol...I think if they threw Desmond the rosin bag on the first pitch, he'd still swing at it..

Buckle up for the 9th

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Yep MicheleS and I gave you young ladies that news when I saw him in Spring Training. Glutes!

SonnyG10 said...

Well, no three runs and no monsoon. Guess HRod has to do it.

Drew said...

God help us. I hope Burnett is getting loose.

JaneB said...

In fact, I think the "good Henry /bad Henry" began with "good Craig/bad Craig " didn't it?

Maalox and bourbon on handy, I'm trying the honey bourbon tonight.

Heeeeeeeere's Hemry!

SonnyG10 said...

Davey better have a short leash.

Eugene in Oregon said...

No bourbon, but 10mg of Lisinopril, please.

MicheleS said...

Someone tell Carp to stop mentioning the blown saves. JEEZ.. baseball gods don't like that

Section 222 said...

Ok Davey. I'm right with you in giving H-Rod a shot. But you better get Clip up if he's wild. DO NOT LET HIM LOSE THIS GAME!

JaneB said...

Okay. One more of those, get Burnett loose.

djinFl. said...

Phillies announcers must read NI also. Just said team was reaching for the antacid with Henry in.

Swift Eagle said...

Just a bit outside...

jeffwx said...

bad henry, bad

JaneB said...

DAVEEEEEEY!

SonnyG10 said...

Uh-oh, looks like Bad Henry

Swift Eagle said...

Doing his R. Ankiel impersonation?...

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

OMG, facing 6, 7, 8. Bring in Clippard. Unreal

hiramhover said...

Rut ro.

SCNatsFan said...

And so begins the nightmare

jeffwx said...

Ankiel had better control ;)

jeffwx said...

but maybe Henry can hit

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Please Davey, I'm listening to Charlie and Dave and they sound frustrated. Wet mound, be a closer not a poser.

Drew said...

I'm gonna be sick or break something. Maybe both.

SonnyG10 said...

One out means nothing to Bad Henry...keep Sean loose.

hiramhover said...

Did someone throw something on the field as Bryce was fielding that fly ball?

Stay classy, Philthies.

Section 222 said...

That wasn't really routine. The pitch was up in the zone and hittable. But Galvin is no Hunter Pence. Come on Henry. You found the strike zone. Now keep pounding it. These are not good hitters.

Swift Eagle said...

How are these guys laying off pitches so close?

Ah, Harry Doyle

Steady Eddie said...

NOW, DAVEY!!!

JaneB said...

Where is Sean????

Joe Seamhead said...

I'm going to be sick...

NatsNut said...

I think I'm going to be sick...

jeffwx said...

Good sign, he threw the ball where someone can hit it.

SonnyG10 said...

Bring in Sean, now before its too late!!!!

Section 222 said...

DO NOT LET HIM LOSE THIS GAME Davey. Please.

NatsNut said...

who owes who a coke here?

MicheleS said...

CRAP, I can't watch, I am putting my head between my legs

jeffwx said...

that's enough.... 2 wild pitches per appearances is too many

Eugene in Oregon said...

hiram - yes, I saw that too.

NatsNut said...

I love Charlie's emphasis. Davey is coming out. He's taking Henry out RIGHT NOW.

Candide said...

About. F-ing. Time, Davey.

jeffwx said...

time to groom another closer...

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Great, this is ridiculous.now you pull him.

joemktg said...

Just a horrible, unjustifiable performance from a professional. This kid is lost.

SCNatsFan said...

Can't wait to hear Davey's support tomorrow and how this wsn't really a wild outing

MicheleS said...

The Braves lost

rogieshan said...

Let the Rodriguez era end tonight. Please.

Steady Eddie said...

Took you long enough.

When even FP says "enough" and Carp says "Henry fails again, it's time to end this Henry the closer nonsense. It's Burnett. (Not Stammen. We need his multi-inning capability.)

djinFl. said...

This has to really anger the guys who worked hard all game for this win, and Davey trots out Henry.

NatFanBethesda said...

Uh, Davey -- you're a little late, arent ya?

All that hard work for 8 1/2 innings and Hrod gives it away. Your fault, Davey. Everyone watching knew this was coming. Come on, Sean.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Jeff, I have said it since the Dodgers game. HIS NAME IS CRAIG STAMMEN

Michael Dempsey said...

Ok Davey Jonson, can we now say the HROD era is over?
Ridiculous.

Section 222 said...

I feel like someone might have asked this already, but can Henry hit? He might be better at throwing strikes from the outfield.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Why was HRod in for more than 2 pitches and why was Burnett already warmed up. How bad does this guy to pitch before he is relieved (pun intended) of the closer role.

Joe Seamhead said...

Bad time to say it, but I really feel bad for HRod. And I think Davey should have pulled him in the middle of the first batter. He was obviously a man afraid to fail.

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