Determined to prove them wrong – Nats Insider
Livan helps Nats even series with Cubs – nationals.com
Liván Hernández is on a roll that exceeds the dreams of even the most optimistic fan or Thomas Boswell. This month we are seeing the best ¡LIVAN! has ever performed for the Washington Nationals. The only comparable slice of his career was his run to the 1997 World Series with the Florida Marlins he was 22. Right now, ¡LIVAN! is 3-1, averaging almost 8 innings a game with an ERA at 0.87. Last night he pitched a mere 7 innings, giving up one run. He threw 99 pitches to get there. The Nats beat the Chicago Cubs 3-1 to go back over .500 at 11-10.

After the game ¡LIVAN! got emotional in his post-game remarks, claiming he had been playing hurt since a knee injury during the Nats inaugural 2005 season. The spring training cliche “he’s in the best shape of his life” seems applicable to ¡LIVAN! now doesn’t it? Previous reports credit his new found racquetball hobby as a factor in his improved conditioning. He also credits catcher Ivan Rodriguez with the recent success.

As much as I am enjoying having ¡LIVAN! around again I can’t help but mention that he reveals something about toughness and consistency. He mentioned he has never missed a start due to injury in 13 seasons, yet he pitched on a bad knee for four years. Clearly, he hurt his career by playing hurt all of these years. Since he’s back here and pitching well, I guess it worked out really well for the Nats, but I do have a concern. His role on the 2010 Nats is not just to be a starting pitcher, but a mentor to a young pitching staff. What is he telling them about playing hurt? Is he suggesting they follow his example or learn from it? If I had a chance to talk to him, that would be what I ask him.

Hernandez continues career renaissance as Nationals subdue Cubs – The Post
Rookie SS Ian Desmond, batting in the 2 spot, had RBI singles in the 1st an 8th innings.