Nationals 5, Astros 2
W: Jason Marquis, L: Jordan Lyles
I attended this game with Neil T., his wife, and BatGirl. I must confess it was one of the most enjoyable games I have attended. There was no one sitting in front of us obstructing the view and no loud individuals behind us (well, not until the later innings when the young group of males had consumed unknown quantities of beer – but even they weren’t bad). The conversations involved a number of topics, most baseball related.
One topic was discussed thoroughly was the Fantasy Baseball Team. Now, this Fantasy Baseball Team (FBT) has nothing to do with stats but with looks of ball players. I will tell everyone that Neil T. added very little to this discussion. One lady thought Hunter Pence should be on the team, one thinks Jayson Werth (without all the facial hair he is apparently a hottie) should be included, and one of us demanded Brad Ausmus (even though he isn’t currently playing) should be included on the FBT. I understand why the one that thinks Hunter should be included seems to like tall, lean guys with blond hair. This brought up the idea that taller players should be included almost without further discussion. It took maybe a minute before Randy Johnson was tossed out for consideration. The qualification of height is no longer quite as important as before.
Other topics were who would get traded and why. General baseball discussion about stadiums and whether or not engineers design railings at heights for view or safety.
Overall, it was a very enjoyable night. Jordan Lyles really did a great job even though he got tagged with the loss. I didn’t realize until looking at the box score that Wilton Lopez didn’t record an out. I really thought with all the “baseball” going on while he was out there he got an out. My mistake. I knew the Astros were going to be in trouble anyway, they didn’t have a closer for the game since Mark Melancon pitched three innings the day before.
I’m also glad Jason Michaels got at least one hit against Marquis since Brett Wallace was riding the pine this game. Please note:
“Jason Michaels (7-10!!!, 1 HR 4 RBI)” Quoted from some asshole’s Series Preview.
Michaels is a pinch-hitter on this team not a starter. I understand the occassional start to keep one sharp, but Mills has taken it too far.
Carlos Lee had a pretty good night going 2-3 with a walk. He probably would have gotten more RBIs if anyone had been on base ahead of him.
Only 3 more work days before I take off on the road trip. I’m so looking forward to it.