Take Me Out to the Ballgame...

So, baseball is almost back. Nationals Spring Training officially started today, not just pitchers and catchers. There is news from all around baseball that keeps flowing in. Here are some thoughts for this b-e-a-utiful day here in the Nation's Capital.

- The biggest storyline for my Nats heading into camp may be getting resolved soon. Bill Ladson of MLB.com is saying that the team and Gold Glove face of the franchise third baseman Ryan Zimmerman are close to a deal on an extension. I, obviously, would love this. He is the greatest player in Nationals history (I know, since 2005 isn't much of a sample size, but run with it), the fan favorite, the best defensive 3B in the game, and a career .288 hitter who is only 27. Even if the Nats decide that he should move to first in a few years to let Anthony Rendon play third, he is still needed in the franchise. Make it happen, Rizzo, and expect an update when it does happen.

- Ryan Braun won his appeal and will not be suspended for steroids. I am shocked. I am curious to know how this came about, because it is the first time any player has won an appeal for performance-enhancing drugs. The Brewers are pleased because their franchise player and MVP is back. The powers that be in MLB have already come out decrying the decision. It will be interesting to see how his numbers are for the next few seasons. If there is a dropoff, you have to assume the juice helped him.

- No one wants Roy Oswalt. Look, I know I didn't want him on the Nats. But there are plenty of teams with awful, and I mean awful, pitching staffs that could use him. Example 1- The Baltimore Orioles. I bet Roy wouldn't want to go play for Peter Angelos' joke of a franchise, but they have NO PITCHING. None at all. If Roy just wants to play, not necessarily for a contender, then he can head to Charm City.

- The Angels managed to upset Albert Pujols already. Make him happy, he is your franchise.

- The A's are trying to field a team entirely of outfielders! What is more likely: Manny makes an impact this summer or Brad Pitt wins the Oscar for playing Billy Beane?

- What will be the more interesting Manager/Team storyline this season- Bobby V in Boston or Ozzie in Miami?

- I can't stand Jim Bowden working for ESPN.com. He is an idiot.

- Tony Gwynn had cancer surgery again. Hope he gets well soon.


That's it for now. Almost Opening Day!