Baseball News - Nationals

Washington Nationals' Opening Day 2009: Washington at Florida.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

All The Way, Way From Phil-Phil-Lay-Lay!! Opening Night...Anyone?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

After Traveling, Nats Sign Four Venezuelan Teenagers

Thu, 18 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals agreed to terms Wednesday on professional contracts with four Venezuelan teenagers.

Nats, Snelling Agree; Other Deals Pending

Wed, 17 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals agreed to a one-year, $450,000 contract with newly acquired outfielder Chris Snelling yesterday, thus avoiding an arbitration hearing with one of their six eligible players. However, none of the others is expected to be as easy or as cheap as Snelling, and one in particular...

Nationals Address First Order of Business, Sign Lee

Fri, 19 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Facing the reality of being without starting first baseman Nick Johnson for at least the first month of the 2007 season, the Washington Nationals yesterday signed slick-fielding journeyman Travis Lee to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training -- a move that highlighted a busy...

The Dominican Pipeline to D.C.

Fri, 19 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Jose Rijo and Jim Bowden are charged with the elusive task unlocking the Dominican Republic's seemingly bottomless pool of baseball talent and funneling at least some of it to Washington.

With Arenas on the Offense, Opponents Come Out the Loser

Sun, 21 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

I went to Verizon Center with 16,503 others Wednesday night to see if Gilbert Arenas could score 50 or more points for the fourth time in his last 16 games. The New York Knicks also were there, trying to keep Arenas from scoring 50.

Nationals' Winter Caravan Public Events

Fri, 19 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

2-3 p.m.: ESPN Zone, Washington. 4:45-6:30 p.m.: Modell's Sporting Goods, Greenbelt.

For Nats Outfielder Logan, a Familiar Position

Tue, 23 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Nook Logan, he of just 545 major league at-bats, will face no overt competition for the center field job, although LoganÂ believes that in baseball, absolutely nothing is guaranteed.

Lopez, Nationals Agree to $3.9 million, 1-year deal

Tue, 23 Jan 2007 01:07:00 GMT

Felipe Lopez and the Nationals avoid arbitration and agree to a $3.9 million, one-year deal Monday for the shortstop turned second baseman.

Ohka Passes on Nats, Agrees To 1-Year Deal With Blue Jays

Wed, 24 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Free agent right-hander Tomo Ohka agrees to a one-year contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, according to Jim Masteralexis , his agent.

ESPN Hires Frank Robinson As an Analyst

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

BRISTOL, Conn. (AP) -- Former Washington Nationals manager Frank Robinson will be a special analyst for ESPN as it celebrates the 60th anniversary of Jackie Robinson's breaking of baseball's color barrier.

Nats Proceed With Caution

Thu, 25 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Nationals owner Ted Lerner makes it clear that Washington will not adjust to what he considers outlandish spending by his fellow owners in the free agent market.

An Embarrassment Of Pitches

Fri, 26 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The Nationals' offseason plan this year has revolved around getting cheap pitching but with mostly retreads and journeymen left available, the rotation looks to be in dire straits.

United Loses SuperLiga Home Date

Sat, 27 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Despite being awarded three first-round matches in the inaugural SuperLiga tournament, D.C. United will play their Aug. 1 game against Houston in Texas.

Nats' Sunday Games To Start a Little Later

Sat, 27 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The Nationals have set game times for the upcoming season, the team's last at RFK, with a slight adjustment to Sunday starts and a slate of weekday afternoon games.

Pollin Watches From Best Seat in His House

Sun, 28 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Talk about bad luck. Abe Pollin, who has owned the Bullets-Wizards for 43 years, is missing the team's hottest stretch in decades. Pollin, 83, suffered a broken pelvis in a fall while exercising two weeks ago. He's recuperating in his Bethesda home -- a confinement that has the normally gracious team owner a little edgy....

TalkBack

Sun, 28 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Talkbackers seem to have caught Wizards fever after finally forgetting the Redskins did not make the playoffs and now that Frank Robinson has landed a job with ESPN.

Zimmerman Remains Upbeat About Lineup

Tue, 30 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

While Washington Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman was on his way to driving in 110 runs as a rookie last season, there was one constant. Leadoff man Alfonso Soriano, enjoying a season in which he became just the fourth player to hit 40 homers and steal 40 bases in the same year, had a...

A Time of Rebirth for Church

Wed, 31 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

After a horrendous spring training last season cost Ryan Church his job, the center fielder is ready to prove everybody wrong this season.

Arbitration Hearings for Nats' Cordero, Kearns, Patterson Are Set

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Hearings have been set for the Nationals' three remaining arbitration cases -- closer Chad Cordero, outfielder Austin Kearns and right-hander John Patterson.

Kearns to Have an Extended Stay With Nats

Fri, 02 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The Nationals sign outfielder Austin Kearns to a three-year contract with a club option for a fourth year on Thursday.

If They Don't Post It's a Shame

Tue, 06 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The Nationals have been in town for just two seasons, yet the opinions and analyses filling up blogs are deeper and more diverse than for many clubs with a longer history.

USC's Danelo Was Intoxicated When He Fell to His Death

Tue, 06 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Southern California place kicker Mario Danelo was drunk when he plunged over a cliff to his death, but the coroner's office in Los Angeles was unable to say why he fell.

Exhibitions On MASN

Fri, 09 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

March 3: vs. Orioles, 1:05 p.m. March 8: vs. Astros, 1:05 p.m.

Professional Gains, Personal Addition

Thu, 08 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Brian Schneider has a list of concerns as he prepares to head north from his home in West Palm Beach, Fla., to Viera, where spring training begins next week. The Washington Nationals catcher wants to have a more consistent offensive season, because last year he hit .225 through July and .311 the...

Nationals Agree to Contract Terms With 12 Players

Wed, 07 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The Nationals come to contract terms with a dozen players Tuesday, leaving just four players invited to spring training without deals.

Nats, O's On MASN In March

Fri, 09 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The Mid-Atlantic Sports Network will announce today a beefed-up schedule of spring training telecasts for both the Washington Nationals and the Baltimore Orioles.

FIVE STORY LINES

Sun, 11 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Here is the Nationals' current idea of stability among starting pitchers: John Patterson. Here are Patterson's totals from last season: 8 starts, 1 win, 40 2/3 innings. The candidates for the remaining four spots range from has-beens to never-weres. Given Patterson's age (29), his superior stuff...

Season's Greetings

Sun, 11 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Of the over 70 players invited to Nationals spring training, Ryan Zimmerman is one of only three who were with the Nats all year -- avoiding both injury and demotion in 2006.

Week 701: Untitlement

Sun, 11 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Official Style Invitational Cartoonist Bob Staake is just getting hoitier and toitier on us. First his artwork gets on the cover of the New Yorker, and now his "The Red Lemon" has been listed as one of Some Other Newspaper Book Review's 10 best illustrated children's books of 2006. Yeah,...

OF Logan, Nationals Agree on 2007 Contract

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 00:50:56 GMT

VIERA, Fla. (AP) -- Outfielder Nook Logan and the Washington Nationals agreed to terms on a one-year contract Monday, eight days before the first full workout of spring training.

For Nats' Home, a Rapid Ascent

Sun, 11 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

During the 2005 baseball season, long before construction began on a stadium for the Washington Nationals, architect Marshall Purnell and others involved in the project toured SBC Park, now AT&T Park, home of the San Francisco Giants.

On Salary, Patterson and Nats Remain Far From Home Free

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Nationals right-hander John Patterson -- the only pitcher solidly in the starting rotation -- is eligible for arbitration for the first time, and a decision on his salary is likely to be reached Tuesday.

Nats Giving Old Arms A Chance to Start Anew

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

As spring training begins for the Nationals, pitching rejects from all over are coming to Space Coast Stadium, hoping to resurrect their careers with a club in dire need of help.

Team Prevails Over Patterson in Arbitration Ruling

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., Feb. 13 -- The Washington Nationals prevailed Tuesday in an arbitration case over their presumptive ace, right-hander John Patterson.

Young, Batista Will Get a Look

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

On the day their spring training camp officially opens, the Nats sign veteran sluggers Dmitri Young and Tony Batista to minor-league deals.

For Patterson, the Writing Is on the Glove

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Since childhood, John Patterson's nickname has been "Nasty," and that's exactly what the Nationals need their oft-injured ace pitcher to be this season.

Robinson Declines Celebration in His Honor

Fri, 16 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Former Washington Nationals manager Frank Robinson declines an offer to be honored by the club during a game this May.

A Skipper's First-Day Jitters

Fri, 16 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

While critics have been keying in on the lack of a rotation for the Nationals as pitchers and catcher report, first-year manager Manny Acta is focusing on shaking off jitters on the "biggest day" of his career.

Baseball Questions Spring Eternal

Fri, 16 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

This week is important for all of us who are in love . . . with baseball. That's because pitchers and catchers from all the major league teams report to spring training.

Ayala Is Upbeat On Mound

Sat, 17 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., Feb. 16 -- The last time Luis Ayala threw off a mound at the Washington Nationals' training complex, he had a solid major league season behind him and was looking forward to another. That was last February.

Johnson, Nats Have No Idea on Return

Sat, 17 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Nick Johnson arrives at spring training on Friday but his return from a badly broken leg is as uncertain as ever.

Sun, 18 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

There is a lively debate brewing among the Talkbackers in agreement with the Lerner/Kasten plan to develop young players and those in favor of competing for free agents in 2007.

Two Try to Make It on the Mound

Sun, 18 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

As the Nationals sort through the morass of arms in camp, 23-year-old Matt Chico and 33-year-old Jason Simontacchi serve as microcosms for what the team is looking at.

King Could Be Bullpen Workhorse

Sun, 18 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., Feb. 17 -- Since 2001, no pitcher has appeared in more major league games than Ray King. In those six seasons, King has averaged 78 outings a year, becoming a durable and reliable left-handed reliever.

Johnson's Timetable Elusive

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., Feb. 18 -- Benjamin Shaffer, the Washington Nationals' team orthopedist, said Sunday that first baseman Nick Johnson's broken right femur "has shown progress," but said the process of returning to the field is complicated because, in essence, Johnson is a slow healer.

Soriano Finds Himself in a Good Position

Tue, 20 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

After signing the largest contract -- eight years, $136 million -- in baseball's wild winter spending spree , former Nationals outfielder Alfonso Soriano reports to his new team - the Chicago Cubs - with none of the drama that accompanied his arrival to the Nationals a year ago.

Expectations Have Come Up Short

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., Feb. 18 -- In some ways, the season Cristian Guzman endured in 2006 was as bad as a player could have, sitting at home idly watching television while his teammates played major league baseball. Out the entire season with a shoulder injury, Guzman only occasionally joined the Washington...

Larkin's Busy Season At Hand

Tue, 20 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., Feb. 19 -- Felipe Lopez plopped down at his locker Monday, and Barry Larkin sat directly next to him. For 10 minutes, they discussed playing the infield -- the beginning of a discussion that will last the whole spring.

Schneider Recharges The Battery

Tue, 20 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., Feb. 19 -- Before last week, Brian Schneider had never met Matt Chico. Yet Monday morning, as he crouched on his haunches and stared through his gaudy catcher's mask, Schneider received a pitch from the young left-hander and yelled, "Attaboy, 'Chic!' " as if he had known him for years....

'Healed' Guzman Sits Out

Wed, 21 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., Feb. 20 -- Though his injured shoulder is healthy, Washington Nationals shortstop Cristian Guzman didn't throw during the club's first full-squad workouts Tuesday and will be held out until later in the week.

District May Fund Arena Upgrades

Wed, 21 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Sunny Day, Sweepin' the Clouds Away

Wed, 21 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla. The sun rose, blazing above a bank of clouds over the Atlantic, at 7 a.m. as though the earliest rays of morning wanted to report exactly on time for the first full-squad day of spring training. The Nationals were bathed in this abundant sunshine on a balmy 74-degree day in their little...

If at First He Doesn't Succeed . . .

Wed, 21 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., Feb. 20 -- The kids behind the chain-link fence squealed early Tuesday afternoon as the object of their affection approached: "He's right there! He's right there!" Ryan Zimmerman, reflective shades wrapped around his eyes and a cup of water in his hand, politely told a half-dozen...

The Strasburg Files Episode 5- Petco Park!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nationals Beat Orioles. 5-4 Final.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nationals Finalize 25-Man Roster...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. Welcomes Their Nationals Back To Nationals Park...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Busy Day At Federal Baseball.com...The O's, Casto and Strasburg.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Strasburg Starts For SDSU: Live In PETCO...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

This just in...Washington Nationals Trim Roster as Opening Day Approaches

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals' Fans Celebrate Kory Casto Day In Virginia. Game Thread...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com Featured On Marlins Today.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

WHAT'S ON TAP | WASHINGTONPOST.COM

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

TODAY'S Poll Who has been the MVP of the men's NCAA tournament so far?

End of the First Half, with the Score 33 to 48

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Memory Lane

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Benchmark

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Baseball on Television

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Baseball, Blackouts and Buyouts

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Walk-off

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Bullpen

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

ERV Renovations -- Update

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Draft -- Where Do You Stand?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Intuitive ERV

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Future's So Bright ...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Another Project I'll Never Complete

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Sports & Economics: Further Reading.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Random Thoughts at the 50-game Mark

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Tears of a Clown

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

How far did that one go?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Random Thought on the Designated Hitter

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

ERV Boxscores -- Closed for Renovations

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Revolution, Revisited (Part 4)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

What is Said, What is not Said

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

More Intuitive ERV

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

What Was Not Said (Cont.)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Ryan in Red

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

We're Not Dead Yet

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Final

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Take It Outside

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Way We Was: Week 3

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Seriously?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

For Your Game-Watching Pleasure

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Hitting Coach or Dr. Phil?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Random Thoughts While Waiting For Ray King's Release

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Hey, How 'Bout Those Cherry Trees?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

So Does This Mean Stan Will Give Me A Refund?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Someone Help Me

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Better Approach

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Cut Him! He's A Bum! He Never Smiles!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Way We Was: Week 4

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

It's A Funny Game!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Scouting The Opposition

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

No Shoulder To Cry On

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

No Comment Necessary

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Tonight's The Night

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Boz Fails Economics

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

What A Happy Ending!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Hey, Mr. Lerner!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Go Here. Now.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

I'm Back For More Cash

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Fireworks.jpg

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

StanSpeak Returns

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Because I Probably Can't Say This Over There

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Twitter Trial...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals' Starter Shawn Hill Returns To Mound Against Marlins Monday.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Make 2nd Round Of Cuts...Roster at 47.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Strasburg Files Episode 3- Conference Play

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals: Off-Day Musings...WBC Game Thread - USA vs Puerto Rico.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

John Lannan Will Be The Washington Nationals' Opening Day Starter!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals In The WBC Spotlight...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Shawn Hill Released

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Spring Training: - Game 16 Game Thread: Florida Marlins at Washington Nationals. PLUS: Dunn Gossipin

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

A Brief History Of Washington Nationals' Opening Day Starters.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

2009 Washington Nationals Preview: A Reds Fan's Perspective

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Milledge, Dukes a Potent Pair for the Nationals

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals outfielders Lastings Milledge and Elijah Dukes, known as much for their past problems as potential, face higher expectations in their second year together in Washington.

Washington Nationals Ryan Zimmerman Keeps His Cool in the Hot Corner

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals are thankful they have Ryan Zimmerman whose defense at third base not only saves runs, but is among the best in baseball.

Injuries to Nationals' Lastings Milledge, Ronnie Belliard Are Not Believed to Be Serious

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals second baseman Ronnie Belliard left Wednesday night's exhibition game with a left ankle sprain and will be reevaluated Thursday morning.

Nationals Relief Pitcher Jorge Sosa Stil Having Visa Issues

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Relief pitcher Jorge Sosa, unable to obtain a visa, still has not reported to Nationals camp and does not appear to be in the team's plans for the upcoming season.

Washington Nationals Release Shawn Hill, Sign Joe Beimel to 1-Year Deal

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals sever ties with pitcher Shawn Hill and sign free agent left-hander Joe Beimel to a one-year, $2 million deal.

Venezuela Gets the Early Jump on Team USA for 10-6 Win in World Baseball Classic

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

MIAMI, March 18 -- What a difference a night makes. The rain that delayed the start of Team USA's 10-6 loss Wednesday to Venezuela in the second round of the World Baseball Classic was hardly the only thing that dampened the aftermath of the stirring late-night victory Tuesday that kept the United...

Washington Nationals Coach Marquis Grissom Changes Lives Through His Baseball Association

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Marquis Grissom was just a kid. He can't remember his exact age at the time. He just knows that the moment -- and baseball -- changed his life. Now, through the Marquis Grissom Baseball Association, he is changing the lives of hundreds, with much bigger plans for the future.

Nationals Pitcher Shawn Hill Set to Pitch on Just Three Days' Rest

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals pitcher Shawn Hill said Tuesday that his arm feels "very, very normal." He will make his next start on Friday.

Nats' Hill, Zimmermann Combine for Five Scoreless Innings

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Shawn Hill and Jordan Zimmermann combine for five scoreless innings, no runs and eight strikeouts in the Nationals' 3-1 spring training victory over Florida.

Nats Trim Roster, Cut 11 Players

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

There are no major surprises as the Washington Nationals trim their roster by 11 players.

Balester's Decent Outing Brings No Guarantees

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals pitcher Collin Balester allows no runs over three innings in a spring training game against Detroit, but the outing might not be good enough to secure a spot in the team's rotation.

Skipping WBC Gives Pitcher Shairon Martis a Longer Stint With the Washington Nationals

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Shairon Martis has no regrets about staying in camp with the Nationals instead of pitching again for the Netherlands in the World Baseball Classic.

Between Camp and College, Nats' Prospect Jack McGeary Remains on Course

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals pitching prospect Jack McGeary reports to camp, ready to be a full-time player while taking a break from his studies at Stanford.

Nationals Sign TavÃ¡rez to a Non-Guaranteed Deal

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals sign veteran right-hander JuliÃ¡n TavÃ¡rez to a non-guaranteed minor league deal in an attempt to shore up their bullpen.

Nationals Still Trying to Figure Out Bullpen

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Left-hander Mike Hinckley is one of several pitchers in camp trying to nail down a job in the bullpen for the Washington Nationals.

Cabrera Singles in Only At-Bat, Feels 'Sharper' on Mound for Nats

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals pitcher Daniel Cabrera singles in his only at-bat and says he feels "sharper" in his 3 2/3 innings of work against the Atlanta Braves.

Nationals Sign Pitcher Kip Wells to Minor League Deal

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals sign right-handed pitcher Kip Wells to a non-guaranteed minor league deal, giving Wells a chance to revive his career with little risk to Washington.

Washington Area High School Hockey Players Are Sometimes Torn Between Junior Nationals, High School

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Area hockey players are sometimes faced with the decision between playing for their high school teams or sitting out because they have a game the next day with the Junior Nationals.

Nationals Pitcher Jordan Zimmermann Emerges as Strong Prospect This Spring

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In a spring otherwise filled with controversy, Jordan Zimmermann has emerged as a legitimate prospect for a Nationals franchise that desperately needs several.

More Evidence Reportedly Found in Roger Clemens Probe

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Federal authorities have found performance-enhancing substances on the materials Brian McNamee said he used to inject Roger Clemens, the New York Times reported yesterday.

Washington Nationals Bullpen Falters in Loss to New York Mets

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals took a five-run lead into the seventh inning of Tuesday's Grapefruit League game against the New York Mets, but the bullpen allowed the Mets five runs in the seventh and ninth, and the game ended in a 5-5 tie.

Nats' Austin Kearns Trying to Emerge From a Crowded Field

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Austin Kearns appears to be the forgotten man in spring training, but the right fielder is still hoping to earn an everyday job with the Nationals.

Agent Says Alvarez Is Having Visa Issues

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The agent for Washington Nationals prospect Carlos Alvarez says that he doubts his client will be in camp when the rest of Washington's minor leaguers report on Friday because of visa issues.

The System of Finding Future Baseball Stars in the Dominican Republic Is Full of Young Players and

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

BANI, Dominican Republic Before Ivan Brea sat down on a cement slab here one morning last week, the parade of kids carrying buckets back and forth from a well marched non-stop for an hour, because you can't play baseball on a field made of dust unless the dust has settled. It was that way on this...

Washington Nationals Shawn Hill Faces Lingering Pain in Throwing Arm

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After another check-up with Dr. James Andrews goes without discovering a clear cause of pain, pitcher Shawn Hill is facing the possibility that a cure for his symptoms may never be discovered.

Washington Nationals Catcher Javier Valentin Develops a Comfort Level

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After years of shuttling between first and third base as a Reds backup, Javier Valentin is back behind the plate, hoping for a spot as a backup catcher with the Nationals.

Washington Nationals Seek Improved Results From New Conditioning Coach John Philbin

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

New Nationals strength and conditioning coach John Philbin had worked with nearly every sport except baseball before this season, which Washington feels will help him bring a new approach to help keep players strong and healthy.

Nats' Cabrera Is Looking to Find His Stride

Sat, 07 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Daniel Cabrera has an up and down performance against his former club, giving up one run, four hits and two walks in two innings Friday.

With His Baseball Roots, Nationals Acting GM Mike Rizzo Is on Solid Ground

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

In a family that has feels like baseball is in its genes, Mike Rizzo is finally getting a chance to make an impact in the major leagues, as acting general manager of the Nationals.

Nationals' Shawn Hill Is Scratched From Start Because of Forearm Discomfort

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Forearm discomfort prevented Shawn Hill from making his scheduled start on Thursday, and will send him to orthopedist James Andrews for another checkup.

Nationals Put Mike Rizzo in Charge of Nationals' Daily Operations

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., March 4 -- For Mike Rizzo, plenty changed on Wednesday. His job expanded. His chances of one day becoming a permanent general manager strengthened. His responsibility for the Washington Nationals' major league operation -- with control over trades, signings, day-to-day dealings with the...

Thomas Boswell on the Washington Nationals' New Leadership After General Manager Jim Bowden's Resig

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

With the departure of GM Jim Bowden, the Nats' top brass -- Manny Acta, Mike Rizzo and Stan Kasten -- form a more powerful and cohesive unit.

Jordan Zimmermann Remains Perfect - Washington Nationals Organization's Top Prospect Battles Collin

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., March 4 -- This spring, Jordan Zimmermann has thrown five innings -- just enough time to make a strong impression, and still not enough time to find a major league hitter who can reach base against him. Wednesday afternoon, Zimmermann, Washington's top-rated minor league prospect,...

Nats' Olsen Brings Big Left Arm, Reputation to D.C.

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Scott Olsen arrives as a part of the Nationals with plenty of baggage -- he had an arrest record and dugout altercations with a manager in Florida -- but potential to be one of baseball's best young left-handed pitchers.

Nationals Notebook: Zimmerman Deal Is Still Being Discussed

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Jim Bowden's resignation as general manager has not interfered with the Nationals' hope to reach a contract extension for third baseman Ryan Zimmerman.

Kasten to Assume GM Responsibilities, for Now

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

An unprecedented week of front-office fluidity begins with team president Stan Kasten temporarily taking over as general manager until a replacement for Jim Bowden is found.

Nats' Hanrahan Joins Team USA

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Team USA lost a handful of potential closers, opening up a spot for new Nationals closer Joel Hanrahan, who accepted a relief role in the World Baseball Classic on Monday.

Thoughts on 1B and the starting rotation

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Spring Training: - Game Thread: Washington Nationals at Detroit Tigers

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Strasburg Makes 5th Start Tonight Against BYU...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Is The Washington Nationals' '09 Starting Rotation Set?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

New Nats Reliever Beimel Has Evolved Into Role

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Joe Beimel, who the Nats envision as an eighth-inning specialist, has evolved considerably since he was first drafted 11 years ago.

Nats' Balester Has Another Rough Outing

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Collin Balester, hoping to secure a spot in the Nationals' rotation, struggles again in his latest outing against the Tigers, allowing five runs and nine hits in his four innings of work.

Nationals First Baseman Dmitri Young Is Running Out of Time to Make MLB Roster

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

First baseman Dmitri Young took is finally starting his recovery from a back injury, but he may not have enough time to impress and make the major league roster.

The Strasburg Files Episode 4- The dreaded BS, ND

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Today's Game Thread - St. Louis at Washington

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Sunday Spotlight...Adam Dunn, Nick Johnson, Jesus Flores and Stephen Strasburg.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

WBC Semi-Final Game Thread - U.S.A vs Japan...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Strasburg could command 50MM over 6 years.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals' Wil Nieves Used to Competition for Backup Catcher's Job

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Until the precise moment when the newcomer jeopardized his job, Wil Nieves had never heard of Josh Bard. Now, Nieves knows he has yet another competitor for his job as the backup catcher for the Washington Nationals.

Lastings Milledge to Bat Leadoff for Washington Nationals

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Lastings Milledge likes the idea of batting first for the Washington Nationals. On Sunday, Manager Manny Acta said that is where Milledge will bat this season.

Nationals, Bard Agree to Non-Guaranteed Minor League Deal

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals agree to a non-guaranteed minor league contract with catcher Josh Bard, adding the 30-year-old as a possible backup behind JesÃºs Flores.

WBC Recap and Monday's Washington Nationals vs St. Louis Cardinals Game Thread.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Shawn Hill Signs Minor League Contract with Padres

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

WBC Game Thread? Japan vs Korea...Anyone?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals: The Unlucky Lottery, Stephen Strasburg, Scott Boras, Peter Gammons And Nic

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com NL East Preview With Macho Row...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball Talks Stephen Strasburg With Sports Illustrated Writer Lee Jenkins.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Keith Law's video of Steven Strasburg.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Spring Training: - Game Thread: Atlanta Braves at Washington Nationals LIVE on MASN and MLB.tv!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nationals Beat Braves, But Anderson Hernandez Injured!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Memo To Washington Nationals: Do Not Trade Nick Johnson, Select And Sign Stephen Strasburg, Do Somet

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

At Forums, D.C. Residents and Officials Discuss Plans for Anacostia Waterfront

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Images of the Anacostia waterfront were on display downtown one evening last week at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library.

District Notebook

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Prepare to say goodbye to the D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission.

Pitcher Shairon Martis Makes a Compelling Case to Be in the Nationals' Starting Rotation

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Young starter Shairon Martis makes a compelling case to earn one of the spots in the team's starting rotation, pitching six shutout innings against a lineup filled with Orioles regulars.

For Milledge, Stealing Bases Has Become a Calculated Move

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Since Manny Acta became manager in 2007, the Nationals have stolen bases neither frequently nor well. The team vows to change that this year, and outfielder Lastings Milledge is the key to that effort.

Former Nat Shawn Hill Agrees to Minor League Deal With Padres

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Former Nats pitcher Shawn Hill did not remain unemployed for long, agreeing to a minor league deal with the Padres.

Even With $180 Million Deal, Teixeira Is Overshadowed in Yankees' Spring Training

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Mark Teixeira may very well be a major contributor to the New York Yankees this year, but he is far from the only story line.

In AD 2009 W.A.R was beginning.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

ESPN Feature on Stephen Strasburg

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Spring Training - Game Thread: Washington Nationals vs New York Mets.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com Featured On The Good Point.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Strasburg Wins, K's 14...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Spring Training - Game Thread: Houston At Washington. Nationals Make Cuts, Set '09 Starting Rotation

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nationals' Adam Dunn Enjoys Intensity of WBC Play

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

New National Adam Dunn, who has not played in a postseason game during his entire career, enjoys the intensity he experienced in the World Baseball Classic and hopes to experience that with Washington.

The Washington Nationals' Roster, What "They" Are Saying...plus Sunday Game Thread.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Citi Field: Federal Baseball.com Behind Enemy Lines At The New York Mets' New Home.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The 2009 Washington Nationals, The Federal Baseball.com W.A.R. Effort And Darren Aronofsky's "Pi"...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Meet The "Press": The Washington Nationals Talk To The Internet...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals' '09 Roster: Can Dmitri Young Do It? Is Scott Boras Serious About Stephen S

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Sports Illustrated Is Not Impressed With The '09 Washington Nationals.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The 2009 Washington Nationals: Who Will Still Be A National On Monday?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Dallas McPhearson, take a chance on me

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

SBN NL EAST Roundtable...Washington Nationals Edition. Part One.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Twins' Scott Baker Will Miss Opening Day Start

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Minnesota Twins right-hander Scott Baker is placed on the 15-day disabled list with shoulder stiffness and will miss his scheduled start on Opening Day.

Wily Mo Pena Released by Washington Nationals

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After refusing to accept a minor league assignment, Wily Mo PeÃ±a was released on Tuesday by the Washington Nationals, ending the outfielder's tenure with an organization that once viewed him as a centerpiece of its future.

Longtime Yankee Stadium Announcer Bob Sheppard Will Miss Opening Day

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The new Yankee Stadium won't sound nearly the same on Opening Day. Bob Sheppard, the longtime voice of the New York Yankees, will miss the start of the season while he continues to recover from a bronchial infection.

As Interim GM, Mike Rizzo Brings 'More Professional' Approach to Nationals

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As the Nationals acting GM for the past month, Mike Rizzo has provided a stark -- and, in some corners, welcome -- contrast to his predecessor, Jim Bowden.

Nationals Notebook: Young to Get Chance to Swing Away

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

VIERA, Fla., March 30 -- Since March 1, Dmitri Young has seen only massage tables and minor league pitching. But on Tuesday, Young will return to the Washington Nationals after missing the bulk of the month because of a back injury. When the Nationals play the Tigers in Lakeland, Young will serve as...

As Third Base Coach, Washington Nationals' Pat Listach Seeks Invisibility

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals new third base coach Pat Listach knows he's doing his best work when no one notices what he's doing.

Nationals Notebook: Cabrera Scratched With Neck Muscle Spasms

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Right-hander Daniel Cabrera misses a start because of muscle spasms in his neck, but the Washington Nationals' No. 3 starter hopes to make his last spring training start on Friday.

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Florida Marlins - Game 1 of 162. Opening Day.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nationals Drop Opener To Marlins, 12-6 Final. Adam Dunn As Advertised...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals' Adam Dunn Era: Day Two. Live From Florida.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Florida Marlins - Game 2 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals 0-2 After 8-3 Loss To Florida Marlins...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Florida Marlins - Game 3 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nationals Rally In 9th, Fall Short, Swept By Marlins, 6-4 Final.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

As Season Opens, Nationals Have a Good Deal of Optimism

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals are filled with optimism as a new season begins.

Marc Fisher Column: Future of Nats and Stadium Neighborhood Up to Us

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

There was supposed to be a neighborhood here -- teeming streets, happy people sharing nights of cheer and cheers . . . even, perhaps, an occasional win. Instead, the blocks around Washington's new baseball stadium remain largely empty, an eerie expanse of flattened lots so bereft of activity that...

New Sculptures at Nationals Park: Swings and Misses

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

I wouldn't want to choose between baseball and fine art: They both show off our glorious human talent for taking pleasure, and finding meaning, in perfectly useless activities.

Dreams Come Closer - D.C. Area's Hockey Players Have More Alternatives On Their Way to College

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Chris Bond wasn't ready for the culture shock when his family moved back to Northern Virginia from Canada when he was 10 years old. He had spent the previous four years learning to play hockey in an environment where all his friends were on the ice every day. Inside the Beltway, the sport made hi...

Marlins Hand Nationals Third Straight Loss, 6-4

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Dan Uggla hit a tiebreaking three-run double, Chris Volstad was almost flawless after a shaky first inning, and the Florida Marlins beat the Washington Nationals 6-4 on Wednesday to complete an opening three-game sweep.

Thomas Boswell on Stan Kasten Inviting Philadelphia Phillies Fans to Nationals Park

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Stan Kasten is seriously confused. He doesn't know the difference between Finland and Philadelphia.

Elijah Dukes of the Washington Nationals Is Beginning to Right Himself

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After a spring slumber, Elijah Dukes of the Nationals is beginning to get it together.

Nationals Cabrera Exhibits Customary Wildness in Loss to Marlins

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

MIAMI, April 8 -- Daniel Cabrera was mostly good Wednesday, which is to say, he wasn't quite good enough. Debuting for the Washington Nationals after five seasons with Baltimore, the 6-foot-9 right hander displayed the pattern that has long frustrated those waiting for him to fulfill his potential....

Nationals Fall to Marlins, 8-3

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Washington's Scott Olsen gets battered for eight runs in three innings by his former teammates as the Marlins thrash the Nats, 8-3.

Lastings Milledge's Struggles Persist at Plate, in Field

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Still trying to find his way in center field, Lastings Milledge also has struggled mightily as the Nationals' newly minted leadoff man.

Gustavo Chacin Fails to Make Washington Nationals' Rotation, Even in the Minor Leagues

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Left-handed pitcher Gustavo ChacÃn fails to crack Washington's Class AAA rotation and has been released by the Nationals.

Nationals Roughed Up by Marlins in Season-Opening 12-6 Loss

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Former Nationals prospect Emilio Bonifacio haunts his former club, going 4-for-5 in Florida's 12-6 Opening Day victory, ruining Washington's hopes of getting 2009 started with a win.

By the Numbers

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Some key figures from the Nationals-Marlins opener yesterday:

John Lannan Struggles in Opening Day Start for Washington Nationals

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In his first Opening Day assignment, John Lannan lasted just three innings and gave up six runs. In 31 starts last year, he never had a shorter outing.

The Young-Armed Nats, Out on a Limb

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The reason the Nationals can dream of being one of the game's most improved teams is their extremely young pitching rotation.

Nationals at Marlins

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

When: 4 p.m. Where: Dolphin Stadium, Miami. TV: MASN2.

Ryan Zimmerman, Nationals Not Yet Agreeing on Long-Term Contract

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Talks between the Nationals and Ryan Zimmerman on a long-term contract will be put on hold until after the season.

Acta Opts for Dunn, Milledge and Kearns in Nationals' Outfield

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Manager Manny Acta has settled on a starting outfield of Adam Dunn, Lastings Milledge and Austin Kearns, for the moment leaving Elijah Dukes and Josh Willingham on the bench after a spring training-long running debate over who would get the most playing time in a crowded outfield.

Washington Nationals Finalize Opening Day Roster

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals finalized their 25-man Opening Day roster yesterday, opting for a rather unconventional combination that includes three catchers and three left-handed relievers.

Nationals' Jason Bergmann Adjusting to New Role as a Relief Pitcher

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Jason Bergmann hopes his return to the bullpen means he will keep a spot on the Nationals' roster this season..

District Briefing

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Metro will have extra trains available to get fans home from the baseball, basketball and soccer games being played tomorrow night.

Kory Casto Is Fighting for the Final Spot on the Washington Nationals' Roster

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Kory Casto is fighting for the final spot on the Washington Nationals' roster.

What's Your Prediction?

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Last year, I was the Washington Nationals of prognosticating -- in other words, almost certainly the worst in all of baseball. I had the Mariners winning the AL West (they finished last), and the Tigers winning not only the AL Central (they finished last) -- but the World Series, as well.

Nationals' Jorge Sosa Is Finally Granted His Work Visa

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals relief pitcher Jorge Sosa, stranded in the Dominican Republic because of visa problems, is finally granted his work visa.

Washington Nationals' 5th Starter Jordan Zimmerman(n) Makes Triple-A Debut...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Steven Strasburg's (6-0 1.49 ERA) 8th start of the season @ UNLV tonight.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Romero Outduels Porcello as Jays Top Tigers

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 19:53:13 GMT

TORONTO -- Ricky Romero outpitched Rick Porcello in the first matchup of former first-round draft picks making their major league debuts against each other, and the Toronto Blue Jays rallied to beat the Detroit Tigers 6-2 Thursday for their third win in the opening four-game series.

Rangers Complete Opening Sweep of Indians

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 21:34:15 GMT

ARLINGTON, Texas -- The Texas Rangers are 3-0 for the first time since 1996.

Garza, Rays hold off Red Sox

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 21:27:09 GMT

BOSTON -- Matt Garza pitched seven innings of four-hit ball, Tampa Bay hit three homers off Daisuke Matsuzaka, and the Rays beat the Boston Red Sox 4-3 Thursday to win their opening three-game series.

Control Is No Longer an Issue for Nationals Pitcher Shairon Martis

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

MIAMI -- Washington Nationals starting pitchers have suffered three straight losses and assembled a 14.25 combined ERA, numbers that would cause many pitching coaches to sprinkle their cereal with antacid tablets, yet Randy St. Claire remains optimistic. He believes young starter Shairon Martis will...

WE WANT ELIJAH DUKES!! Who Belongs In the Washington Nationals' Outfield?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Atlanta Braves - Game 4 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Drop 4th Straight To Open Season...Nationals 5 Braves 6.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals Will Not Lose 5-Straight!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Atlanta Braves - Game 5 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Lose To Atlanta, Start '09, 0-5. Braves 5 Nationals 3.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Atlanta Braves - Game 6 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

FIRE EVERYBODY!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Drop Sixth Straight To Start Season, Atlanta Braves Sweep With 8-5 Win Over DC.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Philadelphia Phillies At Washington Nationals. Game 7 of 162. Home Opener...Nationals 0-

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals Just Can't Win...Phillies 9 Nationals 8.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

It's Opening Day, but Nationals and Their Fans Are Trying to Work Through Some Difficult Times

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals' 9-8 loss to the Phillies does little to improve the mood of the team or its fans. The Nationals are 0-7, the only winless team in baseball, and while the season is barely a week old, hope is sinking fast.

Mayor Withheld Nationals' Opening-Day Baseball Tickets, Council Members Say

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In baseball, this is what you might call another kind of lockout.

Phillies Announcer Harry Kalas, 73, of 'Outta Here!' Fame, Dies Before Nats Game

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Harry Kalas, 73, the Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster who punctuated innumerable home runs with his "Outta here!" call and was a member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, died April 13 after collapsing in the broadcast booth at Nationals Park before a Phillies-Nationals game.

Nationals Fall to Phillies, 9-8, in Washington's Home Opener

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After a long, winless road stand, the Nationals continue to lose at home, falling 9-8 to the grieving Phillies in the home opener at Nationals Park on Monday afternoon.

It's Time To Get Serious

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Thomas Boswell: With all the sobering news to hit the baseball world this week, it helps us think more clearly about mere baseball matters.

Harry Kalas, Longtime Phillies Broadcaster, Dies at 73

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Harry Kalas, the Hall of Fame broadcaster whose voice connected Philadelphia's team and its fans, died yesterday after collapsing in the press box at Nationals Park, leaving behind a void of silence and a mourning organization. Kalas was pronounced dead at 1:20 p.m. at George Washington University...

Guzman Hurts Hamstring; Hernandez Back at Second Base

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

One of the finest games of Cristian GuzmÃ¡n's career -- the shortstop went 5 for 5 -- ended prematurely and might be his last for a short while. During his final at-bat in yesterday's 9-8 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies, the Washington Nationals shortstop strained his left hamstring and exited the...

Nats Fall to Braves, Drop to 0-6 on Season

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Chipper Jones drives in two runs, including a tiebreaking single, and the Braves beat Washington, 8-5, handing the Nationals their sixth straight loss to start the season.

Stan Kasten: Nationals' 'Season Ticket Sales Are Down'

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Two-hundred and one days have passed since Washington last played a regular season game at Nationals Park. But tickets still remain for Monday's home opener against Philadelphia, a telltale sign of the organization's predicament: it is trying to overcome a 102-loss season in the first year in the team's new ballpark.

At Nationals Park, District of Dreams Hits a Slump

Sun, 12 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Baseball stadium backers promised a lively entertainment district when the D.C. government poured nearly $700 million into building Nationals Park: a hub of bustling shops, restaurants, hotels, condos and office towers to draw patrons year-round.

Nationals Fall to Braves, 5-3

Sun, 12 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Kenshin Kawakami pitches six effective innings to win his major league debut, leading the Braves to a 5-3 win over the winless Nationals on Saturday night.

Julian Tavarez Provides Relief for Washington Nationals

Sun, 12 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals' starting pitchers have struggled in the first four games, but Julian Tavarez has provided relief from the bullpen.

Nats Lose to Braves, Fall to 0-4

Sat, 11 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

ATLANTA, April 10 -- The game itself actually ended. There was a runner on, then a line drive: the magic formula. Only it was the Braves who orchestrated it. At 1:25 a.m., to end an exhaustive game that turned on countless little moments -- and was extended by a rain delay and extra innings --...

Nationals Notebook: Shell Has Fond Memories of Ex-Teammate Adenhart

Sat, 11 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nats pitcher Steven Shell has fond memories of former minor league teammate Nick Adenhart.

Pardon The Blunt Assessment: Tony Kornheiser On The Washington Nationals.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Lastings Milledge Optioned To Triple-A Syracuse...Seriously?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Tuesday Nats Stats: Meaningless Tidbits and the Many Moods of Adam Dunn

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals Send Lastings Milledge To Triple-A Syracuse.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Around The Horn

Tue, 13 Mar 2007 00:56:03 GMT

Much of this offseason has been spent discussing the starting rotation. I've been no exception in this regard. The rotation fiasco is alluring in a manner similar to an eighteen-car pileup at a NASCAR race. Sorting through the mess is what makes it interesting. When else would every single spring training appearance take such paramount importance for so many people? Even if it's foolish to believe eight or so spring innings really constitute any kind of basis for a meaningful evaluation, I suppose the situation is what the situation is. Please excuse the passive handwaving.

There's another side to the game, of course, and the position players provide at least a bit more stability. There are still some issues to be decided, but with the exception of Nick Johnson's lamentable injury situation (and I guess whether Cristian Guzman can indeed play the field), the choices are comparatively subtle.

This is not to say there is nothing to consider of the position players. Although it looks like Logan and Church will start out in center and left respectively, and although it seems Broadway will get the call to fill in for lack of a credible challenger, there are still issues to consider, now and in the longer term.

In his Baseball Book: 1990, Bill James conducted an interesting little quick-and-dirty experiment. He listed all of the mainline members of the Philadelphia Phillies at the time (Von Hayes, Lenny Dykstra, Charlie Hayes, Whatever, Whomever) and made a quick notation about each player's chances of playing on the next Philly pennant winner, whenever that would be (1993, actually). The notations were like "Sure," "No," "Maybe," "Doubtful," etc. This wasn't exactly stringent analysis, but it was a simple way of gauging where the Phillies were as an organization.

In the 2001 (and final) edition of the Big Bad Baseball Annual, I repeated the exercise. I don't recall the specifics, but I believe I concluded Scott Rolen was a championship-caliber player and Omar Daal was not destined for any particular distinction. Imagine that.

Anyway, I figured I would try the exercise again with some of the current Nats position player possibilities. What, again, precisely is the exercise? Glad you asked, because with these Nats I don't really know. The inquiry is whether the following guys are likely or not to be contributing members of the ~~next~~ first Nats pennant winner. By "contributing member," I suppose I mean "core regular." But what time frame are we talking about? Next year? Probably not? Five years from now? Hopefully not? Let's just say three to four seasons from now. Can the following guys be core members of a pennant winner (or heck, a playoff team) in three to four seasons?

So here we go---and, yes, I used, well . . .

[Note: Casto is listed in right field because I ran out of room in left. Oh well.]

If you can't read the tiny writing or are not sophisticated enough to recognize fine art, I'll recap briefly: Everybody's a no or a maybe or a doubtful except for Ryan Zimmerman and perhaps Nick Johnson (if the latter can stay healthy in any lasting sense) and Austin Kearns. I'm not sure this is a shocking result. This is a rather jumbled and ragtag bunch, and it's hard in its own right to project guys three or four years into the future. If you have a young star, he'll tend to project pretty safely, but the other fellas are more dicey.

What this exercise does demonstrate is how far the Nationals have to go before they have the core of a true contender. I don't mean a mix-and-match, lightning-in-a-bottle, one-blissful-season contender, although those are fun. Instead, I mean a strong and reliable contender. The Nats have a long way to go---and we're not talking about the pitching at the moment.

Now, I don't mean to be glum. Ryan Church is a valuable player to the Nats because he can contribute some decent offense at a low cost. Will he be as attractive to the Nats two years from now, when he's 30 and going on his second season of arbitration eligibility? Probably not---chances are, he'll be gone. That's the sort of thing I mean about the current position players. Most of these guys strike me as transitory. Even Felipe Lopez, who's relatively young and has some offensive ability, stands a decent chance of being gone in three or four years unless he becomes less erratic afield.

So the Nats will build around Zimmerman, quite obviously, because he stands to be a lasting cornerstone. Maybe Casto or Snelling (separated in age by mere days) develops into a contributor. Maybe Flores becomes a stud at catcher. And then you have guys on the up like Marrero or King or Englund or Maxwell. Maybe they'll be ready to fit into the lineup within four seasons. (That's perhaps a little soon for Smiley Gonzalez.) Which isn't to say all of those guys will pan out.

There's a lot of time between Here and There, and I know Stan Kasten is a patient man. But, unless he's supremely patient, it seems he will have to buy into at least some talent. And, again, I haven't really mentioned the pitching.

* * * *

Well, maybe that was more glum than I meant it to be. To liven up the moment, Nationals Review thinks the offense will turn out okay . . . at least in lineups recommended by Nationals Review and not the ones referenced by the real-life team. This is a good post, one that employs a far more concrete Bill James concept, the runs created metric. I certainly recommend this one; it's a nice bookend to a post I composed back in January, except it incorportes the Broadway/Lee/Young first base combo. The sentiment "Nick Johnson, get well soon" is certainly something resembling a prayer.

That Deal's HOT!

Mon, 12 Mar 2007 03:08:13 GMT

Ladies and gentlemen: Your fourth starter!

Don't ask me how I found this.

Okay, I admit it: I was looking for novelty nacho cheese sauces. It's one of the things I do. I read about the baseball stats, memorize lines from The Simpsons, deconstruct the societal import of Die Hard, and look for nacho cheese sauces all across the internets. Lo and behold, I found this one. A Washington Nationals-themed nacho cheese sauce.

Is it on the level? Is it too good to be true? I decided to research the matter futher. I take the nacho cheese sauce topic very seriously.

It's true!

No Washington Nationals tailgate party is complete without nachos. Enjoy this rich, mild cheddar cheese taste with chunks of fresh tomatoes, green chilies, onions, sweet red peppers, sweet green peppers and jalapeno peppers throughout.

Everything goes good with this nacho cheese sauce from hot dogs to hamburgers to french fries. Heck, it even goes good with eggs. Washington Nationals Nacho Cheese Sauce comes with officially licensed Washington Nationals logos and colors.

So, everyone out there in Nats Nation: For your next nacho cheese sauce-related Nats night, make it a Hot Sauce Harry's night!

* * * *

Speaking of hot---or, in this case, not hot---Ryan Church has struggled this spring. Unlike last spring, when Church also struggled, his batting woes might not make much of a difference this time; he's the presumptive starter in left field at this point, and it does not seem like that status will be easily altered this time around. The organization has never trusted Church against lefties, and his near-impotence on 0-2 counts have been noted here. But Church might be struggling now for a different reason, as Nats.com reports:

[Church's brother,] Matthew, a U.S. Army ranger, was deployed to Iraq on Sunday, and Ryan acknowledged that Matthew's pending departure for the war was affecting his game.

. . .

"Matthew told me to relax, don't worry about him. He has a job to do just like I do. He is on his way to Iraq and there's nothing I can do about it. It's in God's hands. After I got off the phone, I felt good."

It is beyond trite for me to say I'll be thinking of Matthew Church, but I do know people who are personally affected by deployments abroad, most notably Iraq and Afghanistan. This is not a political post---not in any way. But I do wish a safe return for those people, and I wish the best for the Church family.

* * * *

The same Nats.com article notes the next round of cuts will be tomorrow. Based only on Manny Acta's comments from the same article, it would appear Chris Michalak's status is shaky, Chris Schroeder's headed back to the minor league camp, and Mike Bacsik will remain.

* * * *

The Nats320 blog has interviewed just about everyone Nats-related except for Hot Sauce Harry, and I'm pretty sure Screech's Best Friend's interview list extends to all 148 Ryans in Nats camp, including Ryan Wagner. It would appear Wagner is confident things will turn around for him in Washington:

n 2005, I was injured, and they (Cincinnati) thought it was time for a change in my arm slot, or change my throwing angle. I have always been coachable and willing to listen, try anything to improve. Unfortunately, those changes just did not work. When I was traded here, the very first thing Washington told me was to go back to what I was successful with, what I was doing originally, and I was most comfortable. I began working with Randy St. Claire and watching video, each and every day. He watched me throw in the games. We continued to work things out, and I settled in real nice.

Wagner's an interesting figure for the Nats. He's a former first round pick, a Bowden selection. If he can turn into something with the Nats, then just think---he was the throw-in in the KrivskyGate trade. What a steal.

* * * *

One guy who unequivocally didn't work out for the Nats was Damian Jackson, whose strange behavior last season was one reason Thom Loverro remarked it was like Frank Robinson was teaching kindergarten in 2006. Jackson, a non-roster invitee to the Dodgers' camp in Vero Beach this spring, was cut by the Dodgers today and didn't react to the news all that well:

"I no longer have anything to do with baseball," an angry Jackson said before clearing out his locker, furiously shoving equipment and clothes into his duffel bag and knocking down two chairs on his way out.

. . .

"He respects our decision, and that's it," manager Grady Little said.

By most accounts, Jackson was not a pleasant presence in Washington last season, so I cannot say I sympathize too much in this instance. He's parlayed a .243 batting average and 80 OPS+ into an eleven-year big league career, which isn't too bad. He might prefer to prolong his career, but no one says "When." It just happens.

I do know this, though: The Association Press story claims he played 67 games and batted .168 for the Nats last season. That's wrong. Jackson actually batted .198. Talk about kicking a guy while he's down!

Working On A Mystery

Sat, 10 Mar 2007 17:34:44 GMT

I attended a late showing of Zodiac last evening, or maybe it was last year---this movie is a bit timeless, as Minnie Driver's character from Grosse Point Blank might say. At any rate, Zodiac is a pretty good movie about a satisfyingly engrossing mystery. (Click on "Read More" for spoiler.) It employs an interesting narrative structure, in that the search for the killer's identity more or less conforms to three character-driven acts: first, an arrogant, paranoid, chain-smoking, coke-snorting, hard-drinking, self-destructive San Francisco Chronicle reporter (Robert Downey Jr., as himself); then, a frustrated and, ultimately, partnerless detective always a half-step behind the times (Mark Ruffalo, as bad 1970s wardrobe and sideburns); and finally, a meek Chronicle editorial cartoonist-turned obsessed citizen journalist who aims to keep the story, if not his marriage, alive long after anyone, incluing Zodiac, cares (Jake Gylenrkekdfkfdhaaaaaal, as the most neurotic ex-Eagle Scout one can imagine).

The movie got me thinking about the Nationals' pitching staff. Well, not really, but I'll use it as a hook. Recently, Barry Svrluga of the Post held a "Guess the Rotation" competition at his Nationals Journal spring training blog. Setting aside John Patterson, it seems the fans who chimed in regard Shawn Hill as the only safe bet, which is not surprising given his solid early spring performance. After that, the respondents had pretty much no clue, which is not inappropriate given I'm not even sure if the team's coaching staff has much of one---or even possibly can have much of one---as it tries to determine the keepers out of such a mass of humanity. Six pitchers had between 35 and 63 "total points," however Svrluga tabulated that.

Back to Zodiac, the thought occurs to me that the specific identities in the initial starting rotation do not much matter. Like that movie's narrative structure, the mystery to unravel a big league pitching staff will probably encompass a few acts, or at least waves of starting pitchers. As I noted the other day, the average team doles out 25 percent of its starter innings to fellows not considered part of its initial five-man rotation. With the Nationals, this percentage will almost certainly be higher. In short, the guys ending the season in the rotation will probably be more important than the ones starting off in it.

In a thought-provoking piece last month for the Hardball Times, network colleague Jeff Sackmann evaluated the Minnesota Twins' preseason rotation choices through a prism of "depth vs. uncertainty." The depth was represented by a couple of decidedly meh veteran starters; the uncertainty was represented by some very good (but unestablished) pitching prospects. Sackmann's article is not necessarily on-point with respect to the Nats, but a broader point he makes might have some application:

To set some parameters, let's say that the Twins have seven starters—Johan Santana, Boof Bonser, Carlos Silva, Scott Baker, Garza, Perkins, and Ortiz—who they can expect to be replacement-level or better between April and August. If they want to be seven starters deep (a reasonable number, given the variability in pitcher performance and health), they need to ensure that they have seven such pitchers in their organization.

Furthermore, it's tough to stash starters in your bullpen; while it can be done, a hurler who tosses an inning or two a few times in a week can be hard-pressed to give you five or six innings the next week. Thus, let's stipulate that the two starters who don't crack the rotation will have to go to Triple-A.

Garza and Perkins can do that. Ortiz, however, was going to sign a major-league deal somewhere, and the same can be said of the other pitchers of approximately the same skill level (Trachsel, Tony Armas Jr., etc.). In other words, putting Ortiz in the rotation for a while is a necessary sacrifice in order to have seven decent starters in your organization. The alternative for the Twins would be to use Sidney Ponson (or another lesser pitcher willing to go to Triple-A) as the #7 guy and let Ortiz go elsewhere.

Sackmann posits a very salient point in these three paragraphs: Sometimes, a team must juggle its options in an orderly and deliberate manner to preserve its depth, as viewed over an entire 162-game season.

To apply Sackmann's principle to the Nationals, let's look at Jerome Williams and Matt Chico. Thus far, Williams has pitched horridly and Chico has pitched . . . well, better than horridly. Manny Acta speaks very highly of Chico, and a perception seems to be emerging that he will receive an initial shot in the regular season starting rotation. This may be, or it may be that Chico will see time in the Nats' rotation at some time this season, though maybe after Chico receives some "seasoning" at Columbus. Whatever the case, if a choice comes down to Williams and Chico, the choice might not be determined by spring merit (to the extent spring merit actually exists).

Williams is, I believe (and someone correct me if I'm wrong), out of minor league option years. Chico is not. Chico can be sent to Columbus without encumbrance, but Wiliams more than likely cannot. Given Williams' age and remaining potential, I suspect he would not pass clearly through waivers, and in effect the Nats would have squandered an opportunity with him solely based on a bad Grapefruit League performance. (Alternatively, Williams could be stashed in the RFK bullpen, but it looks fairly crowded there already.) In other words, if it comes down to Williams or Chico in the rotation, there's a strong independent basis on which to put Williams in the first "act" (to pass or fail in actual ballgames) and Chico in a subsequent "act."

Similar choices could be faced with, say, Tim Redding and Jay Bergmann, as well as Jason Simontacchi and Beltran Perez. (Again, someone correct me if I'm wrong about the option status or Bergmann or Perez.) It's possible Simontacchi could go back to Columbus, but he's been pitching pretty well this spring, so there might be a notion not to risk things. Redding, who has been lit up this spring, is out of options. Unlike Williams, the 29 year-old might pass unclaimed through waivers, but you never know.

While we joke about the March Madness-number of pitchers attempting to make the Final Four, so to speak, there really isn't all that much depth on hand. Instead, there are merely a lot of pitchers, which isn't really the same thing. For a couple months, it has seemed a presumption held that Redding and Williams would be in the rotation; the mad dash seemed to involve the final two rotation spots. If the Nats somehow lose Williams, Redding, and Simontacchi (admittedly doubtful with Simontacchi at this point), the depth really does thin out. At that point, the remainder would be Patterson (unfortunately an injury risk), Hill (same), Chico, Bergmann, Billy Traber, Perez, Colby Lewis, Joel Hanrahan, and Chris Michalak, plus a couple of built-in second act lefties, Brandon Claussen and Mike O'Connor, who are currently unavailable. Sure, that still seems like a lot of guys, but if you remove Williams and Redding, you are already starting with perceived second-act guys, and in rotation spots where it would be hoped the first-act guys would remain.

Anyway, the point here is that the Nationals could juggle their depth to maintain whatever depth they have. You can always use Chico in the second or third act, but you might not be able to do the same with Williams.

* * * *

One position where the Nats currently do not have to worry about quality or perceived depth is third base. The Nats and Ryan Zimmerman agreed on a one-year, $400,000 contract today, according to Washington Times beat writer Mark Zuckerman at the Chatter blog. [In another exciting episode of "Basil Thinks Someone Else Has a Weird Name," I am still somewhat dubious that Zimmerman's agent's name is actually Brodie Van Wagenen.]

"Agreed" is an apt description only to the extent Zimmerman had bargaining power, and the only bargaining power he had was to hold out. As Capitol Punishment recounts in an especially cogent post, the Nats held 99.44 percent of the leverage in this negotiation, simply because Zimmerman has such meager service time. The contract's value---or the fact that the sides did not iron out a long-term extension---is not a sign of Lernasten cheapness. Instead, Svrluga reasonably notes at his blog that the risk of injury to Zimmerman is enough to make the Nats think long and hard before locking Zimmerman into guaranteed money, over a number of seasons, before they're actually close to the arbitration process.

Zimmerman's the face and future of this franchise, and management will treat him well. But the Lernastens were under no compulsion to give him a king's ransom . . . yet.

Marcia Clark did it.

See ya, Yannigans

Fri, 09 Mar 2007 04:39:24 GMT

A "Yannigan" is basically a "scrub," though the former is an older and more ethnic-sounding term. I'd say there's a high correlation between older and more ethnic-sounding terms, and such is the case here. But, at the end of the say, a Yannigan is a scrub and a scrub is a Yannigan.

The Nationals bid farewell to a whole host of Yannigans earlier today, though it's a fair observation to note more than three-quarters of the big league camp survived the carnage. Here are the first cuts:

The Washington Nationals today reassigned infielder Tony Blanco, infielder Melvin Dorta, outfielder Wayne Lydon, first baseman Jorge Toca, outfielder George Lombard, right-handed pitcher Felix Diaz, right-handed pitcher Anastacio Martinez, right-handed pitcher Eduardo Valdez, left-handed pitcher Luis Martinez and left-handed pitcher Bill White to minor-league camp. The Nationals also optioned outfielder Frank Diaz to Columbus of the Triple-A International League and left-handed pitcher Mike Hinckley to Harrisburg of the Double-A Eastern League. The club also unconditionally released infielder Tony Womack. Nationals Vice President and General Manager Jim Bowden made the announcements.

[Insert obligatory "That's a lot of announcements!!!" crack . . . ]

Anyway, there's a post available somewhere on this site's "Search" feature evaluating many of these guys, so I'll forgo the pseudo-obits for most of these guys. Given the needs of the big league team, most of these guys should have set out to be pitchers, and most of the pitchers should have set out to be shortstops.

Among the headliners, Hinckley's name stands out, though not really in a surprising sense. Recently, I made a rather fatuous case for Hinckley to break camp as the fifth starter. The suggestion was in jest and mainly to drive home the point that this team's rotation is a ridiculous crapshoot. Hinckley's demotion is no shock to anyone except, according to this Nats.com article, for Hinckley himself. While that reaction is certainly understandable, the reality at the moment is that Hinckley is a notable name in the same sense that the "Weakest Link" lady is a notable personality; they're both notable from a previous era. Hinckley's relevance requires renewal, you might say. Given his age, handedness, and potential for opportunity, I'd say the prospect isn't entirely foreclosed. Unfortunately, I'd also suspect the opportunity might never mature, as Hinckley already has an injury history, and such a problem tends not to accrue to the pitcher's benefit. As Bill James once said in a comment about ex-Texas hurler Roger Pavlik, but for injuries how many of these guys would be dropping bread crumbs to Cooperstown, for all we know? The point, as we see, is that we never know.

Then there is Tony Womack. Two seasons ago, at my old blog, I stated a prolonged case for one of my favorite type of player: the "Ryan Freel-type." As a refresher, a Ryan Freel-type is identifiable by his mobility and extreme versatility, which usually work hand-in-hand. The player is agile enough to handle a utility role on the infield, including at least one of the middle infield positions, as well as an adept outfield corner or a passable center. In other words, a Ryan Freel-type is valuable because he is capable of satisfying multiple roster needs, an important consideration in this age of expanding pitching staffs. He is a second infield reserve and a fifth outfielder, wrapped in a single package.

There are limits on a Ryan Freel-type's value, of course. It helps if the guy is actually a decent player in the first place. Second, it's advisable that the team actually has a need for the guy, especially in terms of bridging the gap in outfield depth. A Freel-type, such as the genuine article or Chone Figgins, would have helped the '05 Nats immensely for many reasons, not that least of which because the Nats suffered systematic roster breakdowns that could have been ameliorated by shuffling the Freel-type from second to third to an outfield spot. It's difficult to find a manager willing to commit to such a varied Freel-type role, perhaps with good reason. (Perhaps the same reason why managers try to give their relievers "defined roles.") But a Freel-type could have aided at any and all of those positions; he might not have (and probably wouldn't have) made a difference in an ultimate, postseason-or-not sense, but his presence would offered relief to some of the team's many lineup ailments that season.

Back to the present, we return to the two Freel-type tenets: skill and need. Neither seemed present in Womack's case. He's a 37 year-old speed guy working on one good season in the past . . . well, not to put too fine a point on it, but . . . ever. To be more charitable and less dogmatic about it, I guess you could say 1999 was a pretty good campaign, given the speed stats, and 2002 was passable. Other than that, he doesn't get on base, he doesn't hit for average (outside of 2004), and he hasn't swiped even 30 bases in a season since 2000.

None of those facts likely was completely dispositive for Womack's prospects of making the team, I suppose, considering he was auditioning for a bench role. But Womack's current value is as a Freel-type (with the ability to play short, second, and the outfield) and, unless the Nats were to consider him strictly for the utility infielder spot, there didn't seem to be an opportunity for him to contribute in ways that he can contribute. Simply stated, there are too many outfield options already on hand to create the need for a Freel-type. (And Ronnie Belliard's presence cuts into the infield opportunities.)

I could perhaps see Womack catching on somewhere else, for good or ill. He's versatile and, by all accounts, still fast. Maybe he lucks into a decent average and gets a little playing time. Or maybe he just siphons playing time from a better qualified player, simply because he's a proven veteran with some quicks---a perceived igniter.

Well, whatever happens, it won't be with the Nats. He's a Yannigan. And, given the state of this team, that's not exactly a compliment.

* * * *

Presumably, these moves are all part of "The Plan." It's all a seamless program, being run step-by-step, right? I kid.

Anyway, I was recently wondering where and when the term "The Plan" originated in its proper form, and darn it if Banks of the Anacostia wasn't already on the beat:

Regardless of who can take credit for being the first to substitute a capital P, "The Plan ©®^{TM Good research, and good point.
At any rate, I'd strongly urge you to read the entire post, if you haven't done so already. It's a fascinating read and contains some interesting propositions on how to read the plan's progress. Sorry, I meant "The Plan." Better.
* * * *
NFA notes that the Nats hired a replacement for deposed director of player development Andy Dunn. It's former Vermont and Savannah manager Bobby Williams---who is the son of former Orlando Magic general manager Pat Williams, who is an interesting guy.
Dunn's resignation inspired a good bit of concern and intrigue (see, e.g., Nats Triple Play), and I'm not sure if that story has been told in its entirety. (If it has been, I've missed it. The last I saw was that most of Dunn's subordinates were fired.) Recently, former big league outfielder Darryl Hamilton, currently an employee in the Commissioner's Office, interviewed for the position but subsequently withdrew from consideration, according to a Nats.com article.
I'm not exactly in touch with the Nats' minor league doings, obviously, and I don't devote much time pondering them. However, it's long seemed to me that there are a lot of cooks in the kitchen. I'm not talking about scouts; blessedly, the Nats are getting back up to industry speed in that regard. I'm talking executive-level decisionmakers and evaluators. There's Dana Brown and Mike Rizzo and Bob Boone and Jim Bowden and now this Williams gentleman. They all have discrete roles, I'd imagine, and I'd also suspect the Nats, of all teams, do not have an incredible overabundance of these folks. But it sort of seems like they have enough. What value will Williams add that wasn't there yesterday?
I'm sure there's an easy answer to the question, but I thought I'd pose it anyway.}

Guest Post: Errata, Erratic

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 04:57:22 GMT

[The 2006 Nationals were a lot of things, but fundamentally sound wasn't one of them. Of course, they also weren't a lot of things, but one thing they were was horridly unreliable on defense. Guest poster VladiHondo, a respected commenter and BPG denizen, takes a look at where the Nats were defensively in 2005-06, with a special eye on last season's erratic performance, and looks ahead to the upcoming season. My warm and appreciative thanks to VladiHondo for a most noteworthy contribution. --- Basil]

I helped Basil with some 1980s Atlanta Braves research and he for some reason invited me to submit some of my meanderings for use in his blog.

On the Ballpark Guys forum I wrote a little blurb on why I thought the Nats could be better this year. The best thing about Federal Baseball, is there is more room to expand it here. Bad news is, I think I went overboard!

My comment at BPG focused on the 3 main components of the game: Runs Scored, Runs Allowed and Fielding. (Just the newsbreaking statement that baseball is made of hitting, pitching and defense (and Jenn Lopez) should be enough to WOW ya and say, “Who the hell is this clown?”)

Back to business, in two seasons we’ve observed quite a difference in results, from leading the division for much the year in 2k5, to permanent and deserved cellar dwellers in 2k6. We had a better offense in 2k6 with Soriano, NJ’s almost full year, and the first year of Zimmy, but did worse in the Win/Loss column. Basically we sucked due to terrible starting pitching and horrid defense.

Here’s our key numbers for the two years; rankings are for the Major Leagues:

YEAR	RS	MLB RNK  2005	639	30th  2006	746	23rd

In 2005, Boston lead the majors with 936 runs, and the Yankees led with 930 in '06.

YEAR	RA	MLB RNK  2005	673	9th  2006	872	28th

In 2005, they were 94 runs allowed off the major league lead. (The ballpark helped.) In 2006, they 74 runs off the major league worst. (Guess the ballpark didn't help!)

YEAR	FLD%	MLB RNK  2005	.985	11th  2006	.978	30th

The Braves were first in 2005, Boston in '06.

YEAR	ERRORS	MLB RNK  2005	92	8th  2006	131	30th

If you can believe it, the Nats had twice as many errors as the team with the fewest!

* * * *

So despite scoring over 16% more runs, we had 10 less victories due to a staggering drop in pitching and defense. We gave up almost 30% more runs!! We made over 42% more errors!!! These numbers are mind-boggling and make you wonder how did win 71?

I knew starting pitching was terrible last year but the extent that fielding was also surprised me. So I did a positional comparison from last year to this. The WOW’s were:

We fielded better with Castilla at 3b than Zimmerman
We fielded better with Guzman at SS than Clayton/Lopez

Now that we've discussed some highlights, stick around for the complete analysis. This will involve numbers, and the following stats are from Baseball-Reference.com. I love their historical stats. I had to chop off those guys with less than 100 innings at a position to tighten this up. I know fielding is a tough area to capture in stats, but I’ll concentrate on its simplest form, with errors, fielding percentage, and a simple range factor. Except for catcher, the last two columns are league average values for fielding percentage and range factor.

CATCHER

This was easy, Schneider is Mr. Steady: same errors, same fielding percentage in both years---5 errors with .993 field. pct. He caught more in 2k6, probably because we had worse backups.

2006 CA		Inn	GS	G	PO	A	E	DP	FP	PB  Schneider   	990 	111 	123  	695   	52   	5	8  	.993   	5  RFick        	164  	18  	26  	104    	7   	1   	2  	.991   	4  BHarper      	104  	13  	14   	77    	1   	1   	0  	.987   	0  Team Total  	1436 	162 	162  	998   	69  	11  	10  	.990  	11

2005 CA		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP   	FP   	PB  Schneider   	926 	105 	113  	654   	52   	5  	10  	.993   	3  Bennett     	523  	57  	64  	384   	25   	6   	1  	.986   	4  Team Total  	1458 	162 	162 	1046   	77  	11  	11  	.990   	7

FIRST BASE

No big difference in these numbers except NJ did poorly last year. He had 10 more errors, after he only had 5 in 2k5. It wasn’t that he didn’t pick up the balls in the dirt as well, since that would be the thrower’s error. It was his own throws going awry.

2006 1B		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.994 	*9.41  Johnson    	1252 	143 	147 	1159   	93  	15  	91  	.988  	9.00  Vidro        	61   	8   	8   	54    	3   	0   	7 	1.000  	8.41  Fick         	59   	6  	13   	57    	5   	0   	4 	1.000  	9.46  Team Total  	1436 	162 	162 	1321  	103  	17 	106  	.988  	8.92

2005 1B		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.993 	*9.64  Johnson    	1098 	126 	129 	1017   	95   	5 	109  	.996  	9.11  Wilkerson   	185  	19  	25  	172   	14   	1  	20  	.995  	9.03  Baerga       	86   	9  	11   	65    	2   	1   	2  	.985  	6.96  Team Total  	1458 	162 	162 	1335  	115   	9 	138  	.994  	8.95

SECOND BASE

As much as everyone bemoans the defense of Jose Vidro, he wasn’t that bad and there wasn’t much of a difference between the two years. Vidro had an above average fielding percentage but below average range.

Overall, for all 2b, errors went down by two with about the same number of chances. Oh yeah, look at Carlos “Cheese” Baerga’s range factor for 2nd Base! He’s a Man-imal! The field cannot contain him!! So beware of the small sample size.

2006 2B		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.982 	*5.05  Vidro       	901 	105 	107  	224  	250   	5  	53  	.990  	4.73  Anderson    	231  	26  	32   	51   	71   	5  	13  	.961  	4.75  Castro      	228  	24  	29   	65   	58   	2  	13  	.984  	4.86  Team Total  	1436 	162 	162  	354  	401  	12  	82  	.984  	4.73

2005 2B		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.981 	*4.98  Vidro       	665  	79  	79  	134  	191   	5  	39  	.985  	4.40  Carroll     	427  	44  	63   	96  	145   	5  	33  	.980  	5.07  Spivey      	190  	21  	22   	34   	62   	0  	14 	1.000  	4.55  Baerga       	46   	5   	7   	15   	19   	3   	3  	.919  	6.65  Team Total  	1458 	162 	162  	316  	457  	14 	102  	.982  	4.77

THIRD BASE

It seems all the 2nd half of 2005, all I heard was how old and crippled Vinny Castilla was and how he was blocking Zimmerman. Looking at the cold, hard facts comes up with a shocker. At least defensively, there's an argument we were better at 3b when with old pro Vinny manning the hot corner!!! Zimmerman, for all his future Gold Glove hype, had more errors, a lower fielding percentage, and only a .001 advantage in Range Factor!

2006 3B		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.954 	*2.69  Zimmerman  	1368 	157 	157  	152  	260  	15  	30  	.965  	2.71  Jackson      	21   	1   	6    	1    	5   	4   	1  	.600  	2.57  Team Total  	1436 	162 	162  	154  	274  	19  	31  	.957  	2.68

2005 3B		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.958 	*2.77  Castilla   	1171 	135 	138  	142  	209  	11  	23  	.970  	2.70  Zimmerman   	111  	11  	14    	6   	26   	0   	5 	1.000  	2.59  Baerga      	100  	10  	20    	7   	16   	2   	1  	.920  	2.06  Team Total  	1458 	162 	162  	157  	266  	13  	29  	.970  	2.61

SHORTSTOP

This is the first of two fielding black holes that appeared last year. Guzman was dissed for poor hitting, poor fielding, and poor conditioning. In reality, he was far superior to anything we put there last year in his stead. Errors go from 18 (2 of those by Zimmerman in his 9 innings of playing SS) to 32! Fielding avg goes from near league average (.976-.974) to WAY below league avg (.972-.953). Guzzie’s range wasn’t even league average but it was closer than we were last year.

Note: Damian Jackson was absolutely HORRID playing the left side: 8 errors in only 78 innings (roughly 9 full games). If he had played as many innings as Zimmy, he would’ve had 140 errors. A big deal was made last year of having a better, veteran bench in 2006. Well, they hit better, but when forced to play the field, they were no Jamey Carroll.

2006 SS		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.972 	*4.41  Clayton     	720  	83  	86  	110  	240  	11  	39  	.970  	4.37  Lopez       	601  	70  	71   	89  	162  	14  	34  	.947  	3.76  Jackson      	57   	4  	16    	8   	12   	4   	0  	.833  	3.14  Team Total  	1436 	162 	162  	217  	433  	32  	75  	.953  	4.07

2005 SS		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.976 	*4.51  Guzman     	1161 	133 	142  	217  	327  	15  	85  	.973  	4.22  Carroll     	241  	23  	41   	53   	65   	0  	18 	1.000  	4.41  Zimmerman     	9   	1   	1    	3    	4   	2   	0  	.778  	7.00  Team Total  	1458 	162 	162  	277  	409  	18 	105  	.974  	4.23

OUTFIELD

This was where the Nationals experienced another big jump in errors; in fact, errors doubled from 15 to 30. Now the nature of OF errors is there are not many dropped fly balls. Most these are due to throwing errors. Most wayward throws not only allow the runner to be safe, but invariably the ball gets by the fielder for one or two extra bases. I'm just thinking about it here, but it seems you could say each OF error = Run Allowed. If he didn’t score on the play, then he’s probably at 3rd.

Both years our outfield has better than average range factors in all three positions, which is good, . . . but the errors!

By the way, with 3 Ryans (Church, Zimmerman, Wagner) on the team, Kearns’ middle name is Ryan. [Mental Note, by Basil: Are they Toolsy Ryans?]

2006 LF		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.982 	*1.97  Soriano    	1373 	158 	158  	326   	22  	11   	9  	.969  	2.28  Team Total  	1436 	162 	162  	345   	23  	11   	9  	.971  	2.31

2005 LF		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.984 	*1.94  Byrd        	386  	41  	54  	100    	5   	2   	2  	.981  	2.45  Church      	334  	37  	51   	77    	2   	0   	0 	1.000  	2.12  Wilkerson   	288  	31  	38   	67    	0   	1   	0  	.985  	2.09  PWilson       	94  	11  	11   	20    	0   	0   	0 	1.000  	1.91  Team Total  	1458 	162 	162  	351   	11   	4   	3  	.989  	2.23

2006 CF		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.988 	*2.58  Byrd        	393  	44  	57  	125    	1   	1   	0  	.992  	2.88  Church      	369  	42  	51  	122    	1   	2   	1  	.984  	2.99  Logan       	220  	25  	26   	59    	0   	1   	0  	.983  	2.41  Escobar     	174  	19  	23   	61    	1   	1   	0  	.984  	3.19  Jackson     	141  	15  	22   	44    	0   	2   	0  	.957  	2.79  Watson       	56   	7   	8   	17    	0   	0   	0 	1.000  	2.70  Team Total  	1436 	162 	162  	454    	6   	8   	2  	.983  	2.88

2006 RF		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.980 	*2.11  Guillen     	537  	64  	68  	163    	3   	2   	0  	.988  	2.78  Kearns      	482  	55  	59  	139    	2   	5   	1  	.966  	2.63  Church       	97  	10  	14   	20   	0   	0   	0 	1.000  	1.86  Team Total  	1436 	162 	162  	395    	7  	11   	2  	.973  	2.52

2005 RF		Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.980 	*2.10  Guillen    	1189 	135 	140  	299   	10   	7   	4  	.978 	2.34  Church      	135  	14  	21   	43    	0   	0   	0 	1.000  	2.85  Wilkerson    	45   	5   	6   	12    	0   	1   	0  	.923  	2.36  Team Total  	1458 	162 	162  	377   	10   	8   	4  	.980  	2.39

And here are Kearns's totals for the season:

1228	144	346	7	7	2	.981	2.45

PITCHERS

For some reason, my perception (i.e. Ramon Ortiz) was that Nats pitchers were worse defensively last year than in 2005. But darn those stats, I was wrong. I could have sworn (i.e. Ramon Ortiz) we had sucked, but I guess my judgment was tainted by personal observation (“DAMN You Ramon Ortiz!!!”). Well, there was a big difference in range as the put outs and assists were down a lot from 2k5. Call it the Livan-is-a-tub-of-goo factor.

I’ll just give the total lines for Pitchers:

2006 PIT     	Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.957 	*1.72  Team Total  	1436 	162 	162   	71  	178  	10  	12  	.961  	1.56

2005 PIT	Inn  	GS  	G   	PO    	A   	E   	DP  	.960 	*1.75  Team Total  	1458 	162 	162   	88  	192  	12  	16  	.959  	1.73

Stepping back for a second, let's review how the defensive personnel has evolved in what will soon be three seasons at RFK:

POSITION	2005	2006	2007
C	Schneider	Schneider	Schneider
1B	Johnson	Johnson	Lee/Young/Broadway?
2B	Vidro/Carroll	Vidro	Lopez
3B	Castilla	Zimmerman	Zimmerman
SS	Guzman	Clayton/Lopez	Guzman
LF	Byrd/Wilkerson/Church	Soriano	Church/Restovich?
CF	Wilkerson/Wilson	Byrd/Church/Logan	Logan/Escobar?
RF	Guillen	Guillen/Kearns	Kearns
Overall	Good	Bad	Better than Bad?

At least hopefully the defense will be better than bad this season. Can it be worse than bad? Don't answer that.

* * * *

2007 FIELDING PROGNOSIS

Catcher - Schneider lagged a bit last year in throwing out basestealers, but his overall fielding is consistent. Expect the same, maybe an up-tick in thrown out stealing. We should improve mainly due to better backups. Fick is OK error-wise, and Jesus Flores is supposedly a stud defensively. He’s no Matt LeCroy, so that’s 2 fewer errors already.

First Base – If Travis Lee makes the squad, he will play a lot in late innings (if we ever have the lead!) and he’ll provide an up-tick. We won’t match Nick’s year in 2005, but we should be better than last year.

Second Base – This is a question mark. The team will be better without FLop at SS, but is he better than Vidro’s 2nd base? Range: hell yes! He was a little below average range wise as a SS but he’s faster and more limber than Jose was last year. Error wise, I have my doubts. First, he’s only played 78 innings at 2b, all the rest from the left side. Expect an up-tick, I’ll say a small one, around 15 2b errors. Marlon Anderson actually equaled Vidro’s total of 5 errors last year so having him gone will improve things in the field.

Third Base – Zimmy was not a disaster (despite being outplayed by Vinny!!). Hest we forget, his error count and his fielding pct was the same as Gold Glove Scott Rolen. But Rolen distanced himself from Ryan by his range, which at 2.89 was way above Zimmy’s barely above average 2.71 (avg = .2.69). Zimmerman is one of the hardest workers out there always trying to improve so expect an improvement. Not having Damian Jackson as a backup marks an improvement.

Shortstop – Guzzie just doesn’t make the mistakes Felipe does at shortstop, leading to a lower error count. Guzman’s range was below average in 2005 but it has been mostly league average or above previously. His error count his first 3 years was above 21-25, but since it's been 11-15.

Felipe’s range has rarely been as high as league average, and his error count hit 28 last year, his percentage has always been lower than league average. Look for a major drop in error totals for the position.

Left Field – Sure Soriano made all those assists. He also made all those errors. Church, if you look over the 2005 stats at all 3 OF positions, has good range and is a good fielder. He should cut down the LF errors. For some reason the name Mike Restovich has always provided an image of “lumbering” in my mind. [By Basil: Me too!] If he platoons with Church, he may wipe out Church’s range advantage, but won’t make mistakes for the simple reason if you can’t make it there, you can’t screw it up.

Center Field – The logic says “Nook is fast and will get to more balls” but the stats don’t match that. His range is a little above league average for his career, his fielding pct a little lower. Church, despite all his malingering and (clubhouse cancer-ing!), has had fine range in CF (though I did see do a “deer in the headlights” routine on a line shot right at and over him). It may be we have a Church & Casto/Escobar & Restovich platoon in CF & LF.

Right Field – Austin Kearns’s full season numbers show a much better ballplayer than just his Nat stats. His career fielding stats show a much higher range factor than average with slightly better field percent. No worries here.

Pitching – Well, we’re going to be much younger on the mound so the reasoning would be quicker, more agile, more dexterous. Problem hasn’t been errors, but getting to balls last year. That should improve.

So overall I believe we will improve vastly upon our 2006 error numbers but will not reach the heyday year of 2005 when the Nats were in their glory year!

Here's what we've done, and here's what I think looking ahead:

ERRORS BY YEAR AND POSITION

Position	2005	2006	2007
C	11	11	9
1B	9	17	12
2B	14	12	15
3B	13	19	15
SS	18	32	20
LF	4	11	6
CF	3	8	6
RF	8	11	8
P	12	10	12
Totals	92	131	103

Last year the 131 errors became 69 unearned runs; 28 less errors would be about 15 less unearned runs at that ratio, and that alone may account for a few more wins (I know there’s a formula out there for that!).

Now all we need is for the pitching staff to have the same 27% drop in runs allowed, from 5.03 to 3.95 and we’ll be back to .500 baseball!!! Hey, spring time is the time for delusions.

Explaining By Authority

Wed, 07 Mar 2007 12:13:51 GMT

A few weeks ago, I composed a post in which I wondered what it would be like if Stan Kasten were asked about what moves didn't work, what attempted transactions never came to fruition, and what he learned from disappointments during his tenure with the Atlanta Braves, and how those lessons are applicable to Kasten's plans with the Nationals.

Perhaps this is a demonstration of how insignificant blogs are, or perhaps Kasten has uncommon, svengali-like communication skills. Perhaps both: the Post published yet another Kasten Braves-as-applied-to Kasten Nats article, and it portrays the same perspective every one of these articles does. The article insinuates what the Braves did with Schuerholz/Cox/Kasten (in reverse order of arrival) was some sort of seamless process, culminating, finally, in 1991 with the Braves ready to compete:

And by the 1990-91 offseason, the Braves were ready to do what, to that point, they hadn't done: sign free agents.

As I pointed out in the aforementioned post, however, this statement does not conform with the historical record. During the 1989-90 offseason, the Braves did sign free agents (and make a trade for Charlie Leibrandt that was the functional equivalent), and they attempted to sign even more. Prefacing their 1990-91 corner infield signings (Terry Pendleton and Sid Bream), the Braves signed third sacker Jim Presley and first baseman Nick Esasky. While Presley might be discarded as filler, Esasky was a huge free agent signing at the time.

What is more, as I noted in the previous post, the Braves made a strong push for one of the most coveted 1989-90 free agents, Cy Young-winning closer Mark Davis. According to a January 1990 Sporting News report, the Braves outbid Davis's winning suitor, the Kansas City Royals.

Apparently, the Braves felt like they were ready to sign guys a year earlier than the article indicates; acknowledging this is so would not fit the theme, admittedly. Again, I'm not looking for a Gotcha! moment for Kasten. I am merely curious how he regards that 1989-90 offseason: what the team's (pre-Schuerholz) aims were, and what he learned from those actual and intended acquisitions. However, such questions are seemingly never asked.

And, to be honest, they probably won't be. They're no threat to "The Plan," but they also don't fit it.

* * * *

Boz freaks out about the rotation. Hey, it's an odd numbered day, so his position must change from the even numbered days. Res ipsa loquitur.

New Blogs!

Sun, 04 Mar 2007 19:27:30 GMT

I must confess this: I'm a terrible "site administrator." Look at the sidebar, if you care---I haven't really updated the thing since late summer. It must be overhauled in the coming weeks.

Consequently, I've fallen behind on new blogs. I don't mean to; quite to the contrary, I have a very liberal policy with respect to links. You email asking for a link, and post the link. People did that for me when I first started, and I think that's the most equitable way to go. Furthermore, if I see other blogs have linked to new blogs, I'll usually notice those new blogs and toss up a link of my own volition.

Historically, this is a fertile time for new Nats blogs. Every year, new ones pop up in February or March. In many or most cases, they shut down in March or April. I don't think this is because the "Natosphere" is unwelcoming. In fact, this seems one of the more collegial baseball "blogospheres" out there. There might have been a couple of spats here and there, but no one has ever been accused of having carnal knowledge with a goat; on teh internets, that's a model of civility. But blogs shut down for a variety of reasons, most probably related to available time. It happens, and it's understandable---no one around here has signed a contract or faces a gun pointed at his or her head.

Anyway, I hope all of the new blogs live long and prosper. The more, the merrier; blogging is by no means a zero-sum game.

So here's a list of new (or relatively new) Nats blogs out there in cyberspace. The list is probably incomplete, so if there are any I missed, I'd appreciate knowing.

This Base For Rent
Nationals Power
DC Daily
Natstastic
Nationals Review (not to be confused with dearly departed Nationals Review)
Nationals Report ("It's Pronounced 'Repore'!")
DC Sports Blog

At some unspecified point in the future, I am going to rearrange my sidebar links to incorporate the new, preserve the old, and honor the dead.

Nats Blog: It's still real to me, damnit, it's still real to me!

* * * *

Baseball Prospectus ("Subscribe Today!") is running a fascinating if cynically-titled series called "Hope & Faith"* in which its authors evaluate each big league team with an eye toward what needs to happen for that team to win it all. Maury Brown, the business of baseball guy, gets the call for the Nats---a bit of an odd call, considering the franchise is solidly under the control of legitimate ownership, with a new ballpark thirteen months from operational status. (Then again, Maury is a moderator on what must be considered the most frequented Nats message board.)

Maury does a rather by-the-numbers appraisal of where the Nats are and where they are going; this is appropriate enough, since I cannot imagine that many of BPro's readers care much about the prospects of the 2007 Washington Nationals. In other words, somebody had to write this article, and Maury hits the notables: (1) What about Nick Johnson? (2) What's going on with that rotation? (3) Hey, that bullpen doesn't look too bad! and (4) Jim Bowden---Super Genius??!!!

Maury's bottom line:

What's the Recipe For a Nationals World Series Win?: Suspend disbelief. Envision projections for the NL East standings being upside down. See Patterson staying healthy, Zimmerman being an All-Star, Nick Johnson miraculously back in perfect health, and the collection of prospects performing beyond what anyone predicted. Then, envision Frank Howard discovering the Fountain of Youth, and séance bringing Walter Johnson back from the grave.

Reasonable enough! I'd also add dogs and cats living together, but Maury probably wasn't gunning for completeness.

I am certain somebody, somewhere out there will view this article as unduly negative and consequently will take offense. If that's you, get over it. This series is about "hope & faith" for 2007, and these Nats have little of that stuff. It means nothing about "The Plan."

Incidentally, I'm currently reading a book that the publisher asked me (as well as probably a thousand other blogs) to review. After that, I'm going to pick up the new edition of Baseball Prospectus and compose my annual Nats-centric BPro review. So expect that sometime soon.

*Around the time of his so-called Blue Ribbon Committee's report, Bud Selig preached on each team having "hope and faith" at the outset of the season---or as many teams as possible. For awhile, it was said only a half-dozen teams had a real shot each season, which I found odd considering eight teams make the postseason. At any rate, MLB did alter its economics a tad, the Yankees started screwing up in the playoffs, and now Bud's reasonably satisfied with the game.

Washington Nationals Send Message to Lastings Milledge

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Post's Nationals Journal Reporting: Tonight's Game Postponed.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Philadelphia Phillies At Washington Nationals. Game 8 of 162. The Elijah Dukes' Era Begi

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

With Lastings Milledge in Minors, Washington Nationals Shuffle Outfield

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals Manager Manny Acta offered a glimpse yesterday of what his post-Lastings Milledge lineup will look like.

Kalas's Voice Will Resonate for Years to Come

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 20:09:00 GMT

I never knew Harry Kalas, never heard him do play-by-play on Philadelphia Phillies baseball games on radio or television, even though he'd been employed by the team for nearly 40 years and was as much a fixture in the City of Brotherly Love as greasy cheesesteaks, soft pretzels and the Rocky stat...

Washington Nationals Option Lastings Milledge to Minors

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals optioned Lastings Milledge to Class AAA Syracuse, indicating that his long-term potential does not guarantee a job in the short term.

Washington Nationals Starting Rotation Struggles

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals' starters are struggling -- together they have a 9.29 ERA. Opponents are batting .35. None has left a game with a lead.

Stumbling at the Start

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With their 9-8 loss to the Phillies yesterday, the Nationals tied a franchise record -- dating back to their pre-2005 days as the Expos -- for consecutive losses to start a season.

And Batting Second For Your Washington Nationals, Nick (Nick) Johnson (Johnson).

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Philadelphia Phillies at Washington Nationals. Game 8 of 162. First Home Night Game o

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Philadelphia Phillies at Washington Nationals. Game 8 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Elijah Dukes Just Hit A 3-0 Pitch Out Of The Yard. The Nationals Win 1st Game Of '09!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Fed Baseball's acronyms, 'nyms, and nics'...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Florida Marlins at Washington Nationals. Game 9 of 162. + Stephen Strasburg (SDSU) Live

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

DC Closer Joel Hanrahan Blows Save, Washington Nationals Drop 3-2 Decision To Florida...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Strasburg's Line 4/17/09 @ New Mexico

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Florida Marlins at Washington Nationals. Game 10 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals Just Can't Win...Florida Marlins 9 Nationals 6.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Florida Marlins at Washington Nationals. Game 11 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

A Late Lead, A Blown Save And Another Loss To The Marlins...Florida Marlins 7 Washington Nationals 4

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Kip Wells Is Our Savior!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Chico (the reporter) reporting long-term deal with Zim!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Atlanta Braves at Washington Nationals. Game 12 of 162. Jordan Zimmermann Debuts For DC.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Rain Ruining Zimmerman(n)'s Debut...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals' #1 Prospect Jordan Zimmerman(n) Wins MLB Debut In DC!!! Washington Nationals 3

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Jordan Zimmermann PITCHf/x - Beyond the Box Score

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

That Didn't Take Long: Saul Rivera Back in Washington Nationals Bullpen

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Atlanta Braves at Washington Nationals. Game 13 of 162. PLUS: NL East Roundtable.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Rain Delay...Again...according to MLB.com.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Shairon Martis (2-0) On 3-10 Washington Nationals...Nationals 4 Braves 3.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Free Beer?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Atlanta Braves at Washington Nationals. Game 14 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Lose 1-0 To Atlanta On Bases-Loaded Walk In The Ninth...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Ryan Zimmerman vs. Edwin Encarnacion

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

This Day In Washington Baseball History...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

D.C. Steps Up to Pay Full Tab for Metro Service After Late Nationals Games

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

District officials have decided that the city will cover all the costs for Metro to stay open to accommodate late Washington Nationals games after having suggested that others in the region share the tab.

Four D.C. Council Members Want to Auction Season Tickets to Nationals Park

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With the standoff between Mayor Adrian M. Fenty and the D.C. Council over baseball tickets entering its third week, four council members have gotten behind a proposal to auction off city lawmakers' season tickets to Nationals Park to raise up to half a million dollars for city services.

Suddenly Strong Bullpen Helps Nats Win 2nd Straight

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

To take a lead last night, the Washington Nationals relied on the most methodical component of their team. To hold the lead, they relied on madness. Last night's 4-3 win against the Atlanta Braves compressed the work of a patient offense with a pins-and-needles ninth. Because of their battle-back...

John Feinstein: Washington Is First in War, First in Peace, Last in Everything Else

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:11:00 GMT

It has never been easy being a sports fan in the Washington area, and the local teams are driving that point home of late.

Ryan Zimmerman's New Deal With the Nationals Was Years in the Making

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Ryan Zimmerman's five-year, $45 million contract with the Washington Nationals was years in the making.

Nationals' Jason Bergmann, Kip Wells and Garrett Mock Will Provide Middle Relief

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In one sweeping move, three new right-handers joined the Washington Nationals roster.

Nats' Bullpen Relieved of Its Duties

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Florida's Cody Ross hit the tying homer in the eighth inning, then hit a three-run double in the ninth as the Nationals lost again to the Marlins.

Zimmerman, Nationals Agree to Five-Year, $45 Million Deal

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals lock up third baseman Ryan Zimmerman through the 2013 season after the sides agree to a five-year, $45 million contract.

Calm and Cool, Zimmermann Set for Big League Debut

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals right-hander Jordan Zimmermann makes his major league debut on Monday night, hoping to bring some poise and hope to a crumbling season.

Nationals Designate Bard To Class AAA Syracuse

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For as long as they relied on a four-man rotation, the Washington Nationals could afford a roster with three catchers. But with top pitching prospect Jordan Zimmermann debuting today, the Nationals designated catcher Josh Bard for Class AAA Syracuse.

Washington Nationals Lose to Florida Marlins, 9-6, in 11 Innings

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Hermida hits a three-run homer in the 11th inning after tying it with a two-run shot in the ninth as the Marlins top the Nats, 9-6.

Bernadina's Big Break Leads to a Bad Break

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

While making the above leaping catch against the outfield wall, Nationals center fielder Roger Bernadina fractured his right ankle.

Zimmerman, Nats Appear Close to Deal

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals and Ryan Zimmerman are working toward a five-year, $45 million deal that would keep the third baseman in Washington through the 2013 season.

The Nationals Fall to the Marlins, 3-2, in Extra Innings After Failing to Capitalize on Strong Outi

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Hermida hits an RBI infield single in the 10th inning, completing a Marlins rally that started in the ninth inning in a disappointing, 3-2 Nationals loss on Friday night at Nationals Park.

Washington Nationals Infielder Alberto Gonzalez Adds a Dimension to His Game

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Since the Washington Nationals traded for shortstop Alberto GonzÃ¡lez last July 31, Gonzalez has shown that his reputation -- good glove, no bat -- may be unfounded.

Nats Top Phillies for First Win of the Season

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON -- Adam Dunn and the Washington Nationals finally won a game, because they finally got decent pitching.

Nationals Notebook: Johnson Fills No. 2 Hole

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals unveiled a reshuffled lineup during Thursday night's game against Philadelphia, with the biggest change featuring Nick Johnson batting second.

To trade NJ, or not to trade NJ. That is the Q.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at New York Mets - Game 15 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com Talks With Brandon Eddy of MetsBlog.com...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Tuesday Nats Stats, Friday edition: new week, new team?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com On SNY.TV's New York Baseball Today: Nationals at Mets Series Preview.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

So That's What An Ace Looks Like...New York Mets' Ace Johan Santana Dominates Washington Nationals.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Miscues Hurt Nats Against Santana, Mets

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Johan Santana strikes out 10 in six innings, and the offensively challenged Mets score twice following failed sprawling catches that turned singles into triples, dealing another tough loss to the Nationals.

Citi Field Offers Room to Explore for Nats

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals find there's plenty of room to explore at Citi Field, where they will play nine times this season against the New York Mets.

GameThread: Washington Nationals at New York Mets - Game 16 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com Calls For A Closed-Door Meeting With The Washington Nationals After An 8-2 Loss

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at New York Mets - Game 17 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals' #1 Prospect Jordan Zimmermann (2-0) After 8-1 DC Win Over The New York Mets.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Jesus = teh clutch (Eckstein = teh jeeenyus!)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Philadelphia Phillies - Game 18 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Another Stephen Strasburg feature

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Acceptance

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

When 5 HR's Aren't Enough. Nationals Drop 13-11 Decision To Phillies In Citizens Bank Park.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Philadelphia Phillies - Game 19 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

At Least The Caps Won!!! Washington Nationals Drop 7-1 Game To Homer Happy Philadelphia Phillies.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

BLAME!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Philadelphia Phillies - Game 20 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

On Deck with the Sports Report Girl investigates yet another example of incompetence in our...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Add Reliever Logan Kensing To Bullpen In Trade With Marlins.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals Win, Avoid The Sweep, Beat The Phillies, 4-1 Final.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

A Federal Baseball.com Special Comment: The Washington Nationals, Jim Bowden and Stephen Strasburg.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: St. Louis Cardinals At Washington Nationals- Game 21 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Quick-Healing Beimel Eager to Rejoin Bullpen

Fri, 01 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

No longer is Joe Beimel hurting. He's just itching. On the disabled list since April 21, the Washington Nationals' best relief pitcher (1.23 ERA) now has an entirely healthy left hip flexor and a gnawing desire to pitch again.

Nationals Defeat Phillies, 4-1

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHILADELPHIA, April 29 -- JuliÃ¡n TavÃ¡rez jogged out from the center field bullpen at Citizens Bank Park for the bottom of the ninth inning of the Washington Nationals' game on Wednesday against the Philadelphia Phillies, marking the Nationals' first foray into their closer-by-committee experiment....

Nationals Acquire Reliever Kensing in Trade With Marlins

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHILADELPHIA, April 29 -- In an attempt to improve an underperforming bullpen, the Washington Nationals acquired right-handed reliever Logan Kensing from the Florida Marlins on Wednesday for minor league pitcher Kyle Gunderson.

More of the Same as the Washington Nationals Suffer Their Fifth Loss in Six Games

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Adam Dunn's home run is the only offense the Washington Nationals can muster in their 7-1 defeat to the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday night.

For the Washington Nationals, Relief Comes by Committee

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

One day after closer Joel Hanrahan surrendered a game-losing grand slam, Nationals Manager Manny Acta said that the team would now employ a committee of relief pitchers that includes JuliÃ¡n TavÃ¡rez and Kip Wells.

Utley's 2 homers help Phillies win 5th straight

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 01:51:56 GMT

PHILADELPHIA -- Chase Utley homered twice and drove in three runs, Pedro Feliz added a three-run shot and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Washington Nationals 7-1 Tuesday night for their fifth straight victory.

Wild Game Ends in Another Washington Nationals Loss

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez each hit a grand slam, rallying the Phillies to a wild 13-11 win over the Nationals on Monday night, Philadelphia's fifth straight win.

Nationals Park Is Dunbar's Field of Dreams

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

See more in the high school photo galleries at http://washingtonpost.com/highschools

Washington Nationals Willie Harris Returns, But Not to Second Base

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

When the Washington Nationals activate Willie Harris from the 15-day disabled list, he will return primarily as an outfielder, not an infielder.

Zimmermann, Flores Help Nats Earn First Road Win

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, April 26 -- When JesÃºs Flores walked to the batter's box in the second inning on Sunday, he didn't think about the Eighty Percent Rule. By that point, he didn't need to; its logic stuck with him even when he didn't recite it.

Daniel Cabrera's Changes Cost Him Significant Velocity

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, April 26 -- Washington Nationals right-hander Daniel Cabrera has an arm unlike almost anybody else in baseball. There is just one complication: Cabrera is reluctant to use it.

Another Day, Same Mistakes in Nationals Loss to Mets

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Former National Ryan Church drives in three runs and New York takes advantage of an effective start from pitcher Mike Pelfrey and more sloppy play by the Nationals in an 8-2 win.

Finally Healthy, Washington's Nick Johnson Is Off to Hot Start

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After two injury-marred seasons, Nick Johnson of the Nationals is off to a hot start and isn't interested in taking a rest.

The Washington Nationals Find A New Way To Lose. St. Louis Cardinals 9 Washington Nationals 4.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Tuesday Nats Stats, Friday Edition: Embrace the Suck*

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: St. Louis Cardinals At Washington Nationals- Game 22 of 162. "Zimmermann...! Zimmermann.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Next Time, Washington Nationals' Rookie Jordan Zimmermann Will Just Walk Albert Pujols. St. Louis Ca

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: St. Louis Cardinals At Washington Nationals- Game 23 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Shairon Martis (3-0) On 6-17 Washington Nationals After Complete Game 6-1 Win Over St. Louis Cardina

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Could Strasburg go straight to the majors?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: St. Louis Cardinals At Washington Nationals- Game 24 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

According to Washington Post writer Chico Harlan and the good folks at MASN, they're going to try...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Thoughts on the first month

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Strasburg

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Houston Astros At Washington Nationals- Game 24 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Monday's Tuesday Nats Stats: Rain-out Randomness

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

5-Run Nationals' 6th Gives John Lannan 1st W. Washington Nationals 9 Houston Astros 4.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Breaking down the suck

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Potomac Nationals Weekly Update.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Houston Astros At Washington Nationals- Game 25 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Mannyger Acta answers viewer mail!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals and Houston Astros Suspended...DC In LA Tonight!! And Manny Acta Answers My Que

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Los Angeles Dodgers- Game 25 or 26 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Pens/Caps OT GameThread...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Who Are The Washington Nationals To Stand In The Way Of History. Los Angeles Dodgers Win 13th Straig

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Manny Ramirez Suspended 50 Games

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Try Old-for-Young; Recall Ron Villone, Designate Mike Hinckley

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nats Fans: Help is on the Way

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Los Angeles Dodgers- Game 26 or 27 of 162. The Big Story Out Of

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals Win In Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles Dodgers Suffer First Loss At Home. 11-9

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Future Nationals' Ace Stephen Strasburg To Receive USA Baseball Player Of The Year Award...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Arizona Diamondbacks- Game 27 or 28 of 162. SMARTY!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen Strasburg Throws No-Hitter In Final Home Start. 17 K's, 0 H...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Strasburg No Hitter: Post Game Sound

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Shairon Martis (4-0) On 9-18-1 Washington Nationals After 5-4 Win Over The Arizona Diamondbacks.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Tigers' Verlander Outpitches Indians' Lee

Sat, 09 May 2009 04:10:59 GMT

CLEVELAND -- Justin Verlander struck out 11 and outpitched reigning Cy Young Award winner Cliff Lee for the second time in a week, and the Detroit Tigers beat the Cleveland Indians 1-0 Friday night.

Braun Hits Two-Run Homer as Brewers Top Cubs

Sat, 09 May 2009 04:10:21 GMT

MILWAUKEE -- Ryan Braun hit a two-run homer in the eighth and the Milwaukee Brewers rallied for a 3-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs, who may be without third baseman Aramis Ramirez for an extended period after he dislocated his left shoulder Friday night.

Nationals Top Arizona, Win Second Straight

Sat, 09 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHOENIX, May 8 -- JesÃºs Flores drove in two runs with a homer and an RBI single, and the Washington Nationals spoiled A.J. Hinch's debut as Arizona manager by beating the Diamondbacks, 5-4, on Friday night.

United Out to Preserve Unbeaten Streak, Standing

Sat, 09 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Saturday night at RFK Stadium, D.C. United will seek to preserve an unbeaten streak that has reached four games in MLS's regular season and five overall. It will attempt avoid its first loss at home and remain atop the Eastern Conference.

Villone Gets the Win in Debut for Nationals

Sat, 09 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Ron Villone pitched for his major league-record tying 12th team Thursday night and managed to get the win for the Nationals.

Nationals Add Villone to Struggling Bullpen

Sat, 09 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES -- Reprinted from yesterday's late editions

Rodriguez Pitches Astros to a Win Over San Diego

Sat, 09 May 2009 03:28:52 GMT

HOUSTON -- It was not the Wandy Rodriguez the Astros have known before this season.

Delgado Powers Mets Past Pirates

Sat, 09 May 2009 02:36:54 GMT

NEW YORK -- Carlos Delgado hit a three-run homer in a five-run eighth inning and finished with five RBIs, helping the surging New York Mets beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-3 on Friday night for their fifth straight win.

Bay's Homer Sparks Another 6th Inning Boston Rally

Sat, 09 May 2009 04:17:49 GMT

BOSTON -- Jason Bay and J.D. Drew homered in Boston's second straight big sixth inning and the Red Sox stopped the Tampa Bay Rays' longest winning streak of the year with a 7-3 win Friday night.

Hamels Earns First Win in Phillies' Victory

Sat, 09 May 2009 01:43:07 GMT

PHILADELPHIA -- Cole Hamels pitched six impressive innings to earn his first win since the World Series, and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Atlanta Braves 10-6 on Friday night.

Nationals End Dodgers' Home Streak With 11-9 Win

Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Sparked by a six-run eighth, the Washington Nationals rally from six runs down in the first inning to post an 11-9 victory over Los Angeles and snap the Dodgers' home winning streak at 13-games.

Pitching Continues to Plague Nationals in Loss to Dodgers

Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES -- Reprinted from washingtonpost.com At least twice this year, the Washington Nationals have become so dissatisfied with their bullpen that they've ripped it apart, promising more changes if results don't follow. On April 19, three relief pitchers were demoted, with three more called in....

Nationals Reliever Hanrahan Regaining His Form

Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES -- Reprinted from yesterday's late editions

KidsPost - The Score: Every Player Is Important, Not Just the Stars

Thu, 07 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals are off to a slow start this season. One of the big reasons is their bullpen.

Nationals Fall to Dodgers, 10-3

Thu, 07 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES, May 6 -- Maybe it's coincidence, or simply the sad luck of a small sample size. Every time Daniel Cabrera starts a baseball game, grace happens to take an off day. Every line of defense behind Cabrera falters -- and this is not good, given that Cabrera, more than any other pitcher on...

Washington Nationals Find a Gem in Prospect Danny Espinosa

Thu, 07 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

It should have hurt. It should have made Danny Espinosa wince or cringe or react in some way. But the Potomac Nationals shortstop swears by his story.

Washington Nationals Reliever Joel Hanrahan Finds Himself Back in Form

Thu, 07 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES, May 6 -- On April 27, Joel Hanrahan blew a save and took the loss. The next day, he lost his job as the Washington Nationals' closer. But since bottoming out, Hanrahan, pitching in mostly non-pressure situations, has taken a few quick steps to regain his confidence and, all the while,...

Alex Rodriguez Is Getting Closer to Returning to Yankees

Thu, 07 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Alex Rodriguez slides in an extended spring game for the first time since hip surgery and is nearing a return to the Yankees.

Nats-Astros Game Suspended Because of Rain; Will Be Continued July 9

Wed, 06 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals and Astros played to a 10-10 tie on Tuesday in a game that was suspended in the 11th inning following a lengthy rain delay. The game will be resumed on July 9 -- in Houston -- though the Nats will still be the home team.

Nationals Win With Patience and Timely Hitting

Tue, 05 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As Washington second baseman Anderson HernÃ¡ndez walked to first for the second time in the bottom of the sixth inning, it was easy to forget the miscues that earlier had given last night's game a feel similar to many of the preceding contests at Nationals Park this season.

Nationals Reliever Beimel Gets Final Tuneup Before Return

Tue, 05 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Reliever Joe Beimel had a final tuneup throwing in the Washington Nationals' bullpen yesterday and is ready to come off the disabled list tomorrow and join the Nationals' committee of closers.

Milledge Determined to Regain His Form in Minors

Mon, 04 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Outfielder Lastings Milledge, sent down to the minors by the Washington Nationals after only seven games, is determined to regain his hitting form and regain a spot in the major leagues.

Nationals Notebook: Prolonged Rainout With St. Louis Cardinals Pushes John Lannan's Start Back a Da

Mon, 04 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After waiting for 1 hour 54 minutes, Sunday's game between the Nationals and Cardinals was rained out, with no makeup date immediately announced.

Martis Pitches Complete Game in Nats' Win Over Cardinals

Sun, 03 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Shairon Martis pitches the first complete game for the Nationals since 2006, helping Washington to a 6-1 victory over visiting St. Louis.

Nationals Notebook: Club Is in Position to Have Twice the Impact in Draft

Sun, 03 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With baseball's amateur draft just more than a month away, no team has more to look forward to -- and no team has more to prepare for -- than the Washington Nationals.

Lowell Homers in Red Sox Win

Sun, 03 May 2009 02:41:37 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Mike Lowell homered and Kevin Youkilis and Nick Green each drove in three runs to back Tim Wakefield's pitching and help the Boston Red Sox beat the Tampa Bay Rays 10-6 on Saturday night.

Phillies Beat Mets on Bases-Loaded Walk in 10th

Sat, 02 May 2009 23:29:20 GMT

PHILADELPHIA -- Shane Victorino's bases-loaded walk off Sean Green with two outs in the 10th inning lifted the Philadelphia Phillies to a 6-5 victory over the New York Mets on Saturday.

Granderson Homers as Tigers Beat Indians

Sat, 02 May 2009 23:29:14 GMT

DETROIT -- Curtis Granderson hit a two-run homer in Detroit's three-run eighth inning and the Tigers beat the Cleveland Indians 9-7 on Saturday.

Cardinals Beat Nationals, 6-2

Sat, 02 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON -- Albert Pujols hit one of the St. Louis Cardinals' season-high four home runs, backing Todd Wellemeyer's seven effective innings in a 6-2 win over the Washington Nationals on Friday night.

Twins Catcher Joe Mauer Is Activated From the Disabled List

Sat, 02 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Minnesota Twins catcher Joe Mauer was activated from the disabled list after missing the season's first month with a back injury.

Despite First Rough Outing by Jordan Zimmermann, the Nationals Are Not Discouraged

Sat, 02 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Despite a rough outing by Jordan Zimmermann against the Cardinals, the Washington Nationals are still high on the rookie pitcher.

Cardinals Score 5 in Ninth to Top Nationals, 9-4

Fri, 01 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals pitchers threw 173 baseballs in the general direction of home plate last night. During a 3-hour, 18-minute insult to accuracy, Washington's pitchers walked 11 batters, pegged two and threw four wild pitches. All of 53 percent of their pitches went for strikes. Among the many...

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Arizona Diamondbacks- Game 28 or 29 of 162. A Look Back At Steph

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

John Lannan’s "Cool Hand" Makes Up For Adam Dunn’s Stone Hands. Washington Nationals 2 Arizona D

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

How Is "Cool Hand" Lannan Getting It Done?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at Arizona Diamondbacks- Game 29 or 30 of 162. SEND RYAN ZIMMERMAN

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Ryan Zimmerman Hits In 28-Straight, Washington Nationals Hit 4 HR's And Lose To D-Backs, 10-8.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at San Francisco Giants- Game 30 or 31 of 162. VOTE ZIM!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

BOWD--hmm....

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Ryan Zimmerman Hits In 29-Straight, Washington Nationals Hit 3 HR's And Lose To San Francisco Giants

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Adam Dunn 2.0?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals at San Francisco Giants- Game 31 or 32 of 162. THE KIDS CALL IT THE

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Joe Beimel Fails Closer Audition, Washington Nationals Lose On Pablo Sandoval's Walk-Off HR. Giants

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Hamilton Homers in Return to Lineup

Wed, 13 May 2009 03:14:07 GMT

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Josh Hamilton returned from the disabled list by hitting the go-ahead homer in a six-run seventh inning and the Texas Rangers won for the eighth time in 10 games, beating the Seattle Mariners 7-1 Tuesday night.

Stewart Hits Grand Slam, Solo Shot in Rockies' Win

Wed, 13 May 2009 03:42:21 GMT

DENVER -- Ian Stewart hit a grand slam and a solo shot and Ubaldo Jimenez pitched seven sharp innings, leading the Colorado Rockies to a 12-1 win over the Houston Astros on Tuesday night.

Beltran, Mets Walk Off With Comeback Win

Wed, 13 May 2009 02:49:59 GMT

NEW YORK -- Carlos Beltran drew a bases-loaded walk from Jeff Bennett with two outs in the 10th inning and the New York Mets rallied to beat the Atlanta Braves 4-3 on Tuesday night for a rare comeback victory.

Werth Steals Home, Phillies Beat Dodgers

Wed, 13 May 2009 02:17:01 GMT

PHILADELPHIA -- Chan Ho Park had his second straight effective outing to win his first game with Philadelphia, and Jayson Werth stole home to lead the Phillies to a 5-3 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday night.

Duke Beats Cardinals, Pirates End 8-game Slide

Wed, 13 May 2009 01:51:40 GMT

PITTSBURGH -- Zach Duke limited St. Louis to three singles over eight innings after giving up a homer to Albert Pujols in the first and the Pittsburgh Pirates ended an eight-game losing streak by beating the Cardinals 7-1 on Tuesday night.

Nats' Bats Can't Overcome Cabrera's Arm

Tue, 12 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Ryan Zimmerman homers twice and extends his hit streak to 29 games, but another poor outing by Daniel Cabrera dooms the Nationals in San Francisco, 11-7.

MUST READS | FROM WASHINGTONPOST.COM

Tue, 12 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

REDSKINS INSIDER Haynesworth's Transition Gains Traction

Nationals' Loss to Diamondbacks Makes for a Long Day

Tue, 12 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHOENIX -- Reprinted from yesterday's late editions

Nationals Minor Leaguer Milledge Breaks Finger

Tue, 12 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, May 11 -- A year of regression for Lastings Milledge first turned the outfielder from a major leaguer into a minor leaguer and, now, into an injured minor leaguer. Monday, Milledge broke his right ring finger while attempting a bunt in the first inning of a game for Class AAA...

Force Is With Nats In Win Over Arizona

Mon, 11 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHOENIX -- Reprinted from yesterday's late editions

Nationals Notebook: CintrÃ³n Trying to Give New Club Something to Remember

Mon, 11 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Former Diamondback and current Nationals utility player Alex CintrÃ³n is recognized on the trip to Phoenix. Now he'd like to give his new team something to remember him by.

With No-Hitter, Stephen Strasburg Tops His Only Competition -- Himself

Sun, 10 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

SAN DIEGO -- For the final home start of his college career, Stephen Strasburg -- the hardest-throwing, highest-achieving, most-scrutinized, soon-to-be-richest pitcher in the history of hype -- entered a world of impossible expectations. In his 11 previous starts this season, he had never lost, and...

Close Nationals Win Saved by Inconceivably Odd Play

Sun, 10 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals get an unsual force play from right field to home plate to beat the Arizona Diamondbacks for their third straight win.

Washington Nationals Pick Up Second Consecutive Win

Sun, 10 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHOENIX -- Reprinted from washingtonpost.com The Washington Nationals crashed another party Friday. A night after ending the Los Angeles Dodgers' major league-record 13-game home winning streak to open a season, they ruined A.J. Hinch's first game as manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Villone's Whirlwind Day Ends With a Nats Victory

Sun, 10 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHOENIX -- Reprinted from yesterday's late editions

Flores to Miss at Least One Game After Getting Struck by Foul Ball

Sun, 10 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Catcher JesÃºs Flores, struck in the right shoulder by a foul ball, has a right shoulder contusion and will miss at least a game -- maybe more.

GameThread: Washington Nationals at San Francisco Giants- Game 32 or 33 of 162. THE KIDS CALL IT THE

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

THE STREAK Is Over, Long Live THE STREAK! Ryan Zimmerman, 0 For 3 In 6-3 Nationals Win.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Philadelphia Phillies At Washington Nationals- Game 33 or 34 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

BEER GARDEN OPENS TODAY!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Rip Van Winkle's Worst Nightmare

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Place Jesus Flores on DL, recall Jesus Colome from Triple-A

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Join Tonight's Phillies/Nationals GameThread HERE...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Something's Rotten In NatsTown, Washington Nationals Lose 10-6 To Phillies In Extra Innings.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Philadelphia Phillies At Washington Nationals. Game 34 Or 35 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Philadelphia Phillies At Washington Nationals. Game 35 Or 36 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

David Ortiz to Sit Rest of Boston's Road Swing

Sun, 17 May 2009 01:47:01 GMT

SEATTLE -- Terry Francona is giving Big Papi an extended rest this weekend.

Olsen Struggles With Velocity; Nats Fall to Phillies

Sun, 17 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Scott Olsen struggles with his velocity and the Phillies take advantage, winning the early game of a day-night doubleheader at Nationals Park.

Ross Detwiler Will Be Called Up to Pitch for the Nationals Tomorrow Against the Pirates

Sun, 17 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals plan to recall left-hander Ross Detwiler, their 2007 first-round pick, to start on Monday against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Washington Nationals Suffer Another Loss

Sat, 16 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

RaÃºl IbÃ¡Ã±ez's two-RBI single in the 12th inning sealed the Philadelphia Phillies' 10-6 victory over the Washington Nationals on Friday night.

Washington Nationals Put Flores on DL

Sat, 16 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals continued to reshape their struggling bullpen and added another option at catcher after putting Jesus Flores on the 15-day DL.

Empty Seats a Big Problem for Washington Nationals

Fri, 15 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

It was only fitting, in a season in which every large or small factor that could depress attendance at Nationals Park has come to pass, that the meatiest part of Ryan Zimmerman's galvanizing hitting streak would occur three time zones from Washington, only to fizzle out at 30 games just before the...

Capitals Eliminated from Playoffs by Penguins

Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Throughout a season that began last October, Verizon Center hummed consistently and exploded more than occasionally because the home team, the Washington Capitals, won so often and in such enthralling fashion. Last night, their red-clad fans had every reason to believe another victory was possibl...

Ryan Zimmerman's Hit Streak Ends, but Washington Nationals Defeat San Francisco Giants, 6-3

Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Third baseman Ryan Zimmerman's 30-game hitting streak comes to an end, but the Washington Nationals defeat the San Francisco Giants, 6-3, on Wednesday at AT&T Park in San Francisco.

Shairon Martis Pitches Washington Nationals to Win Over San Francisco Giants

Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Right-handed pitcher Shairon Martis haunts his former team and improves his record to 5-0 in the Nationals' victory over the Giants.

Tuesday's Late Game: San Francisco Giants Defeat Washington Nationals, 9-7

Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO -- Reprinted from washingtonpost.com

Nationals' Next Three

Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

ALL GAMES ON WFED (1500 AND 820 AM) ONLINE COVERAGE

Lee Pitches a Gem as Indians Blank White Sox, 4-0

Wed, 13 May 2009 19:38:38 GMT

CLEVELAND -- Cliff Lee outpitched Mark Buehrle, throwing seven innings in the Cleveland Indians' 4-0 win Wednesday to take two of three from the Chicago White Sox.

Federal Baseball.com Goes Behind The Scenes With MASN At The Nationals/Phillies Doubleheader.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Philadelphia Phillies At Washington Nationals. Game 36 Or 37 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Another Piece of the (Future) Puzzle?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals' '07 1st Round Pick Ross Detwiler To Make 1st Major League Start Tonight: What

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Respect for Zim The Elder

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals recall Ross Detwiler; Lineups for Tonight's Game

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Pittsburgh Pirates At Washington Nationals- Game 37 or 38 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals' '07 1st Round Pick Ross Detwiler Learns What It's Like To Be A DC Starter.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Possible Trade w/ Sox

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Tuesday Nats Stats: What's up with Dunn's batting splits?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Check the NatCast if you're heading to Nationals Park...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Pittsburgh Pirates At Washington Nationals- Game 38 or 39 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nationals' Fans Dressed As Empty Blue Seats Watch Washington's 8-5 Loss To Pittsburgh.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Wed Nats Stats: Nats pwn U!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Pittsburgh Pirates At Washington Nationals- Game 39 or 40 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Stammen pitching tomorrow, Danny Boy gone?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Cabrera's foot placement? Wow...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Bases Loaded Wild Pitch Leads To 7th Straight Loss, Pirates 2 Nationals 1.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Wife of Diamondbacks Pitcher Found Dead in Phoenix Area

Thu, 21 May 2009 01:38:23 GMT

FOUNTAIN HILLS, Ariz. -- The wife of Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Scott Schoeneweis was found dead at her home Wednesday.

Nationals Notebook: Cabrera Sent to Bullpen; Stammen Receives Call

Thu, 21 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals send struggling pitcher Daniel Cabrera to the bullpen and replace him with Craig Stammen, who will make his major league debut on Thursday night.

Nationals Lose to Pirates in 10th Inning, 8-5

Wed, 20 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Adam LaRoche hits a two-run double in the 10th inning Tuesday as Pittsburgh hands Washington their sixth loss in a row, 8-5.

Bullpen Is Historically Bad

Wed, 20 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

I'm sitting here having some fun with the Play Index at Baseball-Reference.com, trying to put into context how absurd it is for the Nationals to keep losing games when they score five, six, seven or a gazillion runs. (I mean, here's one nugget: MLB teams are 95-6 this year when they score 10 or more...

Nationals' Rookie Detwiler to Get Another Start

Wed, 20 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

When Ross Detwiler arrived at Nationals Park yesterday afternoon, he knew almost nothing about his next destination. Would the Washington Nationals return him to Class AA Harrisburg? Ship him to Class AAA Syracuse? Detwiler, at the stadium, did some running drills, worked out, and waited for the...

Nationals Drop Fifth Straight Game, Lose to Pirates, 12-7

Tue, 19 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Six professional pitchers performed for the Washington Nationals last night. One had been promoted from Class AA Harrisburg earlier in the day, for the purposes of a cameo start. The remaining cast of pitchers, once the 23-year-old exited, promptly initiated a furious bidding war for his return...

If Nationals Draft Strasburg, Big Decisions Await

Tue, 19 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Provided the Washington Nationals draft pitcher Stephen Strasburg with the No. 1 pick in the June 9 amateur draft, they then arrive at the first decision: determining how on earth to meet his contract demands. Provided they reach a deal with the San Diego State right-hander, they then arrive at the...

John Feinstein: Porous Bullpen Aside, Nationals Might Be Headed in the Right Direction

Mon, 18 May 2009 16:44:00 GMT

Washington Nationals fans, if they can remain patient, have reasons to be optimistic about the direction in which the team is heading.

Baseball Ticket Standoff Between D.C. Mayor and Council Ends in Quiet Delivery

Mon, 18 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The baseball ticket standoff between Mayor Adrian M. Fenty and the D.C. Council ended quietly this weekend when a young aide from the office of Deputy Mayor Neil O. Albert handed them over.

Philadelphia Phillies Beat Washington Nationals, 8-6

Mon, 18 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The how-to guide for demoralizing losses, the chief labor of Washington's brief season, is now ready for publication.

Nationals Will Give Detwiler a Shot in Struggling Rotation

Mon, 18 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals are calling up highly regarded Ross Detwiler from Class AA Harrisburg and will start him on Monday in the hopes he can help shore up a sagging starting rotation.

Nats Can't Stop the Bleeding, Lose to Pirates Again

Thu, 21 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Washington relief pitcher Joel Hanrahan can't escape a bases-loaded jam in the ninth inning as the Pirates score the go-ahead run on a wild pitch to beat the Nationals, 2-1.

Astros Matsui Called Out After Lineup Error

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:47:47 GMT

HOUSTON -- Houston's Kaz Matsui was out without batting in the first inning of the Astros' game with Milwaukee on Wednesday night after the team presented an incorrect lineup card to umpire Eric Cooper.

GameThread: Pittsburgh Pirates At Washington Nationals- Game 40 or 41 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Judge Sets Trial Date for Ex-Yankee Jim Leyritz

Fri, 22 May 2009 01:03:48 GMT

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- A Florida judge has set a trial date for former major leaguer Jim Leyritz on charges of DUI manslaughter in a fatal car crash.

Nationals Notebook: Acta Reminds Team It Is Better Than Record

Fri, 22 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals Manager Manny Acta gathers his struggling squad and calmy reminds his players that they are much better than the record indicates.

Vital news for stat-heads: when are sample sizes big enough?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Friday Nats Stats: Quarterly Update

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Baltimore Orioles At Washington Nationals- Game 41 or 42 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals Find A New Way To Lose. 4-2 In Extras After O's Reliever Danys Baez's First

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

I went out there [in the bullpen] a little earlier and threw some more pitches. Randy Knorr went...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Baltimore Orioles At Washington Nationals- Game 42 or 43 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

No "O" Natinals Lose Another To O's, 2-1 final.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Baltimore Orioles At Washington Nationals- Game 43 or 44 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

SHAKE N BAKE!!! SHAKE N BAKE!! Adam Dunn's Grand Slam Beats Baltimore. Nationals 8 Orioles 5.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nick Johnson...Not Traded? Rumor Mill Has DC Faithful Questioning Reports After Late Scratch From Su

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Orioles Defeat Nats in 12 Innings

Sat, 23 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals had no game plan to defend themselves against the guy who beat them yesterday. They had no game plan because, based on logic alone, they didn't need one. The guy who beat them had all the odds that a tree has against a lumberjack. Just speaking in general, 31-year-old...

Nationals Notebook: Catcher's Return Could Give Pitching a Boost

Sat, 23 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Within a few days -- perhaps by Monday -- JesÃºs Flores, out since May 9 with a right shoulder contusion, will begin a minor league rehabilitation assignment. Already, the Washington Nationals' everyday catcher is feeling better. Yesterday, he took batting practice. His shoulder remains sore, but...

Stammen Gets No-Decision, but Nats Rally to Beat Pirates

Fri, 22 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Craig Stammen retires the first 12 batters he faces in his major league debut, and the Nationals use an eighth-inning rally to beat Pittsburgh, 5-4.

Nationals Top Orioles, 8-5

Mon, 25 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Long after Adam Dunn's grand slam landed over the fence in left-center and the 30,880 fans in attendance cascaded out of Nationals Park yesterday having celebrated a pleasant end to an otherwise dreadful homestand, Washington Manager Manny Acta explained the subtle decisions that led to the...

For a Change, Washington Nationals Bullpen, Defense Perform Well in Victory Over Baltimore Orioles

Mon, 25 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

By now, the Nationals and their followers likely have lost track of exactly how much suffering they have endured at the hands of both the team's bullpen and its defense. They remember only that the torture has been ample and unforgiving.

Orioles Edge Nationals, 2-1

Sun, 24 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

If Ross Detwiler lasts much longer in the big leagues, he'll forfeit the memory space for every big moment. Already, he's started two games. He's thrown 180 pitches. He's not like some golfer who remembers every nuance. "But especially at this level," Detwiler said, "I remember a lot of them."

Gonzaga Holds Off Challenger at Nationals

Sun, 24 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A week after Gonzaga's boys' first eight lost the prestigious Stotesbury Cup race by a heart-breaking 0.73 seconds, it withstood a similar challenge at the finish to win at Nationals.

Nick Johnson's Hot Bat Increases His Trade Value

Sun, 24 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A .336 batting average has established first baseman Nick Johnson as the Washington Nationals' most valuable trade piece.

Stephen Strasburg's SDSU Aztecs...ARE IN!!!!!! NCAA Baseball Tournament Field announced.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At New York Mets- Game 44 or 45 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

After Fifteen Minutes Umps Make Wrong Call, Mets 5-2 over Nationals On Sheffield's HR.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Potomac Nationals Weekly Update. 5/25

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At New York Mets- Game 45 or 46 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Are you freaking KIDDING me?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Let's Start The Vote For Zim online Movement!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

What Did Washington Nationals' Fans Learn Today, In The 6-1 Loss To The Mets' Livan Hernandez.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Cubs Beat Pirates, Snap Eight-game Slide

Wed, 27 May 2009 03:18:14 GMT

CHICAGO -- Sean Marshall allowed four hits and singled in a run, Kosuke Fukudome homered and the Chicago Cubs beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 6-1 Tuesday to snap an eight-game losing streak on a rain-shortened night.

Blanton Fans 11, Phillies Move Past Marlins

Wed, 27 May 2009 02:14:49 GMT

PHILADELPHIA -- Joe Blanton had a career-high 11 strikeouts in seven scoreless innings, and the Philadelphia Phillies held on to beat the Florida Marlins 5-3 Tuesday night.

St. Louis Homers Four Times to Top Brewers

Wed, 27 May 2009 03:25:26 GMT

MILWAUKEE -- Adam Wainwright hit one of four Cardinals homers and struck out a career-high nine in seven innings, lifting St. Louis to an 8-1 win over the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday night.

Greinke Goes to 8-1 as Royals Beat Tigers

Wed, 27 May 2009 02:56:33 GMT

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Zack Greinke struck out eight while pitching his fifth complete game and Mitch Maier drove in three runs after coming off the bench, leading the Kansas City Royals past the Detroit Tigers 6-1 Tuesday night.

Diamondbacks End Padres' 10-game Winning Streak

Wed, 27 May 2009 04:41:27 GMT

PHOENIX -- Max Scherzer struck out 10 and drove in two runs, Chris Young made a leaping catch at the fence for the final out and the Arizona Diamondbacks held off San Diego 6-5 on Tuesday night to snap the Padres' 10-game winning streak.

Hernandez Tosses Complete Game to Beat Former Team

Wed, 27 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Former Nationals pitcher Livan Hernandez haunts his former team, pitching a complete game as the Mets top the Nats, 6-1, on Tuesday.

Nationals Designate Daniel Cabrera for Assignment

Wed, 27 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals have designated struggling pitcher Daniel Cabrera for assignment after the towering righty went 0-5 with a 5.85 ERA for D.C.

Mets Beat Nationals, 5-2, on Sheffield's Home Run

Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After Gary Scheffield's disputed, tie-breaking three-run homer in the sixth inning was confirmed by a video review, the Mets downed the Nationals, 5-2, on Monday night.

Nationals' Cabrera Watching, Not Pitching

Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, May 25 -- In a break from what he's accustomed to, Daniel Cabrera came out of the bullpen on Monday night. In keeping with custom, he came nowhere near the strike zone. Making his first appearance as a reliever, Cabrera looked much the same as he did as a starter. And his first impression...

Washington Nationals, Washington Capitals Linked to Steroid Report

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Cabrera Designated For Assignment After tonight's game, a 6-1 loss to the Mets, the Nationals...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At New York Mets- Game 46 or 47 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

MLB Replay Broken? Mets Get HR Call No One Can See, Win 7-4, Sweep Nationals.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At Philadelphia Phillies- Game 47 or 48 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Will Stephen Strasburg Start? Tony Gwynn's Not Saying!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Featured Advertiser

Wed, 27 May 2009 04:41:27 GMT

Olsen Placed on DL; Nationals Lose Pair to Phillies

Sun, 17 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Scott Olsen struggles with his velocity and is sent to the disabled list, and Daniel Cabrera struggles with his control as the Nationals drop a doubleheader to the visiting Philadelphia Phillies.

Stephen Strasburg Suffers First Loss Of '09, Nationals Lose 34th, 5-4 To Phillies.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At Philadelphia Phillies- Game 48 or 49 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Ryan Howard's Grand Slam Or The 3 Errors? Which Cost The Nationals Their 35th Loss?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At Philadelphia Phillies- Game 49 or 50 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Philadelphia's Jamie Moyer Wins 250th Game. 4-2 Phillies over Nationals.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Nats don't need to be have-nots

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nats Notebook

Thu, 28 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Most players reacted with a mix of puzzlement and amusement when they heard about the Lakeland, Fla., man who claims he sold performance-enhancing drugs to professional athletes, including players on the Nationals and Capitals.

Ryan Howard Hits 2 Homers as Philadelphia Phillies Beat Washington Nationals, 9-6

Sun, 31 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHILADELPHIA, May 30 -- Because they kept the score close on Saturday night, and because they executed a rough majority of the defensive plays that big leaguers should execute, and because their combustible and adventurous style again helped the entertainment quotient, the Washington Nationals...

Gonzalez Call Up Changes Nationals' Plans at Shortstop and in Center Field

Sun, 31 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The latest roster move, a majors/minors swap of old-ish prospects, 25-year-old Justin Maxwell and 26-year-old Alberto Gonzalez, immediately alters the circumstances for outfielder Austin Kearns and shortstop Cristian Guzman.

Cavaliers Beat Strasburg in Tournament

Sat, 30 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Virginia proved that Stephen Strasburg is beatable, scoring twice Friday off the likely top pick in the MLB Draft to win their NCAA regional opener, 5-1, over San Diego State.

Rookie Ross Detwiler Is Roughed Up in Nationals' 5-4 Loss to Phillies

Sat, 30 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHILADELPHIA, May 29 -- So long as night after night that passes without a win, the Washington Nationals -- and in particular, the subset of rookies in their pitching rotation -- must grow without the gratification. Ross Detwiler is one of those rookies, and because of that, he is sure to have more...

Dukes Faces Possible Jail Time for Legal Fees

Sat, 30 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

PHILADELPHIA, May 30 -- Washington Nationals outfielder Elijah Dukes will spend the next days with Class AA Harrisburg, trying to rehabilitate his left hamstring injury. In the meantime, he must deal with another problem. Hillsborough (Fla.) Circuit Court Judge Mark Wolfe on Friday ordered that...

Washington Nationals Catcher Jesus Flores Aggravates Shoulder Injury

Sat, 30 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

While rehabbing with Class AA Harrisburg, Washington Nationals catcher Jesus Flores aggravates the injury to his right shoulder.

Match Pitting D.C. United, Real Madrid Is Set for August 9

Fri, 29 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

D.C. United completed months of difficult negotiation yesterday by finalizing an Aug. 9 match against Real Madrid, European soccer's most decorated club. But instead of playing at RFK Stadium, United's home for 14 MLS seasons, the friendly will be staged at FedEx Field.

Florida Man Claims to Have Sold Steroids to Capitals, Nats Players

Thu, 28 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A drug bust entangles the Washington Nationals and Capitals when a man found with $200,000 worth of steroids and other drugs in his central Florida house names those teams, and no others, when police inquire whether any professional athletes were among his clients.

Video Replay Goes Against Nats Again in Loss to the Mets

Thu, 28 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For the second straight game, a video review of a home run goes against the Nationals, proving crucial in a 7-4 loss to the Mets that drops Washington 20 games below .500.

The FanPost Editor Gets Twitter, Better

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Does Rob Dibble Equal Ratings Gold For MASN's Nationals' Broadcasts?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Here's the best way to crystallize it: San Fran's three starters have combined for six Cy Young...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Fire Pitching Coach Randy St. Claire

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: San Francisco Giants At Washington Nationals- Game 50 or 51 of 162. VOTE ZIM!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Break Six-Game Losing Streak, Beat San Francisco Giants 10-5 In DC.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Matsuzaka Gets First Win for Red Sox

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 02:29:45 GMT

DETROIT -- Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched five strong innings to win for the first time this season and manager Terry Francona earned his 500th victory as the Boston Red Sox beat the Detroit Tigers 5-1 on Tuesday night.

Rangers' Hamilton Goes on Disabled List

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 23:06:42 GMT

NEW YORK -- Texas Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton went on the disabled list Tuesday with an abdominal strain that could sideline him from two weeks to two months.

D.C. Rapper Wale Is Ready for the Big Rhyme Time

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

If the buzz surrounding Wale seems as if it's been building forever, that's because it has. Two years ago -- an eternity in the digital music era -- a Post headline dubbed the Bowie-based rapper who is bidding to become the region's first national star " The Great Rap Hope ."

Nats Use Eighth-Inning Rally to Beat Giants

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For the 29th time this season, the Washington Nationals entered the eighth inning trailing. As a team that seemingly mastered losing in both frequency and variety, the Nationals' prospects for a come-from-behind win against the San Francisco Giants last night seemed as grim as their chance to muster...

Nationals Notebook: Jesús Flores Could Miss Rest of the Season

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals catcher JesÃºs Flores will miss at least three months and possibly the entire season after further evaluation of his injured shoulder revealed a stress fracture of the acromion bone.

Nats Pitching Coach Randy St. Claire Is Fired as Pitching Staff Continues to Struggle

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals pitching coach Randy St. Claire, who has been with the organization since December 2002, is let go after overseeing a staff with the highest ERA in the major leagues.

Washington Nationals Television Ratings Up 56 Percent, but Still Worst in Baseball

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals' regional television ratings have increased 56 percent from a year ago, the second-biggest jump in the major leagues, but they are still the worst in baseball.

CHAT REWIND MICHAEL WILBON

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

San Francisco Rotation To Provide a Giant Task

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Against the Giants, Washington will face the reigning Cy Young winner, one of the most dominant power pitchers of all time, and a 24-year-old who's having a better season than either of them.

GameThread: San Francisco Giants At Washington Nationals- Game 51 or 52 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Current Conditions In Nationals Park As Of 7:01 pm EST. Game Officially In A...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com Reads Stuff...(LINKS AND LINKS AND...)

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Taking a Look Back at May

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: San Francisco Giants At Washington Nationals- Game 50 or 51 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Randy Johnson Now 300-164. Giants Beat Nationals, 5-1 For 300th Win.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

BOWDEN SPEAKS...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: New York Mets At Washington Nationals- Game 52 or 53 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com On SNY.TV's New York Baseball Today: Mets at Nationals Series Preview.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Loss #39 Has A Similar Feel. New York Mets 3-1 Over Washington Nationals.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Trade Talk, Strasburg Files, Latest News...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: New York Mets At Washington Nationals- Game 53 or 54 of 162. Do You Have A Little Of The

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

John Lannan Throws First Complete Game In Front Of 31,456 In Nationals Park. 7-1 Nationals Over The

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Griffey Doubles in Suzuki for Seattle Victory

Sat, 06 Jun 2009 23:32:56 GMT

SEATTLE -- Ken Griffey Jr. drove in Ichiro Suzuki with a two-out double in the eighth inning and the Seattle Mariners edged the Minnesota Twins 2-1 on Saturday.

Beltran Dismisses 'Zero Class' Remark by LaRoche

Sat, 06 Jun 2009 22:27:05 GMT

WASHINGTON -- First, Carlos Beltran said he was embarrassed to be swept by the Pittsburgh Pirates. Adam LaRoche responded by saying Beltran was showing "zero class."

Rays Beat Rivera in 9th Again, Top Yankees

Sat, 06 Jun 2009 21:25:24 GMT

NEW YORK -- Joe Dillon hit a tiebreaking single in the ninth inning and the Tampa Bay Rays touched up Mariano Rivera for the second time this season, defeating the New York Yankees 9-7 on Saturday.

Hochevar Helps Royals Snap Eight-game Skid

Sat, 06 Jun 2009 19:55:20 GMT

TORONTO -- Luke Hochevar worked a season-high 6 2-3 innings, Willie Bloomquist hit a three-run triple and the Kansas City Royals beat the Toronto Blue Jays 6-2 on Saturday to end an eight-game losing streak.

Lannan's Complete Game Lifts Nationals Over Mets

Sun, 07 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

John Lannan induces five double plays and throws his first career complete game as the Nats drub the Mets, 7-1, behind three home runs.

Washington Nationals Relieve Joel Hanrahan of His Closer Duties

Sun, 07 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals remove Joel Hanrahan as their closer and hand over the ninth-inning role to Mike MacDougal, a former all-star closer with the Kansas City Royals.

Mets Beat Nationals, 3-1, in 10 Innings

Sat, 06 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Maybe you've heard that the Washington Nationals have the worst bullpen in the major leagues. True enough, though that collection of relievers didn't quite obey the role last night. Fact is, they know they are the worst, they've heard it from friends, they've heard it from one another, and being the...

Washington Nationals Outfielder Elijah Dukes Pays Estranged Wife's Legal Fees in Time

Sat, 06 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals outfielder Elijah Dukes avoided the possibility of a 90-day jail sentence by paying $39,767 in outstanding legal fees several hours before the court-appointed deadline.

Randy Johnson Wins 300th, Bests Washington Nationals, 5-1: Rain, Late Base Runners Don't Put Halt t

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Giants left-hander Randy Johnson becomes the 24th 300-game winner in major league history, going six innings in a 5-1 victory at Nationals Park.

Nationals Notebook: Willingham Sidelined With Viral Infection

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Outfielder Josh Willingham is forced to sit out the Nationals' doubleheader against San Francisco because of a viral infection

Nationals to Salute a Voice From Washington's Baseball Past

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 20:39:00 GMT

Their friendship spans more than 50 years, going back to the day a 15-year-old, sports-crazed Wilson High School sophomore picked up the telephone and cold-called the home number of the radio and television voice of the old Washington Senators. The ambitious teenager wondered that day in 1956 if ...

Randy Johnson's Pursuit of 300 Victories Put on Hold

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Randy Johnson's pursuit of his 300th win must wait. After a rain delay that lasted 3 hours 42 minutes, last night's scheduled game between the Washington Nationals and San Francisco Giants was called at 10:47 p.m. because of the condition of the playing field.

Washington Nationals Set to Go With Wil Nieves, Josh Bard at Catcher

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With catcher JesÃºs Flores out for at least three months and possibly the entire season, the Washington Nationals will go forward with the catching combination of Wil Nieves and Josh Bard.

GameThread: New York Mets At Washington Nationals- Game 54 or 55 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Livan Hernandez Improves To 7-0 In Last 7 Starts Against Washington Nationals, 7-0 Mets Win.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Rob Dibble and Rob Neyer: TWITTER FIGHT!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Post writer Dave Sheinin Talks Stephen Strasburg With ESPN's Bob Ley...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Set To Draft Stephen Strasburg: What Could Possibly Go Wrong?"

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Will The Washington Nationals Be Able To Sign A #1 Pick?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Strasburg Files - Stephen Strasburg '09 Live Reports by Federal Baseball.com's West Coast Corres

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Just when you think it can't get any more ridiculous...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Draft Preview--Steven Strasburg: Savior, or Destined for Failure?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

West, Marlins Shut Down Giants

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 01:53:09 GMT

MIAMI -- Sean West did not allow a hit until the seventh inning in his fourth career start and Brett Carroll hit his first career home run to help Florida Marlins beat Randy Johnson and the San Francisco Giants 4-0 on Monday night.

Strasburg Negotiations Between Nationals, Boras Could Result in Historic Signing

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The negotiations for Stephen Strasburg will bring together baseball's most notorious agent, a pitcher who has been called the best prospect in history and the worst franchise in the game.

Stadium Fireworks Display Draws D.C. Fire Chief's Attention

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Fireworks go off at Nationals Park at the drop of a bat: for the national anthem, a home run, after a win and every Friday. The display is meant to add some cheer and bursts of color to the game.

For Nats, 10th Pick Matters Almost as Much as First

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals front office could find another key pitching prospect with the No. 10 overall pick, compensation for last season's failed negotiations.

New York Mets Shut Down Washington Nationals, 7-0

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The winning streak, or at least what counts for one inside the beltway of bad baseball, had a lifespan of one night and one short morning. A beer before closing time and a coffee with breakfast. By lunchtime yesterday, the Washington Nationals, after a brief bout with competence, were back to the...

Nationals Eager for Olsen's Return to Rotation

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nobody in the Washington Nationals' current starting rotation has a higher ERA than Scott Olsen's (7.24). But that doesn't mean the Nationals won't relish the left-hander's return from the disabled list.

Federal Baseball.com's Message For The Washington Nationals On MLB DRAFT DAY!!!...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Federal Baseball.com Interview: Washington Post Writer Chico Harlan On The Washington Nationals.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Game/MLB DraftThread: Cincinnati Reds At Washington Nationals- Game 55 or 56 of 162. And Day One Of

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

With The First Pick Of The 2009 MLB Draft, The Washington Nationals Select...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com On RBI Talk Radio...at 9:45 pm EST...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Lose 41st Game, 3-2 To Reds, Draft Stephen Strasburg!!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Federal Baseball.com Interview: Washington Post Writer Chico Harlan On The Washington Nationals.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Cincinnati Reds At Washington Nationals. Game 56 Or 57 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Lose 42nd Game Of '09, 4-2 To Reds, Drafted Stephen Strasburg Yesterday.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The SportsReportGIrl Is Back: On Deck this week: Glavine is furious with how things ended in...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Cincinnati Reds At Washington Nationals- Game 57 or 58 of 162. VOTE ZIM!!! UPDATE.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

This Comeback Sticks, Nationals Beat Reds, 3-2 On Hard Slide!!!+Potomac Nationals Report!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Family business?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nats aren't the only team with spelling issues. Meet the ORILOES.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Are The Washington Nationals Trying To Trade Lastings Milledge?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At Tampa Bay Rays - Game 58 or 59 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals Find A New Way To Lose. 4-3 Tampa Bay Rays On Nick Johnson Error.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Jimenez Leads Rockies to Ninth Straight Win

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 04:25:23 GMT

DENVER -- Ubaldo Jimenez pitched the second complete game of his career and had an RBI single as the Colorado Rockies extended their winning streak to nine games with a 6-4 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Friday night.

Another Shutout Victory at Home for Rangers

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 03:32:04 GMT

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Vicente Padilla worked five effective innings, Hank Blalock homered and the Texas Rangers beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 6-0 Friday to record shutouts on consecutive nights at home for the first time in 29 seasons.

Ellsbury Delivers Key Hit, Red Sox Outlast Phils

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 03:36:36 GMT

PHILADELPHIA -- Jacoby Ellsbury hit a tiebreaking RBI single in the 13th inning and the Boston Red Sox beat the Philadelphia Phillies 5-2 Friday night in an interleague matchup between division leaders.

Nick Johnson's Error Proves Costly as Rays Beat Nationals, 4-3

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., June 12 -- For all their drawbacks, the Washington Nationals warrant at least one superlative. With a .271 winning percentage, and with an ability to lose with about the regularity that a newspaper lands on your front steps, they are the most predictable outfit in their sport....

Elijah Dukes Returns to Tampa for the First Time Since Trade to Nationals

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, June 12 -- Elijah Dukes is not yet a success story. "A work in progress," Washington Nationals President Stan Kasten calls him. In glimpses, he looks like a potential all-star. At other times, injury problems interfere with his development. His history of well-documented legal issues...

Despite Trembley Pep Talk, Orioles Fall Again

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Dave Trembley's pregame pep talk worked for one inning, as the Orioles jumped out to a 2-0 lead before falling to the Atlanta Braves, 7-2.

Nats Top Reds With Help of Eighth-Inning Error

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Nationals score a pair of runs when Cincinnati throws away a potential double play ball in the eighth inning, helping Washington salvage the finale of a three-game series.

Nationals Broadcast Leaves Fans In the Dark

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

For at least a brief period Wednesday night, the Washington Nationals became, officially, unwatchable. Some Comcast and Cox cable subscribers in Washington and in outlying counties missed a portion of the rain-delayed, extra-inning Nationals loss because the cable providers pulled the plug on their...

KidsPost: Nationals Go for Star Power With Stephen Strasburg as Top Draft Pick

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals selected Stephen Strasburg, a pitcher from San Diego State University, as the Number 1 pick in the Major League Baseball draft Tuesday.

Another Wild Night Ends With Another Loss for Nationals

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Only the Nationals. As if there were any doubt, last night confirmed what is happening with Washington's baseball franchise has turned into a theater of the absurd. Some nights, the Nationals cannot field the ball. Other nights, their bullpen fails. Then there are times like last night when it ma...

Michael Wilbon: The Washington Nationals Drafting Stephen Strasburg No. 1 Is a Risky Pick

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals taking pitcher Stephen Strasburg with the No. 1 pick in the draft comes with a risk.

Future Closer Storen Is Introduced to the Washington Nationals

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Yesterday afternoon, to begin his introductory news conference at Nationals Park, newly signed first-round pick Drew Storen walked up to a podium, draped a No. 26 Nationals jersey over his dress shirt, and tossed on a Curly W ballcap -- brim flat, just like Chad Cordero used to wear. For that...

New Rules for Sports Broadcasting

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 19:56:00 GMT

With full credit to HBO's Bill Maher, how about a few "new rules" in sports broadcasting?

Detwiler Is Solid, but the Nationals Fall to Reds

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Ross Detwiler pitches well through six innings, but Washington comes up short against Johnny Cueto and the Cincinnati Reds.

Nationals Select Strasburg With Top Pick in MLB Draft

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

As expected, the Washington Nationals have selected pitcher Stephen Strasburg with the first pick in baseball's amateur draft.

Nationals Notebook: Zimmermann Scratched From Start

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Jordan Zimmermann is scratched from his scheduled start against the Reds because he experienced elbow fatigue after throwing a bullpen session on Saturday.

GameThread: Washington Nationals- Game 60 or 61 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

It's Not Manny Acta's Fault, Does That Matter?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Pujols Hits Two Homers in Victory Over Indians

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 23:31:43 GMT

CLEVELAND -- Albert Pujols hit two home runs and the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Cleveland Indians 3-1 on Saturday.

Nieve Delivers, Mets Bounce Back to Beat Yankees

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 23:32:22 GMT

NEW YORK -- Injury fill-in Fernando Nieve earned his first major league victory in three years, Omir Santos drove in three runs and the New York Mets bounced back from a heartbreaking loss, beating the Yankees 6-2 Saturday.

Seven-run Inning Propels Rays Past Nats

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 01:11:21 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Ben Zobrist and Gabe Gross homered during a seven-run sixth inning and the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Washington Nationals 8-3 on Saturday night.

Manny Acta Is Still Manager -- for Now: Washington Nationals President Kasten 'Troubled by Everythi

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals Manager Manny Acta remains on the job, trying to restore some dignity to a ballclub with a 16-43 record. Acta, speaking before Saturday night's game, said: "I haven't heard anything" about an impending firing.

Will The Washington Nationals' 44th Loss Be Manny Acta's Last? Will The Washington Nationals Fire Ma

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At Tampa Bay Rays - Game 61 or 62 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Swept By Tampa Bay Rays...Manny Acta's Future Uncertain.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Why Do The Washington Nationals Want To Fire Manny Acta?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Loverro: Dibs is a punk

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals Mangerial Dilemma: On Manny Acta, and Passion

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Manny Acta Is Still Standing!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Tuesday Nats Stats: Bad Luck or Curse?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At New York Yankees - Game 62 or 63 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Baseball.com On SNY.TV's New York Baseball Today: Nationals at Yankees Series Preview.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals No Match For The Winning Tradition Of The New York Yankees.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Hernandez Two-Hits Padres

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 04:50:36 GMT

SAN DIEGO -- Felix Hernandez pitched a two-hitter to lead the Seattle Mariners to a 5-0 win over San Diego on Tuesday night, handing the Padres a record-setting 12th straight interleague loss.

Rolen, Blue Jays Rally

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:13:04 GMT

PHILADELPHIA -- Scott Rolen singled in the go-ahead run in the 10th inning and the Toronto Blue Jays went on to score four more runs to defeat the Philadelphia Phillies 8-3 on Tuesday night.

New York Yankees Defeat Washington Nationals, 5-3

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, June 16 -- The Washington Nationals treat quality with a predatory intolerance. Go ahead, give them a quality pitching performance, watch what happens. They constrict it, cut off its oxygen supply, bury it under mounds of lousy bullpen work and lousier defense. They leave quality for dead.

Boswell: A Stronger Link Than Most Think

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Why does any team keep a manager whose karma is obviously roadkill? One reason the Nats don't fire Manny Acta may be because, seen from inside an organization where turmoil is constant, he is one of the most cohesive elements.

Nationals Notebook: Players Know Acta's Future Is Up to Them

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals players insist that recent speculation about Manny Acta's impending firing have not disrupted the ballclub.

Nationals' Problems Run Much Deeper Than Acta

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:54:00 GMT

The Nationals need to stop making excuses and start running their organization like the big-time team they aspire to be.

Acta's Future as Nationals Manager Remains Uncertain

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, June 15 -- A day without a firing is merely an incremental job extension, and for Manny Acta, the latest extension means he'll get another day to manage, another series and another chance. With an off day on Monday, the Washington Nationals retained their manager and said nothing publicly...

The '69 Nats Had All the Luck This Year's Team Lacks

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

To understand the 1969 Washington Senators, think back to June 29, the first game of a doubleheader with Boston in sweltering RFK. Then they rallied, thanks to three walks, a sacrifice fly, a couple of fielder's choices, four Boston pitching changes, and two errors, with the game-winning run scoring...

Aybar's RBI Double Gives Rays Win Over Nationals

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., June 14 -- On Sunday, for perhaps the final time, Manny Acta sat in the manager's office and called it his own. This wasn't his office -- it belonged to every visiting manager who passed through here -- but still, its decorations remind the few who use it about the preciousness...

Nationals Swept by Rays in Tampa

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Nationals Reliever Bergmann Sent Down After Poor Outing

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., June 14 -- Until this three-game series against Tampa Bay, Jason Bergmann deserved at least some credit for stabilizing the Washington Nationals' bullpen. Then came the middle game of this series, where Bergmann deserved much of the credit for a single loss. His one appearance...

Answer Man John Kelly Goes to Bat for Reader Curious About D.C. Hall of Stars

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A t Nationals Park, carried over from RFK, is an enormous banner beyond right-center field listing names of D.C. sports all-stars. Although there are some women on it, there are very few, and some of the missing names are pretty notable: Mia Hamm, Dominique Dawes and any of the area's whitewater...

Dropped Pop Dooms Washington Nationals in 4-3 Loss to Tampa Bay Rays

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- For all their drawbacks, the Washington Nationals warrant at least one superlative. With a .271 winning percentage, and with an ability to lose with about the regularity that a newspaper lands on your front steps, they are the most predictable outfit in their sport....

Six-Run Seventh Inning Leads Orioles to 8-4 Win Over Braves

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Baltimore blasts out of an offensive slump to score six runs in the seventh inning and rally past the Atlanta Braves, 8-4, on Saturday night.

Rare good Nats news: HONDO BOBBLEHEAD!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Trade LHP Michael O'Connor to San Diego Padres

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Potomac Nationals Weekly Update. 6/8 and 6/15/09

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At New York Yankees - Game 63 or 64 of 162. + Adam Dunn's "Origin S

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Shake Up The Bronx!!! Beat New York Yankees, 3-2 final.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Blue Jays Pitchers Halladay and Downs Headed to DL

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 02:30:31 GMT

PHILADELPHIA -- Toronto ace Roy Halladay is headed to the disabled list.

Manny to Begin Minor League Assignment Next Week

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 02:32:26 GMT

LOS ANGELES -- Manny Ramirez appears to be a week away from beginning a minor league assignment as he nears the end of his 50-game suspension for violating Major League Baseball's substance abuse policy.

Jury Orders 45 Years for Former Slugger Mel Hall

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 01:11:14 GMT

FORT WORTH, Texas -- Former major league outfielder Mel Hall was sentenced to 45 years in prison Wednesday after being convicted of raping a 12-year-old girl he coached on an elite basketball team. Hall was convicted on three counts of aggravated sexual assault and two counts of indecency with a ...

Lannan Leads Nats Past His Hometown New York Yankees

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

John Lannan pitches into the ninth inning to help lead the Nationals to a 3-2 win over the Yankees as Washington ends a four-game skid.

Pitcher Owings Homers in Reds' Victory

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 02:09:15 GMT

CINCINNATI -- Micah Owings hit a three-run homer and pitched six effective innings to overcome Javier Vazquez's complete game and lead the Cincinnati Reds to a 4-3 win over the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday night.

Penny Wins 100th to Please Another Fenway Sellout

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 02:37:59 GMT

BOSTON -- Reigning AL MVP Dustin Pedroia had three hits and three RBIs on Wednesday night, and the Boston Red Sox celebrated their 500th consecutive sellout with a 6-1 victory over the Florida Marlins.

D.C. United Seeks Fan Input in Search for New Home; 3 Locations Considered

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A survey being circulated to D.C. United fans has residents of Montgomery and Loudoun counties speculating about their chances to host the team as the soccer franchise pushes forward in its years-long search for a new stadium.

Nats Planning for Second Wave of Young Pitchers

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With a rotation of youngsters, the Nationals know they'll need more arms to close out the year and will use more young pitchers to do so.

Potomac Nationals Weekly Update. 6/15/09

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Washington Nationals At New York Yankees - Game 63 or 50 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Best series of the year!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Lowly Washington Nationals Take Two Of Three From The New York Yankees With A 3-0 Shutout.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Toronto Blue Jays At Washington Nationals. Game 65 Or 66 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Yankees Bench Slumping Alex Rodriguez for Two Days

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 01:23:34 GMT

Alex Rodriguez's homecoming will have to wait a little longer. Following a tumultuous month at the plate, the slumping third baseman was benched Friday for two games by the New York Yankees for what he and the team called "fatigue."

Kawakami Outpitches Matsuzaka in Braves' 8-2 Win Over Red Sox

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 02:15:00 GMT

Nate McLouth homered on the game's first pitch and Kenshin Kawakami beat more-heralded countryman Daisuke Matsuzaka as the Atlanta Braves topped the Boston Red Sox 8-2 Friday night.

Slowey Wins His 10th Game, Twins Defeat Astros 5-2

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 03:30:19 GMT

Kevin Slowey became the second 10-game winner in the majors, and the Minnesota Twins went back to small ball Friday to beat Roy Oswalt and the Houston Astros 5-2.

Marquis Leads Rockies to 14th Win in 15 Games

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 03:54:11 GMT

Jason Marquis shut down the Pirates with a masterful mix of sinkers and sliders over 8 2-3 innings and the Colorado Rockies beat Pittsburgh 7-3 Friday night for their 14th win in 15 games.

Bedard Could Return to M's Rotation by Month's End

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 01:52:43 GMT

Erik Bedard checked out fine in an MRI exam on his pitching shoulder and the Seattle Mariners expect the frequently injured left-hander back to their rotation in about two weeks.

Nats Go Extra for Third Win in a Row

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

There were six umpires last night at Nationals Park. Four were on the field. The other two were fans seated directly behind home plate in the front row, wearing full officiating attire and masks. They mimicked the legitimate umpires' calls: fair, foul, strikeout, time out, play ball.

Olsen Might Push One Starter Back to Syracuse

Sat, 20 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Not too long ago, some of them were the jewels of the Washington Nationals minor league system. Now the five of them sit in a row in the major league clubhouse: Craig Stammen, John Lannan, Ross Detwiler, Shairon Martis, Jordan Zimmermann.

After a Long Wait, Nats Shut Out Yankees

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, June 18 -- Waiting is all relative. On a day defined by a 5-hour 26-minute rain delay, the Washington Nationals finally pulled off the sort of accomplishments they'd long been waiting for. The kind of things that required weeks, if not years.

Returning to Former Delivery Works for Nationals' Detwiler

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, June 18 -- On June 7, 2007, Ross Detwiler was drafted in the first round, sixth overall, by the Washington Nationals. Not long after, he started hearing about his flaws. All his life, Detwiler had thrown with an across-the-body delivery. But those in the higher levels of the organization...

Washington Nationals Beat Toronto Blue Jays On Adam Dunn's Walk-Off Winner.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Toronto Blue Jays At Washington Nationals. Game 66 Or 67 Of 162. Federal Baseball.com Be

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Willie Harris Hits A Walk-Off Home Run To Beat The Blue Jays For The Nationals' Fourth Straight...Wa

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Toronto Blue Jays At Washington Nationals. Game 36 Or 37 of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Washington Nationals Blogger Day Interviews: Adam Dunn, Ryan Zimmerman, Willie Harris, Nick Johnson.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

ATTENTION FEDERAL BASEBALL READERS, ESPECIALLY THE FAITHFUL!!! Federal Baseball Will Be On Nats Week

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

MLB DAILY DISH - JOINS SBN NATION!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Federal Baseball.com Interview: Washington Nationals' Third Baseman...Ryan Zimmerman.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Ailing Mets Top Cardinals, 6-4

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 02:25:45 GMT

NEW YORK -- Tim Redding pitched into the eighth inning for his first win with the Mets and substitute setup man Brian Stokes got Albert Pujols to ground into a crucial double play, leading New York past the St. Louis Cardinals 6-4 on Monday night.

Toronto Blue Jays Defeat Washington Nationals, 9-4

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The enduring image was also a repeating image, because Ryan Zimmerman did the same thing five times yesterday. Five times Zimmerman dug into the batter's box, tried to end his slump, and instead only found a way to lengthen it. Five times, field level television cameras followed Zimmerman on that...

Fast Ball Working Just Fine for Nationals' MacDougal

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

On June 5, long before Mike MacDougal became the Washington Nationals' closer, and certainly long before the Nationals reached the state of advanced competence where they actually needed a closer, Manager Manny Acta pulled his newest right-hander from the Citi Field bullpen to face New York's Gary...

Harris Drills Homer to Power Nationals Past Blue Jays in 13 Innings

Sun, 21 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Willie Harris is a small guy, just 5-foot-9, sometimes with a small role to boot. But well after yesterday's victory, Harris, the game's star, placed one knee up on the chair in front of his clubhouse locker and surveyed the scene, as if looking from above and afar.

Washington Nationals' Manager Manny Acta Talks To The People...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Boston Red Sox At Washington Nationals. Game 68 Or 69 Of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

FEDERALBASEBALL.COM ON NESN (New England Sports Network)!!!

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington Nationals-You-Expected Lose, 11-3 Boston Red Sox Win.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

A Conversation With Washington Nationals' Team President Stan Kasten and "Acting" GM Mike Rizzo.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Effort v. Intensity: A Case Study Between the Washington Nationals and Boston Red Sox

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Boston Red Sox At Washington Nationals. Game 69 Or 70 Of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

SoxNation takes an unexpected turn in NatsTown™

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Boston Red Sox Take Second Straight From Washington In Nationals Park.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Nats Stats: Ks per 100 pitches...

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Projected Type-B Free Agents... DNTNJ?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

GameThread: Boston Red Sox At Washington Nationals- Game 70 Or 71 Of 162.

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 GMT

Ordonez's HR Lifts Tigers to Win Against Cubs

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 19:55:43 GMT

DETROIT -- Magglio Ordonez ended a career-long, 40-game drought without a home run by connecting for the go-ahead shot, leading the Detroit Tigers over the Chicago Cubs 6-5 Thursday for their seventh straight victory.

Santana Leads Mets Over Cardinals

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 19:58:04 GMT

NEW YORK -- Johan Santana bested Chris Carpenter in a matchup of Cy Young Award winners, and the New York Mets beat the St. Louis Cardinals 3-2 Thursday to win their first series since early June.