tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18505255136297641932012-01-27T02:25:01.438-05:00Dedicated to the consumption and constructive criticism of the Washington Nationals.Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.comBlogger14481100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-59624236738952461802011-10-03T11:55:00.000-04:002011-10-03T11:55:18.146-04:00

I started what eventually became Nats News Network on March 14, 2007.  It was originally titled Bottomfeeder Baseball Blog, and I attempted to write about the Nats, Orioles, fantasy baseball, Capitals and other stuff.  It was not very good and nobody read it.  About that time, I also started writing about the Nats and Caps at DC Sports Box, and I would lke to thank Al Santos for allowing me that

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-51042024314038330472011-09-30T15:27:00.000-04:002011-09-30T15:27:49.469-04:00

I went through this exercise last year with pretty good success, so we'll do it again.  Let's take a look at every player on the 40-man roster and evaluate if/how they fit in for 2012. ABSOLUTE KEEPERS Ryan Zimmerman, 3B:  The Face needs to have a good, healthy season in 2012 as he becomes primed for his free agent season in 2013. Danny Espinosa, 2B:  The rookie went cold in July/August but

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-63133430865892326152011-09-29T13:11:00.000-04:002011-09-29T13:11:21.098-04:00

For the third year in a row, the D.C. Chapter of the Internet Baseball Writers Association announced their player achievement awards.  It's worth a look to go over to the website and see how the group voted. Here were my picks (winner in bold; my votes for first, second, third): Goose Goslin MVP (Michael Morse):  Morse, Jordan Zimmermann, Tyler Clippard.  With the dearth of offense this season,

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-23824753113110046092011-09-28T21:30:00.000-04:002011-09-28T21:30:45.100-04:00

STRASBURG STRIKES OUT 10 IN SIX ONE-HIT INNINGS In an appropriately fitting way to end the Washington Nationals' second-best season record-wise since the move from Montreal in 2005, the man they expect to lead them even higher, right handed starter Stephen Strasburg, was simply dominant in a 3-1 win over the Florida Marlins, striking out 10 in six innings, limiting the home team to one hit and

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-54529729331473255712011-09-28T12:43:00.003-04:002011-09-28T12:53:02.902-04:00

At the end of spring training, I published a post entitled "Nats News Network's 2011 Predictions Edition", and followed that up the next day with "The Great Michael Morse Debate", where I predicted that Michael Morse would be the Nats "Biggest Disappointment" in 2011.  That opinion wasn't necessarily based on his projected performance, but Nats fans expectations for Morse heading into the season

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-78590938250983285662011-09-27T10:39:00.000-04:002011-09-27T10:39:09.419-04:00

When they needed him most -- and just like he has all season -- Michael Morse came though.  Trailing 4-3 with two outs in the top of the ninth, Morse jacked his 30th home run of the season, leading the Washington Nationals not only to a 6-4 win over the staggering Florida Marlins, but a clinch of third place for the first time for this franchise since the move in 2005. The Nats record is 79-80

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-76230441834318213872011-09-25T20:51:00.000-04:002011-09-25T20:51:55.552-04:00

"I think he grew up a little bit today." Davey Johnson, on starter Ross Detwiler. Detwiler delivers in another impressive performance. (photo by Cheryl Nichols) In his previous start, left-hander Ross Detwiler held the Philadelphia Phillies down for 7 1/3 innings, giving up no runs and just three hits over that period.  What would he do for an encore?  Taking on an Atlanta Braves team fighting

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-8421846792953067712011-09-23T15:40:00.000-04:002011-09-23T15:40:21.702-04:00

I have now read so many reviews and critiques of the "Moneyball" movie, I feel like I've seen it already.  Of course, I read the book so I know how it turns out. The latest "review" I've read isn't a review at all, since it's author, like me, hasn't seen the movie yet.  Of course, he claims he won't see it out of principal.  Jason Whitlock is a veteran sportswriter, currently employed by

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-83947626834622581572011-09-22T22:30:00.000-04:002011-09-22T22:30:30.031-04:00

So that happened. The Washington Nationals continued to play some of their best baseball all year, as Brad Peacock pitched 5 2/3 shutout innings to lead the Nats to a 6-1 win over N.L. East champs -- and bitter rivals -- the Philadelphia Phillies.  The victory completes a four-game sweep in Philadelphia, and moves the Nats to within three games of .500 with six left to play. The Nationals have

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-69781350873222632072011-09-22T12:21:00.000-04:002011-09-22T12:21:20.493-04:00

I'm sure if I've computed this wrong plenty of folks will jump all over me, but the Nats magic number to clinch third place in the division is five with seven games remaining.  Any combination of Nats wins and Mets losses equal to five will allow the Nats to finish in sole possession of third for the first time since the move in 2005. The Nats currently hold a 2 1/2 game lead over the Mets, and

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-81372279859846977552011-09-20T23:21:00.001-04:002011-09-20T23:27:40.239-04:00

This four-game series with the Philadelphia Phillies means absolutely nothing to the home team, as they have already clinched the N.L. East title.  But to the Washington Nationals, every game they play is another step toward respectability, and with eight games left they sit just four games below .500, courtesy of sweeping a day-nigth doubleheader from the Phillies, by the scores of 4-3 and 4-0.

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-85217365964928459832011-09-18T18:23:00.002-04:002011-09-18T18:23:57.299-04:00

Until he ran out of gas a little bit in the seventh inning, Chien-Ming Wang was his ground ball inducing best Sunday, getting seven such outs on the day. And with increasing confidence in his slider, throwing it more as a swing-and-miss pitch with two strikes, the Taiwan native also struck out five without walking a batter in the Washington Nationals 4-3 win over the Florida Marlins, before

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-51415187304518369992011-09-17T00:46:00.001-04:002011-09-17T00:49:09.395-04:00

Javier Vazquez dominated Nats in 3-0 shutout. (photo by C.Nichols) Javier Vazquez was once a very good pitcher. Lately, he’s been on a bit of a roll, resurrecting some of the skill that once made him one of the toughest pitchers in the league. Last night, he continued that roll, dominating the Washington Nationals, shutting them out on five hits, delivering a 3-0 victory to his Florida

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-11576103348146219972011-09-15T21:27:00.000-04:002011-09-15T21:27:34.427-04:00

Washington Nationals rookie left-hander Tommy Milone is a control artist, rarely walking more than a batter per game. In fact, in his 24 starts for Triple-A Syracuse this season, he walked exactly one batter per game while striking out 9.4. Those are impressive numbers for any Triple-A pitcher, let alone one that has a hard time reaching the upper-80′s with his fastball. Thursday, Milone’s

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-73874147242358999062011-09-15T13:39:00.001-04:002011-09-15T13:49:32.352-04:00

I've been a proponent of Ian Desmond in this space since before he got called up to the Major Leagues.  The opinions of the Washington Nationals brass of the lanky shortstop are almost legend, going back to when former GM Jim Bowden compared him (favorably) to Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter.  Current GM Mike Rizzo thinks nothing less of him, and field manager Davey Johnson is an advocate as well.

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-1571877219967571752011-09-14T14:40:00.002-04:002011-09-14T14:53:04.184-04:00

According to eyewitness accounts and this post by The Washington Post's Dan Steinberg, the Washington Nationals have installed poles along the fences down each base line at Nats Park to hold up what a team spokesperson described to Steinberg as safety netting during batting practice.  The poles appear to be a good 20 feet high and run from the corners of the camera wells at the far end of the

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-92166779091417749992011-09-14T12:22:00.001-04:002011-10-15T07:47:11.231-04:00

Via press release: The Washington Nationals today released their 2012 schedule, which includes 81 home dates, beginning with Washington’s 79th home opener since 1901 on Thursday, April 12 vs. Cincinnati and is highlighted by a three-game interleague visit from the New York Yankees and holiday matchups against the San Francisco Giants (Independence Day) and Chicago Cubs (Labor Day). The Nationals

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-11891529848025073942011-09-13T23:47:00.000-04:002011-09-13T23:47:48.483-04:00

Craig Stammen has filled a lot of roles for the Washington Nationals over the last couple of years.  Rarely has offensive catalyst been in his job description though.  But last night he not only earned the win in relief pitching 1 1/3 hitless innings, he also started the winning tally with a one-out single in the seventh and came around to score on a Ryan Zimmerman base hit, giving the Nats a 3-2

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-24993828222675121992011-09-13T11:22:00.000-04:002011-09-13T11:22:18.783-04:00

It must have felt like a ton of bricks sitting on his chest.  Steve Lombardozzi made his MLB debut seven days ago, but since then the player that made a name for himself in the minor leagues for his ability to get on base had done so just once, a walk in his first plate appearance, since his recall from AAA-Syracuse.  His next 15 at bats ended in the same manner: with Lombo taking a right turn

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-66503684691156362002011-09-11T22:52:00.001-04:002011-09-12T10:56:11.647-04:00

We'll never forget. (C.Nichols/NatsNewsNetwork) STRASBURG "STRUGGLES" BUT STRIKES OUT FOUR IN THREE INNINGS In his first start returning from Tommy John surgery, the Washington Nationals' Stephen Strasburg looked dominant, toying with batters and pitching efficiently, needing just 56 pitches to get through five innings of shutout, two-hit ball.  Sunday, before the smallest Major League crowd

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-38683724305284119432011-09-11T15:18:00.000-04:002011-09-11T15:18:37.748-04:00

Stephen Strasburg, making his second start of the season following Tommy John surgery and rehab, was not nearly as sharp as his first outing, but he did throw 57 pitches in three innings, allowing one earned run on three hits, no walks and four strikeouts. Strasburg threw one more pitch than he did in his first outing, a shutout, two-hit, five inning stint. The right-hander struggled with his

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-71227454926505731912011-09-11T00:31:00.001-04:002011-09-11T00:40:50.261-04:00

In the grand scheme of things, the Washington Nationals 9-3 loss to the Houston Astros Saturday night was just another loss -- No. 77 of the season -- in another losing season.  But the way they went about it was tough to watch. Last night's game was one of the more demoralizing losses of the season. Not just for the runs against, or the poor fielding, or the lack of production (though all three

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-75888483311872297832011-09-10T00:56:00.004-04:002011-09-10T01:02:19.162-04:00

"We didn't actually pound the ball that hard. But, we'll take it." Davey Johnson on last night's win. As has been the case all season, the Washington Nationals just couldn't get enough runners on base.  The few times someone reached, no one could drive them in. But a late substitution for the Houston Astros at third base threw away a ball he had no chance to get an out on, and the Nats ended up

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-84315016697122246232011-09-09T18:35:00.000-04:002011-09-09T18:35:04.530-04:00

Manager Davey Johnson this afternoon laid out the schedule for Stephen Strasburg's remaining starts in the 2011 season.  Using a plan similar to what the team employed with Jordan Zimmermann last season in his rehab from Tommy John surgery, Strasburg will get extra rest between starts down the stretch. Johnson said Strasburg, barring any set-backs or weather problems, will pitch this Sunday, Sept

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-67649463132320361992011-09-08T17:25:00.000-04:002011-09-08T17:25:53.840-04:00

Washington Nationals closer Drew Storen has pitched in a game once since Aug. 28.  It showed today as he had trouble controlling his fastball, as he allowed three runs in the top of the ninth inning of a tied game, leading to a 7-4 loss the the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first game of s double-header at Nats Park. The loss drops the Nats record to 65-76. Storen hit one batter, came close to

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-28478024964486096942011-09-07T02:19:00.003-04:002011-09-07T07:51:44.720-04:00

"He made it look easy." Nats manager Davey Johnson. Stephen Strasburg picked up where he left off 13 months ago. Though the Washington Nationals could not produce a win for Stephen Strasburg in his return, the big right-hander's performance was everything anyone could have hoped for. For five innings, Strasburg owned the pitcher's mound at Nats Park, delighting those that braved the lousy

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-76105814983075530012011-09-06T17:52:00.000-04:002011-09-06T17:52:12.606-04:00

NATIONALS REINSTATE RHP STEPHEN STRASBURG FROM DL & ADD SIX PLAYERS TO ACTIVE ROSTER The Washington Nationals today returned from rehab and reinstated right-handed pitcher Stephen Strasburg from the 60-Day Disabled List, recalled right-handed pitchers Yunesky Maya and Craig Stammen, left-handed pitcher Atahualpa Severino and outfielder Corey Brown from Syracuse of the Triple-A International

Cheryl Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07830926041656122687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-33522505582868408672011-09-06T17:09:00.001-04:002011-09-06T17:15:22.573-04:00

As of this post, the National Weather Service still predicts "100%" chance of rain at 7:05 pm tonight, the scheduled game time for tonight's matchup between the Washington Nationals and the Los Angeles Dodgers. You might have heard that tonight is also supposed to be the return of one Stephen Strasburg to the pitcher's mound after an exhaustive year of surgery, recovery and rehabilitation. But

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-38213457085427748432011-09-06T12:03:00.000-04:002011-09-06T12:03:45.294-04:00

Syracuse Chiefs, AAA International League (2011 Final Record: 66-74, 4th in North Div.) Pitching Report: Brad Meyers: Overlooked because of Brad Peacock and Tom Milone, Brad Meyers has turned in a pretty impressive year on his own. His 2010 was ravaged because of injuries and his one rough patch this year was due to an injury – when he’s been healthy, he’s been just as good as anyone. He improved

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-6416224589471615982011-09-05T19:03:00.000-04:002011-09-05T19:03:23.910-04:00

When Washington Nationals starting pitcher John Lannan gave up back-to-back doubles with one out in the top of the first inning, falling behind 1-0 to the Los Angeles Dodgers, it appeared like it could end up being "one of those days" at Nats Park. Lannan managed to wriggle out of the frame after 27 pitches without surrendering another run, and then the offense stole the show. Ian Desmond,

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-7862024621741040152011-09-04T07:04:00.000-04:002011-09-04T07:04:53.056-04:00

LHP Tom Milone made his MLB debut on Saturday, September 3 and became a superstar by second inning. He earned his first MLB strikeout from Angel Pagan in the top of the second and hit a three-run homer off of the very first pitch he saw in the big leagues! Milone received a standing ovation from the crowd of 34,821 at Nats Park, including some awestruck New York Mets fans. Milone hit Syracuse

Cheryl Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07830926041656122687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-44644975175265559242011-09-03T00:21:00.001-04:002011-09-03T00:35:45.193-04:00

"Do I think our approach is getting better? Yes. But the results aren't there yet."  Manager Davey Johnson, following the Nats ninth loss in ten games. Davey Johnson, as he has done after every loss since he's taken over as manager of the Washington Nationals, looked exasperated and frustrated when he met with the media following a 7-3 loss to the New York Mets last night.  The loss marks the

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-39852593500488406942011-09-02T12:15:00.000-04:002011-09-02T12:15:45.064-04:00

The Washington Nationals have lost eight of their last nine games.  That's a tough thing to read for Nats fans, and a tough thing for manager Davey Johnson and the team to go through.  In fact, it's the third time this season the Nats have lost eight times over a nine game period, joining July 19-29 and May 21-30 as periods of almost absolute futility this season. It's now an established, common

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-58760657089204896722011-08-31T23:36:00.000-04:002011-08-31T23:36:02.883-04:00

Watch enough Major League baseball games and you'll eventually see something you've never seen before.  Like a 15-year veteran pitcher, with 627 plate appearances entering the game, hitting the first home run of his career. Not only did Derek Lowe of the Atlanta Braves hit his first career round-tripper, a line drive over the left field wall on a 3-2 pitch, but he threw six strong innings,

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-89628590446225938532011-08-30T22:52:00.000-04:002011-08-30T22:52:15.302-04:00

The Atlanta Braves are fairly cruising toward a wild-card berth in the upcoming National League playoffs.  They've also been off a few days dealing with the fallout of Hurricane Irene.  So you can imagine if they came in to tonight's game with the Washington Nationals with somewhat of a lack of focus. The Nats used the long-ball to bust this game open in the middle frames, scoring seven runs in

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-22920795657892266692011-08-29T11:55:00.000-04:002011-08-29T11:55:52.200-04:00

Syracuse Chiefs, AAA International League (61-71) Pitching Report: Stephen Strasburg: Strasburg’s rehab start in Syracuse was fantastic, as he had a perfect five innings before giving up two singles in the sixth. He had seven strikeouts and looked like the pitcher who pitched so well last season. Tom Milone: Another great start for Milone, who this time gave up just four hits, one walk and one

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-40767421354567669092011-08-26T23:34:00.000-04:002011-08-26T23:34:18.434-04:00

It's getting to the point when the Washington Nationals come to bat with runners in scoring position, they may as well just lay their bats down. The results would be just about the same. Last night the problem continued, as the Nats went 1-for-13 with runners in scoring position, stranding 10 runners in all, in a 4-3 loss to the Cincinnati Reds before 35,089 at Great American Ballpark. The loss

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-3491605422220549142011-08-26T20:50:00.002-04:002011-08-26T20:51:42.270-04:00

Washington Nationals minor league pitcher Shairon Martis threw a seven-inning no-hitter for the Harrisburg Senators Friday night, beating New Hampshire 3-0.  Martis walked one and struck out nine in the process. C.Nichols/Nats News Network Nats fans may -- or may not -- remember Martis from the summers of 2008 and 2009.  The Curacao native, who threw a no-hitter for the Netherlands in the

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-49444416223431322792011-08-26T17:51:00.000-04:002011-08-26T17:51:00.655-04:00

The Washington Nationals have placed right-handed pitcher Ryan Mattheus (right shoulder strain) on the 15-Day Disabled List.  Mattheus, 27, is 2-2 with six holds and a 2.40 ERA in 32 relief appearances this season with Washington. Bad news for fans: No Katy Perry "Firework" warmup music at Nats Park. Photo © Cheryl Nichols/Nats News Network

Cheryl Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07830926041656122687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-12831870175405745792011-08-25T01:54:00.000-04:002011-08-25T01:54:35.669-04:00

The Washington Nationals followed a familiar script last night.  They got a good performance from their starting pitcher, only to see it wasted from lack of run support, eventually losing 4-2 to the Arizona Diamondbacks, who hold a 2 1/2 game lead over the defending World Series Champion San Francisco Giants in the N.L. West. There are plenty of game recaps from all the usual sources with the

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-10644272220404688572011-08-24T23:48:00.000-04:002011-08-24T23:48:15.456-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 24, 2011 STEPHEN STRASBURG TO MAKE REHAB START IN SYRACUSENationals right-handed phenom is scheduled to start for Chiefs on Saturday, August 27 Syracuse, NY—The Syracuse Chiefs, Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals, are pleased to announce that the Nationals have scheduled

Cheryl Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07830926041656122687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-51847578226767669902011-08-24T13:05:00.001-04:002011-08-24T13:11:13.306-04:00

Scott Boras doesn't mess around. Baseball's super-agent, Scott Boras, was in town yesterday with three of his newer clients, which also happen to be the top three draft picks of the Washington Nationals: 3B Anthony Rendon (No. 6 overall), RHP Alex Meyer (No. 23 overall) and CF Brian Goodwin (No. 34 overall).  It's been a whirlwind for the busiest man in baseball, who has traversed the country

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-54283133168645560232011-08-24T00:58:00.000-04:002011-08-24T00:58:45.977-04:00

Jordan Zimmermann fires in his next-to-last game of the season. (C.Nichols/Nats News Network) Jordan Zimmermann has been the Washington Nationals best starter this season.  Heck, he's been one of the best starters in the National League.  But lack of run support -- a common theme for most of the Nats starting pitchers -- has kept his win-loss record under .500. But a closer examination of

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-71557026269216668882011-08-23T17:09:00.000-04:002011-08-23T17:09:11.537-04:00

It could be a small point, but Monday night we might have actually witnessed where a still-young pitcher and his, um, more-experienced manager had a moment where they built a meaningful trust in one another.  Statheads like me have a tendency to minimize the human contact part of the game, but that type of influence is still strong in Major League clubhouses, especially with "old school" managers

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-47466903424279117302011-08-22T11:06:00.000-04:002011-08-22T11:06:08.536-04:00

Syracuse Chiefs, Triple-A International League (58-67) Pitching Report: Tom Milone: He picked up his 10th win of the season in impressive fashion, striking out 10 over 6 2/3 innings on Friday night, giving up eight hits and two runs. He has 16 strikeouts over his last two starts, with no walks surrendered. For the season, his K:BB ratio is 141:13. Brad Meyers: Make it four consecutive strong

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-37326350245378714562011-08-21T20:38:00.000-04:002011-08-21T20:38:55.716-04:00

"They're gonna have to sit down." Davey Johnson on what Philllies fans standing for the final out had to do after Ian Desmond's home run. Many times this season, the Washington Nationals have been burned by the youthful aggressiveness of their middle infield tandem.  Sunday, before another crowd filled with out-town fans, Ian Desmond and Danny Espinosa delivered on the talent that the Nats see in

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-28519926925727434362011-08-21T01:14:00.000-04:002011-08-21T01:14:59.856-04:00

"When you have a chance to get out of the inning, you gotta make the play."  Davey Johnson, on Ian Desmond's critical fourth inning error. John Mayberry slides into second safely after Ian Desmond dropped relay throw. (C.Nichols/Nats News Network) There are many ways one could describe the Washington Nationals 5-0 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies last night.  The focus from the Philly side

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-77654992348559849872011-08-19T11:11:00.001-04:002011-08-19T11:16:55.130-04:00

As the innings on his team-imposed limit rapidly dwindle, and his season draws nearer to a premature -- but inevitable -- conclusion, right-hander Jordan Zimmermann last night once again showed why he's so valuable to the Washington Nationals -- not only in a season when they are trying desperately to show marked improvement record-wise, but to the health and long-term success of The Plan (tm)

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-22331059814803732712011-08-19T00:39:00.000-04:002011-08-19T00:39:46.282-04:00

Washington Nationals super-prospect Bryce Harper injured his right hamstring running the bases in last night's Harrisburg Senators in Akron against the Aeros.  After the Nats 3-1 over the Cincinnati Reds last night, team officials termed the injury a strain and listed Harper as day-to-day. In the eighth inning of a 4-1 game with Harrisburg in the lead, Harper walked to lead off the inning. 

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-69092957336847035922011-08-18T18:21:00.001-04:002011-08-18T18:28:00.031-04:00

"Right now, I'm ready for about two or three innings of work." Matt Purke, on how his arm feels. "That's the way East Texas people are." Purke's agent, Peter Vescovo, about consenting to pre-signing medical exams. Exuding a quiet confidence, one of the Washington Nationals newest recruits met the D.C. media today and explained why he felt the Nats were the right team for him and why he consented

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-25911934264584931742011-08-18T14:31:00.001-04:002011-08-18T14:32:13.222-04:00

I've said it before and I'm sure I'll say it at least a thousand times more:  I love Baseball-Reference.com. I was doing some research for a question in a comment thread over on Federal Baseball.  It was a two-part question.Can I see some stats on Jayson Werth I guarantee he leads the league in: 1. Failing to get a runner from second to third when their are no outs, just hit the ball to the right

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-47607623330337767332011-08-18T00:22:00.000-04:002011-08-18T00:22:37.716-04:00

Detwiler delivers in 2-1 loss to the Reds. (C.Nichols/Nats News Network) Last night, Washington Nationals starting pitcher Ross Detwiler matched his career high in number of pitches in a game with 103.  In either a strange twist of fate, or a simple coincidence depending on your point of view, the result in both starts was a one-run loss to the Cincinnati Reds.  In this case, it was a 2-1

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-48876008900505926372011-08-17T21:07:00.000-04:002011-08-17T21:07:56.830-04:00

Washington Nationals right-hander Stephen Strasburg had been nothing short of his dominant self in his first two minor league rehab starts.  Wednesday night in Hagerstown though, Strasburg ran into trouble right off the bat and never really looked sharp, allowing five earned runs on four hits and two walks, striking out three in just 1 2/3 innings. With his 49th pitch he struck out Lexington's

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-65022243073957291372011-08-17T16:18:00.001-04:002011-08-17T16:29:20.422-04:00

The title of this post is not a serious indication of my feelings about Davey Johnson's post-game comments last night about the possibility (likelihood?) of Michael Morse moving back to left field once rosters expand to make room for Chris Marrero, and staying there next season when (if?) Adam LaRoche comes back healthy (hopefully). "Ideally, when LaRoche comes back we'll have LaRoche at first

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-27322181943847062342011-08-16T23:58:00.002-04:002011-08-17T00:01:55.259-04:00

MORSE, ZIMMERMAN HOMER TO PACE NATS ATTACK The Washington Nationals offense has struggled all season long to provide enough support for their pitching.  Last night though the Nats put up six runs against Cincinnati Reds starter Mike Leake through five innings and held on to defeat the Reds 6-4, before 23,888 satisfied customers at Nats Park. The win lifts the Nats record to 58-62, four games

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-40683660174856305832011-08-16T01:51:00.002-04:002011-08-16T02:38:56.738-04:00

NATIONALS DOLE OUT OVER $16 MILLION IN CONTRACTS "We are the talk of the industry." Nats GM Mike Rizzo on signing his top five draft picks. As the midnight deadline to sign 2011 amateur draft picks approached, the Washington Nationals still had not announced the signing of any of their top four draft picks.  But mere moments after the deadline passed, various national sources revealed what most

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-84996874599209197672011-08-16T00:20:00.000-04:002011-08-16T00:20:19.070-04:00

The Washington Nationals have signed all five of their top draft picks, according to multiple sources.  There was very little news all evening until right before the midnight deadline, when multiple sources announced that first round picks 3B Anthony Rendon (No. 6 overall), RHP Alex Meyer (No. 23 overall) and Brian Goodwin (No. 34 overall), along with third round pick LHP Matt Purke, had all 

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-69974508160766910512011-08-15T19:36:00.000-04:002011-08-15T19:36:21.103-04:00

This year's trade deadline brings a little less excitement than the previous two, when the Nats were in negotiations with the No. 1 overall pick in the draft two years running, Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper, and all the attention that came with both.  Both were considered "once in a generation" type players, and discussions went down to the final minute with both. Hard to imagine anyone

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-90339733918527777082011-08-15T12:38:00.000-04:002011-08-15T12:38:43.886-04:00

by Tyler Radecki, Staff Writer Note: Baseball America released their annual “best tools” report for the minor leagues. Several Nationals prospects made the lists. Check them out here. (Subscription required) Syracuse Chiefs, AAA International League (54-65) Pitching Report: Tom Milone: His first start back from his minor elbow injury was solid – just one earned run against in five innings –

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-85058308628643613342011-08-13T02:11:00.000-04:002011-08-13T02:11:36.859-04:00

Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge, VA has kinda taken a beating this year in the press.  The older facility has drainage problems in the outfield and has been the subject of endless speculation, mentioned as a possible reason why Bryce Harper skipped High-A and went straight from Hagerstown to Harrisburg.  How much of that is true is open for debate, but what is fact is that P-Nats owner Art

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-36404956015950603092011-08-10T00:26:00.000-04:002011-08-10T00:26:50.909-04:00

Huh. Just when you think you've seen just about everything, something else happens that you would never have thought of. In his first two games for the Washington Nationals this season -- his first two in the big leagues since 2009 -- Chien-Ming Wang was the definition of "hittable", allowing 15 hits over nine innings leading to an ERA of 6.00, which was aided by six unearned runs he'd allowed in

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-89108889491257765812011-08-09T23:45:00.000-04:002011-08-09T23:45:12.910-04:00

Press Release: STEPHEN STRASBURG TO PITCH IN POTOMAC FRIDAYMakes Second Rehab Start Since Tommy John Surgery August 8, 2011 (WOODBRIDGE, VA) Stephen Strasburg will pitch for the Potomac Nationals on Friday night in Woodbridge, VA. The former top pick in the 2009 Amateur Draft will make his second rehab start since undergoing Tommy John surgery last September, and will lead the Nationals against

Cheryl Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07830926041656122687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-63901379427851328872011-08-09T12:09:00.001-04:002011-08-09T12:21:27.441-04:00

The Washington Nationals still have several of their highest draft picks yet unsigned.  They have until the Aug. 15 deadline to bring these players under contract and, like in years past, these signings will probably come cascading down on deadline day.  Last year, the names were Ray, Solis, Cole and Harper.  This year the names read Rendon, Meyer, Goodwin and Purke. For 3B Anthony Rendon, RHP

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-9660482955337548852011-08-08T12:32:00.000-04:002011-08-08T12:32:44.308-04:00

by Tyler Radecki, Staff Writer Syracuse Chiefs, AAA International League (49-64) Pitching Report: Tom Milone: He was placed on the minor league disabled list and missed last week with “bicep tiredness,” but the injury was not major, according to Nats manager Davey Johnson. Milone is scheduled to start today for the Chiefs and could see a call-up when rosters expand in September. Brad Meyers: His

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-45418310424577263322011-08-07T22:51:00.000-04:002011-08-07T22:51:46.438-04:00

"All-in-all I was pretty pleased."  Stephen Strasburg, on his first rehab performance. The last time Stephen Strasburg was on a pitching mound against an opposition was last Aug. 21 in Philadelphia, the scene now etched into the memory of every Nats fan, as the former No. 1 overall pick delivered a pitch to Phillies rookie Domonic Brown, then grabbed his elbow in pain and looked into the dugout

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-88409429516201902102011-08-06T11:14:00.001-04:002011-08-06T12:35:20.722-04:00

ROCKIES PITCHER NICASIO INJURED BY LINE DRIVE The Washington Nationals rode a first inning two-run triple by Ryan Zimmmerman and two RBIs from Michael Morse -- one via a solo home run -- and another strong outing by Jordan Zimmermann to defeat the Colorado Rockies 5-3, halting a short two-game losing streak. But the biggest focus of the night was on Rockies starting pitcher Juan Nicasio, who took

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-56482504204523336512011-08-05T11:17:00.000-04:002011-08-05T11:17:13.484-04:00

The Washington Nationals got a credible performance from their starting pitcher, but a lack of offensive production and faulty bullpen ultimately did them in, losing last night to the Colorado Rockies 6-3, before almost 36,000 at Coors Field in Denver. If that script sounds familiar, it's mostly how the Nats built a 27-36 record in the first 2 1/2 months of the season before reeling off 13 wins

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-38409398832390836642011-08-04T12:11:00.000-04:002011-08-04T12:11:23.595-04:00

At first blush, the outlook looks pretty grim.  In two starts, Chien-Ming Wang -- the Taiwanese Michael Jordan -- has put up some pretty ugly numbers.  After yesterday's 6-4 to the Atlanta Braves, snapping a four-game winning streak for the Washington Nationals, Wang has allowed 12 runs -- six earned -- in nine innings pitched.  That works out to a 6.00 ERA that's being gracious as to how well

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-65850453812866071142011-08-03T00:25:00.000-04:002011-08-03T00:25:38.566-04:00

"This was fun today.  Really fun."  Davey Johnson, on his team's 9-3 win over Atlanta. The Washington Nationals finally had a "Davey Johnson game", pounding out six extra-base hits, including three home runs and two triples, and got another solid pitching performance from John Lannan, to take a second straight game from the Wild Card leading Atlanta Braves, 9-3, before 24,326 at Nationals Park.

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-66095158814793080402011-08-02T12:00:00.001-04:002011-08-02T12:04:47.763-04:00

According to Mark Zuckerman this morning, citing a report by Florida Today writer Mark DeCotis, Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg threw three innings (51 pitches) of a simulated game at the Nats training facility in Viera, FL against the Nats entry in the Gulf Coast League.  DeCotis, according to Zuckerman, reported that none of the entry-level players could get the ball out of the

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-86057800786578011882011-08-02T00:23:00.000-04:002011-08-02T00:23:53.752-04:00

With the lightning from passing storms flashing in the skies all around in the distance, the threat of dangerous weather at Nationals Park remained just that.  But the bat of Rick Ankiel provided all the thunder inside the stadium, as he crushed two solo home runs to pace the surging Washington Nationals past Jair Jurrjens and the Atlanta Braves, 5-3. It was the Nats third straight win, raising

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-17983730306267777382011-08-01T12:05:00.000-04:002011-08-01T12:05:19.234-04:00

by Tyler Radecki, Staff Writer Syracuse Chiefs, AAA International League (47-60) Pitching Report: Tom Milone: The usually mild-mannered Milone was ejected during his start on Thursday after giving up a home run that was originally called foul. In total, he gave up five runs (two home runs) in 2 1/3 innings and has now given up five runs in each of his last two starts. Despite the recent struggles

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-10058493205894005402011-07-31T20:34:00.000-04:002011-07-31T20:34:00.232-04:00

Minutes after Drew Storen realized he wasn't traded at the Major League non-waiver deadline, he entered a 2-1 game in the top of the ninth, entrusted to close it like he has 26 times before this season. Unfortunately for him and the rest of the Washington Nationals, Scott Hairston had other ideas. He deposited a 2-2 pitch just barely over the wall in front of the visiting bullpen for his second

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-48569861094410843822011-07-31T11:54:00.000-04:002011-07-31T11:54:16.987-04:00

As I start to type, it's 11:30 am, four and a half hours away from the Major League non-waiver trade deadline.  The Washington Nationals have already made three trades this week, acquiring Jonny Gomes and dealing Jerry Hairston and Jason Marquis for prospects.  They are still involved, obviously, in other talks, most notably with the Minnesota Twins on a deal that could include Nats closer Drew

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-31222917086903910042011-07-31T00:56:00.000-04:002011-07-31T00:56:13.512-04:00

Jerry Hairston -- gone.  Jason Marquis -- gone.  Drew Storen, Tyler Clippard, Todd Coffey, Roger Bernadina?  Others???  By Sunday's 4:00 pm trade deadline we'll know for sure. Saturday was a busy day for the Washington Nationals.  Early in the day they shipped veteran utility man Jerry Hairston, Jr. to the Milwaukee Brewers for a Double-A outfielder.  Then, about two hours before game time, it

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-78275578715622825822011-07-30T17:24:00.000-04:002011-07-30T17:24:17.441-04:00

The Washington Nationals have traded veteran starter Jason Marquis to the Arizona Diamondbacks this afternoon in exchange for Single-A shortstop Zach Walters, a ninth round pick in the 2010 draft.  The deal has not been announced by the team, but it is official according to multiple sources. Marquis, 32, went 8-5 with a 3.95 ERA in 20 starts.  He will become a free agent at the end of the year

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-73717370817722828002011-07-30T12:04:00.000-04:002011-07-30T12:04:27.211-04:00

The team hasn't confirmed the reports yet, but several sources have reported the Washington Nationals this morning traded Jerry Hairston, Jr. to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for 23 year old left-handed hitting CF Erik Komatsu. Komatsu has been playing at the Brewers Double-A affiliate this season, putting together a slash line of .294/.393/.416 with six home runs, 40 RBI and 13 stolen bases

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-36268793539404544652011-07-30T01:02:00.002-04:002011-07-30T01:31:06.322-04:00

"I think that was an okay first outing." Davey Johnson, on Chien-Ming Wang's return to the Majors. Chien-Ming Wang as he prepared for his first MLB start in two years. (C.Nichols/Nats News Network)  You can't blame Washington Nationals fans if they are a little myopic looking at last night's 8-5 loss to the New York Mets and only seeing the team's sixth straight defeat and eighth out of

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-87268828675322125772011-07-29T16:48:00.000-04:002011-07-29T16:48:05.650-04:00

The move won't be official until game time, but reports indicate that OF Roger Bernadina will be sent to the minors to activate Chien-Ming Wang for tonight's start against the New York Mets.  Bernadina, hitting .247/.312/.352 with five home runs, 20 RBI and 16-of-18 in stolen bases, has an option remaining, so he would not have to clear waivers to be sent down. "Nothing's really official until

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-31503586256506614422011-07-29T12:58:00.000-04:002011-07-29T12:58:39.574-04:00

Tonight marks the culmination of a two-year journey for Chien-Ming Wang.  Whether it's the beginning of another chapter -- or just prolonging the end of his career -- is the big question that starts to get answered with his first appearance since 2009 tonight against the New York Mets. You know his history.  He's a two-time 19 game winner for the New York Yankees.  He's been an Opening Day

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-71061512243854684862011-07-28T17:37:00.000-04:002011-07-28T17:37:14.278-04:00

The starting pitcher threw 115 pitches in 5 2/3 innings. Three lead off walks came around to score.  A missed sign by the third base coach at a critical juncture killed a rally. The left-handed reliever once again couldn't do his job.  The flamethrower allowed a run without giving up a base hit.  An offense that, despite six walks from the opposition's starter in less than four innings, couldn't

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-26388971352043783542011-07-28T02:01:00.001-04:002011-07-28T02:10:01.618-04:00

For the better part of three hours and fifteen minutes Wednesday night, the Washington Nationals slogged their way to a big deficit to the visiting Florida Marlins.  The veteran starter did not go deep into the game, two usually dependable relievers gave up late runs that at the time looked like padding, and the offense looked as it has all season: befuddled. But something funny happened on the

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-81021164004642864922011-07-27T15:13:00.000-04:002011-07-27T15:13:52.248-04:00

The Washington Nationals announced today they added OF Jonny Gomes to the active roster and designated veteran pinch-hitter Matt Stairs for assignment. Stairs, 43, batted .154 with one double and two RBIs in 56 games this season. The 19-year veteran reached base in just 19 of his 74 plate appearances for the Nats (.257 OBP).  The MLB all-time leader in pinch-hit home runs, Stairs was brought in

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-70492936056462770862011-07-27T00:56:00.000-04:002011-07-27T00:56:53.109-04:00

TEAM ACQUIRES OF JONNY GOMES FROM REDS FOR TWO MINOR LEAGUERS Manager Davey Johnson stood stoically before the television cameras and reporter's recorders last night, defeated and exasperated, voicing frustration over the lack of offense and increasingly inconsistent pitching efforts he's getting from his Washington Nationals club. Losses in five of the last six games has put his record since

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-16680196701853706182011-07-26T19:25:00.001-04:002011-07-26T19:59:59.536-04:00

Just before Tuesday night's game with the Florida Marlins, the Washington Nationals announced they acquired OF Jonny Gomes from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for two minor leaguers: OF Bill Rhinehart and LHP Christopher Manno. Gomes, 30, is hitting .211/.339/.399 this season in 265 plate appearances.  He gives the Nats a veteran right-handed bat to add to the stable of left-handed outfielders

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-65807283898681868202011-07-25T12:12:00.000-04:002011-07-25T12:12:56.633-04:00

Syracuse Chiefs, AAA International League (44-56) Pitching Report: Tom Milone: Milone has been due for a bad start, and it finally came Saturday night as he gave up six hits and five runs in 4 1/3 innings. He did strike out five, but he gave up a lot of fly balls and with his velocity, he’s going to need to keep the ball on the ground and have precise control to be successful. Considering how

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-31631873929814647992011-07-21T00:52:00.000-04:002011-07-21T00:52:37.141-04:00

by Tyler Radecki, Staff Writer Jayson Werth had perhaps his best game as a member of the Washington Nationals and Livan Hernandez rebounded from a string of poor starts, but those efforts were not enough as the Houston Astros prevailed in extra innings, 3-2, to take the series from  the Nats, who have now lost four of their last six games. Werth had his first home run in over a month, his 11th

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-32073097189000834512011-07-20T02:12:00.001-04:002011-07-20T02:14:26.620-04:00

by Tyler Radecki, Staff Writer Jordan Zimmermann has been a model of consistency for the Nationals this year, giving the team a solid start seemingly every time he takes the mound. Tuesday night he finally faltered, giving up six runs on seven hits in five innings as the Nats fell to the Astros, 7-6. The loss drops the Nats to 48-49 and they slid a half-game behind the New York Mets for third

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-3753082513697275382011-07-19T07:45:00.003-04:002011-07-19T13:46:08.719-04:00

by Tyler Radecki, Staff Writer Syracuse Chiefs, AAA International League Pitching Report : Tom Milone: Not only did Milone go 7 1/3 strong innings Sunday (giving up one run on six hits with a walk and six strikeouts), he went 3-for-3 with an RBI at the dish, bringing his season batting average up to .421. That’s not a typo – Milone has eight hits in 19 at-bats this year. His season ERA is down to

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-7322733731452433732011-07-19T02:45:00.000-04:002011-07-19T02:45:56.585-04:00

by Tyler Radecki, Staff Writer The Washington Nationals had five of their seven hits come from just two players, but they managed to score three runs in the ninth and come back to beat the Houston Astros Monday night, 5-2. Win win evens the Nats record again at 48-48 and moves them into sole possession of third place for the time being, one half game ahead of the New York Mets and one full game

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-59608605625025109702011-07-17T18:29:00.000-04:002011-07-17T18:29:55.737-04:00

Somewhere, probably in northern Georgia, someone is writing about how the plucky Atlanta Braves pecked away in the ninth inning, using steely resolve and courage to defeat an up-and-coming Washington Nationals team with a clutch walk-off hit after two outs. I suppose that's one way to look at what happened. After pounding arguably the N.L.'s best pitcher in the first half of the season, surviving

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-23519228609974837642011-07-16T23:11:00.000-04:002011-07-16T23:11:44.995-04:00

Washington Nationals pitcher John Lannan's last start ended when a line drive caromed off his right cheek and into center field.  Suffice to say, he's happier and healthier following last night's 5-2 win over the Atlanta Braves. Lannan went 5 2/3 innings, allowing just two earned run on five hits, evening his personal record at 6-6 and the Nats season record at 47-47. After the pounding the

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-15647943903081749342011-07-14T13:17:00.000-04:002011-07-14T13:17:26.685-04:00

The "second half" of the Major League Baseball season gets underway tonight, but the Washington Nationals get another day off and will get back on the field Friday night against the Atlanta Braves, whom they trail for the N.L. wildcard spot by eight games at the start of play.  Not only do the Nationals face an eight-game deficit, but there are five other teams between themselves and Atlanta. Is

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-25787940648340089942011-07-13T10:37:00.000-04:002011-07-13T10:37:12.466-04:00

Join us for "Nats News Weekly" on PrimeSportsNetwork.com today at 5:30 pm as Greg Depalma and I will break down the first half of the Washington Nationals season, what to look for in the second half, and what we would do if we were GM Mike Rizzo. We go LIVE at 5:30 pm, and you can join us in the discussion at 1-877-244-0585 with comments, questions, or predictions.  Click the link above for the

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-80383159508487639582011-07-12T11:15:00.000-04:002011-07-12T11:15:47.519-04:00

Nats News Network contributor Anthony Amobi is in Arizona this week for the All-Star festivities.  Here are some photos from the Futures Game Sunday, featuring Bryce Harper and Brad Peacock from the Washington Nationals.

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-30004310202643428402011-07-11T16:33:00.001-04:002011-07-11T16:40:37.176-04:00

by Tyler Radecki, Staff Writer HARPER AND PEACOCK GO TO FUTURES GAMEMILONE, ANTONELLI GARNER AAA ALL-STAR NODSWANG CONTINUES PROMISING REHAB ASSIGNMENTS Syracuse Chiefs, AAA International League (38-50) Pitching Report: Tom Milone: He was named to the International League All-Star team, and his mid-season numbers back the selection up: 7-5 record (103 IP), 3.15 ERA, 107 strikeouts to just 7

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-54647822515120696872011-07-11T01:41:00.000-04:002011-07-11T01:41:49.110-04:00

Another eposide of Nationals Lunchbox on CSNWashington.com hosted by Kelli Johnson, featuring yours truly and Patrick Reddington from Federal Baseball. Please enjoy.

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-68087740352403428492011-07-10T18:43:00.000-04:002011-07-10T18:43:35.681-04:00

TEAM HEADS INTO ALL-STAR BREAK WITH EVEN .500 RECORD Jordan Zimmerman dominated the Rockies in 2-0 win. (C.Nichols/Nats News Network)  If you haven't had a chance to watch the Washington Nationals' Jordan Zimmermann pitch yet this season, you might want to check the schedule for his next couple of home starts and come out to the park.  With an innings limit of 160 this season, his first full

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-49691423984608335392011-07-10T00:27:00.001-04:002011-07-10T00:28:19.414-04:00

The Washington Nationals got good starting and relief pitching and some terrific defense, but as has been the case all season, could not muster anything resembling an offensive attack and fell to the Colorado Rockies -- losers of five straight games before hitting Nats Park -- 2-1, before 29,441 disappointed fans. The Nationals, losers of three consecutive games, fall to 45-46 for the season with

Dave Nicholshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05310191107811609232noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1850525513629764193.post-11316550447994855492011-07-09T00:11:00.000-04:002011-07-09T00:11:28.885-04:00

It could have been worse. John Lannan, the Washington Nationals starting pitcher, was cruising, having registered five of his first 10 outs via strikeout.  In the top of the fourth, however, he ran into some trouble.  With one out, he gave up consecutive singles to bring up Colorado Rockies cleanup hitter Ty Wigginton.  On a 1-1 count, Lannan tried to bury a fastball in on Wigginton's hands, but

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