After a travel day, the Nats take on the Phillies tonight at Citizens Bank Park to resume the 2nd Annual Half-smoke/Cheesesteak Challenge.
Each year I have a “mayor’s bet” with my friend Cliff (aka The Ombudsman*) on the Nats vs. Fleas series. I put up a half-smoke from Ben’s Chili Bowl and he puts up a cheesesteak from Jim’s Steaks. Our representatives are working on the final details, such as tiebreakers (the teams have an even number of games this season) and to determine if a concession speech shall be made privately or publicly.
So far, the challenge is deadlocked with the teams splitting their first two meetings.
Today’s headlines:
Slow Start Doesn’t Concern Big Man – The Post
3B Ryan Zimmerman is not terribly concerned about his poor start. He has been improving of late as well.
For stoic Cordero, a case of lost control – The Wash. Times
Chad Cordero is having trouble closing games this year, having more blown saves than saves. He tendency to go off speed with his first pitch may be part of the problem, since he has typically gone with his fastball.
Injured Logan, Guzman May Return Soon – The Post
Cristian Guzman and Nook Logan are going to be playing in extended spring training games any day now. Logan is expected to take back the centerfield job when he returns, but with Ronnie Belliard and Felipe Lopez entrenched in the middle infield spots, Guzman may be on the outside looking in.
Speigner settles in with Nationals – Thomasville (Georgia) Times-Enterprise
Levale Speigner gets some ink in his hometown paper.
*For matters relating to the Nats vs. Phillies, Cliff will not perform his Ombudsman duties.
Logo by Destin Frasier