Sunday, July 15, 2012

Game 86: Nats at Marlins

Photo by Mark Zuckerman / NATS INSIDER
Stephen Strasburg tries to get back on track today at Marlins Park.
MIAMI -- Stephen Strasburg, in a slump? Say it ain't so. OK, the word "slump" may be a bit excessive, but the right-hander has lost three straight starts for the first time in his career and has put 23 men on base over his last 15 innings. Those are very un-Strasburg-like numbers.

The All-Star hurler will try to get back on track today when he faces the Marlins in a matinee under the roof. Shouldn't have to worry at all about heat or humidity inside this facility.

Ricky Nolasco starts for Miami, and he'll face a Nats lineup that is without Ian Desmond for the first time since April 19 but may be without him for several days. Desmond's lingering left oblique strain got worse last night (which is why he was bunting in the ninth inning instead of swinging away). Davey Johnson said this morning he's hopeful Desmond won't need a DL stint, but just in case this lasts multiple days, he's putting Danny Espinosa at shortstop and Steve Lombardozzi at second.

Full story on that situation forthcoming. In the meantime, check back here for live game updates...

WASHINGTON NATIONALS at MIAMI MARLINS
Where: Marlins Park
Gametime: 1:10 p.m. EDT
TV: MASN2, MLB.tv
Radio: WJFK (106.7 FM), WFED (1500 AM), XM 89
Weather: Indoors
NATIONALS (50-35)
2B Steve Lombardozzi
RF Bryce Harper
3B Ryan Zimmerman
1B Adam LaRoche
LF Michael Morse
SS Danny Espinosa
CF Roger Bernadina
C Jhonatan Solano
RHP Stephen Strasburg

MARLINS (42-45)
SS Jose Reyes
2B Omar Infante
1B Carlos Lee
LF Logan Morrison
3B Hanley Ramirez
RF Greg Dobbs
CF Emilio Bonifacio
C John Buck
RHP Ricky Nolasco

UMPIRES
HP Marty Foster, 1B D.J. Reyburn, 2B Jeff Kellogg (cc), 3B Eric Cooper

1:05 p.m. -- Before we get started: Here's the full story on Ian Desmond, with thoughts from Davey Johnson and Danny Espinosa.

1:11 p.m. -- And we're underway with a strike from Ricky Nolasco to Steve Lombardozzi. It's Star Wars Day here. May the Force be with you.

1:15 p.m. -- That didn't take long. Nolasco cruises through the top of the first on 10 pitches, getting Lombardozzi to ground out, Bryce Harper to pop out and Ryan Zimmerman to strikeout. Harper really doesn't look comfortable at the plate these days. His front shoulder is flying open, and pitchers are taking advantage of that by feeding him nothing but offspeed stuff on the outside corner. He's just not able to make solid contact on that pitch the way he's swinging right now.

1:23 p.m. -- A dominant first inning for Stephen Strasburg as well. He needed 13 pitches (nine strikes) to retire the side, getting Jose Reyes on a comebacker and Omar Infante on a flyball into the right field corner. He then completely overwhelmed Carlos Lee, dropping a curveball past him for strike two and then a 90 mph changeup past him for strike three. Scoreless after one.

1:41 p.m. -- A little bit of trouble for Strasburg in the bottom of the second. He allowed a leadoff single to Logan Morrison and a one-out single to Greg Dobbs. Sandwiched in between was a nice catch by Bryce Harper of Hanley Ramirez's smash to right. Harper had a chance to double up Morrison, but his throw across the body to first base was wide. The Marlins wound up with runners on second and third when Strasburg was charged with a wild pitch on a low fastball to John Buck. Truth be told, Jhonatan Solano should have been given the passed ball there, because the ball struck his glove. He's got to knock that down. No worries, because Strasburg struck out Buck to end the inning and keep this game scoreless.

1:53 p.m. -- Strasburg, naturally, is the first member of the Nats lineup to reach base today. He now sports a .429 on-base percentage. Davey should lead him off.

2:10 p.m. -- Whew, that was an exhausting bottom of the third. It included a base hit by Nolasco to right field, with Harper totally geared up to throw him out 9-3 before bobbling the ball. It included two more singles by Reyes and Lee, the latter of which should have scored Nolasco except he held up around third as Bernadina's throw sailed all the way to the backstop. Now with the bases loaded and one out, Strasburg had no margin for error. He wound up striking out Morrison on a high-and-tight fastball, then got Ramirez to hit a sharp grounder down the third-base line. Great diving play by Zimmerman to scoop up the ball, then a great stretch at first base from LaRoche to complete the play and bail out Strasburg, who has already thrown 60 pitches and given up five hits in three scoreless innings.

2:17 p.m. -- Four innings down, and Strasburg is the only National to reach base so far against Nolasco. Meanwhile, Ozzie Guillen appeared to be yapping at Bryce Harper during the bottom of the fourth. Not sure what it was all about, but Ozzie was quite animated. Not that he isn't always quite animated. Still 0-0 as we go to the bottom of the fourth.

2:25 p.m. -- More wild stuff in the bottom of the inning, all courtesy Roger Bernadina. First he makes a way off-line throw trying to get Emilio Bonifacio stretching a single into a double. Then seconds later, he makes an incredible catch of John Buck's drive to deep center. This game has been Roger Bernadina's career in a nutshell. Incredible athletic ability ... when he can harness it and use his head.

2:45 p.m. -- Man, is Ozzie Guillen having a bad day or what? In the top of the fifth, he elected to intentionally walk Solano and bring Strasburg to the plate with two outs and a man in scoring position. Apparently he's learned from the Fredi Gonzalez school of managing. And what do you know, Strasburg laces an RBI single to right. He's now hitting .385 with a .448 on-base percentage and a .654 slugging percentage. Guess what, folks? This guy is a good hitter. A really good hitter. Throw in Lombardozzi's RBI single moments later and the Nats have themselves a 2-0 lead.

2:57 p.m. -- He hasn't been at his absolute best today, but Strasburg has been brilliant when he's needed to be brilliant with men in scoring position. Had runners on second and third with two outs in the fifth and struck out Hanley on a 2-2 curveball in the dirt. So he's somehow made it through five scoreless innings, though his pitch count is up to 94. We'll see if Davey lets him back out for the sixth.

3:13 p.m. -- Make it 4-0 Nats as Morse drives in a run in the top of the sixth, then later gets tagged out trying to steal home. Say what? Yes, you read that correctly. Somebody missed a sign, either Bernadina (who swung away but was supposed to bunt) or Morse (who thought the squeeze play was on). Just another weird moment in a weird game. Meanwhile, Strasburg is back out for the bottom of the sixth on 94 pitches.

3:27 p.m. -- And Strasburg cruises through the sixth on nine pitches, perhaps his best inning of the day. His final line: 6 IP, 6 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 7 K, 105 pitches. Ryan Mattheus in for the bottom of the seventh, trying to protect a 4-0 lead.

3:39 p.m. -- Mattheus cruises through the seventh, so he's back out for the bottom of the eighth, the Nats now six outs from winning this game.

3:49 p.m. -- Mattheus got the first out, then Davey handed the ball to Sean Burnett, whose elbow appears to be A-OK. He struck out Morrison and got Ramirez to ground out. Sean and the Nats will breathe a sigh of relief over that. We go to the ninth, still 4-0 Nats.

3:54 p.m. -- OK, here we go. Tyler Clippard to pitch the bottom of the ninth in another non-save situation.

4:11 p.m. -- Game over. Nats win, 4-0. But it wasn't easy. Clippard loaded the bases with no outs in the bottom of the ninth, then escaped Chad Cordero-style.

252 comments:

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«Oldest ‹Older 1 – 200 of 252 Newer› Newest»
MicheleS said...

Feel better Desi!

GYFNG!!!!

Laddie Blah Blah said...

Oh, oh. Desi sits. Rizzo will have to earn his GM salary finding a fill-in utility guy. There are no really good alternatives in-house, so let's see what he does. They need Desi to get well. Even with his problems yesterday, it was he who manufactured the Nats' only run.

baseballswami said...

If he needs the DL do it now. We are so lucky that espi has played SS and lombo plays 2b. Lombo also hits better when he plays everyday. Everyone will step up yet again.

A DC Wonk said...

Yikes. Desi leads the Nats in a whole lotta offensive categories....

Sunshine_Bobby_Carpenter_Is_Too_Pessimistic_For_Me said...

Thank god for Lombo. Best insurance this side of GEICO.

GYFNG!!

BigCat said...

Just read about Burnett's elbow. Man....when this gonna end. Worst case, Storen takes his spot if he has to DL it. Just heard on radio that Morse has had a hamstring the last couple weeks that has greatly hampered him. That explains my earlier comment

baseballswami said...

Think back to the off season . Desi misses a start and there is general panic at the thought of him not playing. Who would have thought?

The Real Feel Wood. Accept no substitutes. said...

Oh, oh. Desi sits. Rizzo will have to earn his GM salary finding a fill-in utility guy. There are no really good alternatives in-house, so let's see what he does.

DeRosa. And Tracy will be back soon. That's why they signed those guys in the first place.

NatsLady said...

Remember Davey had Espi playing at short during spring training for just this contingency. People were speculating about a trade, but Davey--as usual--thinking ahead.

Grandstander said...

NatsLady, it could have very well been a possible trade as well. Rizzo said the other day he had a ton of teams asking about Desmond, but his asking price was too high.

SonnyG10 said...

Desi sure made the right choise skipping the all-star game.

natsfan1a said...

Only saw the first three innings of the game last night because we were taking a friend out for a birthday dinner and then chit-chatting back at our house. Interestingly, I saw those early innings in the bar of the (Kingstowne) King Street Blues, where our party was seated. We got there a bit before 7, and they had the late innings of an O's game on. As Nats game-time approached, I asked my husband whether I should be a [pest] and ask them to switch over to the Nats, us not being in Baltimore and all. I didn't have to do that, though, as one of the guys seated at the bar asked them to change the channel and they did. Here's to you, bar dude! :-)

Hope to see most of today's game, unless cat-sitting duties call. Go, SS! Go, NATS!!

Feel better, Desi. We need you.

SonnyG10 said...

We need Stras to have his A game and the offense to wake up. Let's fillet some fish today.

UnkyD said...

How 'bout it, Swami?! Raise your hand, if you thought (at this point last year) that the prospect of Desi sitting a few weeks would excite the "Chicken Little" in any of us.... Love that boy...

Kirbs said...

I am glad shark got the start over Ankiel, he had earned it with his coming of the bench play. His single and steal of 2nd last night hopefully showed of things to come.

baseballswami said...

Another example of how this season has been so unpredictable.More stress but more excitement , too. Who will surprise me today?

NatsLady said...

Note on Twitter from Ramos:

Wilson Abrahan Ramos ‏@WRamosC3
Good getting better for the Other surgery

Laddie Blah Blah said...

Feel Wood

"DeRosa. And Tracy will be back soon."

Both corner guys with no range for SS or 2nd base. They need a middle IF who can play some D, at least, to back up Danny and Lombo. The pickings are slim in AAA, and the young prospects in A and AA are not ready. If Desi goes on the DL, I would expect Rizzo to find a legit middle infielder to take Desi's spot until he is ready to come back.

And Desi has been having a career year. Lombo is good as a fill-in starter on D, but no one can take Desi's place in the order.

Fingers crossed for Desi and the Nats.

Laddie Blah Blah said...

Kirbs,

Agree on the Shark. Hope he makes the most of this opportunity. He has been smoking' line drives for the past month, or so, and raised his average to over .250 from way, way down Mendoza territory.

NatsLady said...

Not a lot of "legit middle infielders" out there. Braves took Janish for his glove (not much bat). D'backs need one... etc. etc.

peric said...

And Tracy will be back soon. That's why they signed those guys in the first place.

Tracy is more of a bat not a fielder. DeRosa is decent in the infield but he is 37 going on 38. They'd have to reach down to minors for Rivero and Teahen if anyone else goes down. That's why Rizzo brought those two in.

BigCat said...

"Other surgery?"

phil dunton said...

When Harper doesn't hit, the Nationals don't score runs. Like it or not, he sets the tone for the rest of the team.

peric said...

Plus Zach Walters is having an outstanding year (acquired for Jayson Marquis) in the minors this year. Can play shortstop and third base.

The Nats have it covered. You'll just have to live with Davey using prospects ... no problem here ... ~smiles~

peric said...

When Harper doesn't hit, the Nationals don't score runs. Like it or not, he sets the tone for the rest of the team.

Yup. That bat has got to get going ... or they'll have to find another ... and they do have Corey Brown as a potential in the lead-off spot.

NatsLady said...

BigCat: Yes.

wilson-ramos-injury-update-knee-surgery

http://dc.sbnation.com/washington-nationals/2012/5/13/3017559/wilson-ramos-injury-update-knee-surgery

NatsLady said...

Stras looks worse in the 2nd inning than Gio looked in the 6th. Sweating and flushed.

Swift Eagle said...

I see that too NatsLady! Is the a/c not on? Stras is sweating like crazy

Swift Eagle said...

Hate the red helmets..looks like I'm watching the Angles...Nats need more blue in all their uniforms

NatsLady said...

Put the gold trim back in, so Harper can wear his gold shoes--you are allowed to wear shoes in "team" colors. :)

NatsLady said...

Boo--prefer Stras not on the bases. But he's got a big grin, so hopefully he's fine!

Swift Eagle said...

Haha, the gold adds that "Vegas Touch" I'm sure Bryce would love

NatsLady said...

You think Cabrera attempted steal of home vs. Dodgers' absentminded pitcher because of Bryce stealing 3rd vs. Marlins? Trout may be the next Albert, but Harper is single-handedly changing the game.

NatsJack in Florida said...

Watching Solano throw and if he continues to throw from a rocking chair he'll launch one into CF before the day is over.

Swift Eagle said...

I thought the same thing watching the SD v LA finish last night

Reminds me of how Magic and Bird immediately changed the NBA for the better by playing the right way...

NatsLady said...

Whew! Again. Stras' pitch count must be astronomical.

Swift Eagle said...

WOW...Ozzie just cussed out Bryce!!

MicheleS said...

NatsJack, what is Ozzie Jawing about.

MicheleS said...

He was cussing at davey. so no idea.

sjm308 said...

So what has pissed Ozzie off ?

Swift Eagle said...

Where's Kristina?? Need to hear about this one

NatsLady said...

Nolasco is mowing 'em down. What is Ozzie slobbering about?

NatsFanJim said...

Pretty fair lip reader here -- and Ozzie looked at harper and yelled "Fuck you, kid!!!"

Swift Eagle said...

I think he was yelling at Davey from the dugout, but when he came out to the field, looked like he was directing it to Bryce. Hard to tell

NatsFanJim said...

Kudos to Zimmerman on that tough ground ball in the third But ...

that was the softest, most pathetic throw I have seen from a third baseman in years.

One day, Zim's arm is gonna cost the Nats big -- hopefully not in the playoffs.

Anonymous said...

Maybe this will stop the nonsense about Stras being shut down--or not. Despite what Rizzo says, the media won't leave it alone. But he is clearly not all the way back yet.

MicheleS said...

According to Beats Twitter Accounts, Ozzie was yelling at Bryce tooo

Swift Eagle said...

Just watched it again...NatsJim had the quote correct!

I think he was talking about Bryce setting his back foot outside the box...but just a guess

NatsFanJim said...

Kristina not going to tell you what's going on in this situation.

MicheleS said...

Adam Kilgore‏@AdamKilgoreWP

Something about Harper sticking the bat across the plate while on deck? Or between pitches? Confusing. Ozzie complaining to the ump, too.

NatsFanJim said...

Harper was talking to the umpire right before the yelling

NatsFanJim said...

F.P. thinks Ozzie is complaining about Harper's bat action?????? or his pine tar???? weird Ozzie better channel his hero, Chavez, to get some pointers.

baseballswami said...

Why, oh, why is there still a zero in the hit column? Should I panic?

Swift Eagle said...

If a sideline/on-field reporter doesn't report stuff like this, then what exactly is the point??

Swift Eagle said...

I think our OFs are picking up sand on all these grounders...lots of bad grips, bobbles, and bad throws

Great catch in the sand by Bernie...Field is a disgrace

NatsJack in Florida said...

I'll get a pic next time but Bryce makes shallow trench clearly behind the line, then steps in the box clearly in the box.

NatsFanJim said...

I'm thinking Harper was all too polite to take a "FU" from Ozzie. I would have enjoyed a Harper/Ozzie nose to nose situation -- but Harper did the right thing.

NatsFanJim said...

Totally agree,Swift. I hope she does report it; but got a feeling they'll keep it to themselves.

NatsJack in Florida said...

Derek......the field is at least twice as bad as it looks on TV.

Swift Eagle said...

Jack, I've noticed Bryce doing that at Nats Park too...Haven't guys been messing up the batters box lines for about 100 years?? Ozzie is such a tool

NatsFanJim said...

Hahaha Kristina does her bit on Espinosa, videotape and all.

No mention of Ozzie's rant. Figures.

NatsLady said...

On the throw, LaRoche gave RZ a look, like "What was that?" Man, ALR is good!

NatsFanJim said...

Ozzie is a complete idiot. I used to like him, but don't appreciate his style here in the national league East.

NatsLady said...

Mikey! Finally!

Swift Eagle said...

Lol Jim, it's like it never happened...guess we have to wait for the players to tweet about it after the game...Pretty lame reporting

Doc said...

Ozzie is like his pitcher, Zambrano....anything gets them going....Prozac to the rescue!

NatsFanJim said...

Never I thought I'd say this back in '10 and '11, but we're realllly gonna miss Desmond.

Janus said...

Jim,

just my opinion watching that play at 3rd by Zimmerman: He was moving to his right and although he had stopped briefly his body momentum was still pulling him toward 3rd. So, he could either take a half-second and plant his feet and torque it, or just flip it. He had time to flip it, the aim was off a little but he got his man. I don't think it's as bad you're making it out to be.

NatsFanJim said...

Agreed Swift. What is she good for?

NatsFanJim said...

T-Rex: whatever works for you. A sad throw.

Kevin said...

Swift Eagle, I have to disagree with your comments about the field. It's the finest beach volleyball venue in South Florida.

NatsFanJim said...

T-Rex: one more thing: how many thirdbaseman LOB a throw to third? It's gonna bite us one day -- and I hope I'm wrong. But it's seems to be the elephant in the room with the Nats -- everyone and anyone can see his problem with his throwing motion. I think it's a miracle he gets it there at all -- a testament to his prodigious talents.

Swift Eagle said...

They changed Ryan's throwing motion a couple years ago to protect the shoulder, and it's looked awkward ever since

Another reason you need a guy like ALR playing first instead of Dunn or Morse...ALR makes it look so easy

baseballswami said...

Not being able to watch what you are talking about is torture.

NatsFanJim said...

TRex: correcting my last blurb: 'How many third baseman Lob a throw to First" not third.

NatsFanJim said...

Whoa!! bernie beats it by a full step -- but is Still OUT.

See what happens when Ozzie starts bitching at the Umps? Good that Davey came out to yell a little bit.

Swift Eagle said...

Haha Kevin, if Misty May were out there in a bikini I wouldn't be complaining...

NatsFanJim said...

Agreed Swift: LaRoche is worth every penny they pay him.

Are the Nats gonna pass on resigning LaRoche? I haven't read anything about the Nat's intention to re sign him.

Smatt1001 said...

Stras helping his own cause!!

Swift Eagle said...

Stras is like a right handed Rod Carew! Put him at lead off everyday

NatsFanJim said...

Stasburg is awesome. Stras avg. goes to .385.

Kevin said...

Swift, if Misty were out there, maybe she'd find out why Ozzie was trying to get into Bryce's head???

Joe Seamhead said...

What was the ump looking at? That was awful. Great job by Stras though!

NatsFanJim said...

Two Zip! take that Ozzie. Walk Solano to pitch to Stras? You dont know baseball .. Ozzie. Stras can hit!!

Kevin said...

Lombo!

NatsFanJim said...

Go deep, Harper.

Nattering Nat said...

Master of the obvious, here. How often this year have we seen the Nats batters baffled by a pitcher, only to have Stras, or Gio, or JZimm get the breakthrough hit? More than I ever would have imagined. Stras strikes again!

And then it can be contagious, laying down the gauntlet. Good for Lombo, too!

NatsFanJim said...

Harp just gets under it -- coulda been a bomb.

NatsFanJim said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Holden Baroque said...

People oooh and aaah about 450-foot home runs, and they *are* cool, but they're still one run. The expression for bloop hits is, "It will be a line drive in the box score." Out at first is out. Doesn't matter how hard the throw is. His arm is what it is, and the chatter don't matter.

Swift Eagle said...

Kevin, Misty (who I assume is not at the game) has given us the same amount of info on the incident as the reported assigned to cover the game from field level...

NatsJack in Florida said...

Just posted a pic of Bryce clearly in the box on twitter.

NatsFanJim said...

Wow I just looked at my last comment -- a word looks really bad. You all know that I meant Puss with a short U as in 'tux' right? Sorry if anyone got offended.

NatsFanJim said...

Stras K's Reyes in three .. atta boy!

NatsFanJim said...

Whoa Stras' two seamer nearly takes off Infante's head.

peric said...

Watching Solano throw and if he continues to throw from a rocking chair he'll launch one into CF before the day is over.

Clearly not as good as Sandy Leon. Leon and David Freitas could end up competing for the catching spot given the seriousness of Ramos injury and the 2nd surgery reported by SBNation as posted by NatsLady. Freitas is clearly the offensive catcher, Leon the defensive.

NatsFanJim said...

Is Stras unable to get it up to 98 - 99 anymore? No one mentions that either.

Holden Baroque said...

The "delete" link has been a good friend to me, NFJim.

NatsJack in Florida said...

one "s" for pus.

peric said...

They changed Ryan's throwing motion a couple years ago to protect the shoulder, and it's looked awkward ever since

Or, that AND the injuries, great reasons why they should move Zimmerman to first base. Lots of possibilities for third base when that happens.

Janus said...

OK, I take it back. Sorrry.

NatsFanJim said...

OOh Zim's throw gets worse and worse and worse.

joemktg said...

That's a 5-4-3 if the bases were 25 sq. ft. in size.

peric said...

Is Stras unable to get it up to 98 - 99 anymore? No one mentions that either.

Sure he can and he's done it this year. You have more control at the lower speeds. Better placement. See MPH Rod.

NatsFanJim said...

F.P. 's got it E-5 -- as does this Fan.

I feel for Stras: Zim blew a double play ball -- very bad.

NatsNut said...

Thanks for the clarification NFJim. It was a little shocking.

Kevin said...

Zim needs more cortisone...

Holden Baroque said...

Bad choice, there; that throw should have gone to first. He normally gets a better throw than that.

Nice catch, Shark.

NatsFanJim said...

Good catch Bernie!!! You can play Center, Dude.

MicheleS said...

NatsJack. Is it hot in the building? Stras is sweating buckets.

Kevin said...

The Shark is patrolling the beach!

NatsFanJim said...

Tough play, but Solano aint no Flores.

Swift Eagle said...

Sorry, this just isn't MLB level play at catcher

Holden Baroque said...

Thanks for the clarification NFJim. It was a little shocking.

Betty White called, wanted to know if she was going to have to come down here and straighten somebody out.

NatsLady said...

Another WP/Passed Ball. Good thing the bullpen is rested.

NatsFanJim said...

I only hope that we dont reach a point where Zim can't make any throw at all -- to any base. He's not getting it done today.

NatsJack in Florida said...

Anybody that doesn't think Stras shouldn't be shut down is foolish.

Despite the results today, he's about 75% of what he was before T J.

peric said...

Yup. Looks like they may need to bring back Sandy Leon the beginning of next month. Solano with that back handing bad habit needs some more seasoning in AAA with a catching coach.

NatsFanJim said...

Dont worry about Betty, she likes it when I talk that way!!

NatsLady said...

Stras does it again!!!!! Unreal. There is your Ace, reaching back for it.

peric said...

Anybody that doesn't think Stras shouldn't be shut down is foolish.

A few more games like this and it'll be a lot earlier than September 2nd.

NatsLady said...

All right, Gorzy, you better not give this one back!!!!!

MicheleS said...

He is at 94 pitches. I have a feeling this is his last innning. Let's hope the bullpen is ready. (they should be)

Swift Eagle said...

So true Jack, anyone who has seen him from day 1 like we have can tell he's not himself.

When he's right, he's actually makes it look easy, with smooth, relaxed mechanics. He's really having to work hard now


As good as he's been, he's basically still on rehab this season...

NatsFanJim said...

NatsJack: agreed on Stras. His top speed of 95/96 isnt the old 99/100 -- he's doing well, but shutting him down will be the prudent thing. If they don't, Rizzo will be rolling the dice on both Stras' and his own career.

MicheleS said...

we might complain about Zim throwing at times, but Hanley is not a 3B

SonnyG10 said...

I was going to point out that Stras's TJ has affected his control, but seems you NIs have addressed this pretty well.

NatsFanJim said...

It is absolutely insane that Stras denied the Marlin any runs -- with all those baseruners, and questionable fielding behind him? amazing (or lucky)

MicheleS said...

NatsFanJim. I seem to remember that Stras was trying to dial it down and pitch, not just throw.

Swift Eagle said...

A little soon to be thinking of moving Zimm, he's still a top tier 3B. A lot of guys have had throwing issues that eventually get fixed.

We only remember the famous ones who never figured it out like Sax, Knobloch, and Ankiel

SonnyG10 said...

Way to go Mikey. RBI

Holden Baroque said...

Anybody that doesn't think Stras shouldn't be shut down is foolish.

Some people are watching a human being, and some are just seeing the hype. OF COURSE you want to keep the guy in the hype out there. Hype is perfect. Hype never gets tired, or hurt. Sometimes it does a 180, and the player becomes the worst bum ever. But the human guy isn't like that.

MicheleS said...

Anyone else laughing at this? Ozzie/Loria totally deserve this. Good to see Morse get a couple of hits.

NatsFanJim said...

haha right Michelle, He was barely a SS either.

NatsFanJim said...

Morse only has the one hit, doesnt he?

Swift Eagle said...

2 hits for Morse..and solid contact in the other AB...looked good today

NatsLady said...

Two hits... both in this game. Buck was trying to pick off ALR or Morse?????? Which one of them was gonna steal! LOL Ozzie.

NatsFanJim said...

Right Swift, but have you ever seen a more alarming throw (that isnt getting better) from any calibre third basemen? I have not. At any level.

SonnyG10 said...

Hope they have left HRod at the hotel today.

Holden Baroque said...

The long throw to first? He had plenty of time, no need to hurry. A little off line, is all. The throw to second was ill-advised, and off-balance, but he usually makes that throw.

NatsFanJim said...

Musta missed Morse's first hit ...

good job, Espi!


Ricky 'I had em for awhile' Nolasco finally comes out.

NatsJack in Florida said...

OK....does that dispel the idiotic notion that Morse has a hammy tweak?

Swift Eagle said...

Jim, I think the problem was they changed Ryan's throwing motion during a season (2010, I think) and he's had various injuries since

I think that's the type of change that should be done during an off-season (like Espi ditching switch hitting)...

With practice and good health, I think Ryan will be fine at 3B

peric said...

OK....does that dispel the idiotic notion that Morse has a hammy tweak?

Let's see how he looks in the field and then on Tuesday after that slide first.

NatsJack in Florida said...

SonnyG.....sorry but he's in the bull pen.

NatsFanJim said...

Sec 3: are you watching those throws? Painfully executed and submarined? Zim has fought through this problem for 2 years now -- but it gets worrisome when he can't hit the second baseman -- that 90 ft. 126 ft. to first.

peric said...

Hope they have left HRod at the hotel today.

Unless he completely implodes they are going to keep working with him. Remember HE IS ONLT TWENTY THREE YEARS OLD! Most all of the bullpen is older!!!

NatsNut said...

im kitty-sitting too, 1a. but its not affecting my baseball. he's on my chest, purring while i listen to C & D and read u guys. almost heaven.

MicheleS said...

Poor Morse. He got caught in no man's land with that squeeze attempt.

Holden Baroque said...

Yes. I think you are mis-characterizing them.

Swift Eagle said...

Roger giveth...Roger taketh...

NatsLady said...

ooooooops! Shark misses squeeze sign, then hits what would have been a sac fly. Oh, well.

NatsFanJim said...

I'm hoping it gets fixes. I expect it will. A little concerned that it's taken this long. I mean, the throw aint rocket science. How much of it is in his head. I only hope it gets no worse -- which would sit him down.

NatsFanJim said...

Oh Well? Bernie is a dolt.

mick said...

love Davey...but that is STUPID baseball. so Bernadina would have made it 5-0 with the deep fly ball, instead, the suicide play eliminated that chance. I am sorry, that is DUMB.

peric said...

Looks like Trent Jewett just gave the Shark a ration of shit for missing the sign ... he knows it too. Yikes, his first time starting in CF in god only knows when and he was having a tremendous game out there ... hate to see him missing that squeeze play sign!

Holden Baroque said...

Roger's career in a nutshell, indeed.

mick said...

natssfan.... the question is, WHY??? 2-0 count, runner at third with 1 out???

MicheleS said...

Shocked that Stras is back out there...thought he would have been pulled at 94 pitches

peric said...

Love Davey...but that is STUPID baseball. so Bernadina would have made it 5-0 with the deep fly ball, instead, the suicide play eliminated that chance. I am sorry, that is DUMB.

Given Bernadina's speed and massive Morse passing Buck? It might have been a hit instead of a deep fly and one out.

NatsFanJim said...

Sorry Sec 3. Can't get more obvious than it already is. Denial is your option. Knock yourself out.

NatsJack in Florida said...

Somebody can't count. Hwnri is 25.

mick said...

all I know is that roger has saved at least 2 runs this game!!!

MicheleS said...

Mick.. I have a feeling that Davey was messing with Ozzie and trying to pile on. After Ozzie jawing at Bryce anyone notice the guys are focused and just want to shut the fish down today.

peric said...

natssfan.... the question is, WHY??? 2-0 count, runner at third with 1 out???

Good chance for a base hit given Bernadina's speed. Sure run. Not a sure fly ball he could have struck out or grounded out. Right Mick? Sheesh!!!

NatsJack in Florida said...

Henri

NatsFanJim said...

Stras needs a quick, easy inning.

Holden Baroque said...

The suicide play was fine, missing the sign is dumb.

Nattering Nat said...

Indeed, that IS the question....

mick said...

Michele... you could be right

mick said...

Sec.3, My Sofa we did not need that play at that time

SonnyG10 said...

Whoa, Bell warming up.

peric said...

Somebody can't count. Hwnri is 25.

Okay so they got him when he was 23. He is still pretty young by comparison with most all of the bullpen in DC and in Syracuse.

Holden Baroque said...

Sorry Sec 3. Can't get more obvious than it already is. Denial is your option. Knock yourself out.

Or, I could simply disagree. It's possible.

NatsFanJim said...

That'll do, Stras

Swift Eagle said...

Stras always looks good when he can see the finish line...perfect was to end his day

NatsFanJim said...

It's possible, yes: but Incredible -- especially if you played the game at any level -- Any Level.

NatsLady said...

Yeah, what do I know? Stras pitches an excellent sixth inning.

MicheleS said...

Darn, I was hoping for a Heath Bell sighting in the game.

NatsFanJim said...

Good job stras, but here we all are Happy and cheering that he made it through six innings. Shut him down in Sept., Riz!

NatsLady said...

MicheleS--yes. The boys do not like anyone messing with Bryce except them!

MicheleS said...

NatsLady, If Bryce gets one up in the ear, you can bet there will be brawl.

And Yes it was me that let FP know it was National Ice Cream day.

Holden Baroque said...

Sec.3, My Sofa we did not need that play at that time

"Need" ... well, a halfway decent bunt scores a run, without a doubt, as likely as a sac fly, if not moreso. "Play for one run, that's what you get--one run."? I can see that. They were starting to get hits. Maybe if it were the 5th run, the bunt would look slightly better.

Do they have any XBH yet? They do have that streak going. FWIW.

NatsFanJim said...

Lombo's bloop surely hung up there too too long not to be caught.

NatsJack in Florida said...

5 runs is the Henri rule. The Nats have to be up or down 5 runs on the 6th or later before Henri can even warmm up.

NatsLady said...

NJJ, yes, I was just posting the same. Did the Marlins give up, or want to see another 0-fer on Bryce?

NatsJack in Florida said...

And when did "God Bless America" become the "National Anthem"?

Joe Seamhead said...

Mick, I disagree with you on calling the squeeze. With where the fielders were playing, it was an easy run. Davey is not stupid, however, Roger Bernadina supplies his own reasons as to why he is not an everyday starter. He's a talented ballplayer, but a bonehead. He could have gotten Morse seriously hurt.

Holden Baroque said...

It's possible, yes: but Incredible -- especially if you played the game at any level -- Any Level.

Did, and still do, as it happens, but that's not the point.


Are we getting into one of those chat slumps again, where only three people know everything, and the rest of us are privileged enough to get to read it? The last one cost us half the interesting posters.

peric said...

5 runs is the Henri rule. The Nats have to be up or down 5 runs on the 6th or later before Henri can even warmm up.

Makes sense until he gets his confidence back. Have to wonder if he doesn't again end up on the DL for Storen to get more rehab appearances trying to build up his confidence again. Not sure its going to work but I don't fault them for trying.

NatsNut said...

Agree, NatsJack on the non-anthem.

Holden Baroque said...

And when did "God Bless America" become the "National Anthem"?

About 10-3/4 years ago, NJ.

NatsLady said...

NJ, I was hoping ten years after September 11 we could forgo GBA, but apparently not.

MicheleS said...

Peric, Either Henri smashes his hand again or Sean goes on the DL when when Druuu comes back. Just sayin', I hope Sean doesn't need to go on the DL.

NatsNut said...

There you go, Michele. Heath Bell coming in.

MicheleS said...

Hasn't GBA become a Sunday only thing? (except in NY?) I don't remember doing it at most of the games at Nats Park

peric said...

Are we getting into one of those chat slumps again, where only three people know everything, and the rest of us are privileged enough to get to read it? The last one cost us half the interesting posters.

Are you including yourself Mr. black kettle?

NatsLady said...

Well, I understand he's available today, so we'll see if he pitches the 8th (Burnett, I mean).

MicheleS said...

OOO Heath Bell! YEA!!! I want Ozzie's head to explode into a MILLION pieces!!!

NatsNut said...

peric, why so defensive. Did you think he was talking about you?

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