Thursday, July 4, 2013

Game 85: Brewers at Nats

Mark Zuckerman / NATS INSIDER
Good morning from the ballpark. (That's not something I type often.) It's Independence Day, and that means a continuation of a new tradition here at Nationals Park: the 11:05 a.m. game. It's a bit unconventional, but it's not a bad little tradition (plus it gives everyone plenty of time to get home and enjoy the rest of the holiday.

The Nationals are getting a nice boost today, with Wilson Ramos returning from the DL. The catcher went 0-for-10 on his rehab assignment with Class A Potomac, but those numbers are less significant than the fact his hamstring is healthy and he's good to go for the first time since May 15. Which means, for the first time since mid-April, Davey Johnson will be fielding his complete starting lineup (with Anthony Rendon having replaced Danny Espinosa, of course).

Taylor Jordan makes his second career start, hoping to earn his first career win. All indications are that either way, Jordan will be sent back to the minors after this one, with Dan Haren on track to return from the DL and take Taylor's spot in five days. You'd certainly like to see the kid pitch well and be rewarded for his efforts today.

Updates to come, so please check back...

MILWAUKEE BREWERS at WASHINGTON NATIONALS
Where: Nationals Park
Gametime: 11:05 a.m. EDT
TV: MASN, MLB Network (outside D.C. market), MLB.tv
Radio: WJFK (106.7 FM), WFED (1500), XM 183
Weather: Partly cloudy, 82 degrees, Wind 12 mph out to LF
NATIONALS (42-42)
CF Denard Span
SS Ian Desmond
LF Bryce Harper
3B Ryan Zimmerman
1B Adam LaRoche
RF Jayson Werth
2B Anthony Rendon
C Wilson Ramos
RH Taylor Jordan

BREWERS (34-49)
RF Norichika Aoki
SS Jean Segura
CF Carlos Gomez
C Jonathan Lucroy
3B Juan Francisco
1B Sean Halton
LF Logan Schafer
2B Jeff Bianchi
RHP Donovan Hand

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

11:06 a.m. — It's not even noon yet, but we are underway on the 4th of July in Washington, D.C. Not a bad place to be. Taylor Jordan starts off Norichika Aoki with a fastball for ball one.

11:18 a.m. — Earlier this morning, Davey Johnson (perhaps a bit sleep-deprived) said: "I hope the fireworks start around 11:15." He was referring, of course, to the possibility of the Nats scoring in the bottom of the first. I don't think he considered the possibility that Jordan might still be on the mound in the top of the first at that point. Unfortunately, that was the case. Jordan gave up a couple of singles and plunked Jean Segura in the left hand during a laborious inning, with Jonathan Lucroy's RBI single bringing home the first run of the day. Nats trail 1-0 early.

11:38 a.m. — See, what Davey really meant to say was that the fireworks would begin at 11:35. How about that, a 2-run rally for the Nats in the bottom of the first, thanks to a base hit by Ian Desmond, a walk by Bryce Harper — whose walk-up song today, by the way, is Ray Charles' version of "America the Beautiful," a brilliant choice — and then two-out RBI singles from Adam LaRoche and new No. 6 hitter Jayson Werth. That Davey, what a mad scientist/genius. It's 2-1 Nats after one.

12:06 p.m. — It's been a bit of a battle for Jordan so far. He's needed 52 pitches to get through three innings, but he's allowed only the one early run. We'll see how much rope Davey gives him today in his second start. Still 2-1 Nats, moving to the bottom of the third.

12:22 p.m. — When Davey told Desmond last night he was going to hit second today, his advice to the young shortstop was: "Don't change anything. Just keep hacking." So, naturally, Desmond bunted his way on to lead off the bottom of the third, taking second on an error. Hey, whatever works. Such as, a botched double-steal attempt in which Harper got caught in a rundown between first and second yet still ended up safe after the Brewers decided to try to throw behind Desmond at third base ... and were late doing so. That set the stage for Zimmerman's sac fly. After all that, it's 3-1 Nats, and ladies and gentlemen, it's time for Neil Diamond!

12:28 p.m. — Well, that was ... uh, something, I guess. Everybody stood up and watched and listened as Neil Diamond spent three minutes singing about eagles and freedom and other patriotic words. And I'm not even entirely convinced he was actually singing. Especially after hearing how he sounded yesterday during a rehearsal vs. today's live performance. Hmm...

12:45 p.m. — Solid work from Jordan here. He's now through the fifth, allowing only the one early run. He looks much more comfortable today than he did in his debut. Still 3-1 Nats.

1:14 p.m. — Jordan did start to fade in the top of the sixth, and Davey probably sensed that just in time. The rookie gave up a pair of singles, the latter by Juan Francisco to bring a run home. Francisco bailed the Nats out by rounding too far around first base and getting tagged out, but even after that, Capt. Hook made his appearance. Jordan departed to a nice ovation, having allowed two runs and six hits over 5 2/3 innings. He's in line for the win, with the Nats now leading 3-2 heading to the bottom of the sixth.

1:34 p.m. — And now Jordan has more cushion to earn that win as the Nats score two insurance runs during a crazy bottom of the sixth. It included base hits by LaRoche and Werth, a sac bunt attempt by Rendon that he still reached on thanks to an error, a two-run single by Ramos for his first RBI since coming off the DL, Ron Roenicke intentionally walking Desmond to get to Harper ... and then Harper grounding out on the first pitch. Some out-of-the-box managing today on both sides. Seriously, I think Davey just decided to take the George Costanza approach today: Ignore every instinct he has and just do the opposite. Next thing you know, he'll be ordering chicken salad. (Apologies to any non-Seinfeld fans who have no idea what I'm talking about there.) It's 5-2 Nats after six.

1:51 p.m. — Oh, dear. This game is now tied, courtesy Drew Storen, who served up a pair of home runs in the top of the seventh. Right before the second of the two bombs, Steve McCatty came out to have an animated conversation with the reliever. Storen never looked his pitching coach in the eye. Gomez then crushed his 0-2 slider to left for the game-tying homer. It's 5-5 at the stretch, and Storen (sporting a 5.45 ERA) is serenaded with boos as he walks off the field.

2:12 p.m. — Have a day, Wilson Ramos. Three-run bomb in the bottom of the seventh gives the Nats an 8-5 lead. He's now 3-for-4 with five RBI in his first game back from the DL. And he gets a well-deserved curtain call from the crowd of 38,221. I'd like to also personally thank Wilson for providing me the easiest game storyline I'll write all year.

2:24 p.m. — A scoreless eighth for Tyler Clippard, maintaining an 8-5 lead. By the way, you know who's in line for the win now? Yes, Drew Storen. Funny game, this baseball.

2:30 p.m. — We go to the ninth. It's Rafael Soriano in protecting a three-run lead.

2:41 p.m. — That's it. Soriano closes out an 8-5 victory, though he did bring the tying run to the plate. Storen incredibly gets the win. Ramos gets the accolades. And the Nats salvage a four-game split with the Brewers and get back over the .500 hump heading into this weekend's series with the Padres.

398 comments:

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TimDz said...

It would be nice to see the Nats pitcher look like the second coming of Cy Young for a change....
I'm so very tired of the opposing team's pitcher, be it rookie pitcher or journeyman, carve up the Nats lineup....

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

karlkolchak said...

If I really believed Danny's shoulder injury was not the problem, I'd be worried



I think you should be worried. This was the same guy I saw in April 2012. He is a swing & miss mess. A long swing guy going for 400 foot HRs.

How do you make a guy a contact hitter when he wants to be a HR hitter but isn't that guy.

180+ K's.

The excuses made for him over the years here is a joke within itself and Davey's pre-game comments yesterday just shot you all down.

While it's sad, I'm laughing because I started writing it here in June 2011 when I really saw his swing & miss exposed. Once you peel away the early success he had when there was no scouting on him, it's been a striking revelation to what Espi really was.

Then this year you have a player protecting his shoulder where I noted in Spring Training he wasn't laying out for balls and you could see those effects early in the season some of the balls that he was no longer getting to. His UZR didn't slip much but you could see it, but his sub-Mendoza hitting couldn't overcome his Top 5 defense.

SCNatsFan said...

Baseball and the Fourth of July a perfect match

sjm308 said...

Happy Fourth to everyone!

Will be outside working on the yard, listening to Charlie & Dave and will run inside if I want to see something exciting.

I believe I am not the only one whose expectations were set way too high. A combination of national exposure and my own bias I guess. Hard to believe we might actually be a .500 club but I am still going to enjoy every game, trust in the people that are professionals and hope we can turn this around.

One thing about Desmond hitting 2nd. We will not get the pitcher to throw lots of pitches in the first inning but maybe this will spark others. Just have to see. I think in the long run Rendon bats 2nd but Davey does like to take his time making decisions.

Go Nats!!

sjm308 said...

Someone on an earlier post asked if we missed Morse. While I was big on keeping him as a super sub back when that was unrealistic at best, I have to say that no, I don't miss him. I also wish his walk-up music was eliminated. Now, would I be OK if Natslady got her wish and Rizzo signed him as the big bat off the bench rental for the rest of this season. Sure.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

For anyone who missed this on Davey and Espinosa it's from his pre-game yesterday talking about Danny going 0-8 and batting under .099

“I saw his approach,” Johnson said. “He’s changed a little bit in his approach. He’s still trying to hit the ball hard, every swing was pretty hard. I think his thing is more mental approach. I think he’s got a misguided opinion that it’s okay if you hit .220 and hit 20 home runs. He has the talent to be a real good hitter, put the ball in play."

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Moving Desi to the 2 hole? He's been your RBI guy. Why not just move Werth back to 6 and move everyone else up 1 or just flip-flop Rendon for Werth.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

I'm curious to see Taylor Jordan with better defense behind him.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Happy Independence Day peeps! May you enjoy the holiday and the game....

Interesting line up.. Desi in the 2 hole... I think I would have flipped Rendon and Werth...

Lets Go Nats! Lets do this!

Joe Seamhead said...

Joe Seamhead said...
I remain positive. Why? Let me tell you why.
We have baseball in DC. We're not eliminated on July 4th.
Look, I don't agree with a lot of Davey's moves either. I'm frustrated, too, but I rooted for the Senators, and I've gone to 25-30 games a year since the Nats came to town. This 2013 may not be meeting your expectations, but they are not awful. The teams we watched from 2006 through 2011 were really, truly awful. I cheered for them anyway. Around 2009 I started seeing that there was an organization being built starting at the lowest level in the instructional league, and going up to the higher levels of the minors. Friends thought I was crazy when I told them the Nats were going to be competitive by 2011. Now, I've been to a lot of very stirring moments in sporting events from baseball, to football, hockey, boxing, etc. But nothing beat one night from last year, and that was a night when we didn't win the game, but we won the NL East title. For me, and for a lot of other old curmudgeons around me, it was almost a spiritual experience. I saw folks in their 50's, 60's, 70's with tears in their eyes. Our families waited generations for that moment. I will remain thankful to Mike Rizzo not just for last year, but for having a long term plan to bring us a competitive team for years to come. We may, or may not win a playoff spot this year, but I will remain thankful that we have this team, and will continue to believe in them, and in the words of the great sage, "It ain't over till it's over." Sorry some of you don't share my optimism, but I still think we got this, and I will think so until when the math says we are eliminated.GYFNG!!!
July 04, 2013 10:20 AM

Kirbs said...

I do NOT like this line up!!!! Rendon 2!

mick said...

so if Jordan pitches 7 innings, gives 1-2 runs, he will go back to minors and Haren replaces him? hmm...

nothing ceazes to amaze me anymore

Doc said...

Looney bin or bust!!

Gooooooooooooooo Naaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaats!!!!

P.S. Thanks for Davey's quote, Ghost. I don't get the pre-game show, so I wouldn't have heard it.

I think that what Davey is saying, when I re-formulate it within the context of my own perspective, is that Espi is deluded about what he can do as a hitter. He might spend the rest of his career being so deluced.

mick said...

then by all means...send Rendon down and have Espi come back at the same time Haren comes back...after all Davey is a genius and the WS in 1986....

Doc said...

Deluced(typo)=deluded!

Sorry about that.

Section 222 said...

If Jordan gets out of the 5th, I'll be happy. It will be the first time one of our AA spot starters has done that in 5 attempts.

I'm pretty discouraged after the last two nights, though I seem to remember that the Braves were shut out twice by the Brew Crew recently, so I guess there's that. But one shining star right now is Rendon -- both his offense and his defense are way more than even those of us who were calling for this change had any right to expect. Go Anthony!

Bryce seemed listless last night after his first two hard hit balls and that error. I'm hoping for a big turn around game for him today. We need him to get hot and stay hot if we're going to have any chance of catching up.

See you at the park!

Joe Seamhead said...

Ghost and Mrs. B, I'm a little lost on Davey's line up today, too. I just hope it works. Let's also hope the defense shows up for Taylor Jordan today.

mick said...

who cares what the lineup is...nothing will change until 2014, same players same results etc etc......I watch to enjoy players like Rendon, Bryce, Stras, JZim, R Zim and Gio...will always pull for those guys because they are gamers...

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Joe Seamhead said...
I remain positive.


I remain positive overall but the Nats are playing catch-up because of the problems that weren't fixed in the off-season.

This is now the team where the only weakness is the question of the #5 pitcher.

Jane Elizabeth said...

One thing that has been obscured is that the Span and Morse deals didn't have to be linked in any way. Rizzo could have dealt Morse and at the same time, he could have acquired a player to fill that power void.

The Nats achieved any offensive success last year based upon an advantage in home runs. With Morse gone, and Moore and Espinosa providing far fewer homers, and LaRoche and Zimmerman down in homers, that basically leaves Desmond and Harper, when he has been able to play.

This line-up cannot be successful without hitting homers. It is not going to happen. They simply do not get on base enough. That is why we have so many left on base. 2nd base truly is where Nats go to die. So either Zimmerman and LaRoche and Werth are going to start picking up that slack, or that is the way it goes. I don't know if Willingham is available, but we definitely need another hitter with some punch.

mick said...

Davey is lost too, he really should step down All Star break to avoid the embarassement of being fired..he deserves to go out with dignity. If a new manager does not do better, then Davey an Eck are vindicated and then it means Nats have a talent problem

mick said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
MrsB loves the Nats said...

222 - Not just Bryce... We need for the line up to get consistent...

Yeah JoeS - I think we got this too... And I will stop believing until we are mathematically out...

mick said...

Morse's club house presence was as valuable as a 20 home run hitter...that move will never make sense, ever..I was against it when it happen so I am not a Johnny come lately about Morse

Nats 128 said...

Looks like Davey threw Espinoza under the bus.

Davey has been either lying all along in all of his positive comments on him or just delusional and now sees it.

mick said...

will be happy if the club wins 82 games...the worst thing that could happen would be a worse record than 2011...then this franchise could be headed back to 90-00 loss seassons

mick said...

Nats128...you may be right...I think both Davey and Rizzo have been very dishonest in general...I never thought that of Davey until now. Rizzo has always been full of himself and he sounds like a used car salesman

Nats 128 said...

Im staying positive. Just want to see a sense of urgency.

Happy 4th!

Nats 128 said...

"mick said...
Nats128...you may be right...I think both Davey and Rizzo have been very dishonest in general...I never thought that of Davey until now. Rizzo has always been full of himself and he sounds like a used car salesman"

Might be Davey finally hit his tipping point at the same time Danny started hitting in AAA at below .100

The truth is now out and def on Rizzo being a used car salesman. Most see thru it.

Kirbs said...

It is very nice to see Wilson back...I just hope that everything is good and loose!

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Yeah Ghost - I think about if we were able to have Haren give us as least 4 wins... Things would be different...

But I'm hoping that Rizzo will get another SP (from where I don't know) and another bat (which is why I would have been cool with getting Manny) to get on the goon squad... Moore, obviously, isn't ready and the rest of the bench isn't producing like we want them too...

Joe Seamhead said...

I remember NatsJack saying last winter that the word was that the powers that be were near to reaching an end limit with Espinosa over his refusal to follow through with how to alter his approach. Like with Henry, they tried in vain to wait him out because of the "potential" that they saw in him. Wrong again, but Danny may yet see the light, but I doubt it will be with the Nats.

mick said...

Good for you Nats128..I will make a pact and stick with it the rest of the season:

I Mick, will not post another negative comment the rest of the season, I will post positive things about the good players on this team. I promise..

The reason...the 2013 season is OVER in terms of post season...I will eagerly await Davey, Eck and many other departures and will look forward to 2014.

There is no reason for me to rant about Haren, Storen, Espi, Det, etc.. because they simply SUCK and are LOSERS. There I got that out, from now on I will be nice Mick

HAPPY 4th to ALL and GOD BLESS OUR VETS!!!!!

Nats 128 said...

Danny needs to slow it down at Potomac and move up from there. AAA isnt helping him. Let him destroy A ball and promote him from there. Hoping he will get better at AAA is just what they did for 2 months with the Nats this year "Aint happening".

MrsB loves the Nats said...

128 - Davey can't throw his players under the bus.. He has to show support... I think the demotion speaks for itself... Just like when DJ said its okay for us to not have any lefties in the BP, we all knew something different...

Had DJ said he was fed up with DE etc, can you imagine all the other conspiracy theories that would have come out about DJ and Rizzo not on the same page etc.. It would have added to the pressure already on the Nats...

jeffwx said...

Interesting what the nats decide to do around the trade deadline...play for this year or next ?

Joe Seamhead said...

Congrats to the Hagerstown Suns. Six players named to the SAL League All Star team, matching the most for any one team.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

mick said...
There is no reason for me to rant about Haren, Storen, Espi, Det, etc.. because they simply SUCK and are LOSERS. There I got that out, from now on I will be nice Mick



It's using the players you have better. Storen didn't have his A game on Tuesday and shouldn't be facing lefties in critical situations.

I don't know if it was Detwiler or Suzuki but the game planning on Aoki was bad.

Usually a pitchers success comes down to a handful of pitches. 2 earned runs, not awful.

On Haren, you saw the guy I proposed all off-season the target for the Nats, Kyle Lohse. A guy who can be a low 3.00's in ERA is far superior to Haren and by the way, Lohse was signed for $11 million.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Not too many wanted Lohse that I know of.... I know I did... I hated the Haren signing and got a lot of flack becuz I was vehement about it..

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

GYFNG

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

MrsB, I was writing about Lohse during the 2012 off-season. Yes, his metrics said he wouldn't repeat a 2.89 ERA but it appeared he could be a 3.25

It was disappointing because he was there for the taking.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

When we hit it hard but it is fielded is that bad luck or is it good scouring by tge opponents?

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Oh Ghost - I said the same thing... As soon as I saw we were letting EJax walk, I said time to get Lohse... He seems to be a Nats killer, time to put him on our squad...

As soon as we signed Haren - I noted his health and a prime issue and how he didnt show me anything in 2012 to warrant this signing... I thought hell, at least with EJax we know who/what we were getting...

And then I remember all the excuses for Haren - how ST isn't a big deal for him, how he needed to get on a schedule, all that other mess... Yeah, not having a 4/5 pitcher is hurting us...

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Welcome back Wilson! Hope you being back will also jump start this offense... Again...

jeffwx said...

we're healthy in the offense....now hit
I think the pitching is good enuf....In fact the best ERA in the ML
hitting still one of the worst in ml.
Get another outfielder to platoon, give rests for Werth.

jeffwx said...

We have a couple of problems...but having 5 stephan strasburgs with the worst hitting in the majors will not help.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Hitting a guy on an 0-2 count arggggggg

jeffwx said...

This will hurt Taylor's ability to pitch inside for a while today.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Can anyone hold a man on first? No

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Segura just deked out everyone. I'm hurt, I'm hurt. I'm stealing!

jeffwx said...

I picked a bad decade to give up drinking.
I guess you're allowed to have a beer before noon on July 4th

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

The Brewers are missing Braun and Hart 75 homers last year and we are fighting for a split

jeffwx said...

Wow, hitting with RISP...Let's try that today.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

There you go. That's what contact does. Not great contact but good enough.

Take notice.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Manufacturing runs... I don't believe Segura was actually hurt...

jeffwx said...

hmmm...i guess Ohlendorf is the backup pitcher today

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Hit a guy refuse to hold him, you are begging them to score.

Are pitchers I thought were suppose not to give up first run.

Email not read again.

jeffwx said...

I'd be happy if we get a split....not at all a certainty

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Francisco, a guy who the Braves DFA'd a few weeks ago.

Secret wasian man said...

Brewers score,. Game over.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

We had contact very hard last night. It is where the contact goes

jeffwx said...

Wow, FP says Brewers are 23-11 when they score first. How can they be so bad ?

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Not a horrible inning for Jordan... I do wonder though whether it is the slow wind-ups or what to why we can't hold runners at first...

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Lets get runs early. The later we wait the more pressure we will feel.

jeffwx said...

13 chances to score with runners on base in the last 2 games and you do not. maybe they need more chances ?

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Our contact seemed to find a glove last night....

Didnt Taylor hit a Met in his last start?

jeffwx said...

I think Jordan is coming from AA. It takes a bit of learning to keep runners close while trying to focus on the next batter after you hit the previous batter on the 4th of july in the big league

jeffwx said...

Darn...found a glove

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Span needs to line the ball not pop it.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

The way Desmond hit it is how Span needs to hit. Liners.

jeffwx said...

Yep...Jason, a good number 7 hitter

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Ian is so not scared to swing at the first pitch....

jeffwx said...

Ian not so scared to swing at any pitch ;)

MrsB loves the Nats said...

We STOLE A BASE!!!!

WE STOLE A BASE!!!!

jeffwx said...

ok, how about Rendon/Desmond/Harper/Zimm/ALR/Ramos/Werth/Pitcher/Span

MrsB loves the Nats said...

You can definitely see the growth of Harp at the plate... Love it..

Section 222 said...

I liked Lohse too, but you guys seem to forget that it would have cost a draft pick to sign him. We already lost one pick for Soriano. That's why it took Lohse so long to find a team.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

They had both bases stolen... That was a ball...

Joe Seamhead said...

Great point, Deuces, at 11:27.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Man on second Lucroy singles, zim takes a 3rd strike.

Swung on ball 3 when they had a double steal.

Ken said...

jeffwx said...
Wow, FP says Brewers are 23-11 when they score first. How can they be so bad?

If FP wants to look at who scores when wins most, he should look at the numbers of "who scores first after the 1st run had been scored" because the team that does score first after the first run wins at a clip in the mid to high 90's percentage wise.

BTW, FP is a putz

Secret wasian man said...

And once again a nats hitter stands and looks at strike 3. Disgusting baseball. Not even trying.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

I wanted gim before we sot Soriano.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Nice.... Way to go Adam... Yes...

jeffwx said...

Yes...2 out hit with RISP...the most important hit in baseball

Secret wasian man said...

Nice job ALR. Good things can happen when you swing.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Wasian i asked yesterday i wonder how we rank in called 3rd strike.

ALR bailed out Zim

Knoxville Nat said...

Ghost and 222,

Wasn't Lohse also looking for a 5 year deal @ $15mm per year? I think he settled for 3 years and maybe $11 or $12 mil per year. I also think he is in his mid 30's so that may have been a reason Rizzo stayed away from him.

jeffwx said...

FP...a putz ? then what is
bob carpenter

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Keep the line moving.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Good job... Base hit.... Way to go Jay Dubbs!

Secret wasian man said...

Ken I used to like FP and Carp. But now they are just a bunch of yes men for the nats.

Nice shit Shaggy Doo

jeffwx said...

Now that's awesome...

MrsB loves the Nats said...

222 - So my comment got lost is cyber space..

I was fine with giving up the draft pick... Think an issue may have been Lohse wanting multiple years... But I still wanted him instead of Haren...

Joe Seamhead said...

Sorry, but I gotta say it: Davey looking like a genius with the batting order right now. Not one of us said that we liked it before the game.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

No JoeS - take it back, take it back... The game isn't over...

jeffwx said...

Makes sense to move Werth down, but agree I didn't like Desmond in the 2 hole...Frankly think he is not patient enuf for that and better at driving in runs. still like Rendon there.
Boy when Rendon adjusts timing to keep his foul doubles fair

Ken said...

jeffwx said...
FP...a putz ? then what is
bob carpenter

A very good "basketball" fan... And he makes FP look like a genius.

Joe Seamhead said...

Nah, the baseball gods don't pay any attention to me, Mrs. b!

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

One foot off from another run. Their scouts have them positioned well.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

I, uhm, just realized that was only the first inning...

jeffwx said...

Also, FP makes some awesome foul ball catches. Doubt Carp has those skills as an announcer.

Ken said...

Joe Seamhead said...
Sorry, but I gotta say it: Davey looking like a genius with the batting order right now. Not one of us said that we liked it before the game.

Big deal, even a broken clock is right twice a day...

Joe Seamhead said...

So, Taylor Jordan gets to pitch with a lead for the first time in his ML career.

jeffwx said...

It's early

jeffwx said...

Baseball gods...do you mean the name that cannot be mentioned on this blog

jeffwx said...

Puig runs around the field until they stop him or he hits a fence

Joe Seamhead said...

Ken, there was a little bit of subtle humor intended, but I did like your clock comment.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Nice inning.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Very good inning Jordan...

jeffwx said...

oh boy....Buffalo is back

MrsB loves the Nats said...

So when Haren comes back, Jordan goes down right?

So Moore is here to stay?

jeffwx said...

Today marks a record with the most negatively in one blog comment in the history of the game. You can look it up.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

I must be missing tge obvious

jeffwx said...

It is this analysis that should be considered:



There are only 2 possible answers on the Nats:

1) They are over rated and just not that good

2) They are not motivated and playing to their abilities

there are NO other reason.

If it is problem one, the answer would be to rebuild the team...they clearly only have 3 starting pitchers in my view. The other potential 2 starters they may already have so free agency they can avoid. Maybe it is Jordan, Purke, etc... who knows, maybe Giolotto in 1-2 years? They must rebuild bull pen...Clip is fine, Mathhues may be fine when back, Kroll is a keeper. Storen SUCKS, Abad is BAD and how many more years can Soriano go? Ths team has dead weight...Werth will be one year older and more injury prone eah season, ALR will only go down hill and Esppi is a FLOp period. Span has no power but is a great defensive player, with other good hitters he may fit.

If it is problem two...this would be a good problem. The solution is to nicely tell Davey not to let the door hit is ass on the way out. His passive/aggressive style could be destroying this young group. Get a young firey manager who is fair and honest with his players. a manger who gives tough love when needed and will call out a n underachieving player.

I personally believe that since this club won 98 last year, the talent is probably there and the problem is #2. Having said that...this team needs 2 more starting pitchers. I am done with Det. When the publlic address plays the music for our players that they choose, i recommend that Det choose the old Mr Softy ice cream music. He is as soft as I have ever seen a pitcher.

Also, picking up this Kelly dude is fitting, he is batting 196, he will fit in well.

Finally, I would have no problem giving Rizzo one more season to get this right, if the Lerners think so. The fat they have not resigned him tells me they are smarter than all of us
July 04, 2013 9:18 AM

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

No add ons, that is nothing new.

jeffwx said...

No, but the detailed and in depth comment is remarkable in its lack of brevity

BigCat said...

I would think if Jordan pitches well today he would get another start. Heck, we've seen what Haren has

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

When I see a long comment my ADD kicks in and I skip it.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Davey all but sid Haren is back next start.

jeffwx said...

In my view, the problem is the fans at the ballpark.
We do not provide decent pizza or other food groups that provide the irrational exhuberance that Washington has missed since the go-go days of subprime mortgages...Bring em back, Mr. President

MrsB loves the Nats said...

That was fatness right over the plate...

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Why Segura not running?

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Good pitch.l. I've always been fascinated with pitchers as I was a horrible soft/base ball player...

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

I spoke to soon.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Sigh... Gotta hold the runners....

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Good going Jordan....

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

It was a delay steal meaning he was held, but went way late because he knew Rendon would be slow to cover.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Inly provlem for Jordan 21 pitches to 4 batters.

BigCat said...

Brewers just missed a couple pitches that inning.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Great bunt Desi....

Jane Elizabeth said...

Desmond! Let him lead off.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Move the line

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Hey finally!! I like this lineup! Putting Werth in the 6 hole is perfect and where he should be. I would expect him to very productive there. Where did I hear that Werth asked to be lowered in the lineup? Smart. I like Desi batting 2nd - gets the baseknock and then STEALS!! Then we try a double steal! Hey, Davey, welcome to the party!! I like it though.

Now, if they would only put Harper in RF and Werth over to LF, I would actually be a happy camper.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

That is 2014

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Zim do something

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Come on Zimm.... Base hit...

Jane Elizabeth said...

That is what Bryce used to do last year!

MrsB loves the Nats said...

That was f_kin awesome!!!!!

NatsFanSinceStart said...

We;re actually playing the game of baseball!!

NatsFanSinceStart said...

A manufactured run!! Cant recall when we last did that.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Great job Desi.... Great job Ryan...

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

We scored, but damn quit hitting to Gomez

Jane Elizabeth said...

Boy, that guy is a great center fielder....

NatsFanSinceStart said...

the team has the fever - we're destined to score 10 runs today

Secret wasian man said...

Wow this is so much more than last night.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

LaRoche just hit a fly.

Secret wasian man said...

Span needs to move down. Or better yet out.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Span needs to bunt more

NatsFanSinceStart said...

A Werth walk! Keep him 6th --

ExposedinDC said...

Werth looks very comfortable in the 6 spot.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

now you gotta be careful with Rendon knowing Ramos is coming behind! Yes, I do like this lineup.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Finally a running game

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

ALR needed to fly to Gomez, but didn't.

Rendon forgot he was not to hit to Gomez.

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Span also needs to slap hit more i.e keep away from the fly ball.

Span is fast, but has trouble getting started. So, he's fast, but not Quick! One reason for his trouble with his baserunning. Still, I like him at leadoff

jeffwx said...

And Neil Diamond to boot!!!!
Where is Tom Jones and Englebert

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Nice song Neil!

NatsFanSinceStart said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Ghost Of Steve M. said...

NatsJack, why are you lookin!

jeffwx said...

Neil is killing my mojo...

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Good on you Neil.... Thankful for our troops...

jeffwx said...

Where is Paul ?
He plays base and sometimes the fool

NatsFanSinceStart said...

I am impressed with the Lerner's ownership. We are lucky to have them -- great people. Beats having Angelos as your team ownwer

jeffwx said...

Yeah...sing coming to America, Neil...encore
I love coming to America and we are the champions...
Good job Neil

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Jordan with a huge high K. The kid is getting comfortable and confident

jeffwx said...

Where is Rick Monday ?
Do you remember

NatsFanSinceStart said...

Flash of the old Zim

MrsB loves the Nats said...

It's play like that.... I would have ducked, scared and hoping the ball wouldn't hit me....

Good play Zimm....

jeffwx said...

This is Neil Diamond, he can do Jim Morrison whenever he wants...go to keep on Risin, Nats

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Good inning Taylor J....

Secret wasian man said...

Neil should have gone onto the field. But I guess it is just to much of a Hot August night. Sorry work with me here

jeffwx said...

Neil and Taylor have sent the crowd into unbridled pandimoniam... I predict riots on 1/2 street...They'll burn down the container dump

jeffwx said...

I wish I had a housemate like Linda

jeffwx said...

Keep you eyes on the ball and you hands upon the wheel

jeffwx said...

Buffalo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ExposedinDC said...

Good pitcher.....horrible bunter

Joe Seamhead said...

I never like bunting with 2 strikes. Never.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Hey Big Cat do you think Keith Howell should be the bunting coach?

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Taylor looked like he was nervous to bunt.... Awful attempts...

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

NatsFanSinceStart said...
I am impressed with the Lerner's ownership. We are lucky to have them -- great people. Beats having Angelos as your team ownwer


Angelos the scheme master. Even figured out how to make his stadium one of the loudest by replaying the sound through the stadium speakers when his team does something well. It's like a rock concert.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

The way the first basemen position Span, he could drag a bunt any game.

Joe Seamhead said...

Poor judgement on that swing, Denard.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

He swung at a ball....

ExposedinDC said...

Cue the Span sucks comments

Joe Seamhead said...

I agree, MNF.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

MrsB loves the Nats said...
Taylor looked like he was nervous to bunt.... Awful attempts...


It's repetition and ice in your veins to square properly. JZim is excellent at it. The Cardinals have pitchers in their Minors mastering the art of bunting.

Nats have had some awful bunters. John Lannan consistently the worst bunter. If you know you can't bunt just fake the bunt and hope you get it past the 3rd baseman.

jeffwx said...

sounds like age discrimination

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Manassas Nats' Fan said...
The way the first basemen position Span, he could drag a bunt any game.

July 04, 2013 12:38 PM


That's not on Span, that's on his manager. I said he should be attempting once a game. It's the way to keep the infield in.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Once again they go outside on Aoki! Will they learn? Have to get it inside on him. Sheesh.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Aoki's hitting style looks like what would work for Span.

Steal?

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Desmond not an all star would be a crime.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Desi, wow just wow. Dangerous as if he doesn't get it, he would get the haters on the attack.

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Wonder if Taylor is a little apprehensive on pitching inside since he hit the batter... Haven't really noticed if he has pitched inside...

ExposedinDC said...

Don't think 3 is gonna be enough

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Manassas Nats' Fan said...
Desmond not an all star would be a crime.


JZim, Stras, and Desi have to be in. MASN pushing for Ryan Zimmerman was an embarrasment.

Bryce has to push it to deserve it. Can't be an All Star on just April stats.

JaneB said...

I like Ian in the 2 hole. I wish Davey would keep him there. He was good there earlier in the season, too.

Hold on Taylor! Keep them at 1!

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Love that line drive hit for Desi ;)

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Desi is on today....

MrsB loves the Nats said...

Ha... I remember a couple of years ago when folks were calling for Desi to be let go....

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

NatsJack, Tulo and Segura have had great seasons. I'm fine with Desi being #3. By my metrics Desi is the 4th best shortstop in the Majors.

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