BOTTOMFEEDER BASEBALL BLOG

Dedicated to the constructive criticism of the Washington Nationals.

ALL ARTICLES AND PICTURES UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ARE (C) DAVID W. NICHOLS

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Wednesday, September 3, 2008

GB&U: Nats Shut Out, Flores Goes Down

RESULT: Nats shut out by Phillies 4-0.

GOOD: Michael Hinckley's Major League debut. One and two-thirds scoreless with two strikeouts. John Lannan went six innings, allowing two earned on five hits and two walks with four Ks. Another unrewarded quality start.

BAD: Only six hits. Levale Speigner gave up two runs and three hits in one-third of an inning.

UGLY: In the third inning, Chase Utley barrel-rolled Jesus Flores at the plate trying to steal home. Trying to knock the ball loose is one thing, but diving with your shoulder at a guy's knee is something completely different. I was not a good play, despite how the two teams are trying to play it off. Utley had no chance on the play and he went low and right at Flores' knee. If he'd tried a hook slide he had a chance and would have avoided injury. Don't be surprised when Utley gets buried in the ribs tonight.

The X-rays were negative on Flores ankle, but he's having an MRI this morning. Don't expect him back this season.

ROSTER NOTE: C Luke Montz was recalled from Triple-A Columbus immediately after the game. He'll back up Wil Nieves while Flores mends.

NEXT GAME: Tonight at 7:10 pm from Nationals Park. Odalis Perez (6-10, 4.14) takes on Joe Blanton (6-112, 4.69).

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