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| Photo by USA Today |
Back in Washington's lineup is Anthony Rendon who will play third base and bat seventh. Danny Espinosa is hitting second as Steve Lombardozzi gets a rest. Everything else is pretty much as expected.
The Reds will pitch Mike Leake (1-0, 3.81 ERA), a former 8th overall pick. Leake has faced the Nationals seven different times in his young career, allowing 23 earned runs in 39 1/3 innings (a 5.26 ERA. After seeing their offense take a step back last night, maybe the Nats can get things going again against a guy they have been able to bat around in the past.
Updates to come...
CINCINNATI REDS at WASHINGTON NATIONALS
Where: Nationals Park
Gametime: 1:05 p.m. EDT
TV: FOX, MLB.tv
Radio: WJFK (106.7 FM), WFED (1500 AM)
Weather: Sunny, 72 degrees, Wind 6 mph in from LF
NATIONALS (12-11)
CF Denard Span
2B Danny Espinosa
LF Bryce Harper
RF Jayson Werth
1B Adam LaRoche
SS Ian Desmond
3B Anthony Rendon
C Kurt Suzuki
RHP Dan Haren
REDS (13-11)
CF Shin-Soo Choo
SS Zack Cozart
1B Joey Votto
2B Brandon Phillips
RF Jay Bruce
LF Chris Heisey
3B Jack Hannahan
C Devin Mesoraco
RHP Mike Leake
UMPIRES
HP Rob Drake
1B Sam Holbrook (cc)
2B Paul Nauert
3B Andy Fletcher
12:48 p.m. -- Absolutely beautiful day here at Nationals Park as the crowd pours in, getting ready for first pitch in just a little bit.
1:11 p.m. -- Haren gets through the first inning looking sharp with just ten pitches (seven strikes) needed. He is grooving his fastball at 90 mph and got Zack Cozart to strike out with a 85 mph splitter. Joey Votto flied out to the wall the end the inning. On to the bottom of the first.
1:21 p.m. -- The Nats got a runner on as Danny Espinosa drew a walk on a full count against Leake with one out. He never got past first, however, as both Harper and Werth flew out to left field. Werth's looked like it may have been something at first, a line drive into left-center. But Jay Bruce got a good jump on it and reeled it in on the run. On to the second we go after Leake threw 16 pitches (9 strikes) in the first.
1:28 p.m. -- Haren gave up a single to lead off the inning to Brandon Phillips, but had no trouble getting three outs right after. He got Bruce to pop up behind home plate, then induced a 5-4-3 double play on a Heisey groundball. Efficient through two, Haren is at 21 pitches (15 strikes).
1:47 p.m. -- Patient hitting is the recipe for success today against Leake. With one out both Desmond and Rendon got on with walks, prompting a mound visit. One out later Dan Haren poked a single to right field to score Desmond, then Span smacked one up the middle to score the rookie. 2-0 Nats with Leake at 46 pitches through two innings.
1:55 p.m. -- Haren followed up his strong inning at the plate with another crisp one on the mound. He needed just 14 pitches to set down three, striking out the last two batters. He has 35 (24 strikes) pitches through three.
2:10 p.m. -- Two more runs for the Nats in the third inning as they take a 4-0 lead over the Reds. Harper got them started with a single to left field and was joined on base by Werth who hit a hard grounder to short, Cozart couldn't make the throw in time. Desmond then singled home Harper and Werth was brought in by a Jack Hannahan throwing error to second. Leake has already thrown 71 pitches (44 strikes) after three.
2:23 p.m. -- No longer a one-hit bid here as Dan Haren allows a pair to Votto and Phillips. Votto doubled with two outs and was then brought home by Phillips on a single. Now 4-1 Nats as we head to the bottom of the fourth. Haren at 56 pitches (37 strikes).
2:33 p.m. -- The Nats get two more runs on Bryce Harper's ninth home run of the season, a shot to right field. He scored Denard Span to secure his 17th and 18th RBI of the year, setting a team record for the month of April. It's early, just the 24th game of the year, but Harper is currently hitting .373 with 9 HR, 18 RBI, and 17 R.
2:48 p.m. -- Dan Haren may actually get to the sixth inning today, everyone. he needed just 11 pitches to get through the fifth. The Nats had a leadoff single by Rendon in the bottom of the inning, but three straight outs set them down.
3:01 p.m. -- Haren finally started looking shaky in the sixth with a leadoff home run to Choo then a single to Cozart. Denard Span made a beautiful leaping catch at the wall to get Votto out before Phillips grounded into a double play. Zach Duke is up in the bullpen so we'll see if Haren goes any longer. He's at 88 (56 strikes) after making it through the sixth inning for the first time as a Nationals pitcher.
3:14 p.m. -- The Nats got two runners on with one-out walks by Harper and Werth. Harper, however, was then thrown out trying to steal third and Adam LaRoche (surprise) grounded out to end the inning. Haren is out after 88 pitches with Duke taking over in the top of the seventh.
3:37 p.m. -- The Reds were able to make it interesting in the seventh as Duke continues to have a rough 2013 season. Bruce got on because of a Danny Espinosa throwing error to first. He was moved to third by Mesoraco on a sac fly, Xavier Paul was walked prior to the out and reached second. Duke was then replaced by Clippard who gave up an RBI single to a pinch-hitting Todd Frazier. Choo walked to load the bases. Cozart then ended the inning on a long fly ball tracked down by Span. Span has saved two potentially daggers in center field today.
3:46 p.m. -- Nats go down 1-2-3 in the bottom of the seventh and now have Drew Storen out to set up. 6-3 Nats as we head to the top of the eighth.
3:55 p.m. -- As well as this game started for the Nats, the Reds keep reminding them it's not over. In the bottom of the eighth Cincy got two men on with singles off Drew Storen. Xavier Paul then came up to represent the tying run, but hit a hard grounder to Desmond who started the double play. Another 'whew' inning for the Nats as we head to the ninth.
4:03 p.m. -- No one on for the Nats in the bottom of the eighth as Lombardozzi and Span struck out before Espinosa popped out against Sean Marshall. Rafael Soriano will now take the mound looking to put the seal on this thing.
4:09 p.m. -- Soriano goes 1-2-3, Nats win their third straight game to reach 13-11 on the year.
I hope Rendon steps into himself today, and that a Birthday Week halo accrues to Danny's hitting.
ReplyDeleteOh! GYFNG!
ReplyDeleteYep, Rendon back in the kitchen today. Peric will be happy. Like to see him get a couple line drives today
ReplyDeleteGo, Dan. Go, NATS!! Keep on truckin'!
ReplyDeleteScott Margenau said...
ReplyDeleteI like Julie, she seems very affable and speaks well. Def super cute too. Hmmmm
Julie might be the real one who turned this team around. Since she joined, they started playing like winners. At any rate, I hope she gets her third straight Gatorade shower today.
What's the deal with Espinosa at #2 hole?
The Fox said...
ReplyDeleteNot sure I like making Suzuki catch a day game after a night game. Davey's not showing too much confidence in Solano. Yes it would be nice to sweep the Reds but overusing Suzuki could come back to haunt them.
April 27, 2013 10:31 AM
I have to agree with you. His BA has nose-dived. He's not the type to complain but that is too much work. He should sit today and play tomorrow and Ramos takes over on Monday.
This is exactly what Davey did to Jesus Flores last year and that over-use may have ruined his season.
The Crystal ball I hope is Wrong. Reds 4 Nats 2
ReplyDeleteWhy not hit Suzuki second? He has a very good .368 on base percentage.
ReplyDeleteThat was my feeling, too. Play Solano today and save Suzuki for tomorrow. But what do I know? Maybe he wants to give Haren the best chance.
ReplyDeleteWhen is Ramos due back? Suzuke hopefully won't be overused at that point.
ReplyDeleteThe game is on Fox. No chance of a Gatorade shower today.
ReplyDeleteDrew, much of Suzuki's .368 OBP are due to his pitch arounds to get to the pitcher. His BA is on a nose-dive. He was batting .368 a week and a 1/2 ago and today is .239. Like we saw with Lombo the past 2 games, they aren't pitching around you when you are batting in front of Bryce Harper.
ReplyDeleteNatsLady, Ramos is back on Monday if all goes well!
ReplyDeleteGonat said he put in 4 innings yesterday in AA and goes again today. Presumably rests tomorrow.
Manassas....I saw Ken Beatrice at 7-11 and he said he liked the Nats today by a whisker. He said that most games are lost rather than won and that the Nats are shoring up their defense now. He also said that his "sources" say that Rendon is only 165 lbs with rocks in his pockets.
ReplyDelete"HELLO!!!....YOU'RE NEXT!!!!!!!!!"
Also Manassas.....I don't eat the curly fries, they tell me they're good.
ReplyDeleteYep, Rendon back in the kitchen today. Peric will be happy. Like to see him get a couple line drives today.
ReplyDeleteIts not about me wanting Rendon to replace someone (albeit I think we all know he'll be at third base soon enough) its more about the fact the guy is the franchise's top prospect ... not just the top prospect but the TOP hitting prospect.
As Rizzo himself said he needs to play every day somewhere. If not in the majors probably in AAA Syracuse. And the same is true for Tyler Moore. He too is a top hitting prospect as is Brian Goodwin. They need to play everyday.
Forcing LaRoche into the lineup with his back is Riggleman-itiis. Respect the veterans, respect the game. Forcing Zim to come back before he is ready is Giggleman.
Again, Davey sold himself as the manager that go the Mets to the world series by reaching down into the minors, plucking top prospects and putting them into the lineup. Well?
Davey stuck with Harper, Espinosa et al during their slumps and periods of adjustment. I see no reason not to do the same with Anthony Rendon and Tyler Moore.
Both Rizzo and Johnson admit they erred. Moving Werth out of the leadoff spot has just added another ineffective veteran hitter to a lineup that already has Adam LaRoche on a steep decline at age 33 due to his back. He looks even more pathetic than Pudge.
Rizzo broke what wasn't broken and didn't need to be fixed. Johnson is favoring LaRoche over a top prospect! Over what is best for the team! Zimmerman's bat is the one they truly need not LaRoche's and it's more likely to stay healthy at first base! LaRoche should never have been signed. And Werth looks more and more like an expensive 4th outfielder to me who is definitely blocking this franchise's top prospects!
The Nats can't draft and overslot to fill the coffers with top prospects anymore. There's a draft cap now. Its going to be extremely hard to replace what they have now in the way of prospects for that reason. So, it behooves the franchise to leverage the great prospects Rizzo, Clark, et al have put into the system. And playing LaRoche and Werth blocks and impedes tha process.
Again, that was the only real reason I could see letting Michael Morse go ... so that Tyler Moore would get a chance to show if he was capable of the same things.
I trust Davey. Now that doesn't mean that I don't question his logic sometimes. Today, I wonder about ALR starting, but also understand that it is questionable strategy to make too many changes to a line up that just started winning after a losing spell. I also kind of get moving Danny up with Anthony in the lineup, but I being a guy that knows nothing, would have reversred them and let Rendon bat 2nd. As to Suzuki, I don't think there's an issue there. Unlike Jesus Flores, Kurk is in superb condition. He'll get a break when Ramos comes back next week. I really think Haren is struggling enough without having to deal with a pretty green batterymate.
ReplyDeleteI think that the Espy, Anthony, ALR thing is typical Davey, not just playing hunches, but trying to instill self-confidence in his guys. GYFNG!!!
NatsLady, Ramos is back on Monday if all goes well!
ReplyDeleteAs Kilgore and Wagner reported. They want him for the four game set against Atlanta. And that makes a lot of sense.
It'll be interesting to see if he gets to catch all four games or if he is introduced slowly again.
Big Cat, if you're serious, that's awesome as Ken Beatrice is an original. He disappeared. Back in the day when all we had of sports was the AM radio, wow. Too cool.
ReplyDeleteOf course now you have those who I think have ripped him off like EB of the Junkies. He might as well just say to the callers YOU'RE NEXT instead of WHAAAT'S UP.
P.S. Denard Span has 8 RBIs, two fewer than Michael Morse.
ReplyDeleteMorse also has a fractured finger ... once that heals sufficiently the gap will indeed widen significant.
The real comparison is between the pathetic Adam LaRoche and Morse.
Of course now you have those who I think have ripped him off like EB of the Junkies.
ReplyDeleteThe Junkies are an invention of Don Geronimo and Mike O'Meara. Everything they do is copied (as advised by Don) nothing is original everything is pretty stupid.
Having a guy who strikes out a lot hitting second feels like a mistake to me, but I guess we'll see. Maybe Davey figures he'll get better pitches to hit in front of Harper?
ReplyDeletePeople with high OPS vs. Leake are, in order from highest to lowest, Bernadina, LaRoche, Werth, Harper, Espinosa, Desmond, Tracy. Lombo, Tyler Moore, Rendon and Solano have never faced him. I'd imagine LaRoche's track record of success against the guy is why he's in the line-up today.
Joe Seamhead said...
ReplyDeleteI trust Davey. Now that doesn't mean that I don't question his logic sometimes. Today, I wonder about ALR starting, but also understand that it is questionable strategy to make too many changes to a line up that just started winning after a losing spell.
It's fool's gold. Every day you are changing your lineup as the starter pitchers change. The lack of offense is still a problem and would have killed the team yesterday if JZim wasn't near perfection.
Davey made the right call with Espi on Thursday given his history against Arroyo but conversely LaRoche had a sizeable sample size against Arroyo and was batting .071 against him before his 0-fer on Thursday.
These struggling players are all due to breakout but I fear LaRoche is the post-season version of Espinosa who revealed afterwards he was badly injured but instead of coming forward hurt his team. Davey in this case has to step up as the bad man and force the issue. TyMo is a capable replacement player even against the RHP.
I'd imagine LaRoche's track record of success against the guy is why he's in the line-up today.
ReplyDeleteBut, if he continues to be pathetic they had better put him on the DL and let him rest that back. And if he loses his job to one of the right handed hitters so be it. Davey will just have to live with it.
Peric, I know you disagree, but everything about how they've handled Rendon - resigning LaRoche, not playing Rendon everyday during this call-up - suggests that they don't think he's ready for the majors. And nothing Rizzo's said or done indicates he disagrees with Davey on that. If LaRoche is still struggling in, say, mid-May, I imagine their strategy will change. But assuming LaRoche is healthy and just in a slump, I don't think letting Rendon have an extra year of minor league development is the wrong call, personally.
ReplyDeleteDavey in this case has to step up as the bad man and force the issue.
ReplyDeleteHe isn't going to do it Ghost. LaRoche was his idea over Morse. And right now he looks pretty stupid which I'm sure he hates. LaRoche and his back were a problem last season as well. He probably had the break out year because he got to rest it for about a year. Now he is getting older and its getting worse.
EmDash, thanks for pointing out the OPS history against Leake. I hope this is the good LaRoche.
ReplyDeleteResigning LaRoche, not playing Rendon everyday during this call-up - suggests that they don't think he's ready for the majors. I don't think letting Rendon have an extra year of minor league development is the wrong call, personally.
ReplyDeleteI agree and if Davey wasn't going to play Rendon every day they should have promoted him to Syracuse instead. And they should option Tyler Moore to Syracuse and recall Marerro. The guy just got banged in the kneed with a ground ball he already has 4 errors. He's a bench bat. Tyler Moore isn't.
Harper wasn't ready for the majors when they called him up. He struggled mightily ... but eventually he adapted and adjusted with the help of the mentoring on hand. According to scouts Rendon is the more refined hitter.
Last season I remember most of you calling for Harper to be returned to the minors because he wasn't ready. I figured Davey would work with him until he was. All I'm saying is he should do the same with Rendon and admit he is wrong about LaRoche because this isn't a slump. He looks just like he did when he had the shoulder issue that required surgery in 2011. Pathetic. He can't even reach for balls at first base.
And Werth batting fourth? That's a joke.
Peric, LaRoche has TWENTY FIVE strikeouts in the 19 games he has started.
ReplyDeleteIt doesn't take a genius to see that he is injured.
As stats go, he is due for 1 hit today and maybe 2 or 3 since he's on a 0-18 slump. In games where LaRoche has a RBI this year, the Nats have won all those games.
Let's hope he wakes up feeling great and lights Leake up.
Seems in his 2nd game batting clean up Werth drove in the run that won the game.That was a result of a Davey hunch that seemed to work out OK. Not to mention, though I'm sure he'll have some errors in RF, Jayson has played a fine RF so far this year.
ReplyDeleteThat's fair, and LaRoche will probably be given until about mid-May to show he's not a liability or be placed on the DL. My personal cut-off for evaluation will be the Pittsburgh series - if he can't pull himself together and hit well against a team he seems to dislike so much, it will probably be time to rest him or DL him. He just seems to me like his timing is way off rather than that he's injured, but I'd agree that if he is he should come clean about it and rest.
ReplyDelete"It's fool's gold. Every day you are changing your lineup as the starter pitchers change."
ReplyDeleteIt's called platooning, and it's worked successfully for many managers, e.g. Davey with the Mets, Earl Weaver in Baltimore, etc. I think those guys know what they're doing.
EmDash, you are too nice. This isn't a slump. It's a matter of health. If it is merely a slump then so be it.
ReplyDeleteI subscribe to the Bruce Bochy approach of your friends are the players who are performing for you.
What he did to Zito in the 1st WS and then watching his ressurection last year was nothing short of amazing. 2 World Series in 3 years with their roster was amazing.
The man sent All Star Tim Lincecum to the bullpen last year!
In his 2 World Series he took retreads and started them and they make the X-factor as he got the most out of them at the right time and I'm referring to Ross and Scutaro. Heck, Bochy lost his best player (Melky) to the drug suspension.
Bochy makes his own luck.
Ghost, I didn't look it up, but I seem to remember the Giants having an even better record after Melky got tossed. Bothy has had a helluva run, not to mention he is one of baseball's great characters right now. I bet he's great to have a beer, or two, with!
ReplyDeleteRich, baseball was different during Earl's run where you could have a Mark Belanger and a catcher who couldn't hit at all. Defense in those positions were much more important in that era.
ReplyDeleteYou also had a 2 team playoff system in those Orioles glory years.
What would Earl do with Adam LaRoche? I just think instinct and watching him tells you he isn't right but if someone wants to say he is healthy that makes it worse as then there is no excuses and he is just plain stinking it up.
Found this stat on another sute, Nice company JZ is keeping.
ReplyDeletethe 26-year-old right-hander owns a 2.95 ERA since the start of 2011. Only Cliff Lee, Jered Weaver, Johnny Cueto, Justin Verlander, and Clayton Kershaw have a lower ERA (min. 300 IP) during the same timespan.
I think the best 4 managers are Joe Maddon, Bochy, Davey and Bob Melvin.
ReplyDeleteMaddon does more with so much less.
NatsLady, that's rare company. Nice stat!
ReplyDeleteWhat would Earl do with Adam LaRoche? I just think instinct and watching him tells you he isn't right but if someone wants to say he is healthy that makes it worse as then there is no excuses and he is just plain stinking it up.
ReplyDeleteLaRoche is an annoyance and a nuisance but Davey liked him and his left-handed bat. This guy has been having these problems for years Ghost. What's different now is that he is older and he's not going to bounce back as easily after he has compounded it over-and-over again.
I am more worried about 28 year old Zim. I suppose I've tired y'all out by saying it over-and-over again BUT they NEED HIS BAT!!! Not LaRoche's so much. I'd like to see Moore in their instead of LaRoche but this is not as critical as Zim!!!
If Zim comes back to early before he is ready ... we're going to have hell to pay. And its not the hamstring, its the shoulder that should be of concern.
In Werth's defense he's almost got as many homers as he had all last year. His doubles total is low at just 2. His OBP is .312 ... so we'll see maybe he has enough in him (sans injury) to be a decent #6 hitter if he isn't going to lead off (the perfect spot for him and his usually large OBP) ... but I don't think he'll last the season and will slump out toward the end. He's pretty beat, up even if he is the work out warrior cubed. But so then too was Pudge.
ReplyDeleteDavey definitely showing signs of Riggelitis by not playing TyMo.
ReplyDeleteHe should give back his side of beef to ALR, and give the kid a few opportunities at 1B. ALR isn't even hitting righties, let alone lefties!
Too bad Skole is injured, he'd have some LHAB's to bring up to the Nats. He could play 3B and 1B.
Too bad Skole is injured, he'd have some LHAB's to bring up to the Nats. He could play 3B and 1B.
ReplyDeleteThe TJ surgery has put Skole behind now. He's back to 2 years out and he isn't a young prospect. He may end up getting a taste of the majors at age 27.
Right now its Rendon, Goodwin, and Moore (who should be in Syracuse playing every day). Followed by Kobernus and possibly Eury Perez. That's your top positional prospects.
It figures that Ghost of Steve M would have a man crush on the weird wuss.
ReplyDeleteDoc said...
ReplyDeleteDavey definitely showing signs of Riggelitis by not playing TyMo.
He should give back his side of beef to ALR, and give the kid a few opportunities at 1B. ALR isn't even hitting righties, let alone lefties!
Too bad Skole is injured, he'd have some LHAB's to bring up to the Nats. He could play 3B and 1B.
April 27, 2013 12:32 PM
I could never figure Riggles out. He played Stairs but behind the scenes says he had to.
I don't think Davey has to do anything he doesn't want to do. Don't play favorites play the best 8 out there. Davey has nobody he has to showcase. Have a closed door meeting with LaRoche and figure it out.
Maybe Davey keeps Tyler Moore around because he likes seeing the mini skirts in the stands.
ReplyDeleteWords I never thought I'd read from peric... "In Werth's defense..."
ReplyDeleteWords I never thought I'd read from peric... "In Werth's defense..."
ReplyDeleteC'mon Natslady we both know that Keith Law is right when he says they are paying for a top rung right-fielder but they don't have one.
Even with the intangibles given what he has done he won't be worth 21 million at age 36. Its ridiculous to even think that.
I realize a part of that is the injuries ... still the no-trade clause I think added insult to injury.
Rich P. said...
ReplyDeleteIt figures that Ghost of Steve M would have a man crush on the weird wuss.
April 27, 2013 12:39 PM
Feelwood, try to keep it classy. I have a lot of respect for Maddon, I'm not judging his clubhouse demeanor and wardrobe but his guys every year respond well to it. Nobody does more with less.
I'm not judging his clubhouse demeanor and wardrobe but his guys every year respond well to it. Nobody does more with less.
ReplyDeleteNo matter what they do to his roster to trim and cut costs he still finds a way to win and be in the running with whatever the GM ends up giving him. And they really haven't yet tapped into all of those draft picks and top prospects they traded for yet!
I might be off but I liken him to Jack McKeon. He seems to have the same skill set.
NatsNut said...
ReplyDeleteHi Feelwood. Thought that was you.
April 27, 2013 12:54 PM
He's so transparent. He ditched his name from 2 weeks ago as Mark deleted all that stupidity and is back as Rich P. I'm thinking it stands for Rich Pr!ck.
He is a weird wuss, though. ;-)
ReplyDeleteI think the best 4 managers are Joe Maddon
Oops. I'd buy Rich P. a drink but I don't think he does the NIDO thing.
ReplyDeleteIn my defense, Davey said it first. ;-)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/nationals-watch/2013/apr/27/ryan-zimmerman-wilson-ramos-making-progress-injury/
ReplyDeleteRamos and RZim updates.
@ Big Cat last week when we ate at Arby's did you notice Ken Beatrice acted like he wanted me to offer him a curly fry.
ReplyDeleteI niticed he took our report on school baseball players as he doesn't have the sources or resources to scout school ball. I thought we were his sources.
Today Haren needs to attack.
Looks like the sun monster could be a factor today.
ReplyDeleteI was just reading on RedsInsider That ManassasRedsFan. wants to fire their batting coach.
ReplyDeleteNatsLady, I wish I was there to watch in person. I'm very curious on if Span is playing deeper a few steps as the rule now and then moving back a few steps more against Votto.
ReplyDeleteHow nice was that on Votto. There in time to square up and make it look easy.
Good deal. Two innings down, four to go.
ReplyDeleteWhy would ALR swing on the first pitch? He needs to get back to the dugout. Not a good sign.
ReplyDeletego Ren-Con
ReplyDeleteWhy would ALR swing on the first pitch? He needs to get back to the dugout. Not a good sign.
ReplyDeleteHe needs to go on the DL for about a month, perhaps two.
Can't believe we get this Brenneman Reds Homer yapping away on how the Reds have it so hard and the Nationals have it so easy. Thanks Fox!
ReplyDeleteNatsLady said...
ReplyDeleteWhy would ALR swing on the first pitch? He needs to get back to the dugout. Not a good sign.
April 27, 2013 1:30 PM
______________________________
How's about the weak contact and reach for that pitch.
Great at bat by Rendon.
ReplyDeleteDetroits Peralta blasts a 2 run HR. Detroit 2 Atlanta 0
ReplyDeleteThanks FOX Sports, you owe me a drink!
ReplyDeleteThey mentioned how the Reds play the Cards and Nats a lot and forget to mentioned they played the Marlins and the Cubs. But the Nats only play easy teams Marlins and the White sox but forget to mentioned the Braves and Cards.
ReplyDeleteRizzo and Davey are just going to have to 'splain to Ted that they blew it on LaRoche ...
ReplyDeleteYou know they could use JZimmn, Stras, or Haren to pinch hit for LaRoche. They might drive in some runs?
ReplyDeleteZuk no longer putting bat barrel on ball. What's the reason behind Zuk being used so much with a day game after a night game.
ReplyDeleteZuk no longer putting bat barrel on ball. What's the reason behind Zuk being used so much with a day game after a night game.
ReplyDeleteRamos will be back on Monday. Zim the following Friday.
Solano and Rendon -> Syracuse. Hopefully Moore follows if Davey isn't going to bench and DL LaRoche.
With Haren's hit, Nats now have only two batters in today's lineup under .200 - Espi and "Rincon" (Cunegonde was livid when they mispronounced his name).
ReplyDeleteExposremains said...
ReplyDeleteCan't believe we get this Brenneman Reds Homer yapping away on how the Reds have it so hard and the Nationals have it so easy. Thanks Fox!
April 27, 2013 1:35 PM
_________________________________
Bingo! Brenemman the homie.
Also, Mitch Williams on the FOX MLB pre-game said Ryan Zimmerman threw a 1 hit complete game shutout last night and nobody corrected him.
Candide said...
ReplyDeleteWith Haren's hit, Nats now have only two batters in today's lineup under .200 - Espi and "Rincon" (Cunegonde was livid when they mispronounced his name).
April 27, 2013 1:43 PM
_________________________________
Uh, you for LaRoche on your list.
we took advantage of walks.
ReplyDeleteHeron needs to have a shut down inning after we score
What do you expect? Its FOX? Drunks like McCarver in the booth?
ReplyDeleteOw. Yes, LaRoche, too.
ReplyDelete(...slinks back into corner...)
Danny Danny Danny are you kidding me???? In a 2-0 count you help the pitcher by swinging at that?
ReplyDeleteWhat a terrible approach.
Ow. Yes, LaRoche, too.
ReplyDeleteLeads the team in strikeouts.
The Nats had a chance there with Bryce on deck to load the bases and send Leake to an early exit.
ReplyDeleteBad.
What a terrible approach.
ReplyDeleteTook the bat with runners on out of Harper's hands. Trying to prove he can be the hero ... sigh ...
peric said...
ReplyDelete[LaRoche] Leads the team in strikeouts.
I thought it was Stras, with Gio right behind... :-)
What a splitter by Haren. Best he has thrown to K the pitcher!
ReplyDeletePorcello sucking it up for the Tigers. Now Atlanta 3 Detroit 2
ReplyDeleteBigCat - I get. It. Lol. I don't have the time or the resources to scout high school.
ReplyDeleteSpan's OPS is up to .717
ReplyDeleteOld friend Michael Morse is down to .736.
I understand that Michael's finger is nagging him, but I wonder whether his struggles, in part, and Adam Dunn's travails are signs of the BIGGDAW rule: Big Guys Don't Age Well.
That's why I'm all for giving Bryce the $300 million deal when he's 25 or so. The tough call will be the next monster deal when he's in his early 30s and the historic milestones are on the horizon.
Heresy caveat: I love the kid.
Cozart made that way to close.
ReplyDeleteHere it comes GIDP.
ReplyDeleteHuge spot for LaRoche
ReplyDeleteOK, at least it wasn't a double play. ALR is in slow motion.
ReplyDeleteJust bad, can't LaRoche bunt? Sheesh.
ReplyDelete0-20
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ReplyDeleteDesmond scores 2 there if LaRoche did his job.
ReplyDeleteI understand that Michael's finger is nagging him, but I wonder whether his struggles, in part, and Adam Dunn's travails are signs of the BIGGDAW rule: Big Guys Don't Age Well.
ReplyDeleteMorse been plagued by injuries most of his career ... that's one of the big rationales for letting him go. When he gets injured it usually affects his hitting. He'll come back from it. He won't fall into the hole that LaRoche and Dunn fell into.
No, he can't bunt, that would also risk a double play. Best to just hit in in the air or strike out.
ReplyDeleteNatsLady said...
ReplyDeleteOK, at least it wasn't a double play. ALR is in slow motion.
April 27, 2013 2:02 PM
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It's the quality of his swings. Just weak contact.
NatsLady said...
ReplyDeleteNo, he can't bunt, that would also risk a double play. Best to just hit in in the air or strike out.
April 27, 2013 2:03 PM
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Trust me, I was being facetious. LOL
If Haren can control that splitter he will be close to unhittable. He buried 2 in the dirt. Very inconsistent but the one he threw to Leake was deadly.
ReplyDeleteUmp misses that 3rd pitch to Votto. Perfect pitch. Votto gets a lot of calls.
ReplyDelete"Can't believe we get this Brenneman Reds Homer yapping away on how the Reds have it so hard and the Nationals have it so easy. Thanks Fox!"
ReplyDeleteRight now I wish I had them. Here in east TN we get stuck with the Braves and Tigers, regional television I suppose. Sure wish they allowed us to order the game of our choice.
And by the way, if you think the Reds announcers are homers just try listening to the clowns who do the Braves games. Simply put they are awful!! I'll get way too much of them next week as MASN will be blacked out in this part of the country per DirectTV or MLB rules (I'm not sure who to blame).
Ump missing that 3rd pitch changed Haren's approach. That's frutstrating.
ReplyDeleteThere's a reason why Votto gets so many walks. he always gets borderline call go his way
ReplyDeleteOK, if it gets to 4-2, Haren needs to be out of there. Short leash, DAVEY!!!
ReplyDeleteWhew... was afraid we were starting to see the Haren meltdown.
ReplyDeleteHere comes the key inning when Haren usually implodes.
ReplyDeleteOK, Haren got out of it with only 1 run. But I still say short leash in the 5th inning, unless we score 8 runs. :)
ReplyDeleteExposremains, it's a source of frustration. You could see it in Haren's body language. Perfect pitch. Instead of 1-2 he's pitching to him 2-2.
ReplyDeleteHeron kept damages to a minimum .
ReplyDeleteNow add on again Nats
There's a reason why Votto gets so many walks. he always gets borderline call go his way
ReplyDeleteAnd "Rincon" didn't because well he's just another rookie who isn't named Bryce Harper ...
OK, Haren got out of it with only 1 run. But I still say short leash in the 5th inning, unless we score 8 runs. :)
ReplyDeleteHe's the innings eater, the guy who is supposed to get through five without too much trouble.
Great point Peric. Ball above the strike zone was called a strike on Rincon.
ReplyDeleteEspinosa and Lombo can't seem to take a walk ...
ReplyDeleteEspinosa immediately back in "press" mode. Poor approach.
ReplyDeleteKnoxville:
ReplyDeleteIm in Florida, let just say I found a way to watch the game anyway. I'm sick of paying for a product and then get blacked out.
Harper does it again!
ReplyDeleteThis kid Harper is pretty good, yes?
ReplyDeleteMedlen getting lit up. 5 earned runs in the 4th.
ReplyDeleteHarper in the top 3 in OPS this season.
ReplyDelete724 from Henry Aaron.
ReplyDeleteI think there's nothing more unfair in baseball than a different strike zone depending on how famous you are pitcher or batter.
ReplyDeleteLaRoche has to get Hitterish here. Everyone is hitting, even the pitcher!
ReplyDeleteIm in Florida, let just say I found a way to watch the game anyway. I'm sick of paying for a product and then get blacked out.
ReplyDeleteAgreed. And especially for a network that thinks rape is the victim's fault.
LaRoche has to get Hitterish here. Everyone is hitting, even the pitcher!
ReplyDeleteThat was a little better at least ...
LaRoche's fly out traveled farther than his last dozen ABs combined.
ReplyDelete0-21 for LaRoche That at least was better on an ambush on a 1st pitch 2-seamer right down the middle.
ReplyDeleteDing Dong Harper
ReplyDeleteWell, we have other inning eaters. Haren's job is to keep the bullpen sharp.
ReplyDeleteExposremains said...
ReplyDeleteI think there's nothing more unfair in baseball than a different strike zone depending on how famous you are pitcher or batter.
April 27, 2013 2:27 PM
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Worked for Greg Maddux
peric, do you really need to post garbage like that? Just when I'm thinking you're being reasonable... Like a clock that's right 23 hours a day and the 24th pours chocolate syrup all over itself and starts baying at the moon.
ReplyDeletePeric:
ReplyDelete"Agreed. And especially for a network that thinks rape is the victim's fault."
I don't follow you. What's this all about?
NatsLady, last 2 starts its been the 6th inning. Big difference today is much better defense behind Haren.
ReplyDeleteHeh - I used to make throws like that one from Espi all the time when I played softball.
ReplyDeleteAs I say that about the defense Danny makes a crazy throw. It won't show up as an error in the boxscore but make that play. Plant and throw.
ReplyDeleteGreat job Kurt! Way to hustle and save a base.
ReplyDeleteNice play by Rincon.
ReplyDeleteLooks like "Rincon" is useful for something.
ReplyDeleteInstead of starting the 6th with the 9 hole, now Haren will get the leadoff.
ReplyDeleteDanny made a great play to get to that ball but had enough time to plant and throw. Great back-up by Zuk BTW to save it from further damage.
Rincon charges the ball very aggressively. I'm impressed.
ReplyDeleteperic, do you really need to post garbage like that? Just when I'm thinking you're being reasonable...
ReplyDeleteWell you put up with that drunk McCarver ... don't make excuses for FOX.
Rendon with a hit and that leaves just 2 of the starting 9 without hits. LaRoche and Espinosa. I think Espinosa will get one.
ReplyDeleteI earned Ds in both semesters of college Spanish, but I remembered that "rincon" was a Spanish word. Looked it up, and guess what? It means, "corner."
ReplyDeleteSo the guy at the Nats hot corner is Rincon Caliente.
Who won the Presiden's race. Fox not as trustworthy as MASN there too.
ReplyDeleteBiggest inning for Haren. I hope Davey has Staymen up and getting loose for the fun of it.
ReplyDeleteYep, that play by Danny sets up the leadoff.
ReplyDeleteOK, thanks for the good work, Dan. See you next week.
ReplyDeleteok good job Haren, now get him out of there
ReplyDeleteCome on Davey.
ReplyDeleteplease...now
ReplyDeletebullpen needs to be ready now
ReplyDeleteI don't care about his psychology. I want to win this game.
ReplyDeleteman, Votto gets all the calls
ReplyDelete6-4 coming up
ReplyDeleteGonat said...
ReplyDeleteBiggest inning for Haren. I hope Davey has Staymen up and getting loose for the fun of it.
April 27, 2013 2:50 PM
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Now he gets someone up. Should've been up before the inning started.
I've seen enough. If Span isn't playing that deep, that's trouble.
ReplyDeleteI hope Davey channels Sparky aka Captain Hook.
ReplyDeleteDo not let Haren bite off more than he can Choo.
SPAN!!
There's your Web gem. NOW get HAREN OUT OF THERE.
ReplyDeleteway too close.. get HIM out of there right now
ReplyDeleteNatsLady said...
ReplyDeleteI don't care about his psychology. I want to win this game.
April 27, 2013 2:54 PM
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Agreed, this has to be about the team. This guy is here for 2013 at the most.
I don't know this guy just can't get through five. Reminds me of the good old days of 2007-2010 when the Nats had no starter that could get through five unscathed.
ReplyDeleteBring up Rosenbaum.
buckle up Heron
ReplyDeleteeven if gets out of the 6th inning, i don't see how it builds his confidence the way he's throwing right now.
ReplyDeleteExhale.
ReplyDeletedouble play. now score 2 more.
ReplyDeleteeven if gets out of the 6th inning, i don't see how it builds his confidence the way he's throwing right now.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, its just like emdash said about LaRoche nothing will change until the middle of May ... and then we'll see I guess.
remember how I said after the Cincy series that most the HRs the Reds hit were not HRs at Nats Park. I've seen in this series a lot of balls hit by Votto in particular that would have been HRs in Cincy
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile, buckle up for some 2007-2010 Garret Mock style implosions with Haren.
ReplyDeleteDavey had Duke for Bruce on deck. I'm thinking Haren's day is over but who knows.
ReplyDeleteGo 7-8-9 Davey and put it on ice.
If the Nats win this game they guarantee a season series win against the Reds. It was mid-month when the Nats lost 2 of 3 that the Media was crowing the Reds were the top of the charts.
peric said...
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile, buckle up for some 2007-2010 Garret Mock style implosions with Haren.
April 27, 2013 3:01 PM
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Haren lost his control of his split and also wasn't getting those calls on his fastballs painted on the corners.
No doubles yet in this game. They need to be hitting more of those soon I think.
ReplyDeleteHaren lost his control of his split and also wasn't getting those calls on his fastballs painted on the corners.
ReplyDeleteyeah kind of like JD Martin or better yet ... Livo?
Bryce Harper is just amazing. Took in the end a walk.
ReplyDeleteNow would be a good time for ALR to bust out of his slump.
ReplyDeleteLaRoche, really? 0-22 and .143 Lucky it wasn't a doubleplay scenario.
ReplyDeleteALR is just awful right now. There should be no reason not to give TyMo a shot.
ReplyDeleteWonder if the double steal was Davey's idea? Don't understand the logic.
ReplyDeleteStill not sure what that double steal was all about with a lefty batting.
ReplyDeleteOfficially LaRoche has left 4 runners on base.
Come on Danny. Open up the freaking door.
ReplyDeleteI was wondering when the daily error would occur.
ReplyDeleteCome on Danny! Bear down.
ReplyDeletelackadazical (spelling) effort.
ReplyDeleteJust play ball. Espi rarely hits . He cannot gives outs away.
Dan, it doesn't have to be an error in the box score to be an error. That is 2 so far and only 1 was an E4.
ReplyDeleteIf you can't contribute on offense, you better be able to play your position.
ReplyDeleteI'll send an SOS to the world.
ReplyDeleteI'll send an SOS to the world.
I hope that someone gets my ...
left on left match up seems way over played Duke walks lefty ss a righty could.
ReplyDeleteYou all can't see the forest for the trees. There is a team out there playing an overall great game and and all you are doing is dwelling on one guy's struggles.
ReplyDeleteAmongst other positives,Span had a great catch. Haren has pitched a helluva game. Harper hit a dinger. It's a team game and I don't know about your team, but mine is looking pretty good so far this whole series. Let's hope Duke can hold on to get us through for at least one inning. I guess Adam should have caught that crappy throw from Espy? I'm sure Tyler would have caught it. Or Ryan Zimmerman.
I just hope Zack doesn't blow this. Dan Haren deserves a win.
Joe Seamhead, that's the problem with guys letting down their team. Make these simple plays. Be honest with your manager when you are hurt. Don't stay out late when you have an early baseball game.
ReplyDeleteDan Haren did pitch well. He pitched well enough to win his last start.
Span made a nice catch. As mentioned, he's playing deeper and not only would have caught that Votto ball at the Red Porch but actually caught that in the middle of the bullpen.
It's part of what they say about making your own luck. Give these pitchers some good defense and they will win for you.
Defense!
And also, with his at-bats and in the field today, Danny Espinosa's head is somewhere else.
ReplyDeleteanother unearned run. Last I looked on Wednesday given up most unearned runs in the majors.
ReplyDeleteThanks Danny.
These walks and errors are getting real old.
ReplyDeleteFor God's Sake.
ReplyDeleteFreebasing is illegal!
please no bullpen implosion today. I'm not in the mood. Walks, errors. Come on
ReplyDeleteSpan saved Clip's ass.
ReplyDeleteYes, Span, playing deep and straight up! Not a problem. That had 3 RBI written all over it!!!
ReplyDeleteWow saved by span. Clippard, absolutely awful. that was a 3 run double.
ReplyDeleteThe Choo walk wasn't bad to get up Cozart who is hitting .198 now.
ReplyDeleteClip got lucky but that's how it works as Span was perfectly positioned!
Span 2 great defensive plays today.
ReplyDeleteOK, Clipp doesn't have it today. Bring in someone else for the 8th.
ReplyDeleteWhy do people hate Span?
ReplyDeleteWho hates Span? There's only 1 person who rates him as a bench player.
ReplyDelete