Monday, July 1, 2013

Game 82: Brewers at Nats

Mark Zuckerman / NATS INSIDER
The season's second half begins tonight, and in a sense, the Nationals are starting over again themselves. By sheer coincidence, Game 82 happens to fall on the day Bryce Harper returns from the DL and Davey Johnson assembles a lineup that suddenly looks far more intimidating than it has for the last five weeks.

The big question was who would hit second in front of Harper. The answer: Jayson Werth, who was supposed to bat there all along but was pressed into middle-of-the-order duties with Harper out. That means Anthony Rendon gets bumped all the way down to the 7-hole, though that's not necessarily the worst place for a rookie who after a fantastic debut has cooled off considerably in recent days, carrying a 1-for-18 slump into tonight's game.

It also helps to have Jordan Zimmermann on the mound in search of his NL-leading 12th win. He'll be facing a Brewers club that currently sits in last place in the NL Central, losers of five straight including a 14-inning, rain-delayed game yesterday in Pittsburgh.

Updates to come, so please check back...

MILWAUKEE BREWERS at WASHINGTON NATIONALS
Where: Nationals Park
Gametime: 7:05 p.m. EDT
TV: MASN, MLB.tv
Radio: WJFK (106.7 FM), WFED (1500 AM), XM 184
Weather: Scattered storms, 79 degrees, Wind 13 mph RF to LF
NATIONALS (41-40)
CF Denard Span
RF Jayson Werth
LF Bryce Harper
3B Ryan Zimmerman
1B Adam LaRoche
SS Ian Desmond
2B Anthony Rendon
C Kurt Suzuki
RHP Jordan Zimmermann

BREWERS (32-48)
RF Norichika Aoki
SS Juan Segura
CF Carlos Gomez
3B Aramis Ramirez
C Jonathan Lucroy
2B Rickie Weeks
1B Juan Francisco
LF Sean Halton
RHP Yovani Gallardo

UMPIRES
HP Mark Carlson
1B Brian Knight
2B Dan Iassogna
3B Gerry Davis (cc)

7:06 p.m. — We are underway on a sticky, 80-degree night in the District as Jordan Zimmermann fires a fastball to Norichika Aoki for ball one.

7:10 p.m. — And Zimmermann slices through the top of the Brewers lineup like a hot knife through butter. It took him only 10 pitches (7 strikes) to retire the side on a couple of groundballs to the right side and a strikeout. Nice play by Anthony Rendon, who charged way to his left to field Aoki's drag bunt and then flipped it straight from his glove to Adam LaRoche. I'm guessing that's not a play Rendon has practiced much, but he certainly looked comfortable doing it.

7:22 p.m. — Well, I guess this Harper kid might be kind of decent. First at-bat off the DL: Opposite-field homer. Nationals Park erupted and didn't let up until Bryce took a curtain call. Just like on Opening Day. The Nats lead 1-0 as Harper makes his presence known immediately and with authority.

7:36 p.m. — Zimmermann did surrender a base hit in the second, but otherwise cruised again, striking out Juan Francisco to end the frame. He's thrown 17 of 21 pitches for strikes. The Nats lineup, meanwhile, hasn't done much of anything against Yovani Gallardo aside from Harper's homer. Still 1-0 after two.

8:09 p.m. — Sweet. Fancy. Moses. The Nationals suddenly have the most productive lineup in baseball! (Either that, or Yovani Gallardo, Brandon Lyon and Anthony Recker just really stink.) Whatever the case, they're on fire, having just scored five runs in the bottom of the third off Gallardo. And amazingly, Harper had nothing to do with it. He struck out in his second at-bat of the night. No worries, because Zimmermann, Werth, LaRoche and Desmond all doubled, Span walked and Zimmerman singled. Put it all together and you've got five runs, a 6-0 lead after three innings and 14 runs scored by the Nats over their last five innings played. Unreal.

8:29 p.m. — And the hits keep coming. Two more runs in the fourth, ignited by Zimmermann's second hit of the night, a double by Span and a two-run single by Werth, giving him four RBI tonight (his most since May 2011). That did it for Gallardo, who was yanked without recording an out in the fourth, and that might do it for his trade value as well. It's 8-0 Nats after four innings of complete dominance.

8:37 p.m. — Well, there goes the shutout. The Brewers score a pair off Zimmermann in the top of the fifth, proving he's human after all. It's 8-2 now.

8:48 p.m. — Just what the Nats needed, a big injection of life to their lineup tonight. ... From Jordan Zimmermann, who is now 3-for-3. What, who did you think I meant?

9:07 p.m. — What is it about Zimmermann and big leads? He couldn't hold one in Baltimore in May. He couldn't hold one in Cleveland in June. And he looks like he doesn't want to hold this one tonight. Weeks and Francisco just went back-to-back in the sixth, each homering to cut the Nats' lead to 8-4 and now Fernando Abad is warming in the bullpen. No idea what Zimmermann's aversion to large leads is, but something about this situation just doesn't sit well with him.

9:17 p.m. — Can't say I thought Zimmermann would only last six innings tonight, but he's done after allowing four runs on nine hits. Jordan is in line for his league-leading 12th win, but he won't be satisfied with this performance. Craig Stammen in for the seventh, the Nats still up 8-4.

9:27 p.m. — And the Brewers keep chipping away. They score a run off Stammen in the top of the seventh, trimming the lead to 8-5 and forcing Davey Johnson to summon Drew Storen to get out of the jam. It's now 8-5, and the fact Rafael Soriano even has to consider pitching tonight is beyond ridiculous.

9:36 p.m. — Meanwhile, that unstoppable Nats lineup has put up four straight zeroes against a Milwaukee bullpen that threw 11 1/3 innings yesterday in Pittsburgh. Still 8-5 as Tyler Clippard enters for the eighth.

9:43 p.m. — Credit to Storen and Clippard for getting things back under control. They've combined to retire all four batters faced, so it remains 8-5 as we go to the bottom of the eighth.

10:00 p.m. — Insurance runs! Two of them! Werth delivered his fifth RBI of the night, his most since July 6, 2009 while he played for the Phillies. Zimmerman added another RBI single, so it's 10-5 as Soriano takes a seat in the bullpen and Fernando Abad enters for the ninth.

10:08 p.m. — That'll do it. Abad closes out an impressive, 10-5 victory for the Nationals, who have now scored 23 runs the last two days and improve to two games over .500.

298 comments:

«Oldest   ‹Older   1 – 200 of 298   Newer›   Newest»
«Oldest ‹Older 1 – 200 of 298 Newer› Newest»
Gonat said...

Thats a lineup that looks better than Opening Day!

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Do we have any news on Detwiler?

Anna Peregrina said...

What are the chances of the game actually being played tonight?

natsfan1a said...

Gee, I love new beginnings. Gee, I love baseball.

Go, Bulldog! Go, Harp!! Go, NATS!!

Mark Z said...

The season's second half begins tonight, and in a sense, the Nationals are starting over again themselves.

Eric said...

I feel like looking at that line up will induce reactions akin to the opening of the Ark in Raiders of the Lost Ark.

IT BURNS US, PRECIOUS!!!

Eric said...

Actually, it's interesting both that Harper is back and JZim is starting the first game of the second half of the season...

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Gonat said...
Thats a lineup that looks better than Opening Day!


Agreed and do you remember what Harp did on Opening Day?

nats guy said...

I'll join the crew of those signing off for good. When you write what's on your mind bad or good those that don't agree put you down. Adios.

Whack-a-Mule said...

Mule borrows from Cole Porter (Yale '13) and "Anything Goes" (currently at Kennedy Center):

" Bulldog! Woof! Bulldog! Woof! Bow-wow-wow! "

A dozen for J-Zim!

phil dunton said...

Desmond should bat cleanup.

SonnyG10 said...

Oh Boy!!! The kid is back!

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

https://twitter.com/JulieAlexandria/status/351778963871367169/photo/1

Diz said...

Det's Sunday session went well. No issues with the back.

No news on how his throwing sesssion went today.

From Amanda yesterday:
Amanda Comak @acomak

Ross Detwiler had no issues while playing catch. Seems there is little question about him making the start on Wednesday.

David Proctor said...

Desmond has excelled in the 6 hole. Any time they've moved him somewhere else, he's struggled. I like him at 6.

Secret wasian man said...

Brew crew coming off 2,5 hour rain delay and 14 inning game. Our best pitcher. Gotta get this one. Right?

Faraz Shaikh said...

agreed, i am glad davey has not moved desmond out of his spot to get more runs or anything.

Eric said...

Likewise re: Desi.

Eugene in Oregon said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Eugene in Oregon said...

As the Nats begin the second half of the season, I recall a conversation in the summer of 2010 with a friend who's quite knowledgeable about baseball, but, alas, an Angels fan (although, as a DC resident he keeps up with the Nats). We agreed that, from a fan's perspective, while winning titles is great, your fundamental need is for your team to be playing meaningful games in August and September. At the time, I said that's what I was hoping for in the 2012 season, with the expectation that 2013 -- and beyond -- would bring a real contender. Given that we got the contender a year earlier than most (not everyone, I know) expected, I'm prepared to enjoy the rest of this year so long as the Nats' games remain meaningful (and not just in a spoiler sense). The Nats won from the front last season; let's appreciate the beauty of a pennant race in which they're trying to come from behind. That way -- pun fully intended -- you've covered all the bases.

Don said...

I don't care where Werth was supposed to bat, he's not right for the 2 hole and Rendon is. The kid has thrived there. He's hitting for average, getting on, coming up with the timely hit. Let's get him LESS ABs? Why mess with the one of the few things that has been offensive success for the Nats?

Werth should be hitting 5th or 6th. Werth being "pressed into middle-of-the-order duties" is some nonsense. Not like how much money he makes is a factor, but teams do not pay guys $126M to bat 2nd and Jayson never did much of it in his career in the first place. Hitting 5th is where Jayson has had his best success as a big leaguer. Rendon is playing very well in the 2 hole and Weth is taking less walks than ever this season and swinging for the fences (3+Ks/BB). He's a run producer not a table setter. These are the kinds of decisions that also ran clubs make.

SonnyG10 said...

Enjoying my 50% off Papa John's pizza right now. Yummmmm!!!

baseballswami said...

Eugene -- agreed. Let's face it, the fans of only one team out of thirty are truly happy at the end of the season. Does that mean the other 29 seasons were a total waste? For the second half, I would like to see the Nats playing a better brand of baseball. Cleaner defense. Better situational hitting. I would like to feel that they are in every single game until the last out. I would like to feel that we are in contention right up until the bitter or happy end. This game is just so unpredictable. Anyone who thinks they want to try to predict what anything will be like in October is welcome to try. I am excited to watch the kids play together and I am really looking forward to Ramos coming back. I wish we could get Det straightened out so that he is the guy from the WBC and I hope we can get Haren pitching to the point where he is at least able to compete - or be replaced. We are getting down to tweaking things now and then I hope they play consistent baseball - nothing fancy, just consistent baseball.

mick said...

opportunity for Nats to run off 7-8 in a row at home and ironically catch Braves by All star break. If that happen, mentally it would be devastating for Braves.

Its there for the Nats, in spite of all the problems they have had...will they seize upon it??

Eric said...

"Rendon is playing very well in the 2 hole and Weth is taking less walks than ever this season and swinging for the fences (3+Ks/BB). He's a run producer not a table setter. These are the kinds of decisions that also ran clubs make."

Er, hasn't he been batting 4th or 5th for weeks now? Wouldn't you expect him to change his approach to adapt to the role, and wouldn't his stats reflect that?

Eric said...

"opportunity for Nats to run off 7-8 in a row at home and ironically catch Braves by All star break. If that happen, mentally it would be devastating for Braves."

That would be some juicy nastiness right there!

mick said...

did not realize how close Nats are to wild card too... they have a great chance to really make their move this week

Get Your Re(n)d On said...

Let's see. You have Werth, who's probably better suited to be a table setter than an RBI guy at this point in his career, and Rendon who can do both. Makes sense to use Werth as the table setter in that scenario. Their relative salaries have nothing to do with it.

mick said...

Eric...I would not be shocked if Nats were tied or ahead of Braves at the break

David Proctor said...

I do not expect us to go on a long winning streak. I just don't think we're built for it with the backend of our rotation right now. I think our progress will be a little slower (which means after every loss, people will continue to panic). Just keep winning 2/3 or 3/4 and we'll be just fine.

Eric said...

Honestly, I think at least half of what the Nats get from Werth for their money is mojo and mentoring. And, I think it's absolutely money well spent. For instance, I wouldn't be at all surprised if Harper's maturity at the plate arises significantly from working with Werth.

NatsLady said...

D-Backs put Cahill on the DL (hi contusion). They are 1-5 in their road trip, so far.

Tigers lost again today and fell out of first place in the AL Central. They were supposed to be the best team in the AL--they may yet be but they need to fix a few things, like their bullpen.

mick said...

at half way point...it is clear right now on 7/1 that the Cards are the team to beat in the NL and maybe Pirates are in that mix...they may not fold this year... The West seems weak and Nats did well against AZ. So, Nats are really going to see where they are verse Pirates soon

Eric said...

"Eric...I would not be shocked if Nats were tied or ahead of Braves at the break"

I would be, but it's certainly feasible!

mick said...

David...that would be fine, as long as they win these series they should get there.

Also, Werth is vital to Nats

NatsLady said...

The think that never ceases to amaze me is how the national pundits fall in love and out of love. Two weeks ago it was the Cards, now it's the Pirates. Just keep playing our game, minding our own business...

mick said...

Ghost...your right and realistically, Braves should still be ahead by the break, but I bet Nats could be within 2-3 games and the second wild card going into break

mick said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
David Proctor said...

The problem with all those NL Central teams is they've hardly played each other so far. At some point soon, they're going to start playing each other and beating each other up. This level of play isn't sustainable for all three teams. Somebody has to lose.

NatsLady said...

Who was sent down? I'm sure it was mentioned but I missed it.

Eric said...

I'm freaking giddy about tonight's game, but tonight's my night to put the kids to bed, I need to go to the d@mn grocery store, and it looks like rain and it feels like rain...

Sheesh!

Eric said...

Davis went down, NL

Eric said...

Mark Zuckerman @ZuckermanCSN
#Nats officially activate Bryce Harper off DL, option RHP Erik Davis to AAA.

JD said...


Don,

Sorry, You are dead wrong about Werth. Other than 2009 (99 RBI's) and 2010 (85 RBI's) Werth never was a big RBI producer and in these years he was batting 6th on a killer Philly lineup playing in a band box. What he has always done well is get on base and work the count, which incidentally was the catalyst for the Nats 2nd half offensive success.

Taking nothing away from Rendon, I think he'l do just fine in the 7th hole but as we saw this weekend his offensive game is still under development and it's not necessary to put this kind of pressure on the kid while he's adjusting to the adjustments.

David Proctor said...

Micah Owens released.

Nats106 said...

I posted the below after the first Orioles game. Only off in that one of the Mets game was rained out.

Orioles: Lose series 3-1
Braves: Lose series 2-1
Mets and Twins Win series 4-2
Rockies/Indians/Phillies road trip: 4-5
Rockies/dBacks homes series: 4-3
Mets away 2-1 win series
Brewers/Padres Home series: 4-3
Phillies/Marlins away: 4-2

Revising the Brewers/Padres home stand to 5-2 instead of 4-3. Nats are finally getting some momentum and getting the guys who can carry this team back in action. Feeling real good about the second half, but you never know.

NatsLady said...

Well, Davis got a free trip to NYC. Hope he enjoyed it. :)

Eric said...

"Well, Davis got a free trip to NYC. Hope he enjoyed it. :)"

Haha, seriously!

JD said...


NL & Eric,

Davis was called up in case Jordan completely blew up on Saturday and we needed almost an entire bullpen game. It turns out this wasn't necessary.

Was Krol tossing hand grenades on purpose yesterday? Everything they hit off him was ta toed.

Eric said...

Yeah, I dunno re: Krol. I almost feel like he was instructed to take it easy so as to ensure we have a fresh bullpen when we need one...? Anyway, it was a fine time to get his first real dud out of the way.

David Proctor said...

Krol was just tossing fastballs down the middle. I don't think or Zuke were particularly interested in painting the corners. They just wanted outs.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

mick said...
Ghost...your right and realistically, Braves should still be ahead by the break, but I bet Nats could be within 2-3 games and the second wild card going into break

July 01, 2013 4:39 PM


I want to see the Nats get exactly to that 2-3 games by the All Star break and the Nats can certainly do that by grinding it out every game and doing their best #EatFace!

TexNat said...

Werth should bat lead off and Rendon second. It is actually Span that is trading extra base hits for OBP this year, so move him to 7th.

NatsLady said...

Agree on Krol. He shook Suzuki off three times on one pitch. I think Zook said, forget that, just throw fastball, and let's go home.

JD, yes, I know that's why Davis was called up. He probably knew also--that it was a weekend trip...Didn't even have to work up a sweat.

JD said...


Ghost,

I don't know. The Braves have 6 games with the Marlins and 3 with the Phills before they host the Reds for 4. I'm not sure I see much potential for making up ground unless we win something like 9 out of 10 and even then I don't see us making up 3 - 4 games.

NatsLady said...

Span hits very well at home and against righties, which is today's situation. If you want to move him down away and vs. lefties, that might be the time.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

JD said...

Ghost,

I don't know. The Braves have 6 games with the Marlins and 3 with the Phills before they host the Reds for 4. I'm not sure I see much potential for making up ground unless we win something like 9 out of 10 and even then I don't see us making up 3 - 4 games.

July 01, 2013 5:10 PM


If the Braves have to face Jacob Turner, Fernandez and Nolasco it's very possible they could lose a bunch.

I remember people counting the September games and the Braves wilted under the pressure.

The Nats really need to win all 4 of these Brewers games. That's the start.

JD said...


NatsLady

I think that's exactly what Davie should do. Move Span to 7th against lefties and insert Rendon in the no. 2 hole.

JD said...


Ghost,

I agree. I think 4 game sweeps are fairly rare though. Let's win tonight and take it from there.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

JD, so are 10 game winning streaks and teams do it every year. This will show us what the Nats are all about.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Harper just talked to the media. He's wearing a kneepad I guess was the big news. All ready to rake and go oppo boppo. It really feels like Opening Day!

jshai said...

Rendon should be hitting second and Werth seventh. Looks like politics and a contract have dictated a baseball decision.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Gallardo is a righty but I am hoping Davey employs a special lineup against the LHPs and sits Span.

Werth RH RF
Rendon RH 2B
Harp LH CF
RZim RH 3B
ALR LH 1B
Desi RH SS
----- RH LF
Ramozuki RH C

If the Nats have a lead in the 7th you bring in Span as a defensive replacement.

Ron In Reston said...

I think Werth batting second and Rendon 7th is the right way to go, let Rendon protect Desi, let Span and Werth see alot of pitches before the big guns come up.

That being said, I also like the idea of Werth leading off and Rendon hitting second with Span 7th (or even 8th) against lefties. You've still got two guys who will see a lot of pitches at the top of the order and I don't know that Desi needs as much protection against a lefty. Putting Span 8th brings up the possibility of the pitcher bunting him over should he manage to draw a walk against a lefty, which turns over the lineup.

realdealnats said...

One game at a time. One pitch at a time. That's how we get there. Just enjoy that ride.

David Proctor said...

Span is a career .278 against LHB. He's shown he can hit left handers. The only way for him to break out of this funk is for him to hit his way out of it. I'm not convinced platooning him will help.

Ron In Reston said...

I like the thought, GoSM, but we don't have anyone right now to fill that spot, which I think we can all agree on. It's not Moore, it's not Lombo, and for those who are still whining, it's not Morse, either. The defensive dropoff for any of those three is not compensated by their "offense"....Morse would have been the closest, but still not enough. So until there is someone to fill that spot, I think you bat Span 7th or 8th against lefties as I outlined above.

Anonymous said...

How many times will Span hit a weak grounder up the first base line? 3 times or 4 times today?

Don said...

JD -- Werth's success, to the extent he ever had any, was as a middle of the order bat. He hit 5th or 6th mostly. The Nats paid him $126M to be a middle of the order bat. Werth had zero AB's in the 2 hole in 2012, so it is not like he has some great history of performing well there either. And of late he's hit well in the middle -- in June .286, 4 HRs, taking his walks, knocking some in, hitting mostly 4 with some 5. He's been good. But batting 2 this year. he's not been very good (23K/3BB hitting .233, OPS under .700). Davey's looking to fix unbroke stuff.

A DC Wonk said...

I don't know. The Braves have 6 games with the Marlins and 3 with the Phills before they host the Reds for 4. I'm not sure I see much potential for making up ground unless we win something like 9 out of 10 and even then I don't see us making up 3 - 4 games.

...

If the Braves have to face Jacob Turner, Fernandez and Nolasco it's very possible they could lose a bunch.


Marlins have won 5 of their last 6; 7 of their last 9.

A DC Wonk said...

(otoh, Atlanta has also won 5 of its last 6)

Whynat said...

Things turning around at ni. Rose colored glasses crew out scoring legion of doom 7 to 3. Several LOD on the DL.

Just wonderin' said...

Whynat - doesn't the Legion of Doom mainly come out in the fourth or fifth inning of a losing game? Maybe they can't stand the daylight?

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Just Wonderin'. LMAO

Holden Baroque said...

Getting Rendon "less at-bats" - how much at-bats does he need?

but seriously ... in a given game, the difference is one AB, more or less, and late. Late and close, I'll still take Werth over Rendon.

pwilly said...

The Weather Channel future cast shows nothing around DC from now thru 11pm, fwiw.

Holden Baroque said...

"doesn't the Legion of Doom mainly come out in the fourth or fifth inning of a losing game?"

It's harder to say "I told you so!" in the abstract, when things are going well. That's why JayBee is so special--he doesn't limit himself, and he's consistent. The perdiciónistas, by definition, are reactive.

Whynat said...

The fourth and fifth inning LOD, those are your slap hitting LOD. The season is lost LOD, the big bats, those guys are on the DL.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

NatsJack, yah, Phil doesn't have a feel for Davey at all.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Change comes slowly to Davey/Rizzo. It took 2 full months of Espinosa and 2 1/3 years of HenRod.

TheManBearPig said...

Drop Span to 7 or 8, let Werth lead off and keep Rendon at 2. Werth is better suited to lead off than any other hitter the Nats have. Unlike most MLB hitters, Werth's numbers have always been better when hitting with bases empty than with runners on and he excels when leading off an inning. In those situations, he'll get on base 4 times for every 3 times Span gets on. And, although he's not as fast as Span, he's a better baserunner. Put Werth at #1 and the Nats will get better hitting out of the middle of the lineup because they'll be hitting with runners on more often than they would with Span leading off.

David Proctor said...

Nice 1-2-3 inning for JZimm!

David Proctor said...

How is Span 0-for-14 against Gallardo? Was Gallardo in the AL at some point?

Unknown said...

welcome back Harp! animal!

MicheleS said...

Well that didn't take long! BRYCE BOMB!!!

Another_Sam said...

Bryce! Bryce! Bryce!

Another_Sam said...

I kick myself for not going to the park.

RickH said...

Welcome back, Bryce! We missed you, buddy.

Smatt1001 said...

Bam Bam is back!

Eric said...

Am I watching a baseball game or a freaking movie? Unreal. Welcome back Harper!

NatsFanSinceStart said...

And Away we go!!!!!

SonnyG10 said...

host Of Steve M. said...
Gonat said...
Thats a lineup that looks better than Opening Day!


Agreed and do you remember what Harp did on Opening Day?
July 01, 2013 3:58 PM


Way to call it, Ghost!

Eric said...

Anyone see what looked like a sign that said "Welcome Back! GYFNG!" just behind the Nats dugout on the Harper curtain call replay? If so, was that an NIer?

jeffwx said...

Tha amazing Z-mann

Unknown said...

Game would be 2-0 is rendon was batting 2nd

NatsFanSinceStart said...

I note a lot of pre-game discussion of Span. Let me contribute. Span is what Span is - Exactly. His stats are Precisely what Rizzo acquired: middling average, poor basestealer, below avg. baserunner, Zero Power, no gap power either - can only pull the ball for power - thus, his triples.

Last season Werth had an .OBA of a little over .400 when leading off - Span has never come close to that -- and probably never will.

Span was not a good pickup in my opinion. We spent 13 million on a declining pitcher, but passed on Michael Bourne? makes no sense to me

jeffwx said...

so all you fellow couch coaches.
How do you split Ramos/Zook after the 4th ?
2 and 2, 3 out of 4 for Zook, then 2 and 2, then 1 of 4 for zook

Also, who goes down or DFAs on Thursday ? (Tracy)

Finally, what is the barves weakness when compared to us (starting pitching ???, infield ???, bullpen ???)

David Proctor said...

"We spent 13 million on a declining pitcher, but passed on Michael Bourne?"

These two things do not go together. Haren is on a one year deal, Bourne got a multi-year deal.

Eric said...

Tornado/Tstorm warning near Waldorf moving NE

Uh oh...

jeffwx said...

Well, Span's glove is certainly a major of upgrade from last year.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

I just don't get Davey: 7th in the order is a power spot - a poor man's 5th if you will.

The 2 spot is for a contact hitter, a good avg, guy who strikes out seldom. The 2-spot guy advances the runner (s) and has some speed to avoid DP.s

On balance, Rendon would seem a better #2 and Werth a natural #7. But again, Davey plays personalities and seniority more than what works bests for wins.

I guess that's why Davey eventually wears out his welcome with every team he's ever been with.

jeffwx said...

jeez, watch out those in Bowie, Lanham,

jeffwx said...

just taking a little pressure off Rendon, I think, to help his transition to the ML.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

That is correct Proctor. Jumping in from the weeds again? Do we always have to explain to you things that you just don't seem to get? or are you just a trollish critic who likes to piss people off? Which are you?

David Proctor said...

Lol...why am I being singled out?

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Spans glove isn't a Great deal better than Harper's from last year. Certainly, Harper's is better than Morse if you want to compare left field.

jeffwx said...

The amazin Z-men

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Lol No, that should me my line.

David Proctor said...

That's one of the most natural looking throws I've seen Zim make in a while.

Ken said...

jeffwx said...
"Also, who goes down or DFAs on Thursday ? (Tracy)"

Try Jhonatan Solano

jeffwx said...

doh!!! thanks ken

NatsFanSinceStart said...

I'm looking at Pittsburgh's surge - and think just wait until Burnett gets off the DL -- they're catching lightning in a bottle, like the Nats of 2012

Eric said...

"Lol...why am I being singled out?"

I dunno but it seems like we've been here before... ;)

JZim!

jeffwx said...

More amazingness.

RickH said...

David ... Agreed. Zim's throwing seems a lot better lately.

David Proctor said...

Span saw 14 pitches in 2 ABs with a walk. I will take that.

jeffwx said...

agree with you DP, WOW!

Smatt1001 said...

Nice! Great way to start the game!!

Unknown said...

DP, there you go again jumping in from the weeds, man oh man, just when i thought we are all getting along.

Eugene in Oregon said...

Keep the line moving; don't let up.

jeffwx said...

Davey's a genuous again (with this lineup...Span/Werth/Harp...)

David Proctor said...

How the hell am I jumping from the weeds? I post here every day. I comment if I see something I agree or disagree with. I give my input because it is a discussion forum. Jesus people.

Eugene in Oregon said...

You guys talking about weeds, you should visit Oregon...

Unknown said...

DP, i was joking!

David Proctor said...

I figured PB, I just meant that other guy who seems to hate me haha

Unknown said...


TexNatJuly 01, 2013 5:06 PM
Werth should bat lead off and Rendon second. It is actually Span that is trading extra base hits for OBP this year, so move him to 7th

I agree. Especially vs lhp

jeffwx said...

keep postin DP

Unknown said...

NatsJack, correct, thx...I should have been clearer in my sarcasm.

like jeffwx said, keep postin DP

MicheleS said...

Wait.. Isn't Bourn on the DL? Just Wonderin...

Anywhoo.. I like OFFENSE!!!!

David Proctor said...

Ryan is even stealing bases now!

RickH said...

Hate seeing Zim slide headfirst! But good steal.

Smatt1001 said...

And there goes Zimm!

RickH said...

Zim's steal results in run scored.

Unknown said...

Is the Brewers pitching coach really calling every pitch? sure looks like it.

p.s. would really rather Zim not dive head first into 2nd but hey, it worked.

jeffwx said...

This is nuts...talk about everything evening out.

David Proctor said...

Wow this is great.

MicheleS said...

I mean.. I really LOVE OFFENSE!!!

Unknown said...

Ryan Matheus looks like the Unabomber.

Smatt1001 said...

How long is Milwaukee going to stay with Gallardo at this point? I know their bullpen is hosed from yesterday

Eugene in Oregon said...

So I'm thinking maybe Yovanni Gallardo shouldn't be on Mike Rizzo's list of potential trade-deadline acquisitions?

RickH said...

Hitting is fun! Should have tried it sooner.

Knoxville Nat said...

Where the heck was this offense on Saturday? GYFNG!

David Proctor said...

At this point, i think they have to stay with Gallardo and write this game off. They used basically their entire bullpen yesterday.

waddu eye no said...

ahhhhh.

SonnyG10 said...

One more run and I can get another 50% off pizza.

David Proctor said...

On the down side...JZimm is staked to a big lead. HOLD IT.

A DC Wonk said...

John said...

How many times will Span hit a weak grounder up the first base line? 3 times or 4 times today?

How many folks are ignoring the multiple comments that Span's been hitting .342 in his last 10 games?

As for Rendon batting 7th -- given that Desmond is fifth in the league in doubles: it's nice to have a line-drive hitter behind him, no?

jeffwx said...

50% of papa john's
how bout 50% off real pizza:
Wyse Guys, Menomale, Pupatella, 2 Amys, Etto, Tony's in Manassas, District of Pi, Pete's Apizza in Columbia hgts, the original Ledo's in College Park,

Holden Baroque said...

Did I miss anything while I was at dinner?

jeffwx said...

We the Pizza, DaMarco's Bethesda, 7th Hill, corner pub in Silver Spring, Pacci's

jeffwx said...

but Wyse Guys on 3rd and Mass, NW on the way to the game is addictive.

Matchbox good too.

Joe Seamhead said...

Our new RH pinch hitter?

Joe Seamhead said...

Span?

jeffwx said...

Denard Span...what a pickup

David Proctor said...

This is batting practice right now.

jeffwx said...

boy, what happened to the days of not getting RISPs in.

Joe Seamhead said...

jeffwxJuly 01, 2013 8:15 PM
We the Pizza, DaMarco's Bethesda, 7th Hill, corner pub in Silver Spring, Pacci's

Reply
------///---
Shhh!!!! Tha

Holden Baroque said...

Davey wears out his welcome because he doesn't suffer fools, not because his teams don't win.

Eric said...

This is outrageous! Just...WOW!!!

MicheleS said...

And NOW we feast on the bullpen... sweet.. this bodes well for the rest of the series.

JeffWX.. would love 50% off on all those places, but sadly they don't serve the entire Nats Area (like me in Ashburn).. I might only be able to find a Ledo's somewhere around me.

Holden Baroque said...

Home cooking + Harper back + getting healthy = GYFNG

Just wonderin' said...

So, anyone else wonder whether Eck was checking to make sure the cork was popping out of that bat?

Nattering Nat said...

At last it is safe to say it---

Spring Training is officially over!!

A DC Wonk said...

Sec. 3, My Sofa said...

Davey wears out his welcome because he doesn't suffer fools, not because his teams don't win.

Sofa -- I think you nailed that. Bulls eye.

Look at the some of the folks who fired him: Marge Schott ('nuff said?). Peter Angelos (on the same day that Davey won his first Manager of the Year).

Joe Seamhead said...

Jeff, there's no need to give away great secrets regarding pizza.

Holden Baroque said...

Anybody else see this pizza show on WETA the other night?

jeffwx said...

Comet, Mia's, Orso's

My point...Don't settle for really bad overpriced pizza like Papa John's even if the Nats give it away. Too many calories, choose wisely, expect better and join

http://www.meetup.com/Pizza-Addicts-Anonymous/

And why is Papa John's not 1/2 price at Nats park ? ($6.00 a slice!!!)
Demand better pizza at the ballpark
and real presidents

SonnyG10 said...

Hey, do I get the other 50% off if the Nats score 14 runs?

Holden Baroque said...

Anybody making the ridiculous suggestion that the medical staff on the Nats get fired because of Nats injuries -- did they get a load of the Brewers' injury list? Holy Cow!

Well ... then ... tear them for their bad verses!

Holden Baroque said...

SonnyG, yes, but you have to go to Australia for it

Joe Seamhead said...

Why is Papa John's even in the equation?

David Proctor said...

Come on JZimm...don't do this "I collapse when I have a big lead" crap.

jeffwx said...

Yes, couch, great show but even since that show more excellent pizza has opened (eg: Etto, Ghibellini)
because pizza is as american as baseball and apple pie and chevys made in mexico
happy 4th everyone

jeffwx said...

Is Zimmermann collapsing or just throwing stikes with a big lead.

Holden Baroque said...

Should "Rickie Weeks" be Cockney rhyming slang for spilled secrets, as in Wikileaks?

Holden Baroque said...

Wooooo --- big thunder just now...

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Great game going on.

Hey Proctor: can you go one game without insulting people and then whining about how innocent you are?

haha Posting every day doesn't guarantee a right to hit from the weeds.

Holden Baroque said...

jeff, I think a little bit of letdown, a little bit too much running the bases, and yes, throwing strikes for contact.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Haha Zimmermann isn't collapsing. Haha this place can swing with emotion!

jeffwx said...

Ashburn...try Firefox....drive to Manassas and go to Tony's...don't settle and support your local pizza parlor...give it to the Man. We deserve better pizza at the park. They gave us Ben's for hotdogs, Shake Shak for, well Shakes...Max's for Shwarma's (but why the heck are they always closed Friday and Sat ???, wish they would convert to another religion but keep the kosher thing)

David Proctor said...

I've never attacked anyone. You always come in here attacking me.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Your turn, Anthony

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Haha Okay Proctor, whatever you say. Sorry for all the times I've attacked you. Hahaha

Holden Baroque said...

SinceStart, wtf are you on about? Proctor hasn't insulted anybody, including the Brewers pitching staff, in here.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

The only time I ever talk to you Proctor is when you've addressed me directly -- and it's always negative. So get over yourself and enjoy the game.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

I still get a kick out of the 'fans' in the Presidential seats: probably the least interested people in the park. Half of em have their heads buried in their smartphones

NatsFanSinceStart said...

We have a 3/3 Pitcher. Cant remember the last time I've seen that with the Nats

waddu eye no said...

another silver slugger pitcher in the making

Holden Baroque said...

The only comment Proctor addressed to you that wasn't in direct response to you was his perfectly innocent baseball-specific comment at 7:35. Stop lying.

jeffwx said...

holy cow...Nats pitcher 3 for 3...
When's the last time that happened ?
kill the DH

Holden Baroque said...

Normally, I'd expect more help from a Nats fan on a popup in the seats, but I think Aramis Ramirez has earned a lifetime pass on that.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Oh Geez can we quit this squabbling now -- how old are we anyway? The attacks are building .. again. Now SEc 3 -- whoever that is -- needs to stick in her nose.

that's enough, kids thanks

Holden Baroque said...

They gave Znn a hit on that??

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Sec 3 Sofa: The only comment Proctor addressed to you that wasn't in direct response to you was his perfectly innocent baseball-specific comment at 7:35. Stop lying

I have not lied. Why are you attacking and insulting me? Time to text Mark

Holden Baroque said...

Nobody's attacking you. I'm just pointing out facts (OK, there was that one entirely reasonable proscriptive, but other than that, nobody is squabbling.)

Holden Baroque said...

Be my guest. Mark can read just fine.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Anyone else want to focus on me and not watch the game?

If you want to, get your insults out now -- then maybe we can talk about the game.

We're not bored tonight because there is nobody to trash I hope.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

I feel sorry for Suzuki. The pitcher has 3 hits and everyone else has at least 1 and he has zero.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

But Suzuki's been getting his share of hits lately. NIght's young for Zook

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

If the Brewers want to trade Gallardo, his stock dropped big time........I think some here wanted him. No thank you.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Would you trade Haren for Gallardo?

«Oldest ‹Older 1 – 200 of 298 Newer› Newest» «Oldest ‹Older   1 – 200 of 298   Newer› Newest»

Post a Comment