June 18, 2013

Washington Nationals Game 40 Review: Detwiler, Ramos suffer injuries in Nats’ 3-1 loss to Dodgers

May 16, 2013 by

The Washington Nationals (21-19) have unquestionably struggled on offense as of late and, in his first start since April 11, right-hander Zack Greinke (W, 2-0) showed little remorse, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 3-1 win Wednesday night.

The matchup marked Greinke’s first start since he fractured his left clavicle in a brawl with San Diego Padres outfielder Carlos Quentin. Greinke showed no signs of a struggle as he allowed just five hits and one run over 5.1 innings pitched. He struck out four batters and tossed 50 of 83 pitches for strikes. [Read more...]

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Washington Nationals Spring Training: Wilson Ramos contributes in Nats’ walk-off win over St. Louis

March 3, 2013 by

The Washington Nationals topped the St. Louis Cardinals Sunday afternoon for the second day in a row, this time with a 7-6 walk-off win fueled by a double off the bat of the newly returned Wilson Ramos.

Ramos received a warm applause from the Space Coast Stadium crowd as he stepped into the batter’s box for the first time since tearing his ACL and meniscus last May. His first at-bat yielded little for Washington, but the long-missing catcher nearly belted a walk-off homer over the center-field wall in his second trip to the plate.

Those in attendance saw a lot of back-and-forth hitting from both teams as neither Washington nor St. Louis seemed ready to settle into a pitching groove. [Read more...]

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Washington Nationals 2013 Season Preview: The Catchers

February 8, 2013 by

This week, District Sports Page has taken a look at the players that should comprise the 2013 roster of the Washington Nationals. Following a record-setting season last year that saw the Nats finish first in the N.L. East and advance to the playoffs for the first time since the relocation, GM Mike Rizzo has tweaked the roster a bit and expectations have never been higher for the organization, which is expected to be a legitimate World Series contender this season.

On Monday we broke down Nationals’ starters, Tuesday we evaluated the bullpen, Wednesday we looked at the outfielders. Thursday we previewed the infield. Here’s our final installment, The Catchers.

PROJECTED OPENING DAY CATCHERS: Kurt Suzuki, Wilson Ramos, Chris Snyder. First callups: Jhonatan Solano, Sandy Leon, Carlos Maldonado. Down on the Farm: Spencer Kieboom.

Kurt Suzuki: Suzuki, 29, came to the Nats in a deadline deal with the Oakland A’s for catching prospect David Freitas and became the Nats full-time catcher down the stretch. Reunited with Davey Johnson and Rick Eckstein, who coached the then-youngster with the U.S. Olympic team in 2008, Suzuki hit much better in D.C. (.267/.321/.404 in 164 PAs) than he did the first half in Oakland (.218/.250/.286 in 278 PAs). Suzuki is signed through this season (at $8.5M), with a team option at the same rate for 2014. [Read more...]

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Washington Nationals 2012 Roster Review: The Catchers

October 17, 2012 by

The Washington Nationals finished the 2012 season with the best regular season record in their short history since the relocation in 2005 at 98-64 and a bitterly disappointing loss in the best-of-five National League Division Series to the St. Louis Cardinals. In this series, we’ll take a look at each of the 43 players that appeared for the Nats in this historic season, grade them, and evaluate their position going forward. Age listed is 2013 Opening Day; grades are relative to expectation.

Today, we look at the catchers.

Jesus Flores (28): 296 plate appearances. .213/.248/.329. 12 doubles, 1 triple, 6 homers, 26 RBIs. 59 Ks/13 BBs. Flores proved his health this season, but showed little at the plate and struggled throwing out base runners (9-of 60, 15%), though that’s symptomatic of all Nats catchers due to the pitchers’ problems with holding runner. Flores is third-year arbitration eligible so his salary will bump up from his $850 base last season, though probably not appreciably enough to warrant letting him go for that reason alone. He’ll stand third on the depth chart however entering spring training, so it’s not out of the question the team does not offer him arbitration and allows him to leave as a free agent. Grade: C-

Kurt Suzuki (29): 164 plate appearances. .267/.321/.404. 5 doubles, 0 triples, 5 homers, 25 RBIs. 20 Ks/11 BBs. Acquired in a mid-season trade, Suzuki did everything the Nats hoped he would upon arrival. He mightily struggled in Oakland this season after several years on 15-homer power. Reunited with Davey Johnson and Rick Eckstein, who had him with the U.S. Olympic team, Suzuki cut down his stroke and made better contact in the N.L. Threw out 5-of-33 (15.1%) of base stealers in N.L. after nabbing 23-of-60 (38.3%) in A.L. in first half speaks to Nats pitchers complete ineptitude of holding runners. Under contract through 2013 for $5.21M with team option in ’14. Will enter spring as No. 1 catcher. Grade: B

Wilson Ramos (25): 96 plate appearances. .265/.354/.398. 2 doubles, 0 triples, 3 homers, 10 RBIs. 19 Ks, 12 BBs. Ramos remains the Nationals best long-term fixture at the position, but after tearing the ACL and meniscus in his right knee in May and the subsequent surgeries June 1 and July 18, Ramos might not be ready to start catching in spring training. Even then, they will want to take an abundance of caution not to put full-time stress on that knee until he’s in full baseball shape. Threw out 4-for-23 (17.3%) base stealers in limited time. Will be backup and work his way back into the lineup as the season progresses and he gets stronger. Ramos is not arbitration eligible until 2014. Grade: incomplete-injury

Jhonatan Solano (27): 37 plate appearances. .314/.351/.571. 3 doubles, 0 triples, 2 homers, 6 RBIs. 5 Ks/2 BBs. The man they call “Onion” made his Major League debut at age 26 this season and didn’t look overmatched at the plate at all. But he’s a career .250/.306/.339 hitter in seven minor league seasons, so Solano isn’t a real prospect. He’s thrown out 33 percent of base stealers in the minors though, so he has some proficiency behind the plate. Still, he looks more like organizational depth than a player looking to get a chance in to prove himself in the big leagues. Battled an oblique injury all year that limited him to just 141 total plate appearances across Majors and minors.  Grade: A, in extremely limited duty.

Sandy Leon (24): 36 plate appearances. .267/.389/.333. 2 doubles, 0 triples, 0 homers, 2 RBIs. 11 Ks/4 BBs. Leon was the unfortunate catcher that was called up, started, and injured in his first game. He came back later in the season for a few at bats after the roster expanded. He hit .322/.396/.460 across three levels in the minors this season, mostly for AA-Harrisburg so he looks like he has a pretty good idea of what to do at the plate. Not eligible for arbitration. Grade: B

 Carlos Maldonado (34): 12 plate appearances. .000/.182/.000. 1 RBI. 4 Ks/2 BBs. Maldonado has amassed 74 plate appearances in parts of four Major League seasons. He’s a AAA catcher, only to be used at the Major League level in the most dire of circumstances. He could return as a minor league free agent to catch at Syracuse.

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PHOTOS: Cubs and Nats Fight Night (Win 85)

September 7, 2012 by

Brawl #2: Ian Desmond helping ump back up after accidentally knocking him down when Cubs Catcher Clevenger took a swing at Desmond (and was ejected); Rick Eckstein holding onto Sean Burnett; Ryan Zimmerman holding onto Bryce Harper; Davey Johnson reaching for Michael Morse – Chicago Cubs v. Washington Nationals, 9/6/2012. (Cheryl Nichols/District Sports Page)

The Washington Nationals defeated the Chicago Cubs 9-2 on Thursday, September 6, 2012 to complete the four game sweep.

In a nutshell: Starting pitcher Jordan Zimmermann returns to form, Bryce Harper continues to hustle and get dirty, Adam LaRoche hits his fifth home run in as many games, Kurt Suzuki has found his swing and hit another homer, there are two bench and bullpen clearing brawls, Davey Johnson is strong, and the Cubs learn not to mess with 3B Coach Bo Porter. Wilson Ramos also returned the dugout to support his teammates while on rehab.

You can read DSP’s game re-cap here.

Here are a few photos of Thursday’s game with descriptions under pictures. All photos were taken from the stands. Enjoy and feel free to leave comments! Thanks. [Read more...]

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NATS: Happy Birthday, Wilson Ramos

August 10, 2012 by

HAPPY 25th BIRTHDAY, WILSON RAMOS!

Washington Nationals Catcher Wilson Ramos was born on 08/10/1987 in Valencia, Venezuela.

Wilson Ramos is currently on the 60-Day DL.  Ramos had ACL surgery on his knee July 18 and it has been reported that he is doing well. Wilson appreciates the support. Hope Ramos is healing and will be back ready to go for 2013.

Follow Wilson Ramos on Twitter (@WRamosC3) and make sure to wish #3 a happy birthday.

It was nice to see Washington Nationals Catcher Wilson Ramos (DL) in the dugout smiling at Orioles v. Nats game on May 20, 2012. (Cheryl Nichols/District Sports Page)

Wilson Ramos “zooms” to first base on his walk-off single win over Phillies, May 4 (Cheryl Nichols/District Sports Page)

Wilson Ramos signing autographs for fans before a spring training game (Cheryl Nichols/District Sports Page)

 

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Washington Nationals Game 33 Review: Nats beat Reds but lose Ramos to ACL injury

May 13, 2012 by

For the second time in as many nights, the Washington Nationals emerged victorious in a one-run game, defeating the Cincinnati Reds, 2-1, thanks to a strong effort on the mound by Jordan Zimmermann and two solo home runs.

Their win – their 21st on the season – did not come without a price, however. [Read more...]

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NATS: Fans Held Candlelight Vigil for Wilson Ramos

November 12, 2011 by

Before the good news broke that Wilson Ramos had been rescued and was safe, Washington Nationals fans gathered at Center Field Gate at Nationals Park for a candlelight vigil for their catcher. It was wonderful to get home and hear the news that Ramos was “safe at home” (h/t to @curlywashington on that phrase).

Fans Lit Candles at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

It was not a sad vigil with mourning. It was more upbeat and positive with lots of hope and a way for fans to unite and try to make sense of this terrifying situation.

Fans raising three fingers for #3 at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fans lit candles and held homemade signs. One woman sang. One wore a Curly W N hat with “Free Wilson” taped to the front. A couple of ladies held teddy bears dressed in Nationals jerseys and catcher’s gear. Fans chanted “FREE WILSON” throughout the vigil. Most were in Nats gear of some sort, however, were bundled up due to the cool temperatures. Thank you to the Nationals for providing coffee and hot chocolate on a brisk evening.

Fan Speaking to Media at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Alicia Durfee, 26, a Nationals season ticket holder from Arlington, organized the event. She expressed a concern that Wilson Ramos might not know how much he is loved in DC. Durfee told the crowd that the vigil was about “showing Wilson and his family and everybody that we care about him and want him home with us now.” Then Durfee invited fans to step up the microphone and share any stories whether happy or sad with the crowd.

Alicia Durfee, Fan Coordinator of Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Lifelong baseball fan Mary Brick went first and introduced her bear “Pudge Wilson Rodriguez Ramos.

Mary Brick Shared a Story at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

John, a contributor to Federal Baseball, wanted to thank Wilson Ramos for turning his girlfriend into a baseball fan which started with his first career walk-off against the Seattle Mariners in June 2011. He added, “If our coming out tonight can in any way bring a moment of light to Wilson Ramos and his family, to his family in particular in what’s got to be a terrifying time for them, then I’m glad that we’re all out here tonight. And I’m glad to be out here tonight with you, all of you.”

Fan John Shared a Story at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

“Nats Lady” took off work to attend the vigil because, “His life is more important than any other thing that I could be doing today.”

"Nats Lady" Shared Thoughts and Stories at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Kristy Anderson held up a photo of Wilson Ramos dressed as Smurfette (Nats Rookie Hazing Day in Sept. 2011) which drew big smiles and laughs from vigil attendees. Anderson told Ramos at the Nats season ticket holder picnic in Sept. that she was really disappointed that he wasn’t wearing his Smurfette costume. He apparently gave her a big smile and said while laughing, “That was so funny, right?” The guy just has a great sense of humor and is a genuinely nice person. “Let’s all hope and for those that do pray, not everyone, pray for his return, hope for his return, keep your fingers crossed , whatever it is you do.”

Kristy Anderson Shared a Story at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Jamal Buckner enjoyed watching Ramos develop and build his confidence under Pudge’s guidance. ”[This situation] Is very unfortunate and my prayers are with the Ramos family and hopefully we’ll have him back soon.”

Fan Jamal Shared Thoughts at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

After the World Series, Nats fan Bob Schiff has been watching all of the Nationals 2011 games again. On the day that Ramos was kidnapped, he was watching the game when Wilson hit two home runs. “I think we’re going to see him hit many more [home runs] here at Nats Park.”

Fan Bob Schiff Shared Thoughts and Stories at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Nats fan Dave expressed sympathies to the Ramos family. He also added, “These kidnappings have been going on for decades in Latin America and its spreading and its becoming a big problem in Mexico. My sympathies are also going out to all of those kidnapped victims whose names we’ll never hear about and their families too.”

Fan Dave Shared Thoughts and Stories at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

“All of these stories are a great reminder of what a fantastic person Ramos is. We know him as his Nats family.” And with those comments, Durfee asked the fans for a moment of silence for Wilson Ramos.

Fans at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fans Lit Candles in Shape of #3 and W with Venezuelan Flag at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fans Lighting Candles for Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fan Katherine at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fans Lit Candles at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fans Shared Thoughts and Stories at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fans Shared Thoughts and Stories at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Nats Catcher Bears at Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fan Sign Made for Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fan Sign Made for Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fan Sign Made for Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fan Sign Made for Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

Fan Signs Made for Wilson Ramos Vigil at Nationals Park (Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

 

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Nats Catcher Wilson Ramos is FREE (Updated)

November 11, 2011 by

Updated: 11/12/11 8:40 a.m.
Washington Nationals GM Mike Rizzo released an additional statement:

“I am happy to announce that I have spoken directly with Wilson and he assures me he is unharmed but eager to be reunited with his family. He asked me to thank all who played a role in his rescue, and all those who kept him and his family in their thoughts and prayers.  I join Wilson in thanking the many law enforcement officials in Venezuela and investigators with Major League Baseball who worked tirelessly to ensure a positive ending to what has been a frightening ordeal.  The only detail that concerns us tonight is that Wilson is safe.  The entire Washington Nationals family is thankful that Wilson Ramos is coming home.”

Updated: 11/12/11 6:10 a.m.
Photos and quotes from grass roots candlelight vigil at Nationals Park by Nats fans prior to the rescue of Wilson Ramos.

Updated: 11/12/11 3:39 a.m.

Relatives of Wilson Ramos celebrate after hearing the news that the Nationals catcher was released. (Photo Courtesy of Washington Post)

Upon hearing that her son was safe, Maria Compos said, “Thank you and thank everyone, thanks to God, thanks to God, thanks to the whole country. I just heard everyone yell.”

Nationals teammate and fellow Venezuelan Jesus Flores tweeted, “Gracias Dios; usted es grande y misericordioso. Mi compañero y amigo Wilson Ramos a sido liberado. Muy Feliz por esta noticia.” [Rough English translation: "Thank God you are great and merciful. My colleague and friend Wilson Ramos has been released. Very happy about this news."]

Globovision reported from the post-rescue scene and has been [roughly] translated below.

The newly released Wilson Ramos baseball was escorted to the headquarters of Valencia by members Cicpc Extortion and KidnappingGroup. The recipient of Aragua Tigers are found at the site with the Minister of Interior and Justice, Tarek El Aissami, and members of his family. Ramos said that during the kidnapping asked God to get out aliveand be with their loved ones.

“Do not hurt me physically but psychologically it was a very large damage I received,” said Ramos. He described the site where he was held was very dark and retained section, and compared it to a jungle.

He thanked the National Guard and the PTJ (referring to Cicpc). ”Godbless you all,” he said.

The Aissami said the rescue operation was at all times conducted by the office of the Ministry of Interior and Justice.

“We want to express to him and to all Venezuelans, our joy and our joy of rescuing him unharmed,” said the minister. “We met,” he said.

He reported that this Saturday will be a press conference to explain everything that was working to resolve the case.

“We responded with the greatest responsibility we face before the country, and here are the results: we have Wilson back,” he said.

There are 5 people arrested for the kidnapping of Wilson Ramos. During the operation there was an exchange of gunfire.

Video from Globovision of press conference with Wilson Ramos speaking.

Declaraciones de Wilson Ramos al ser liberado by Globovision

 

Updated: 11/12/11 at 12:45 a.m.
This is much happier photo of Wilson Ramos after rescue. Nice to see his smile.

Updated: 11/12/11 at 12:07 a.m. It sounds like Wilson Ramos has to go through a physical before returning home so he has not seen his family in person yet, but has spoken to them on the phone. Looking forward to be able to say that he is truly “safe at home.” Updated 11:37 p.m. Photoof Wilson Ramos safe return to home (tweeted by Kathe Vilera).

Photo of Wilson Ramos after rescue (tweeted by Kathe Vilera)

Updated: 11/11/11 at 11:30 p.m.Washington Nationals GM Mike Rizzo issued a statement about the rescue of Wilson Ramos.

“The news from Venezuela tonight is reassuring.  Though details are limited and we have not yet talked directly with Wilson, we are thrilled with reports that he has been rescued and is being safely returned to his family.  We greatly appreciate all the prayers and thoughts of all who have joined us in wishing for this conclusion to what has been a nightmarish 48 hours. We are eager to see Wilson and let him know just how many all over the world have been waiting for this news.”

Updated: 11/11/11 at 10:53 p.m. We’ve learned that Wilson Ramos has spoken with family members on the phone. Being strong for his family he said, “Calm down, I’m going home.” Rafael Rojas explainsthat  it can be called a rescue operation. Internal affairs minister said there are 3 detainees.

Breaking News:

According to reports on Twitter, Internal Affairs Minister called the Ramos family and told them they got Wilson Ramos and he was safe.

From @rafaelrojasc:

“VZ Information Minister tweets Ramos has been found safely by authorities at mountains at Carabobo state.”

“The news was spread on PA systems at VZ league. You can imagine the cheers this announcement got.”

“Internal affairs Minister said they are about to bring Wilson to his home. That will be quite a scene.”

Absolutely fantastic news. The vigil held by fans at Nationals Park earlier tonight was a wonderful get together. Stories and photos will be posted soon.

If you feel like dancing for joy, here is one of Wilson’s batting songs.

If you need to be brought up to speed on the handicapped situation, we previously wrote about it.

Nationals Catcher Wilson Ramos at last home game 2011 (Stock Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

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NATS: Candlelight Vigil for Wilson Ramos

November 11, 2011 by

**Updated: See photos and quotes from vigil.

Nationals Catcher Wilson Ramos at last home game 2011 (Stock Photo by Cheryl Nichols)

If you haven’t already heard about the candlelight vigil for Washington Nationals Catcher Wilson Ramos, here are a few links with the information.

The group that put this together have an event page on Facebook with details.

In short, tonight 6-7:30 p.m. outside the Center Field Gate at Nationals Park. Bring candles and signs. Dress warmly (and in Nats gear if possible). Please note that the Navy Yard Metro station is closed for maintenance. Free shuttle bus service will operate between the L’Enfant Plaza and Southern Avenue stations to closed Metro stations.

For up-to-date info, you can follow the Twitter hashtag #vigilforramos.

If you are unable to attend tonight, you can join online.

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