Advancing the Washington Nationals
Beginning with every series the Phillies have this season, we'll interview a writer who covers the opposing team. The interviews will be called "Advancing the ________". "Advancing" as in "advance scouting."
As part of our Opening Day Series, I interviewed Charlie, the author of The Nationals Review about, what else, the Washington Nationals. Oh, and also Teddy Roosevelt.
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The Nationals outfielders hardly resemble the ones from '07. How are the changes shaping up?
For a team that hasn't had a CF since they've moved to DC, it's real exciting to see Milledge out there. He appears to be ready to play full time, and has already displayed the kind of gap to gap line drive hitting that we expected. Dukes has yet to show what he is capable of, although his power his definitely there, he'll need some time. Wily Mo should spend most of his time demolishing lefties, while avoided righty starters. Either way, all potential aside, it looks stronger than starting Nook Logan, Chris Snelling and Ryan Church.
Ten years from now, will Ryan Zimmerman be known as a light hitting thirdbaseman who can really pick it or will he be known more as a great all-around player? [Ed. note: This question was asked before Zimmerman hit the walk-off game-winning home-run in the very first game every held at Nationals Park on Sunday night.]
Ten years from now Ryan Zimmerman will be considered a great all around player. At only 22 he's already shown that much. The question is whether he can hit .290 and 25 HRs or .325 and 35 HRs.
Manny Acta seems to be pretty popular in the Natosphere. Where does he stand in terms of the league's managers?
Manny is extremely well-liked among his players, the media, and the team ownership. He is a hands on guy who throws BP, spends hours in spring training going over baserunning at each base for all his players, and isn't afraid to say what he means. After one season he's shown that he can motivate a team and manage well, while showing the patience and diligence needed to coach a young team. Ranking him among the rest of the league is a bit premature... but I'd still take him over Dusty Baker.
Complete the following sentences.... "The Nationals will finish _____th in the NL East, despite great _________. __________ was their downfall."
The Nationals will finish 4th in the NL East, despite great young talent, a solid roster and a great bullpen. Lack of major league-ready starting pitching was their downfall.
Who wins a footrace, the Teddy Roosevelt mascot or the Phillie Phanatic?
I've gotta take Teddy over the Phanatic on this one. TR was the youngest president, an avid outdoorsman, and scaled San Juan Hill with the Rough Riders. The Phanatic has a little too much junk in the trunk, as evidenced by his 90" waistline. Now if you had asked about racing that bookworm Thomas Jefferson, I might take the Phanatic.
