Being a Nationals fan can be tough at times. We were largely deprived of watching our local nine on television and when we could, we had to listen to Ron Darling. We also heard nothing about the Nats on the so-called “sports radio” station and the official Nats station had a terrible signal. Throw in a lack of ownership, poor concession service at RFKave and of course, Peter Angelo$, and we are the one-eyed, club-footed stepchild of MLB fans.

The offseason has been no better, even worse in many regards with the ballpark lease in doubt, MLB still keeping us from getting an owner, etc. However, the greatest indignity did not come from the National Disgrace that is Bud Selig or the politics of Linda Cropp. No, this indignity came from an unlikely source, one that even championed the very person that has been slighted, back in spring training.

I’m talking about Washingtonian magazine.

Now I like Washingtonian, I even subscribe to it. It has a few good articles each month along with a good list of coming events in a handy dead-tree format. It is nice reminder that “Washington” is not just about self-loathing hipsters who have only lived here for a few years and is not limited to a few trendy/gentrified neighborhoods.

The December issue, which recently arrived in my mailbox, has a list of the “50 Best & Most Influential Journalists” and a shockingly,

BARRY SVRLUGA IS NOT ON IT

. Really, they overlooked him; completely dropped the ball like Preston Wilson in centerfield.

This troubles me greatly. Svrluga firmly established himself as “The Man” this season. His excellent writing, sharp wit, charming live discussions, and yes even his fondness for Panera made the return of D.C. baseball that much sweeter. To ignore his contributions is downright irresponsible on the part of Washingtonian. Did Jorge Arangure Jr. somehow get a vote? Many letters to the editor need to question the collective wisdom of Washingtonian and praise of St. Barry.

From Washingtonian before it lost it’s way.

It was not always this way. Barry used to be the golden boy of Post Watch, getting a nice article prior to the season. Why? Why? Why — Washingtonian would you deny this man’s greatness?