Natstastic
No Bonds, but I still don't care
Alright, so Barry didn't hit 756*. But it happened in a game that I can only describe as bittersweet. I hate watching losses in extra frames, and I hate it even more when it means that I stay up until something like 2 in the morning only to watch Chad give it up (not that I blame him, everyone gives it up occasionally) and then Ray King, giver of sage advice, pretty much fall apart on the mound in the 11th. I hate games like that. just hate 'em.
But, every cloud has a silver lining as they say, and this one was named John Lannan. Lannan, it is well known, is the 3,241st starting pitcher to be used by the Nats this year and started the season playing Real Baseball, Real Close, down in A ball. But now, despite the fears of many who have commented on the Journal and elsewhere, Lannan's most infamous moment remains breaking Chase Utley's hand. And for that I'm happy. I'm also glad that the team got a little respect out of the national media who was in S.F. to make an electric atmosphere more circus like, and then cover the moment. ESPN, si.com, thank you for mentioning that at least our pitcher doesn't suck, though your story was at best one note when compared to Svrluga's. But even though some of it was begrudging admiration at best, the most backhanded compliments came from John Donovan. John I guess thinks that a kid pitching seven innings of 1 run, that's right 1 run ball isn't reason enough to leave him in. Nope, it must be a slight against Bonds, because Bonds is in a hitting slump, yep, it was a hitting slump, not a decent outing by a rookie pitcher that you haven't heard of because you have your head so....well, I think that I make my point. The worst part is I agree with Donovan about Bond's hitting. He isn't in a slump, he's just not that good anymore. He is 43 years old. His swing does have holes in it. Yes, he can crush the ball if he hits it, but he has to hit it first. This is why I respect Manny, who chose to not once issue the intentional walk, and instead Bonds only drew 1 "normal" walk and went 0-3. That isn't so shocking, it just shows that he's human. A living incarnation of a juiced bobble-head sure, but still, largely just human. I just don't see this 'slump' as something new or creative. More just a thing to roll out when a new and under-the-radar pitcher comes in and does something unexpected while you are actually watching a game that doesn't involve a team from Boston or one wearing pin-stripes. But enough of that, I'm still mostly angry from lack of sleep and losing a decent little win-streak.
Next up for the merry-go-round of fun is Mike Basik. He's been pitching pretty solid and if he doesn't let his nerves get to him, he should be able to handle the most aging Giants line-up and make for another great game. By the way, my prediction is, NO HOMER in this series. I have my reasons, which I will only get into if I am proven to be a genius. So take a nap after work and stay up late on a Tuesday to watch history not be made as the Nats take on the San Fransisco Barry Bo...er...Giants.
But, every cloud has a silver lining as they say, and this one was named John Lannan. Lannan, it is well known, is the 3,241st starting pitcher to be used by the Nats this year and started the season playing Real Baseball, Real Close, down in A ball. But now, despite the fears of many who have commented on the Journal and elsewhere, Lannan's most infamous moment remains breaking Chase Utley's hand. And for that I'm happy. I'm also glad that the team got a little respect out of the national media who was in S.F. to make an electric atmosphere more circus like, and then cover the moment. ESPN, si.com, thank you for mentioning that at least our pitcher doesn't suck, though your story was at best one note when compared to Svrluga's. But even though some of it was begrudging admiration at best, the most backhanded compliments came from John Donovan. John I guess thinks that a kid pitching seven innings of 1 run, that's right 1 run ball isn't reason enough to leave him in. Nope, it must be a slight against Bonds, because Bonds is in a hitting slump, yep, it was a hitting slump, not a decent outing by a rookie pitcher that you haven't heard of because you have your head so....well, I think that I make my point. The worst part is I agree with Donovan about Bond's hitting. He isn't in a slump, he's just not that good anymore. He is 43 years old. His swing does have holes in it. Yes, he can crush the ball if he hits it, but he has to hit it first. This is why I respect Manny, who chose to not once issue the intentional walk, and instead Bonds only drew 1 "normal" walk and went 0-3. That isn't so shocking, it just shows that he's human. A living incarnation of a juiced bobble-head sure, but still, largely just human. I just don't see this 'slump' as something new or creative. More just a thing to roll out when a new and under-the-radar pitcher comes in and does something unexpected while you are actually watching a game that doesn't involve a team from Boston or one wearing pin-stripes. But enough of that, I'm still mostly angry from lack of sleep and losing a decent little win-streak.
Next up for the merry-go-round of fun is Mike Basik. He's been pitching pretty solid and if he doesn't let his nerves get to him, he should be able to handle the most aging Giants line-up and make for another great game. By the way, my prediction is, NO HOMER in this series. I have my reasons, which I will only get into if I am proven to be a genius. So take a nap after work and stay up late on a Tuesday to watch history not be made as the Nats take on the San Fransisco Barry Bo...er...Giants.
The sweet smell of baseball in the morning
The first game is Spring is only 2 days away. That means baseball fans can stop hearing about Mike Bacsik's bullpen sessions and whichever Boone is important at the time and start actually hearing about GAMES. And even more importantly than the begin of play, the 2/29 game will be the first carried on 3WT this season. The station will carry 10 games this spring before beginning the usual full season. Our good friends at MASN don't have any information posted, which I assume means no games will be broadcast. I would have confirmed that, but when I get on MASNsports.com and try to get contact information, that particular page is always down. Helpful.
But I think that we will move onto the next spot in the quick trip around the field, which I hope to finish by the first game of the season. So, 3rd base. This is a no-brainer, Zimmerman is the man at the Hot Corner until at least 2012. That is when he gets to try free agency if the Nats haven't come to an agreement with him for a longer deal. And speaking of that deal, much was made of the conversations being had between Zimm's agent and Bowden. Covered by Ladson, and the Post.
For those that don't like to read, the Nats seem to be offering Tulowitski or McCann dollars, which is 6 years, $30 million or so. Ryan (by way of his agent) is looking for 6 years $55 million. So, they are a little ways apart on this deal. Now, I would love to see Zimm sign an Ovechkin-esqe deal for like 15 years and be done with it. But I can see both sides. Zimmerman is not, at least offensively, David Wright, who got more like $55 million. But it is also arguable that his is worth more to the Nats than McCann is as a player. That means that this next season is important for the relationship in a number of ways. If Ryan has a stellar year and heads into arbitration next season, the Nats could stand to get screwed and might sour the relationship with the 'face of the franchise'. Not really what we are looking for. It would result in a huge raise in the price of Zimmerman and could put him out of reach. If he puts up bad numbers, then it means he is more likely to sign a long-term deal rather than risk a smaller raise in arbitration.
But either way, don't expect to see this taken care of in the next couple weeks or months. In fact I doubt there is a contract before 2010, and certainly not before 2009.
From a play perspective, Zimmerman needs to show his talent offensively as a player. There have been a lot of statements made about 100+ RBIs, 30 HRs, and a solid BA. I don't know if he will make these numbers or not, and I'm not a big enough stats geek to crunch the numbers and then lie to you about it. But I do know that if he puts up the same numbers as last season, its not going to result in the payday that he wants or presumably deserves. That shouldn't be a worry though. Zimmerman is likely to put up bigger numbers with the offensive up-tick in the lineup that has been provided by the outfield acquisitions and the upgrades at catcher. That help in the lineup should mean that Zimmerman sees a modest bump in his numbers regardless of personal improvements, so it means that we should, in all likelihood, expect and get big things at the plate from #11.
Tomorrow we'll hear about catchers and why I hate Paul Lo Duca. Then, last but not least, the juvenile penal system that is the Washington Nationals outfield, with officer Kearns excepted.
But I think that we will move onto the next spot in the quick trip around the field, which I hope to finish by the first game of the season. So, 3rd base. This is a no-brainer, Zimmerman is the man at the Hot Corner until at least 2012. That is when he gets to try free agency if the Nats haven't come to an agreement with him for a longer deal. And speaking of that deal, much was made of the conversations being had between Zimm's agent and Bowden. Covered by Ladson, and the Post.
For those that don't like to read, the Nats seem to be offering Tulowitski or McCann dollars, which is 6 years, $30 million or so. Ryan (by way of his agent) is looking for 6 years $55 million. So, they are a little ways apart on this deal. Now, I would love to see Zimm sign an Ovechkin-esqe deal for like 15 years and be done with it. But I can see both sides. Zimmerman is not, at least offensively, David Wright, who got more like $55 million. But it is also arguable that his is worth more to the Nats than McCann is as a player. That means that this next season is important for the relationship in a number of ways. If Ryan has a stellar year and heads into arbitration next season, the Nats could stand to get screwed and might sour the relationship with the 'face of the franchise'. Not really what we are looking for. It would result in a huge raise in the price of Zimmerman and could put him out of reach. If he puts up bad numbers, then it means he is more likely to sign a long-term deal rather than risk a smaller raise in arbitration.
But either way, don't expect to see this taken care of in the next couple weeks or months. In fact I doubt there is a contract before 2010, and certainly not before 2009.
From a play perspective, Zimmerman needs to show his talent offensively as a player. There have been a lot of statements made about 100+ RBIs, 30 HRs, and a solid BA. I don't know if he will make these numbers or not, and I'm not a big enough stats geek to crunch the numbers and then lie to you about it. But I do know that if he puts up the same numbers as last season, its not going to result in the payday that he wants or presumably deserves. That shouldn't be a worry though. Zimmerman is likely to put up bigger numbers with the offensive up-tick in the lineup that has been provided by the outfield acquisitions and the upgrades at catcher. That help in the lineup should mean that Zimmerman sees a modest bump in his numbers regardless of personal improvements, so it means that we should, in all likelihood, expect and get big things at the plate from #11.
Tomorrow we'll hear about catchers and why I hate Paul Lo Duca. Then, last but not least, the juvenile penal system that is the Washington Nationals outfield, with officer Kearns excepted.
The sweet smell of baseball in the morning
The first game is Spring is only 2 days away. That means baseball fans can stop hearing about Mike Bacsik's bullpen sessions and whichever Boone is important at the time and start actually hearing about GAMES. And even more importantly than the begin of play, the 2/29 game will be the first carried on 3WT this season. The station will carry 10 games this spring before beginning the usual full season. Our good friends at MASN don't have any information posted, which I assume means no games will be broadcast. I would have confirmed that, but when I get on MASNsports.com and try to get contact information, that particular page is always down. Helpful.
But I think that we will move onto the next spot in the quick trip around the field, which I hope to finish by the first game of the season. So, 3rd base. This is a no-brainer, Zimmerman is the man at the Hot Corner until at least 2012. That is when he gets to try free agency if the Nats haven't come to an agreement with him for a longer deal. And speaking of that deal, much was made of the conversations being had between Zimm's agent and Bowden. Covered by Ladson, and the Post.
For those that don't like to read, the Nats seem to be offering Tulowitski or McCann dollars, which is 6 years, $30 million or so. Ryan (by way of his agent) is looking for 6 years $55 million. So, they are a little ways apart on this deal. Now, I would love to see Zimm sign an Ovechkin-esqe deal for like 15 years and be done with it. But I can see both sides. Zimmerman is not, at least offensively, David Wright, who got more like $55 million. But it is also arguable that his is worth more to the Nats than McCann is as a player. That means that this next season is important for the relationship in a number of ways. If Ryan has a stellar year and heads into arbitration next season, the Nats could stand to get screwed and might sour the relationship with the 'face of the franchise'. Not really what we are looking for. It would result in a huge raise in the price of Zimmerman and could put him out of reach. If he puts up bad numbers, then it means he is more likely to sign a long-term deal rather than risk a smaller raise in arbitration.
But either way, don't expect to see this taken care of in the next couple weeks or months. In fact I doubt there is a contract before 2010, and certainly not before 2009.
From a play perspective, Zimmerman needs to show his talent offensively as a player. There have been a lot of statements made about 100+ RBIs, 30 HRs, and a solid BA. I don't know if he will make these numbers or not, and I'm not a big enough stats geek to crunch the numbers and then lie to you about it. But I do know that if he puts up the same numbers as last season, its not going to result in the payday that he wants or presumably deserves. That shouldn't be a worry though. Zimmerman is likely to put up bigger numbers with the offensive up-tick in the lineup that has been provided by the outfield acquisitions and the upgrades at catcher. That help in the lineup should mean that Zimmerman sees a modest bump in his numbers regardless of personal improvements, so it means that we should, in all likelihood, expect and get big things at the plate from #11.
Tomorrow we'll hear about catchers and why I hate Paul Lo Duca. Then, last but not least, the juvenile penal system that is the Washington Nationals outfield, with officer Kearns excepted.
But I think that we will move onto the next spot in the quick trip around the field, which I hope to finish by the first game of the season. So, 3rd base. This is a no-brainer, Zimmerman is the man at the Hot Corner until at least 2012. That is when he gets to try free agency if the Nats haven't come to an agreement with him for a longer deal. And speaking of that deal, much was made of the conversations being had between Zimm's agent and Bowden. Covered by Ladson, and the Post.
For those that don't like to read, the Nats seem to be offering Tulowitski or McCann dollars, which is 6 years, $30 million or so. Ryan (by way of his agent) is looking for 6 years $55 million. So, they are a little ways apart on this deal. Now, I would love to see Zimm sign an Ovechkin-esqe deal for like 15 years and be done with it. But I can see both sides. Zimmerman is not, at least offensively, David Wright, who got more like $55 million. But it is also arguable that his is worth more to the Nats than McCann is as a player. That means that this next season is important for the relationship in a number of ways. If Ryan has a stellar year and heads into arbitration next season, the Nats could stand to get screwed and might sour the relationship with the 'face of the franchise'. Not really what we are looking for. It would result in a huge raise in the price of Zimmerman and could put him out of reach. If he puts up bad numbers, then it means he is more likely to sign a long-term deal rather than risk a smaller raise in arbitration.
But either way, don't expect to see this taken care of in the next couple weeks or months. In fact I doubt there is a contract before 2010, and certainly not before 2009.
From a play perspective, Zimmerman needs to show his talent offensively as a player. There have been a lot of statements made about 100+ RBIs, 30 HRs, and a solid BA. I don't know if he will make these numbers or not, and I'm not a big enough stats geek to crunch the numbers and then lie to you about it. But I do know that if he puts up the same numbers as last season, its not going to result in the payday that he wants or presumably deserves. That shouldn't be a worry though. Zimmerman is likely to put up bigger numbers with the offensive up-tick in the lineup that has been provided by the outfield acquisitions and the upgrades at catcher. That help in the lineup should mean that Zimmerman sees a modest bump in his numbers regardless of personal improvements, so it means that we should, in all likelihood, expect and get big things at the plate from #11.
Tomorrow we'll hear about catchers and why I hate Paul Lo Duca. Then, last but not least, the juvenile penal system that is the Washington Nationals outfield, with officer Kearns excepted.
Schedule Released!!
Well, only sort of. The tentative schedule for next season has been released and is posted on the Nationals Journal, courtesy of Barry and the Post. Among the most obvious and shocking items are what seem to be missing from this particular schedule.
No "true" Home Opener
Away game on July 4th
No Memorial Day
No Labor Day
Finish the season on the road
So that means that assuming that this schedule isn't changed in some fairly fundamental way, a number of Nationals traditions are going the way of the dodo as of this year. Now, I don't count opening the season at home among these, since it never happens, though it would be nice to start the new park in such a manner. But the 4th of July baseball in the Nations Capital and the new Nationals Park seems like a fairly good tradition to build on. So, if I were king of baseball for a day, this is what I would change in the ol' schedule.
First, baseball in DC on July 4, 2008. And every July 4 from now until the end of time. This is the way it should be and there is simply nothing else to say.
Second, if we can't open at home, at least let us close at home. In the case of this year, give the Nats their ESPN game at home against the Metropolitons and let us be happy. We can finish on the road if we have to.
Third, why is there no baseball on Labor Day?! I mean, if not at home, then fine, but just not playing? That isn't American, its something unholy that should not be allowed to happen. So change it.
No, I understand that these things are difficult and complex, blah, blah, blah. But we should at least get something from the league as opposed to a schedule that is, at best, lacking. I hope that when the "Tentative" is removed there is something to show for it.
No "true" Home Opener
Away game on July 4th
No Memorial Day
No Labor Day
Finish the season on the road
So that means that assuming that this schedule isn't changed in some fairly fundamental way, a number of Nationals traditions are going the way of the dodo as of this year. Now, I don't count opening the season at home among these, since it never happens, though it would be nice to start the new park in such a manner. But the 4th of July baseball in the Nations Capital and the new Nationals Park seems like a fairly good tradition to build on. So, if I were king of baseball for a day, this is what I would change in the ol' schedule.
First, baseball in DC on July 4, 2008. And every July 4 from now until the end of time. This is the way it should be and there is simply nothing else to say.
Second, if we can't open at home, at least let us close at home. In the case of this year, give the Nats their ESPN game at home against the Metropolitons and let us be happy. We can finish on the road if we have to.
Third, why is there no baseball on Labor Day?! I mean, if not at home, then fine, but just not playing? That isn't American, its something unholy that should not be allowed to happen. So change it.
No, I understand that these things are difficult and complex, blah, blah, blah. But we should at least get something from the league as opposed to a schedule that is, at best, lacking. I hope that when the "Tentative" is removed there is something to show for it.
Opening Day Tickets
I love that new ticket smell. All bright and shiny on my computer screen and asking me if I want to pay extra to get them next week or if I want them delivered to my cell phone, or if I just want Will Call. And all this for the opportunity for me to get my 2 tickets to the first game of the season at the shiny new Nationals Park.
I just can't help but be excited. The team is better, but not tons better, than last year. Plus if they overachive again, we could be looking at a mini-playoff run. I just can't wait to take my new seat for one day only on the first base line to watch the Nats take the field and somebody (please not Patterson, please not Patterson, pleeeeeeeaaaaaaase not Patterson) throw out the first pitch of Major League Baseball in North America for the 2008 season. For those of you that don't have tickets and for some stupid reason don't want them; enjoy John Miller and Joe Morgan. I get to actually watch the game without interuption.
Now that I have paid for those, I just need to wait for them, and more importantly, my actual tickets to arrive or at least get mailed. That might be something to work on Stan.
Opening Day Tickets
I love that new ticket smell. All bright and shiny on my computer screen and asking me if I want to pay extra to get them next week or if I want them delivered to my cell phone, or if I just want Will Call. And all this for the opportunity for me to get my 2 tickets to the first game of the season at the shiny new Nationals Park.
I just can't help but be excited. The team is better, but not tons better, than last year. Plus if they overachive again, we could be looking at a mini-playoff run. I just can't wait to take my new seat for one day only on the first base line to watch the Nats take the field and somebody (please not Patterson, please not Patterson, pleeeeeeeaaaaaaase not Patterson) throw out the first pitch of Major League Baseball in North America for the 2008 season. For those of you that don't have tickets and for some stupid reason don't want them; enjoy John Miller and Joe Morgan. I get to actually watch the game without interuption.
Now that I have paid for those, I just need to wait for them, and more importantly, my actual tickets to arrive or at least get mailed. That might be something to work on Stan.
Up the Middle
Ok, since this topic has been written about extensively by everyone known to the internet and most have more and better to say than I do, this is going to be brief. I don't think that Lopez is going to start. At least not in April. I think that there remains a possibility that we could see 2005 Guzman instead of 2007 Guzie and such an outcome would mean that even .245 out of Felipe is a serious improvement. Belliard is not my favorite person, but he is a more than serviceable second baseman who showed a sold bat and steady fielding last year. None of them, save maybe Lopez have any chance of being a long term solution. And I don't see Lopez as filling that gap without first changing not only his attitude, but the very way he plays the game. To check and see if I am just a ranting moron with internet access, check out these:
http://nationalsreview.wordpress.com/2008/02/13/on-to-the-infield/
http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080216&content_id=2376322&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=was
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2007/12/the_middle_infield_the_future.html
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080201&content_id=2362038&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=was
Those should at least give someone a pretty basic idea. Belliard is kinda old, kinda pudgy, but signed really cheap and good with a bat. Lopez could be a good baller if he would get over himself and actually meet his potential. We pay him way too much. Guzman can't hit, gets hurt, is awesome, gets hurt, makes $4 million, gets hurt. That pretty much covers it. Expect to see Ronnie and Christian as the double play combo, I don't think Lopez will impress enough at Spring Training to earn a starting spot.
Oh yeah, vote on your choice for the second baseman making the debut on Opening Day on ESPN.
http://nationalsreview.wordpress.com/2008/02/13/on-to-the-infield/
http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080216&content_id=2376322&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=was
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2007/12/the_middle_infield_the_future.html
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080201&content_id=2362038&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=was
Those should at least give someone a pretty basic idea. Belliard is kinda old, kinda pudgy, but signed really cheap and good with a bat. Lopez could be a good baller if he would get over himself and actually meet his potential. We pay him way too much. Guzman can't hit, gets hurt, is awesome, gets hurt, makes $4 million, gets hurt. That pretty much covers it. Expect to see Ronnie and Christian as the double play combo, I don't think Lopez will impress enough at Spring Training to earn a starting spot.
Oh yeah, vote on your choice for the second baseman making the debut on Opening Day on ESPN.
Up the Middle
Ok, since this topic has been written about extensively by everyone known to the internet and most have more and better to say than I do, this is going to be brief. I don't think that Lopez is going to start. At least not in April. I think that there remains a possibility that we could see 2005 Guzman instead of 2007 Guzie and such an outcome would mean that even .245 out of Felipe is a serious improvement. Belliard is not my favorite person, but he is a more than serviceable second baseman who showed a sold bat and steady fielding last year. None of them, save maybe Lopez have any chance of being a long term solution. And I don't see Lopez as filling that gap without first changing not only his attitude, but the very way he plays the game. To check and see if I am just a ranting moron with internet access, check out these:
http://nationalsreview.wordpress.com/2008/02/13/on-to-the-infield/
http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080216&content_id=2376322&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=was
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2007/12/the_middle_infield_the_future.html
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080201&content_id=2362038&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=was
Those should at least give someone a pretty basic idea. Belliard is kinda old, kinda pudgy, but signed really cheap and good with a bat. Lopez could be a good baller if he would get over himself and actually meet his potential. We pay him way too much. Guzman can't hit, gets hurt, is awesome, gets hurt, makes $4 million, gets hurt. That pretty much covers it. Expect to see Ronnie and Christian as the double play combo, I don't think Lopez will impress enough at Spring Training to earn a starting spot.
Oh yeah, vote on your choice for the second baseman making the debut on Opening Day on ESPN.
http://nationalsreview.wordpress.com/2008/02/13/on-to-the-infield/
http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080216&content_id=2376322&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=was
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2007/12/the_middle_infield_the_future.html
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080201&content_id=2362038&vkey=spt2008news&fext=.jsp&c_id=was
Those should at least give someone a pretty basic idea. Belliard is kinda old, kinda pudgy, but signed really cheap and good with a bat. Lopez could be a good baller if he would get over himself and actually meet his potential. We pay him way too much. Guzman can't hit, gets hurt, is awesome, gets hurt, makes $4 million, gets hurt. That pretty much covers it. Expect to see Ronnie and Christian as the double play combo, I don't think Lopez will impress enough at Spring Training to earn a starting spot.
Oh yeah, vote on your choice for the second baseman making the debut on Opening Day on ESPN.
1st Base
This is one of the main issues for the Nats in Spring Training. Who is going to start at 1st? I know that there are a lot, I mean A LOT, of people in the blogosphere and the chat rooms that wonder why it is even a question and just want to give D-Young the job. Now, Da Meat had a great, no wonderful, no, oh just insert your own superlative for good season last year. But those were career numbers. And need we forget that his defense was a little shaky at times. Plus, Dimitri is old. I mean pretty much on the back side of his career and not going to be getting any better old. The odds are that he won't repeat the numbers and magic of last year, and even if he comes close won't do it in '09. So Da Meat is clearly not the long, or even really mid-term solution at first.
So then why not Nick? Well, Nick Johnson can hit, and hit, and hit. And walk. And hit more. So then why is a guy that is 29 with a .420 OBP who led the Nats in AVG his last semi-full season not starting? The short answer is: Nick is accident prone. I don't think its his fault. I just think that he has some Karmic inbalance that means for every walk he draws he must have a requisite number of days on the DL. '05 and '06 were great seasons for Nick. He sat out all of '07. But even if he is an injury risk, he still probably has 3 or more good seasons in him than Young does. I hate to say it and if people actually read this blog, feel free to argue, but Nick is simply younger. 34 is just a bigger number than 29. I'm sorry, that's how math works.
So fine, one might be around longer, the other is likely not going to fall down the stairs on the way back into the dugout. So lets look at numbers. Nick has a better career OBP. Young has better AVG and SLG, though both have solid numbers in all three. Nick strikes out slightly more often, but walks something like 3 times more often. They are almost even on RBIs and home runs if you adjust for the number of at-bats. So offensively, it is basically a dead heat.
That means, gulp, intangibles. Both are considered leaders and good clubhouse influences from what I have read. But Young is clearly seen as a leader and a mentor for some of the 'project' players like Dukes. That is a role that almost nobody else in baseball and certainly nobody in DC can fill in quite the same fashion. Also, even though Young's age works against him as a longer term solution, it works for him in a strange way that he is a less desirable trade quantity. Nick, as a still semi-young or at least baseball middle-aged player has more trade value.
The Nats have moved Chris Marrero, the former outfield prospect to 1B. This seems to be the organization's attempt to give a kid with limited speed and outfield defense a shot to use his good bat at the Major League level. Chris hit a combined .275 with 23 homers at Hagerstown Low-A and Potomac High-A last season. He is just now trying 1B. He will not be ready this season. He probably won't be ready next season. But if he is going to be the First Baseman of the Future, it will probably happen in 2010. Oh, and Dimitri is signed through the 2009 season with an option for 2010. Funny how that works, isn't it?
So, it looks like Nick, if healthy, will be traded in favor of Dimitri assuming he is healthy and last year wasn't a total fluke. But in either case, don't get too attached, both of them are really not more than a 1 or 2 season holder until we can find a younger, maybe more powerful, first baseman. But for now, its going to be Da Meat bobble night, and praying that he can hide Dukes' cell phone all season long.
So then why not Nick? Well, Nick Johnson can hit, and hit, and hit. And walk. And hit more. So then why is a guy that is 29 with a .420 OBP who led the Nats in AVG his last semi-full season not starting? The short answer is: Nick is accident prone. I don't think its his fault. I just think that he has some Karmic inbalance that means for every walk he draws he must have a requisite number of days on the DL. '05 and '06 were great seasons for Nick. He sat out all of '07. But even if he is an injury risk, he still probably has 3 or more good seasons in him than Young does. I hate to say it and if people actually read this blog, feel free to argue, but Nick is simply younger. 34 is just a bigger number than 29. I'm sorry, that's how math works.
So fine, one might be around longer, the other is likely not going to fall down the stairs on the way back into the dugout. So lets look at numbers. Nick has a better career OBP. Young has better AVG and SLG, though both have solid numbers in all three. Nick strikes out slightly more often, but walks something like 3 times more often. They are almost even on RBIs and home runs if you adjust for the number of at-bats. So offensively, it is basically a dead heat.
That means, gulp, intangibles. Both are considered leaders and good clubhouse influences from what I have read. But Young is clearly seen as a leader and a mentor for some of the 'project' players like Dukes. That is a role that almost nobody else in baseball and certainly nobody in DC can fill in quite the same fashion. Also, even though Young's age works against him as a longer term solution, it works for him in a strange way that he is a less desirable trade quantity. Nick, as a still semi-young or at least baseball middle-aged player has more trade value.
The Nats have moved Chris Marrero, the former outfield prospect to 1B. This seems to be the organization's attempt to give a kid with limited speed and outfield defense a shot to use his good bat at the Major League level. Chris hit a combined .275 with 23 homers at Hagerstown Low-A and Potomac High-A last season. He is just now trying 1B. He will not be ready this season. He probably won't be ready next season. But if he is going to be the First Baseman of the Future, it will probably happen in 2010. Oh, and Dimitri is signed through the 2009 season with an option for 2010. Funny how that works, isn't it?
So, it looks like Nick, if healthy, will be traded in favor of Dimitri assuming he is healthy and last year wasn't a total fluke. But in either case, don't get too attached, both of them are really not more than a 1 or 2 season holder until we can find a younger, maybe more powerful, first baseman. But for now, its going to be Da Meat bobble night, and praying that he can hide Dukes' cell phone all season long.
1st Base
This is one of the main issues for the Nats in Spring Training. Who is going to start at 1st? I know that there are a lot, I mean A LOT, of people in the blogosphere and the chat rooms that wonder why it is even a question and just want to give D-Young the job. Now, Da Meat had a great, no wonderful, no, oh just insert your own superlative for good season last year. But those were career numbers. And need we forget that his defense was a little shaky at times. Plus, Dimitri is old. I mean pretty much on the back side of his career and not going to be getting any better old. The odds are that he won't repeat the numbers and magic of last year, and even if he comes close won't do it in '09. So Da Meat is clearly not the long, or even really mid-term solution at first.
So then why not Nick? Well, Nick Johnson can hit, and hit, and hit. And walk. And hit more. So then why is a guy that is 29 with a .420 OBP who led the Nats in AVG his last semi-full season not starting? The short answer is: Nick is accident prone. I don't think its his fault. I just think that he has some Karmic inbalance that means for every walk he draws he must have a requisite number of days on the DL. '05 and '06 were great seasons for Nick. He sat out all of '07. But even if he is an injury risk, he still probably has 3 or more good seasons in him than Young does. I hate to say it and if people actually read this blog, feel free to argue, but Nick is simply younger. 34 is just a bigger number than 29. I'm sorry, that's how math works.
So fine, one might be around longer, the other is likely not going to fall down the stairs on the way back into the dugout. So lets look at numbers. Nick has a better career OBP. Young has better AVG and SLG, though both have solid numbers in all three. Nick strikes out slightly more often, but walks something like 3 times more often. They are almost even on RBIs and home runs if you adjust for the number of at-bats. So offensively, it is basically a dead heat.
That means, gulp, intangibles. Both are considered leaders and good clubhouse influences from what I have read. But Young is clearly seen as a leader and a mentor for some of the 'project' players like Dukes. That is a role that almost nobody else in baseball and certainly nobody in DC can fill in quite the same fashion. Also, even though Young's age works against him as a longer term solution, it works for him in a strange way that he is a less desirable trade quantity. Nick, as a still semi-young or at least baseball middle-aged player has more trade value.
The Nats have moved Chris Marrero, the former outfield prospect to 1B. This seems to be the organization's attempt to give a kid with limited speed and outfield defense a shot to use his good bat at the Major League level. Chris hit a combined .275 with 23 homers at Hagerstown Low-A and Potomac High-A last season. He is just now trying 1B. He will not be ready this season. He probably won't be ready next season. But if he is going to be the First Baseman of the Future, it will probably happen in 2010. Oh, and Dimitri is signed through the 2009 season with an option for 2010. Funny how that works, isn't it?
So, it looks like Nick, if healthy, will be traded in favor of Dimitri assuming he is healthy and last year wasn't a total fluke. But in either case, don't get too attached, both of them are really not more than a 1 or 2 season holder until we can find a younger, maybe more powerful, first baseman. But for now, its going to be Da Meat bobble night, and praying that he can hide Dukes' cell phone all season long.
So then why not Nick? Well, Nick Johnson can hit, and hit, and hit. And walk. And hit more. So then why is a guy that is 29 with a .420 OBP who led the Nats in AVG his last semi-full season not starting? The short answer is: Nick is accident prone. I don't think its his fault. I just think that he has some Karmic inbalance that means for every walk he draws he must have a requisite number of days on the DL. '05 and '06 were great seasons for Nick. He sat out all of '07. But even if he is an injury risk, he still probably has 3 or more good seasons in him than Young does. I hate to say it and if people actually read this blog, feel free to argue, but Nick is simply younger. 34 is just a bigger number than 29. I'm sorry, that's how math works.
So fine, one might be around longer, the other is likely not going to fall down the stairs on the way back into the dugout. So lets look at numbers. Nick has a better career OBP. Young has better AVG and SLG, though both have solid numbers in all three. Nick strikes out slightly more often, but walks something like 3 times more often. They are almost even on RBIs and home runs if you adjust for the number of at-bats. So offensively, it is basically a dead heat.
That means, gulp, intangibles. Both are considered leaders and good clubhouse influences from what I have read. But Young is clearly seen as a leader and a mentor for some of the 'project' players like Dukes. That is a role that almost nobody else in baseball and certainly nobody in DC can fill in quite the same fashion. Also, even though Young's age works against him as a longer term solution, it works for him in a strange way that he is a less desirable trade quantity. Nick, as a still semi-young or at least baseball middle-aged player has more trade value.
The Nats have moved Chris Marrero, the former outfield prospect to 1B. This seems to be the organization's attempt to give a kid with limited speed and outfield defense a shot to use his good bat at the Major League level. Chris hit a combined .275 with 23 homers at Hagerstown Low-A and Potomac High-A last season. He is just now trying 1B. He will not be ready this season. He probably won't be ready next season. But if he is going to be the First Baseman of the Future, it will probably happen in 2010. Oh, and Dimitri is signed through the 2009 season with an option for 2010. Funny how that works, isn't it?
So, it looks like Nick, if healthy, will be traded in favor of Dimitri assuming he is healthy and last year wasn't a total fluke. But in either case, don't get too attached, both of them are really not more than a 1 or 2 season holder until we can find a younger, maybe more powerful, first baseman. But for now, its going to be Da Meat bobble night, and praying that he can hide Dukes' cell phone all season long.
Season Ticket Blues
I got an email today in the account that I get my junk mail sent to. It was from the Nationals and had a subject that mentioned both season tickets and a "Special Bonus". Needless to say, my interest was peaked. I opened the email and to my surprise I found that the Nationals were going to try and hock season tickets at a special Postseason get-together at the ESPN Zone. Everyond would be there: Stan, Jim, ummm did I mention Stan? Anyway, that isn't all, all new season ticket holders that sign up and pay a deposit during a special hour either online or at the ESPN Zone get a goodie bag from the Nats! It includes:
• A Nationals game-used baseball
• An MP3 player
• A Teddy Roosevelt bobblehead
• A red curly W New Era hat
So aparently the answer to the often asked question, "How are season ticket sales going?" is "anemic to poor". That would be the only reason that the Nats are dumping a whole bag of trinkets on someone, anyone who will sign up. And you don't even have to go anywhere; do it online and you still get the goodies!!
This means that sales are going poorly, and so, for the sake of the team, I hope that a little stunt like this results in a bump in season ticket sales. I want them to do well, I want the park to be full, I want a big, happy long-lasting season ticket holder base for the Nats.
Which brings me to my next question: What about all of us that ARE season ticket holders? I understand that gimmicks exist and are used to put people over the top, but I also seem to remember a lot of talk from Stan about how important the season ticket holders are, "life-blood of the franchise" and all that. So Stan, where is my game-used ball? You have had my deposit for months and the only thing that I get is the possibility of a slightly better seat, but even that doesn't seem like such a big deal if you are pulling this to get more folks to sign up. So I ask again: Where is my game used ball? We didn't see many of those neat little things in the outfield seats at RFK where baseballs were the Holy Grail and I once saw a man dive over three rows of seats for the solitary t-shirt that "Clint" managed to actually fire to the rabble and masses in the cheap seats.
I would have bought my tickets with or without a gimmick, but I feel like the "perks" that were promised to season ticket holders have been slow in coming, or non-existent. There was no picnic this year, there were no benefits, there were no cheaper to purchase ticket deals. Where was it all? I don't want much Stan, and in fact, if you hadn't brought it up I wouldn't care at all! But since you did, I think it needs to be addressed: I want my game-used ball.
• A Nationals game-used baseball
• An MP3 player
• A Teddy Roosevelt bobblehead
• A red curly W New Era hat
So aparently the answer to the often asked question, "How are season ticket sales going?" is "anemic to poor". That would be the only reason that the Nats are dumping a whole bag of trinkets on someone, anyone who will sign up. And you don't even have to go anywhere; do it online and you still get the goodies!!
This means that sales are going poorly, and so, for the sake of the team, I hope that a little stunt like this results in a bump in season ticket sales. I want them to do well, I want the park to be full, I want a big, happy long-lasting season ticket holder base for the Nats.
Which brings me to my next question: What about all of us that ARE season ticket holders? I understand that gimmicks exist and are used to put people over the top, but I also seem to remember a lot of talk from Stan about how important the season ticket holders are, "life-blood of the franchise" and all that. So Stan, where is my game-used ball? You have had my deposit for months and the only thing that I get is the possibility of a slightly better seat, but even that doesn't seem like such a big deal if you are pulling this to get more folks to sign up. So I ask again: Where is my game used ball? We didn't see many of those neat little things in the outfield seats at RFK where baseballs were the Holy Grail and I once saw a man dive over three rows of seats for the solitary t-shirt that "Clint" managed to actually fire to the rabble and masses in the cheap seats.
I would have bought my tickets with or without a gimmick, but I feel like the "perks" that were promised to season ticket holders have been slow in coming, or non-existent. There was no picnic this year, there were no benefits, there were no cheaper to purchase ticket deals. Where was it all? I don't want much Stan, and in fact, if you hadn't brought it up I wouldn't care at all! But since you did, I think it needs to be addressed: I want my game-used ball.
New Ballpark thoughts
As I watched the Discovery Channel's inside look at our new Park, I got to thinking. So why is it that I had to stumble onto this program. I mean, I read the blogs regularly, I check the website daily, I get emails, I have season tickets, and yet I didn't hear a thing about this. The only thing that showed up was an ex post facto mention on the Journal. Though for those that are interested, Screech's Best Friend does have some info on the statues at the new park. In fact a brief review of the Natosphere found NOTHING regarding the show.
While this isn't the end of the universe, I do find it strange and depressing that the team made little to no effort to advertise this show to the fans on any level. And there is no excuse for it. The team produced a bunch of footage and access for the program (Build it Bigger), and even gave Schneider a cameo on it at old RFK.
The utter lack of any communication about a free and fairly good program regarding the Nats on national TV only goes to reinforce the concept that the Nationals do not have an actual, living, breathing, marketing department.
For those of you that are interested and didn't follow the above links to either the show's site, or the Journal, here are the dates that the program will be replayed. Watch. Revel. Enjoy.
While this isn't the end of the universe, I do find it strange and depressing that the team made little to no effort to advertise this show to the fans on any level. And there is no excuse for it. The team produced a bunch of footage and access for the program (Build it Bigger), and even gave Schneider a cameo on it at old RFK.
The utter lack of any communication about a free and fairly good program regarding the Nats on national TV only goes to reinforce the concept that the Nationals do not have an actual, living, breathing, marketing department.
For those of you that are interested and didn't follow the above links to either the show's site, or the Journal, here are the dates that the program will be replayed. Watch. Revel. Enjoy.
A Case for Cordero
With the season now over and the playoffs more than underway, I finally decided that now would be the time to post on a topic that has been under consideration among Nats fans for as long as there have been Nats fans: Chad "the Chief" Cordero's durability and longevity as a closer.
This last season, Chad recorded 37 saves, while blowing 9. Now, 9 is a lot, and arguably too many, but it isn't the kind of numbers that should have a closer considered "done" and have people calling for his replacement or trade. So before everyone gets all up in arms over how Chad is done and he never could get a 1-2-3 inning so lets get rid of him, stop and look at the number of blown saves among the other Top 10 closers:
7, 8, 7, 7, 6, 2, 6, 4, 6
Now I was lazy and didn't include names, but sufficed to say that some of the gods of NL closers are on that list. And they aren't the guy who only blew 2.
So what does this show us? It shows that Chad, who admitted to struggling during his grandmother's passing, still recorded a huge number of saves on a losing club and only blew 2 more saves than 40% of the Top 10. He only blew 3 more than 70%. That is simply astounding. While Chad has not been nearly as overpowering in his relatively short career, it should be remembered that he has and continues to get the job done with numbers that are comparable to the best in the Senior Circuit. So what does this mean?
It means that the Nats really do need to stick to their guns. Chad is a closer, plain and simple. He should only be traded for closer type levels, nothing less.
This last season, Chad recorded 37 saves, while blowing 9. Now, 9 is a lot, and arguably too many, but it isn't the kind of numbers that should have a closer considered "done" and have people calling for his replacement or trade. So before everyone gets all up in arms over how Chad is done and he never could get a 1-2-3 inning so lets get rid of him, stop and look at the number of blown saves among the other Top 10 closers:
7, 8, 7, 7, 6, 2, 6, 4, 6
Now I was lazy and didn't include names, but sufficed to say that some of the gods of NL closers are on that list. And they aren't the guy who only blew 2.
So what does this show us? It shows that Chad, who admitted to struggling during his grandmother's passing, still recorded a huge number of saves on a losing club and only blew 2 more saves than 40% of the Top 10. He only blew 3 more than 70%. That is simply astounding. While Chad has not been nearly as overpowering in his relatively short career, it should be remembered that he has and continues to get the job done with numbers that are comparable to the best in the Senior Circuit. So what does this mean?
It means that the Nats really do need to stick to their guns. Chad is a closer, plain and simple. He should only be traded for closer type levels, nothing less.
Home and Away
So, with the pain that is Atlanta now only a Delta flight of a memory, lets look back on what was an important home stand and will be an important trip to Miami. First, the 5-1 home stand was a showing of why the Nationals are not nearly the worst team in baseball this year, let alone history. Now, I was out of town, so that meant only limited internet review and no actual watching of the living bobble head series. But I did live the dream during the Marlins series. What we say is a team that was happy at home, wanted to stay out of last, and played well against mediocre opponents.
The Result: bad wins against bad teams. None of the Florida games were serious blow outs, and all of them seemed to show that the Nats were a better, though not by much, team than the Fish. Then go to Turner Field. Now our bad play turns into ugly and pathetic losses. The main reasons for this was not only the lack of offense, a chronic problem, but the defense that made average little league teams look good. Zimmerman needs to figure it out. I know games like that happen. But he made repeated errors in back to back games and looked worse than a September call up. Need to fix that. Now, FLop. He not only looked bad, but didn't look like he cared. He doesn't talk to the media, only reinforcing the lack of concern. Plus, I'm beginning to see Jimenez as a serious offensive and defensive replacement for SS. That is not a good sign. But what it shows is that FLop needs to show a little bit of pop (or contact) with the bat if we are to put up with the multiple errors every game. It like Wily Mo, I can almost stomach the 2,503 strikeouts per season when he hits a home run every other plate appearance. But with Lopez hitting weak numbers, playing poor defense even for him and not even seeming to care about the issue, it means that I have to see him as not being part of the long-term future. But that means that Belliard becomes an everyday player with Guzman for next season. I don't see that as a real solution. Ronnie has shown what he is this year: a solid player with decent defense and a .270-80 BA. Fine. Put that on the bench and make us a contender. But there is nobody in the farm system and no one on the roster that is likely to help us out in this middle infield. So look for a replacement for Lopez in the off season, or at least someone brought in to remind him to actually try in the Spring. Now onto Florida and a hopeful nail in the coffin for the last place Marlins.
The Result: bad wins against bad teams. None of the Florida games were serious blow outs, and all of them seemed to show that the Nats were a better, though not by much, team than the Fish. Then go to Turner Field. Now our bad play turns into ugly and pathetic losses. The main reasons for this was not only the lack of offense, a chronic problem, but the defense that made average little league teams look good. Zimmerman needs to figure it out. I know games like that happen. But he made repeated errors in back to back games and looked worse than a September call up. Need to fix that. Now, FLop. He not only looked bad, but didn't look like he cared. He doesn't talk to the media, only reinforcing the lack of concern. Plus, I'm beginning to see Jimenez as a serious offensive and defensive replacement for SS. That is not a good sign. But what it shows is that FLop needs to show a little bit of pop (or contact) with the bat if we are to put up with the multiple errors every game. It like Wily Mo, I can almost stomach the 2,503 strikeouts per season when he hits a home run every other plate appearance. But with Lopez hitting weak numbers, playing poor defense even for him and not even seeming to care about the issue, it means that I have to see him as not being part of the long-term future. But that means that Belliard becomes an everyday player with Guzman for next season. I don't see that as a real solution. Ronnie has shown what he is this year: a solid player with decent defense and a .270-80 BA. Fine. Put that on the bench and make us a contender. But there is nobody in the farm system and no one on the roster that is likely to help us out in this middle infield. So look for a replacement for Lopez in the off season, or at least someone brought in to remind him to actually try in the Spring. Now onto Florida and a hopeful nail in the coffin for the last place Marlins.
The Nook Logan Experiment
OK, I know that I'm likely not the first to write about this, but with Fick due back from berevement any day now, the status of the various center field experiments need so be discussed.
Watson, as I discussed earlier, had to come up and show that he could hit in the bigs. He has, by and large in the last ocuple of days, shown that he can. As Barry discussed in his blog, Watson is also out of options and would have to clear waivers if he goes back down. That's not likely to happen. So, if Watson stays, and he should stay, then who goes down to make room for Fick? I see only two real candidates. Tony Batista and Nook Logan. Tony would be an option, but then you have a team that is really heavy on outfields and lacks any serious options in the infield.
Watson, as I discussed earlier, had to come up and show that he could hit in the bigs. He has, by and large in the last ocuple of days, shown that he can. As Barry discussed in his blog, Watson is also out of options and would have to clear waivers if he goes back down. That's not likely to happen. So, if Watson stays, and he should stay, then who goes down to make room for Fick? I see only two real candidates. Tony Batista and Nook Logan. Tony would be an option, but then you have a team that is really heavy on outfields and lacks any serious options in the infield.
Is Cleveland still owned by that lady from Major League?
Since we have now finished receiving our just deserts out behind the woodshed, lets just take a minute and consider what has happened recently.
1. We have been playing, as is so oft-reported, above .500 ball recently
2. We are better than not one, not two, but THREE other major (that's right I said major) league clubs.
3. We swept the O's in Camden and they fired their manager. hahahahahaha.
4. We then proceeded to get swept (and abused) by the reigning AL Champs and .300 BA Tigers.
So what does all this tell us? That we are a really bad team with no hope of competing in the 2007 or probably 2008 season. But it also shows us that we have the ability to string together wins and play at least as well as one team with a payroll that is $60 million dollars more.
But looking ahead to the Indians series this weekend, when I get to go and sit in my real seats as opposed to the impostor ones that I had for the Tigers series, which, even though a way better view than I normally get disoriented me without the need for Miller Lite for at least the first 3 innings, oh yeah the Indians. We need to see what we have to learn. First, we get to see if this team can bounce back from a hard set of losses after a fairly lengthy decent streak. I'm going to be an optimist. I think that they can. I was there for the 9-8 loss and it was good to see that even though they put themselves in that whole, they tried to dig out of it. It shows character. So we have limited talent, but plenty of moxie. I also think that it will give Bowie and Basik what could be the last shot they have at showing why they belong here and not with the Clippers. Which leads me to my next point. It is very nearly July. Trader Jim has been hording his roll-over minutes from the New AT&T for months and is ready to spend them. So who is going to be gone by this time next month? Here's my Top 5.
1. Dimitri Young-Traded to Minnesota
2. Nook Logan-AAA Columbus
3. Micah Bowie-traded, don't have any idea where, but somebody will want a lefty.
4. Mike Basik-AAA
5. Ronnie Belliard- St. Louis (yes, that's right)
Starting with Young. He's gotta go. I think he has played great, I think he is hitting the cover off the ball, but he will ultimately get shipped off.
Nook. What can you do with Nook? Well, for starters, nobody is going to want him. He will get sent down at some point because he is taking up space. If Watson shows any ability at all with the bat, I think that you could see Fick returning from bereavement as the end of the Nook Logan Experience.
B&B-I just have a feeling that they will go either as part of a deal, or to make space in the big club. I don't really have any reason for this one, just a gut feeling.
Belliard. Now, everyone knows that he is another catch and release veteran for Bowden. But I only put him on this list because I don't think that anyone will bite at that 500 lbs. tuna that Trader Jim has named Cristian Guzman. If someone would take him, and most, or at least part, of his salary then Guuuuuz would be out of here. We would play Belliard up the middle and have ended the Guzman era in DC and be waiting for the next thing up the middle.
So, that's it for now. comments, as always, are welcome.
1. We have been playing, as is so oft-reported, above .500 ball recently
2. We are better than not one, not two, but THREE other major (that's right I said major) league clubs.
3. We swept the O's in Camden and they fired their manager. hahahahahaha.
4. We then proceeded to get swept (and abused) by the reigning AL Champs and .300 BA Tigers.
So what does all this tell us? That we are a really bad team with no hope of competing in the 2007 or probably 2008 season. But it also shows us that we have the ability to string together wins and play at least as well as one team with a payroll that is $60 million dollars more.
But looking ahead to the Indians series this weekend, when I get to go and sit in my real seats as opposed to the impostor ones that I had for the Tigers series, which, even though a way better view than I normally get disoriented me without the need for Miller Lite for at least the first 3 innings, oh yeah the Indians. We need to see what we have to learn. First, we get to see if this team can bounce back from a hard set of losses after a fairly lengthy decent streak. I'm going to be an optimist. I think that they can. I was there for the 9-8 loss and it was good to see that even though they put themselves in that whole, they tried to dig out of it. It shows character. So we have limited talent, but plenty of moxie. I also think that it will give Bowie and Basik what could be the last shot they have at showing why they belong here and not with the Clippers. Which leads me to my next point. It is very nearly July. Trader Jim has been hording his roll-over minutes from the New AT&T for months and is ready to spend them. So who is going to be gone by this time next month? Here's my Top 5.
1. Dimitri Young-Traded to Minnesota
2. Nook Logan-AAA Columbus
3. Micah Bowie-traded, don't have any idea where, but somebody will want a lefty.
4. Mike Basik-AAA
5. Ronnie Belliard- St. Louis (yes, that's right)
Starting with Young. He's gotta go. I think he has played great, I think he is hitting the cover off the ball, but he will ultimately get shipped off.
Nook. What can you do with Nook? Well, for starters, nobody is going to want him. He will get sent down at some point because he is taking up space. If Watson shows any ability at all with the bat, I think that you could see Fick returning from bereavement as the end of the Nook Logan Experience.
B&B-I just have a feeling that they will go either as part of a deal, or to make space in the big club. I don't really have any reason for this one, just a gut feeling.
Belliard. Now, everyone knows that he is another catch and release veteran for Bowden. But I only put him on this list because I don't think that anyone will bite at that 500 lbs. tuna that Trader Jim has named Cristian Guzman. If someone would take him, and most, or at least part, of his salary then Guuuuuz would be out of here. We would play Belliard up the middle and have ended the Guzman era in DC and be waiting for the next thing up the middle.
So, that's it for now. comments, as always, are welcome.
OK, a new post finally
Alright, I'm finally done with law school, have a week before the bar review classes begin, and the family has left town after graduation. As a result, I can finally post again. And while I have been lax on the posts, I certainly haven't missed the last couple of weeks of baseball. I mean, hom cooking is supposed to be good, but 1-8 followed by 7-3 from a club that is supposed to lose 130 games?!? I think that this just goes to show that the national prognosticators don't really know anything about baseball if it doesn't have Sox in the name or wear pinstripes. But that is a story for another time. Since the big Nats aren't playing on Memorial Day, I have taken the advice of the pamphlet that came with some season ticket junk in the mail and decided to go watch the baby P-Nats play some real baseball real close. And as I type we have a 5-2 lead over the Cards and Power Austin just made a spectacular catch in right field. More amazing than the diving catch on the warning track was the fact that he turned it into a double play at first base with an outfield assist! I love this game. (Man, I'm just a walking slogan right now). Ok, there really isn't anything serious in this post, just a check in and prove that I'm alive (not that anyone really reads this). But since I'm going to watch Class A this weekend, I figured that I would do a comparison and a note on my impressions from the kids that are the real future of this club, with no disrespect to the guys at Columbus or Harrisburg. So more after the weekend, but enjoy the games against your World Series champs for this weekend and hope for another good couple of wins.
It's almost time!
It's that time of year again, when the bright, shiny new Spring Training begins. Catchers and pitchers report, the countdown to the first preseason game shows up on mlb.com, John Patterson tells everyone that will listen (or feign interest) that he is 110% and this year is the year. Ahh, the sweet comfort of familiarity.
But with everyone starting to trickle into Viera, and myself back from finishing the final semester of my Master's program, it is probably long past time to do a Spring Training intro. We'll start with the pitching.
The Starting 5, at least according to Bill Ladson, will be Patterson, Hill, Bergmann, Lannan, and Chico, presumably in that order. I think Ladson, as he is prone to do, is either misstating or overstating the case for starting pitching. So, as with all things Bill Ladson, lets take this with a grain of salt and review the pitching rotation as I see it on March 30. I think that Hill and Bergmann are virtual locks, assuming that they show up and look at least average. Add to that Chico, who is owed and I seriously mean OWED a spot after being the only reliable arm that could get trotted out every five days for the entire season.
Lannan could be a member of the 5, but we only saw a little of him and he may not be ready, or someone else could be more ready to take what I consider to be the #5 spot in the order. Lets remember that at this time last year he was an A ball pitcher that wasn't on anybody's radar. I think he could be solid, but don't know if he is yet.
That leaves Patterson. Anyone who was a Nats fan in 2005 knows that John Patterson has the ability and the drive to be a top of the rotation pitcher on this team, or most any team in the NL. But that was 2005. We drafted Zimmerman in 2005. Chico, Lannan, Mock, Clippard, Detweiler, and a whole list of other pitchers were a mere gleam in the eye of some scout somewhere. This is 2008. I don't want to ask what you have done for me lately, but where the hell have you been for the last 2 seasons John?
Oh, yeah, Patterson was doing a coast to coast tour of doctors, healers, homeopathic treaters, witch doctors, and everyone in between that would have made a Super Tuesday campaign envious. And after John have nerve treatment and learned to breath through his eyelids, he ended up just getting more surgery and not pitching for a really long time.
So as far as Patterson in the rotation is concerned, I think that if he shows up and pitches, fine, give him the second game of the season, never ever ever let him pitch the home opener, and be happy about it. But if he sucks, which is a likely possibility if history is our guide, then we have other arms to look to.
Redding: Tim Redding was my second favorite surprise last season (after Dimitri). He showed some poise and confidence that was missing from the rest of the arms that started games and he also showed a fastball and level of control that made Don Sutton giddy as a school girl. I think he shouldn't be counted out before anyone has even thrown a side session in front of the coaches.
Detweiler: Last year's big draft success means that Ross is definately in consideration. But I think that he has to start the season at AA Harrisburg, if not in Potomac. You might see him later, but I think that this is more an end of the year or everyone else in broken sort of solution.
Clippard: Former Yanks property, I don't really know too much about him. I would assume that unless he shows an absolutely stunning arm that you will either see him in the high Minors or the bullpen to start the season.
Mock and the entire team from New Hampshire: Now, Mock didn't play in New Hampshire at the Low A Lake Monsters, but in truth he didn't play much at all last year. The supposed better half of the Livo trade still has to prove to be healthy, and likely needs another season in the Minors to help with his development. I haven't seen him pitch though, every time I went to Potomac he was still on the DL. I don't expect to see him. The Lake Monsters pitching last year was, in a word, filthy. I mean, like 5 guys with ERA under 2, and all sorts of dominant performances. None of these guys are going to make it up, but you might see some of them make a fast move through the program and get a call-up in September. But that is a loooooong way off, for now, don't worry about them unless you really are bored at work.
So what does that mean?
I see the order as:
Hill
Bergmann
Patterson
Redding
Chico
But with everyone starting to trickle into Viera, and myself back from finishing the final semester of my Master's program, it is probably long past time to do a Spring Training intro. We'll start with the pitching.
The Starting 5, at least according to Bill Ladson, will be Patterson, Hill, Bergmann, Lannan, and Chico, presumably in that order. I think Ladson, as he is prone to do, is either misstating or overstating the case for starting pitching. So, as with all things Bill Ladson, lets take this with a grain of salt and review the pitching rotation as I see it on March 30. I think that Hill and Bergmann are virtual locks, assuming that they show up and look at least average. Add to that Chico, who is owed and I seriously mean OWED a spot after being the only reliable arm that could get trotted out every five days for the entire season.
Lannan could be a member of the 5, but we only saw a little of him and he may not be ready, or someone else could be more ready to take what I consider to be the #5 spot in the order. Lets remember that at this time last year he was an A ball pitcher that wasn't on anybody's radar. I think he could be solid, but don't know if he is yet.
That leaves Patterson. Anyone who was a Nats fan in 2005 knows that John Patterson has the ability and the drive to be a top of the rotation pitcher on this team, or most any team in the NL. But that was 2005. We drafted Zimmerman in 2005. Chico, Lannan, Mock, Clippard, Detweiler, and a whole list of other pitchers were a mere gleam in the eye of some scout somewhere. This is 2008. I don't want to ask what you have done for me lately, but where the hell have you been for the last 2 seasons John?
Oh, yeah, Patterson was doing a coast to coast tour of doctors, healers, homeopathic treaters, witch doctors, and everyone in between that would have made a Super Tuesday campaign envious. And after John have nerve treatment and learned to breath through his eyelids, he ended up just getting more surgery and not pitching for a really long time.
So as far as Patterson in the rotation is concerned, I think that if he shows up and pitches, fine, give him the second game of the season, never ever ever let him pitch the home opener, and be happy about it. But if he sucks, which is a likely possibility if history is our guide, then we have other arms to look to.
Redding: Tim Redding was my second favorite surprise last season (after Dimitri). He showed some poise and confidence that was missing from the rest of the arms that started games and he also showed a fastball and level of control that made Don Sutton giddy as a school girl. I think he shouldn't be counted out before anyone has even thrown a side session in front of the coaches.
Detweiler: Last year's big draft success means that Ross is definately in consideration. But I think that he has to start the season at AA Harrisburg, if not in Potomac. You might see him later, but I think that this is more an end of the year or everyone else in broken sort of solution.
Clippard: Former Yanks property, I don't really know too much about him. I would assume that unless he shows an absolutely stunning arm that you will either see him in the high Minors or the bullpen to start the season.
Mock and the entire team from New Hampshire: Now, Mock didn't play in New Hampshire at the Low A Lake Monsters, but in truth he didn't play much at all last year. The supposed better half of the Livo trade still has to prove to be healthy, and likely needs another season in the Minors to help with his development. I haven't seen him pitch though, every time I went to Potomac he was still on the DL. I don't expect to see him. The Lake Monsters pitching last year was, in a word, filthy. I mean, like 5 guys with ERA under 2, and all sorts of dominant performances. None of these guys are going to make it up, but you might see some of them make a fast move through the program and get a call-up in September. But that is a loooooong way off, for now, don't worry about them unless you really are bored at work.
So what does that mean?
I see the order as:
Hill
Bergmann
Patterson
Redding
Chico
The Wily Mo Connection
OK, so now a guy with a career reputation, with number to back it up, as a prolific strike out goes 3 for 4 and absolutely kills one out at "The Juice Box." So this raises a huge new question mark for the Nationals outfield. Alright, fine, Bowden found the 40 HR bat that we need, even though it came along with a ton of Ks. But the real question is: where do you put him? He is, at best, a mediocre, and more likely a poor defensive corner outfielder, who wants to play right field. The problem is that Kearns is the Nats right fielder of the present and future. I know that Kearns hasn't been putting up the numbers at all this season, but I don't think that you can give up on him regardless. Church has also failed to meet the expectations of everyone that said, "Just give him a full season, he'll show you." But has he done so poorly all around that you replace him with Pena? I don't know, but I think that such a decision comes too soon. Plus none of this solves the issue of CF, which has been a revolving door for the Nats ever since they moved to DC. And it is a problem that still hasn't been solved and I don't think will be until 2009 at the earliest.
As for the long term impact of Wily Mo, its still way to early to tell. How will he handle RFK in the long run, or more importantly, the NEW ballpark next season? Will he continue to hit for average and not strike out? Will his power truly help turn this line-up around offensively? I think that the answers are going to be bad, then just poorly; no; and not as much as we need because of the previous 'no'.
Despite this, the trade was a good one. We got a big, although flawed bat for a minor league 1B that is probably only going to cost us one minor league reliever. So we basically are going to get Pena for a Winston Abreu.
Chico Gets the Hook
So Matt Chico's time in the bigs, at east for now, is over. Chico has been sent down to AAA after another lackluster start where he committed the trifecta of pitching sins by throwing too many pitches, walking too many batters, and going less than 5 innings. The move makes room for Wily Mo, who will likely be starting in left field.
I have to feel bad for Chico. His most recent starts have been poor to terrible, but the kid has managed to take the ball every five days and go out there and at least try. And with his demotion, the Nats have now eliminated the last member of the Opening Day rotation. I would assume the goal over sending him down for a couple of weeks is to get him the chance to work on his control and mechanics, which have been seriously struggling and causing most of his problems. Hopefully we will see good numbers in the two or three starts out of Chico and not a collapse that sometimes comes from a demotion like this.
But I would anticipate that Matt will be back with the big club in September as one of the call-ups. In fact I think that the club owes it to him to come back up and at east keep him with the club and give him a couple more innings in September. I understand the need to see more of Lannan, Hanrahan, and possibly Bowie if he returns, but Chico has been the closest thing that this team has had to an iron man on the pitching staff and deserves at least a little prize for his efforts. Plus, even with his bad starts, the kid posted an ERA of under 5.00, better than some of the pitchers on the '06 staff. So Matt, good luck and see you again in September, and then again in February when you get a shot to pitch that opening series in the South Capitol home.