Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Game 155: Nats at Phillies

Photo by Mark Zuckerman / NATS INSIDER
John Lannan tries to pitch the Nationals to a rare win at Citizens Bank Park.
PHILADELPHIA -- What is it about the Philadelphia Phillies that brings out the worst in the Nationals? Well, there's the obvious answer: The Phillies have been a really good team for the better part of the last six years. But there also seems to be something about this opponent, and especially this ballpark, that continues to haunt the Nationals.

Yes, they posted a winning record at Citizens Bank Park last season, thanks entirely to a four-game September sweep after Philadelphia had already clinched the NL East. Over the last six seasons combined, though, the Nats are 16-33 here, 36-67 overall against the Phillies. They've lost four straight here entering tonight's game.

Which puts the pressure squarely on John Lannan's shoulders. The problem: Lannan is 1-5 with a 7.06 ERA in seven career starts in this ballpark, the lone victory coming last year. He'll need to overcome that demon if he's going to help his team get back on track tonight.

Lannan won't have one regular behind him in the field. Danny Espinosa is not in the Nationals lineup, replaced by Steve Lombardozzi. We'll have to find out whether this is related to his lingering shoulder injury or something else.

Updates to come...

WASHINGTON NATIONALS at PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES
Where: Citizens Bank Park
Gametime: 7:05 p.m. EDT
TV: MASN, MLB.tv, ESPN (outside D.C. market)
Radio: WJFK (106.7 FM), WFED (1500 AM), XM 188
Weather: Chance of storms, 74 degrees, Wind 9 mph out to RF
NATIONALS (93-61)
RF Jayson Werth
CF Bryce Harper
3B Ryan Zimmerman
1B Adam LaRoche
LF Michael Morse
SS Ian Desmond
2B Steve Lombardozzi
C Kurt Suzuki
LHP John Lannan

PHILLIES (78-76)
SS Jimmy Rollins
CF John Mayberry
2B Chase Utley
1B Ryan Howard
C Carlos Ruiz
RF Domonic Brown
LF Darin Ruf
3B Kevin Frandsen
RHP Kyle Kendrick

UMPIRES
HP Joe West (cc)
1B Mike Muchlinski
2B Rob Drake
3B Andy Fletcher

7:09 p.m. -- We are underway. There was some rain earlier, and Nats batting practice was canceled, but it cleared out and we're able to get this one start on time.

7:14 p.m. -- Well, that didn't take long. Six pitches into the game, the Nats already hold a 2-0 lead. Jayson Werth led off with a walk. Bryce Harper then destroyed Kyle Kendrick's first pitch into the left-center field bleachers for his 20th homer of the season. Just an absolute bomb from the rookie. He's now four behind Tony Conigliaro for the all-time record by a teenager. He's also now scored 93 runs, moving a step closer to becoming only the second teenager ever to score 100 times in a season: Buddy Lewis of the 1936 Senators.

7:21 p.m. -- John Lannan couldn't have drawn up a first inning any better than that. He got three groundball outs, needing only 11 pitches to do it. Obviously there's a long way to go in this one, but that's as encouraging a first inning as the Nationals could have asked for. They lead 2-0.

7:37 p.m. -- So, uh, it appears the Nationals showed up to play today. They're already leading 5-0 after both Ian Desmond and Kurt Suzuki belted homers off Kendrick in the top of the second. If you've lost track, that was three of the Nats' first eight batters going yard tonight. Throw it Harper's stolen base later in the inning, and he's now the first teenager ever to hit 17 homers and steal 17 bases. Quite a night so far for the boys in the curly W caps. They lead 5-0 as we go to the bottom of the second.

7:56 p.m. -- If you took the under in Kendrick lasting 2 1/3 innings tonight ... you win! Charlie Manuel takes the ball from his starter after he walked LaRoche and gave up a single to Morse to open the third. So B.J. Rosenberg is the first member of Johnny Wholestaff to appear out of the Phillies bullpen tonight. It's still 5-0 in the middle of the third.

8:08 p.m. -- Suzuki, apparently forgetting his team was up five runs, made a cardinal sin in the bottom of the third and tried to throw out the lead runner on a sacrifice bunt attempt. His throw wound up sailing into left field, and that allowed the Phillies' first run of the night to score. Lannan then got himself in a big-time jam, loading the bases with one out and the heart of the Phillies lineup at the plate. But he fired off five straight breaking balls to Ryan Howard and struck him out, then fielded a comebacker off his leg to get Carlos Ruiz and snuff out the rally. It's now 5-1 Nats after three.

8:29 p.m. -- That was, well, that was pretty ugly. Two outs, bottom of the fourth, nobody on. Kevin Frandsen sent a flyball to deep center field and Harper misjudged it, letting the ball sail over his head. Frandsen tried to stretch it into a triple, and Harper's throw had him dead to rights at third, except Zimmerman couldn't hold onto the ball on the tag. Moments later, Rosenberg recorded his first career hit and RBI with a little dribbler up the middle that neither Desmond nor Lombardozzi could corral. Looks like Desmond should've called off his second baseman there. So after all that, the lead is now 5-2 heading to the fifth.

8:38 p.m. -- Meanwhile, the Braves lead the Marlins 2-0 in the fifth.

8:52 p.m. -- Remember how the Nats stormed out of the gates and ambushed Kendrick? Well, they haven't exactly kept up the pressure. The Phillies bullpen has yet to allow a hit in four innings of work. Where have we seen this before? Still 5-2 in the middle of the sixth.

9:03 p.m. -- Hmm, kind of an early appearance by Captain Hook. Davey Johnson came out to take the ball from Lannan with one out and one on in the sixth. In came Ryan Mattheus and Danny Espinosa as part of a double-switch. Guess Davey knew what he was doing because Mattheus immediately induced a 5-4-3 double play, with Espinosa making a nice turn at second, to end the inning. So Lannan's final line is: 5.1 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 3 K, 82 pitches, 47 strikes. He's in line to improve to 4-0 this year and earn his second career win at Citizens Bank Park if the Nats bullpen can protect a 5-2 lead.

9:13 p.m. -- So, the Nats have now faced the Phillies bullpen for a total of nine innings in this series. And they've produced a total of, hmm, let me see, oh yes ... ONE hit against them. Wasn't that supposed to be the weak link of that team? Still 5-2 at the stretch.

9:22 p.m. -- Jimmy Rollins tags a 3-1 pitch from Ryan Mattheus into the right-field bleachers. That makes it a 5-3 game as the seventh inning comes to an end. The Nats might want to think about an insurance run or two.

9:31 p.m. -- Well, at least they got a hit finally. Zim crushed a ball off the left-field wall, yet was held to a single. We go to the bottom of the eighth. Tyler Clippard is in. Utley, Howard and Ruiz are due up. Hold your breath, folks.

9:52 p.m. -- Everybody out there still breathing? Good. Clippard certainly left a few of you blue in the face. He gave up a lead off double, issued a wild pitch, a walk, a sac fly that was five feet short of leaving the park, a base hit that put the tying run on third base ... and then struck out Frandsen to end the eighth with the Nats still leading 5-4. The Braves just won, by the way, 3-0. So the Nats need to win to keep the lead at 4 games and reduce the magic number to 4.

10:14 p.m. -- Wow, some high drama in the top of the ninth. With two on and two out, Werth stepped to the plate to some rousing boos from the crowd. Why? Because earlier he picked up a foul ball and faked a throw into the stands, then tossed it into the dugout instead. So what happened next? Well, Justin DeFratus buzzed him with a high-and-tight fastball, riling up the crowd even more. Werth, though, got the last laugh, delivering a two-run single up the middle. He clapped his hands with authority as the Nats took a 7-4 lead. Bryce Harper's triple then made it 8-4 and gave Drew Storen some serious breathing room.

10:30 p.m. -- It's over. The Nats win 8-4 and exorcise a few demons in the process. They still lead the Braves by 4 games with 7 to play. The magic number is down to 4.

375 comments:

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Scooter said...

Lannan won't have one regular behind him in the field.

Ha. I misinterpreted this. Scrolled down to lineups, expecting to see Moore in left, Dozer at short, Tracy at third ...

natsfan1a said...

No pressure, John-Boy, but we could use another curly w in the books. Nats bats, same to you. Oh, and Nats defense. That should about cover it. kaythxbai. :-)

(Mark, Espi is still listed in the lineup below the narrative portion of your post.)

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

Danny Espinosa is not in the Nationals lineup, replaced by Steve Lombardozzi.

He's still in the lineup you have posted, Mark.

MicheleS said...

GO LannEn!! Go NATS! Let's get a bunch of runs early and take this one easily!

Section 222 said...

Seems to me Lannan overcame his Citizens Bank Park demon last year. How many times does he have to pitch well there before that history isn't wheeled out to dampen expectations? He's a lefty, and Davey wanted lefties to pitch these games. So no excuses John, go get 'em.

Gonat said...

No Espi. 3 K's yesterday and looked like he did last weekend before the the cortisone shot.

Really need Werth to be the hot hitter and set the table for the big guys.

Tcostant said...

Lannan is a better pitcher now because the defense is MUCH better and the hitters are better too. I count on 5 to 6 innings with 2 earner runs or less.

Melissa Rabey said...

Gonat--your comment about Werth made me go look at something I had been thinking about.

The last three Nats losses, Werth's line has been: 0-4 last night, 1-4 in the Sunday Milwaukee game, 1-4 in the Friday Milwaukee game.

If Werth doesn't get on, it seems like some of the spark is missing. Here's hoping that he'll have a good night tonight!

peric said...

@AdamKilgoreWP: Danny Espinosa says he's "100 percent." Says to ask Davey why he's out "because I'd like to know, too."

Gonat said...

Espinosa says his shoulder is "100 percent." Has no idea why he's not playing today. "Go ask (Davey) the reasoning. I'd like to know, too."

peric said...

RE: Gonat's comment. Its interesting that Davey didn't move Lombo to the top of the order and Werth #2, Harper to #3, then sliding a hot Zim to #4 followed by Morse and LaRoche. Guess that's too risky at this point?

Scooter said...

Nice, Melissa. It's not surprising that a leadoff hitter can make a big difference.

Here's to the Igniter!

peric said...

Its make or break for John Lannan. They really do desperately need every single win just as much as the Braves.

peric said...

Espy does make for a much dangerous pinch hitter than Lombo ... still ...

Gonat said...

Melissa Rabey said...
Gonat--your comment about Werth made me go look at something I had been thinking about.

The last three Nats losses, Werth's line has been: 0-4 last night, 1-4 in the Sunday Milwaukee game, 1-4 in the Friday Milwaukee game.

If Werth doesn't get on, it seems like some of the spark is missing. Here's hoping that he'll have a good night tonight!

September 26, 2012 4:08 PM
________________________________

Thanks for the research. He has to get it going tonight. I liked his lengthy at-bat to leadoff last night but then he swung at "ball 4" on that high fastball.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Not surprised about Espi. Back to trying to hit 5 run Homers again which is against what Davey has taught him with a short swing.

Just another chapter in this season of frustration with Espi. When he's on, he's on.

Gonat said...

Ghost Of Steve M. said...
Not surprised about Espi. Back to trying to hit 5 run Homers again which is against what Davey has taught him with a short swing.

Just another chapter in this season of frustration with Espi. When he's on, he's on.
_______________________________

At some point, class is over and the game begins. It has to frustrate Davey and Eck.

Gonat said...

Nick Carfado on MLB Network discussing the Free Agent centerfielders and he thinks BJ Upton could sign with the Nats as a FA.

He's another K machine and also wonder how he and Werth would get along.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Halladay scratched for tomorrow. May pitch over the weekend.

Gonat said...

Hart is speaking out of his butt on MLB Network. He says Gio and JZim are #2's. I'd hate to think what his opinion is of EJax.

He says Cain for SF is a #1 which I don't disagree but Gio is better.

Gonat said...

Ghost Of Steve M. said...
Halladay scratched for tomorrow. May pitch over the weekend.

September 26, 2012 4:37 PM
_______________________________

If that's the case, the Nats may not see him next week in Washington.

SCNatsFan said...

Please Nats do something tonight

TheManBearPig said...

Not sure where BJ Upton would fit in the Nats lineup. They don't need a .302 OBP leadoff hitter who strikes out at least once every 4 times to the plate.

baseballswami said...

Gonat -- National,( as opposed to NationalS), baseball writers/bloviators continue to say that Strasburg is our ace. How anyone can watch Gio and say such is a thing is beyond my understanding. Gio should get the Cy Young, JZim would have at least 4 more wins if he had gotten run support earlier in the year. That would make him at about 16 or 17. Both Gio and ZNN have been pitchers of the month. STras got a lot of strikeouts - they drove up his pitch counts unmercifully. Maybe in a few years he will be, maybe Gio will continue to improve and tear it up. Those people don't really watch nats games - they watch highlights and so they don't know what they are talking about. One thing about Gio - when he doesn't have his best stuff he still manages to keep the team in the game and get outs. The younger pitchers have not figured that out yet. Stras can learn that from him, he can learn the attack mode from ZNN, he can learn to be more crafty from LannEn. He still has tons to learn if he wants to.Stuff will only get you so far. As for tonight's game --- GO NATS!!!!!!!

btharner said...

This is the most stupid thing I'll ever complain about, but it does bug me. Why do the Nats playoff t-shirts look different from all the other teams who have clinched. Can't they fit the curly W inside a silhouette of the District?

MicheleS said...

Chase found this and tweeted it out. Just a Wow article about Davey from Boz (you may have read it before, but it's nice to read again.)

Davey

Section 222 said...

Halladay scratched for tomorrow.

Too bad. Seems eminently hittable these days.

So Gio is 20-8, with a 2.84 ERA, a 1.117 WHIP and 9.4 K/9. Cain is 15-5, 2.86, 1.051, and 8.0 K/9. Gio's ERA+ (which adjusts for the home ballpark) is 142, while Cain's is 124. His WAR is 4.6, Cain's is 3.4. Just how is Cain a No. 1 and Gio a No. 2? Sheesh.

Anonymous said...

btharner said...

This is the most stupid thing I'll ever complain about, but it does bug me. Why do the Nats playoff t-shirts look different from all the other teams who have clinched. Can't they fit the curly W inside a silhouette of the District?

I think those are the division champion shirts. If we win the division the shirts will have a silhouette of the District. the Sports Bog posted images of them earlier.

peric said...

Nick Carfado on MLB Network discussing the Free Agent centerfielders and he thinks BJ Upton could sign with the Nats as a FA.

He's another right-handed bat ... which is why they drafted Goodwin. And Skole, and picked up Erik Komatsu plus Corey Brown. And why Bourn keeps popping up.

If anything Davey is even more about getting balance on the left-handed side. Given the development of Harper I think they'd be better finding slots for Rendon, Skole, and Goodwin and determining what to do with Destin Hood and Eury Perez not to mention the aforementioned Corey Brown.

I don't see it ... that window closed a while ago.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Davey must be pissed as he should be on Espi. Here's what he just Saud "He's been over-swinging lately". Went on to say his stats vs Kendrick aren't good.

Gonat said...

Peric, Corey Brown is left-handed.

peric said...

Chase found this and tweeted it out. Just a Wow article about Davey from Boz (you may have read it before, but it's nice to read again.)

I believe I posted that here to shutdown the folks who kept pushing for Ray Knight to come out of the booth and be the hitting coach. Never heard a peep about that again ... I wonder why?


peric said...

Peric, Corey Brown is left-handed.

I know. Yet, he is one they still have to decide what to do about ... as no one believes he is going to be around after this season starting with your pal Natsjack.

Gonat said...

Ghost Of Steve M. said...
Davey must be pissed as he should be on Espi. Here's what he just Saud "He's been over-swinging lately". Went on to say his stats vs Kendrick aren't good.

September 26, 2012 5:16 PM
____________________________________

Interesting quote. Sounds like the teacher just gave the student detention while putting him on notice.

It has to be frustrating for Davey.

peric said...

Davey must be pissed as he should be on Espi. Here's what he just Saud "He's been over-swinging lately". Went on to say his stats vs Kendrick aren't good.

Luke Erickson heard a rumor that Rendon was going to be tried out at 2nd base in the AFL. Perhaps its more than a rumor?

Drew said...

I think the Nats will stand pat in cf, using Harper iand Werth until Goodwin arrives in 2014.

Ben Nicholson-Smith on the MLBTR chat today said he thinks Bourn could get Carl Crawford money, a seven-year deal that would be nuts from the Nats' perspective.

If the Nats do a blockbuster in the offseason, it might be for another starter. Keep an eye on Tampa's great lefty, David Price. The Rays don't have the money to keep him long term.

If the Rays choose to sell high, I wouldn't be surprised to see Rizzo work another four for one deal.

The Rays need a catcher and middle infield help and their first baseman is on a one-year deal. With Rendon coming, the Nats are well-stocked at all three spots.

It's not so far-fetched.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Raining in Phoolies city.

Anonymous said...

Section 222 said...

So Gio is 20-8, with a 2.84 ERA, a 1.117 WHIP and 9.4 K/9. Cain is 15-5, 2.86, 1.051, and 8.0 K/9. Gio's ERA+ (which adjusts for the home ballpark) is 142, while Cain's is 124. His WAR is 4.6, Cain's is 3.4. Just how is Cain a No. 1 and Gio a No. 2? Sheesh.


Referring to pitchers as #1 or #2 or whatever is a scouting term, not a performance ranking. Part of it is consistency and durability. Yes, Gio's stats are better in 2012. But Cain's are better for every other season in which both have been regular starters. And Cain's been a horse in his rotation since 2007, Gio only since 2010. So that's the reason for the application of those scouting terms to those guys.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Peric, I said before on Rendon 3rd, 2nd.or LF. Looks like now 2nd makes sense in the short-term.

Secret wasian man said...

GO MARLINS. Not expecting any curly Ws in this series.

Doc said...

I need to make a few cell calls here. First to Davey about Espi being out of the lineup, and then one to Espi telling him what Davey told me.

But following up on Goant's report I need to make one to John Hart. Obviously he's baseball constipated and pulling things out of his butt has been very difficult--more difficult than running a team which no one wants him to do anymore.

Gio and JZim are #2's eh, Johnny?? What #1's did you have in Cleveland that weren't on steroids? Did you say Bartolo Colon?

And by the way, Mr. Hartfart, how is it that a #5 MLB TV analyst knows anything about #1 starters?

Gio and JZim will be gathering Cy votes when you Hart are applying for your hot dog vendor's license in the Midwest Independent League.

GooooooGio GooooooJZim GooooooooooNats!!!!!!!

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

John Hart once again proves he knows little about the Nats and his jealousy of Rizzo is transparent. Nats have 3 number 1's and Detwiler who had his worst inning of the year is a #2 with the potential to be a #1.

Gumbo in Gotham said...

Come on Nats! We need a curly W tonight! It's been a rough two weeks and the Braves are coming on strong. If we finish strong it won't matter what the Braves do in their games.

Anonymous said...

Guys, please. Stop with the #1 thing. You're way, way off.

Former Baseball Prospectus scouting guru Kevin Goldstein used to say that there are less than ten true #1 pitchers. It's a scouting term, not a statement regarding depth of talent. 30 teams does not equal 30 #1s. Even Strasburg isn't a #1, he's a potential #1 who hasn't demonstrated durability yet.

Cain qualifies. Kershaw qualifies, probably. That honestly might be it for the National League now that the Phillies' tandem is aging rapidly.

baseballswami said...

At this point playing Lombo is not a downgrade. He might not have a cannon, but he has a good arm and he has good range. Not your typical bench player going out there for a game. He makes contact a ridiculous percent of the time. When someone is on base that will move them over or get them in, which is something the Nats don't seem to do regularly. Hoping the bats come alive and Jayson finds some grass or bleachers.

Section 222 said...

I take your point bowdenball, but do you think that's how Hart was using the term? And at this point in the season, when everyone is talking about Cy Young candidates and we have a full year of starts to look at, what good does it do to use a scouting term to suggest that that despite the full season numbers, this pitcher (Cain) is actually better than that pitcher (Gio). So Cain has pitched seven full seasons in the majors and Gio has pitched only 3. So what? Gio still had a better year this year. And why isn't he a potential No. 1 if Strasburg is? How many seasons like this does he have to have before Hart and the scouts catch on to the fact that he's just as good as Cain, he's just younger?

Anonymous said...

Davey doesn't need to make any sort of "See? I'm still the boss here" moves but I kinda like that he did.

It hammers home the fact that nothing is over until we get to Brandon Watson Day.

(You probably don't get what that means. But, as a hint, today is Carlos Baerga Day -- again.)

mick said...

Gonat said...
Nick Carfado on MLB Network discussing the Free Agent centerfielders and he thinks BJ Upton could sign with the Nats as a FA.

who does he replace and why??? I think BJ is a bad move

peric said...

If the Nats do a blockbuster in the offseason, it might be for another starter. Keep an eye on Tampa's great lefty, David Price. The Rays don't have the money to keep him long term.

If they managed to sign Price the Nats would have the best rotation in baseball bar none. Absolutely, you can expect Rizzo to go for Price. He would fit in quite well with the Nats. But Rizzo also said he was trying to bring back EJax today.

It would make far more sense to sign Price given the NL East. Having three lefties and two righties in the rotation ...

Especially given the current status of Purke and Solis.

mick said...

doe sit mean that Morse is going to be traded? Harper and Werth wills tart so if Upton plays, where does Morse go?

peric said...

Lombo had better be ready because Lannan is a definite pitch to contact guy. He doesn't have the Livo curve that Zach Duke appears to have developed.

mick said...

Peric I would like either another starter or a closer during the off season.... we have the bats now and in the farm

peric said...

who does he replace and why??? I think BJ is a bad move

Cafardo follows the BoSox not the Nats. If anything Davey has used this season to prove to the Nats FO that there was no need to get a CF from the outside. In point of fact it might hurt more than help.

Now, an ace left-hander like David Price? That might be a different story.

peric said...

Peric I would like either another starter or a closer during the off season.... we have the bats now and in the farm

Don't necessarily need a closer ... but certainly left-handed, effective, back-end power pitcher relievers are certainly on the shopping list. Particularly if they decide to part ways with Sean Burnett.

That's going to be a high priority in the offseason.

peric said...

If they managed, somehow, to sign David Price away from the rest of baseball starting with the Marlins ... Davey would not be satisfied with less than 100 wins.

SteveRep44 said...

Peric: Hasn't there already been an edict from South Florida that the Fish have already shifted into salary-trimming mode?

MicheleS said...

SteveRep44..I saw that too,not sure who reported it from the National writers, but saw the Fish were in dump mode. Plus with all that calamity down there it would take a lot $$$$$ to get someone to go there.

Gonat said...

SteveRep, good one on Brandon Watson =0=

Section 222 said...

Thanks for that Boz link Michele. I'm watching Ray K with a new eye tonight.

mick said...

peric... thanks

MicheleS said...

222.. isn't it weird how much Ray goes on about Davey. Me Thinks that if things were really bad between Ray and Davey that one of them wouldn't be here. And since Davey is part of the furniture, I think we know who would be gone. Plus, you have to remember that Marge was in charge and a complete scrouge/nut/b-word. So I put more of this on her rather than Ray.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

MASN just aired the Davey interview. Davey said Espi has been overswinging for a few games.

That was being kind, he's been overswinging before he falls into every slump.

Glad Davey dropped the hammer. The "idiot" comment was classic.

Section 222 said...

You're probably right Michele. More than likely, it's all in the past. But Ray doesn't seem entirely sincere sometimes, and I can definitely see him talking behind Davey's back.

JaneB said...

Great article, Michelle. Thanks for the link. And terrific stats on Werth, Melissa Rabey. Now I know where to concentrate my Powers of TV-Viewing Extra Energies. Would that I had any. But still.

Go WERTH! Challenge those guys, John! GYFNG!

baseballswami said...

Oh, ray worships the ground Davey walks on. It can be nauseating at times. If objectivity is ever called for, you won't find it there.

Gonat said...

That's what we're talking about Jayson Werth!

Gonat said...

There it is! #20

MicheleS said...

God I LOVE BAMBAM! Uncle Bryce ROCKS

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

HR for Uncle Bryce

Melissa Rabey said...

Woo!!! Number 20! Attaboy, Bam Bam. :-)

SteveRep44 said...

With Six (pitches), You Get Bam Bam.

Joe Seamhead said...

Uncle Bam Bam!

hiramhover said...

Pitchtrack certainly didn't seem to think Country Joe was calling the low strike for Kendrick in Werth's AB - what's that going to mean for Lannan?

And, oh yeah - Bryce!!!

MicheleS said...

Gonat.. apparantly FP thinks mentioning the scrore first stat is now a bad thing.

Ghost Of Steve M. said...

Gonat @4:03, Good call! Werth set the table for the young guy! BOOM!!!!

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

The last 3 batters looked weak after the HR. They can get going next at bat

Gonat said...

MicheleS said...
Gonat.. apparantly FP thinks mentioning the scrore first stat is now a bad thing.

September 26, 2012 7:15 PM
__________________________________

Yah, I questioned him if he said it last night. I didn't remember he did but he said he did.

FP is great!

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Very important Laanan must not let them score.

MicheleS said...

LannEn looking good...

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Good job John.

Davey thought Espinosa was over swinging. You think? Done it all season what is diferent now?

SteveRep44 said...

Perfect start for Lannan, even moreso after being spotted to a lead.

hiramhover said...

ground out - ground out - ground out

If Lannan can keep that up, I like our chances tonight.

MicheleS said...

Nice Story by ladson on

GIO

MicheleS said...

IAN!!!! GO DESI!

Melissa Rabey said...

Clearly, Kendrick is throwing a home run party, and Ian just got his invite.

Joe Seamhead said...

Desi!

Swift Eagle said...

Both HRs by the Nats were crushed, but it seems the only way to win at CBP is to hit the long ball...This appears to have the makings of a high scoring affair...

Joe Seamhead said...

E4 Utley!

Swift Eagle said...

BOOM

MicheleS said...

Holy POOP! WHat is going on ZUKI!!!!

hiramhover said...

Kurt!!

Swift Eagle said...

Wait a minute...Boo Birds in Phila? I am shocked

Melissa Rabey said...

Awww, man, I hate that I'm at work and not at home watching this happen!

Joe Seamhead said...

Screw the Doom!. Praise the boom! That was some serious " Jamm-age"

djinFl. said...

I love that Joe S

SteveRep44 said...

Nats need a no-mercy approach tonight. No let-up.

Swift Eagle said...

Obviously Bryce, Ian, and Kurt were swinging too hard there, they each may need a day...Lol

Joe Seamhead said...

From Kurt Suzuki:
Ooh, yeah! All right!
We're jammin':
I wanna jam it wid you.
We're jammin', jammin',
And I hope you like jammin', too.
Ain't no rules, ain't no vow, we can do it anyhow:
I'n'I will see you through,
'Cos everyday we pay the price with a little sacrifice,
Jammin' till the jam is through.
We're jammin' -

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Almost another by Zim. when they bring the reliever we must keep hitting.

John pitch like the first inning.

Section 222 said...

Ok Lannan. A five run lead. Just bring it home. And Josh Johnson is on the mound tonight for the Marlins. I'm liking how this is looking. Will everyone who was freaking out this morning with the Magic Number at 5 with 8 to play feel better if the number is 3 with 7 to play?

MicheleS said...

JoeS.. That is perfect! is there any severe jammage in that? Ehay2k would toast to that.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Free passes why?

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Come on man

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Josh johnson pitches mediocre always against the Braves

Lannan survives HBP.

I fell off the wagon last night and had a teaspoon of Maloox.

I been Maloox free 1 day now.

Now let's get some runs

Swift Eagle said...

Already scored as many runs tonight as they did in the 3 Game Series in Phi last months...

JaneB said...

Love it, seamhead! John just needs to stay steady through here. Everything's crossed.

JaneB said...

Maybe BP in the tunnel is the way to go tomorrow night, too! I do realize we are only in inning three...

Swift Eagle said...

It's early, but once again this team has shown it will not just fade away when things get tough...They're not fragile, they are still going to be tested many times, but they don't back down...This is a tough team

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Brian Peterson ground out with 2 on. Argggg.

Swift Eagle said...

That was nearly a Triple-Play Ball...

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Damn it. We hit like crap against bull pen last night and so far we did it again. So come on guys lets hit the billpen tonight and not quit hitting like we did last night after Hamels left.

Swift Eagle said...

Hopefully Lannan was watching Hamels pitch with a lead last night...In that ballpark, you are going to give up some runs, but last night Hamels only walked 1 and avoided the big inning...Make them earn it John

MicheleS said...

Manassas.. Enjoy the Nats game, can't worry about what is going on in ATL. Take care of Nats business first.

Swift Eagle said...

Total Mental Error....Take the OUT!!!

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Why

Gonat said...

Suzuki just lost his brain.

MicheleS said...

The good news is that the Phillies pitcher is running the bases now.

Gonat said...

Should be 2 outs now and a man on 1st.

Joe Seamhead said...

Lannan doesn't deserve that.

hiramhover said...

Remember folks, this is what Lannan does--puts people on base and then erases them with GBs.

Except for when he doesn't.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Gives them extra run.

Lannan get the ball back down

Gonat said...

I am just blown away at the mental mistake by a veteran like Suzuki. It wasn't a force so it would have to be a perfect throw and tag.

Exposremains said...

momentum switch since the DP and its also the 3rd inning, Lannnan's worst.

Gonat said...

How do you assume a guy like Frandsen with a stress fracture in his foot would score from 3rd on a fly to Bryce Harper?

Exposremains said...

I dont like this.

Swift Eagle said...

You're so right Gonat, it was not even worth the risk. When playing a CBP you take every out you can get...You must avoid the big inning at all cost...

Holding my breath right now....

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Last night Desmond was.fielding him right there. Why did he move?

Maliox comin 2 strike hits

Exposremains said...

2 hanging breaking balls to Howard, thats lucky.

Swift Eagle said...

Look at those numbers, when did Ruiz turn into Yoggi Berra???

MicheleS said...

Sweet! Way to go John!

Steady Eddie said...

John rises to the occasion!

Exposremains said...

A bit too much emotion for me here.

Gonat said...

Lannan just hung together like a veteran star. Put behind the 8 ball there. Wow!

Joe Seamhead said...

Whew!

Swift Eagle said...

At least Kurt saved a run with the block, and he has a 2 run tater, so I guess he's still ahead 3-1...

JaneB said...

Attaboy, John! Good for you!

hiramhover said...

Kinda like that--that's Lannan at his best.

Walks the tight rope, puts men on, sends Manassas and others reaching for the Maalox. But gets out of the jam.

Drew said...

Kick save and a beauty!

Houdini, Baybee.

Gonat said...

Swift Eagle said...
Look at those numbers, when did Ruiz turn into Yoggi Berra???

September 26, 2012 8:08 PM
________________________________

I see the stats and it reminds me of Melky. Look at his stats prior to 2010. I'm not buying it.

JaneB said...

We joke about how WE are learning to be playoff baseball fans, but we are. Same as our guys need to take deep breaths and focus when they get in a bad spot, we can help (I actually believe this) by holding a space of cold-blooded, fearless calm.

Wine helps.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Lannan great job.

We need that run back. Worthless against bullpen this season so far

hiramhover said...

So that's what in those jugs behind the bench.

SteveRep44 said...

Nats' bench shelf will soon be Double Bubble, sunflower seeds and mini-syringes of cortisone

Section 222 said...

FP, you're a jerk. No one is saying that the Nats should rely on anyone else. Certainly Carp wasn't.

Gonat said...

Section 222 said...
FP, you're a jerk. No one is saying that the Nats should rely on anyone else. Certainly Carp wasn't.

September 26, 2012 8:15 PM
___________________________________

Not sure for his motivation of his statement but I do agree with him.

Section 222 said...

He was showing up Carp. Just as he was when Carp told his story about the Phillies radio guys. FP is not a team player. Sure, Carp is goofy sometimes, but they are supposed to be partners.

MicheleS said...

222/Gonat.. By what FP is seeing on Twitter, I am guessing he is seeing all the Nats Fans crushing the Marlins for not helping the Nats out. While I would love for the Fish to help the Nats, the Nats need to take care of business and just win.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Come on Eck 2 nights in a row bullpen has made us look pathetic. Look in book and give your hitters some instruction. This is silly. 6 innings 1 hit

Section 222 said...

I'm not a big Carp fan or apologist. But you'll never see him make fun of his partner or try to make him look bad. Sutton, Dibble, and FP all fail that test.

Section 222 said...

Bryce became a real live uncle today apparently.

mick said...

MicheleS

EXACTLY!!!

Joe Seamhead said...

Wow, 222, I didn't take anything FP said as being offensive, Chill pill fr you, man.

mick said...

whadda say 3 1!!!!

MicheleS said...

NatsNut if you are on twitter.. Brittany had her baby and a cutie patotie at that!

mick said...

Ruf is a little fire plug

MicheleS said...

Gosh I love when Ryan doesn't have time to think.

Joe Seamhead said...

A great play by Zimm!

Swift Eagle said...

The arm tattoo and mullet make Lannan look like the lead singer of Late 90's Grunge Band...

mick said...

way to goo Lannan.... I like this Ruf kid

mick said...

Swift lol

MicheleS said...

OY! Head Slap.. Byrce misplayed that one.

mick said...

not good John

Joe Seamhead said...

Dang it! Bryce, never come in off the bat.

hiramhover said...

The batter might still have reached base, but I don't think you'd have seen that quasi-collision with Espi.

Section 222 said...

You can't fault Lombo on that play? Of course you can. Desi had a shot at throwing out the pitcher and keeping the run from scoring. Ugh.

Swift Eagle said...

Just avoid the big inning....Of course, scoring a few more would be OK too!

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Geez 3 bad plays in the giels Lannan in trouble

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

Hitter please serious against bullpen. I said before the reliever came in that I was not happy with the prospect of hitters once bullpen came ib

Steady Eddie said...

No, mick, can't fault Lannan for any of this inning, he had to get five outs because his defense failed him other than Zim. Harp's misjudging that fly -- he was only a step behind it and he gave up two by coming in first -- and then Desi and Lombo letting the ball through on Rosenberg's soft grounder to avoid running into each other. Have to think Danny, who has a little better range than Lombo, would have backed up Desi rather than trying to be the primary fielder on that. Fact is that Lombo has not played second next to Desi very much.

Swift Eagle said...

A tough play up the middle, it was on the 2B side, but with Ian going towards 1B, Lombo prob should have let him take it...Would have taken a web gem to get an out anyway

Section 222 said...

JoeS, I'm just getting weary of FP's homerism. He's trying to make us believe that he actually thinks ALR should be MVP of the National League. I mean, come on. We weren't born yesterday.

And then they tried to tell us that Ryan really fired that ball. We have eyes guys. Yes, it was on target and got the job done, but it was not a high powered throw. And then Lombo did nothing wrong on that RBI single by the pitcher. Yeah right.

I need to turn on the radio.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

That was Desi' all the wsy

Gonat said...

Section 222 said...
You can't fault Lombo on that play? Of course you can. Desi had a shot at throwing out the pitcher and keeping the run from scoring. Ugh.

September 26, 2012 8:28 PM
__________________________________

2nd baseman has to go behind the shortstop the same way the shortstop goes behind the 3rd baseman.

feelanau said...

Come on guys. Pitcher has 7+ ERA and we're making him look like a world beater.

Manassas Nats' Fan said...

I am really not happy with the hitters this series against the bullpen. 7 IP 1 hit 9 K. Can some tell me why the hitters change approach against the bullpen.

starters for Phils 7 IP 12 hits 8 runs.

get off your duf and hit the bullpen

MicheleS said...

Okay for a little break and Yes FP is a homer, but I would rather have FP than that Gas Bag Dribble.

A Little Love for FP

Joe Seamhead said...

Well, to each their own, 222. I get at least one really good laugh a night from FP. I just didn't hear him as dissing Carp.

MicheleS said...

222.. watch a WGN/White Sox broadcast. My ears bleed when Hawk Harrelson starts up with his homerism.. FP is not even 0.0000001% of the Homer that Hawk is.

hiramhover said...

Alright, Johnny!

MicheleS said...

Mannassas.. not happy either, but you have to figure some of these bullpen guys, the Nats have never seen (September callups) and have no book on them. Usually takes the 2nd time through the order to get at the pitcher. Remember we think every rookie or call up is Cy Young vs the Nats

Steady Eddie said...

Lannan is totally rising to the occasion -- pitching a gem.

Steady Eddie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
SteveRep44 said...

Suzuki did proper thing by ending the inning with his at-bat. Lannan stays in.

mick said...

agreed eddie

Section 222 said...

No one is .0000001% of the homer that Hawk is. That's putting the bar for FP pretty darn low! He's improved this year, but I just feel like he insults our intelligence when he tries to sell ALR as MVP, or cover for Zim's lousy arm.

mick said...

do you go to pen in 7th gang, regardless?

mick said...

woof woof is up, i mean ruf ruf

bada bing.... now thatw as bad, lol

SteveRep44 said...

Here comes Matheus after Lannan K'd Dom Brown.

hiramhover said...

And that's also classic John Lannan - not making it out of the 6th inning.

Not a bad night, but certainly not a great one. Gave the Nats what they needed.

mick said...

not sure about this move?

SteveRep44 said...

It's a double-switch. Espi taking over for Lombo at 2B.

mick said...

John has been good period, only one bad outing out of 4.

MicheleS said...

222 On the ALR as MVP.. weirdly saw a couple of the National writers -HEYMAN being one- mention ALR as mvp candidate (not a shoo in, just in the top 5ish).

I guess I am okay with FP/Carp being homers. They are picked/paid by Team/MASN, so I understand it. I would probably be more upset if they were sellling us a line of bull on a craptastic team (2008/2009) vs 2011/2012. If you can't be a homer for a 1st place team, when can you be a homer?

mick said...

like i said, great move, lol

Gonat said...

Pitcher's best friend and Lannan's line is done with a very good outing. Poor Peric will be disappointed again as his hatred and always needing to be right outweighs all else.

mick said...

am I the only one, but I feel like 1-2 more runs would be nice

MicheleS said...

Okay.. TWitter is ahead of the MASN feed. I was looking at twitter and they had the DP about 45 seconds ahead of the MASN HD feed. Spooky.

Section 222 said...

I'd say Lannan was great tonight. Not really fair to say he didn't make it out of the 6th. Davey hooked him for the matchup. And he certainly isn't responsible for that second run. Credit where credit is due.

Steady Eddie said...

Mick -- I had my doubts too -- Lannan was only at 77 pitches and was in control except for the 4th, which he escaped with only a run -- but shouldn't be doubting Davey by now. I doubt Lombo would have been able to make that turn and throw to get the DP in time.

Joe Seamhead said...

222. The week that Ray filled in for FP was torture for many of us.

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