Nationals Release Former Opening Day Starter Patterson – The Post
Nationals release oft-injured Patterson – The Wash. Times
Patterson is surprise victim of Nats’ cuts – The Free Lance-Star
John Patterson leaves Washington Nationals – Pravda
There really isn’t any new news this morning on John Patterson’s release. The club didn’t think he was progressing well enough, though there seems to be a disconnect between what Manny Acta and Jim Bowden were hoping to see from the tall righthander. Given that Patterson had signed a non guaranteed contract he was not completely surprised by this move, though the theory that Mark Lerner had influence on the decision was shot down by Stan Kasten.

I wonder if “toughness” was an issue like it was with Ryan Church.

Odalis Perez earns spot in Nationals’ rotation – Florida Today
Perez pitched well last night and the club picked up his minor league contract. He is in line to pitch on Opening Night, though nothing is set in stone or even wet cement it would seem.

The rotation, which will have four pitchers during the first part of April, includes Perez, Tim Redding and Jason Bergmann. There would be something to be said for putting Bergmann on the hill for Opening Night given his success against the Braves.

Bret Boone Will Accept Demotion To Minor Leagues – The Post
Bret Boone will report to minors – Florida Today
Bret Boone’s comeback attempt will continue, but in AAA Columbus.

Spring Report – The Wash. Times
Nick Johnson and Ryan Zimmerman both homered, but Chad Cordero blew the game in the ninth by allowing two runs.

Nationals SmarTrip Cards Go on Sale Today – The Post
WMATA begins selling Nationals themed SmarTrip cards today. They ought to do this for all local teams.

PREVIOUSLY: Ohhhhh, pretty Nats SmarTrip cards