A surprise from the start – The Wash. Times
Nationals choose Chico to start spring opener – Florida Today
P Matt Chico found out from a reporter that he will start the first game of the Grapefruit League season on Wednesday. Last year he led the team with 31 starts in his rookie season. He has worked on his mechanics to shorten his stride.

Cordero Has a Lot on His Plate — a Diet Included – The Post
Closer Chad Cordero came to camp leaner after weighing 230 lbs last season. He is also motivated by his upcoming wedding.

Nationals’ top draft choice Detwiler gives GM Bowden options – Florida Today
Balester, Detwiler Show How To Make Good Impressions – The Post
LHP Ross Detwiler, Washington’s #1 pick last year, could pitch his way into the bullpen this season. He will probably start in A ball though. RHP Colin Balestar also has a chance to make the majors out of camp. Dmitri Young is impressed by Balestar.

Johnson’s wait is over – The Free Lance-Star
We are in the second week of camp and 1B Nick Johnson is still ready to return from his September 2006 broken leg.

THOM LOVERRO –Lock in Zimmerman now, save money later – The Wash. Times
In summation: pay Ryan Zimmerman already!

80 Nats, O’s Games Set for HD – The Post
The Malevolent Angelo$ Sports Network will provide 40 Nats games in HD, less than 25% of the schedule. This is a typical, half-assed (or perhaps quarter-assed) move by Peter Angelo$. It’s 2008, all All the games should be in HD. In an atypical Angelo$ move, deals have been reached with cable companies, including Comcast.

Bench spots look scarce – The Wash. Times
The Nats seem to have a bench player surplus, particularly if they head north with twelve pitchers.

Spring Training Report – The Wash. Times
P Shawn Hill took an extra day between throwing, meaning we can expect him to be on the DL by the end of the week.