Nats-Cards 04/06

The first sweep of 2008 for the St. Louis Cardinals has arrived in style. Once again, another great start from a cardinals pitcher – this time Kyle Lohse who was very unlucky earlier in the week in what turned out to be the season opener against the Rockies. He has now pitched 13 consecutive scoreless innnings to start out the season and is 1-0, a great start for him. Ankiel was absolutely superb today both offensively and defensively – his play in the ninth is a must see if you have not seen it yet. Glaus was also made a great defensive play to turn a spectacular double play. Molina hit a couple of great doubles and the Cardinals generally were fantastic on offense, defense and pitching. Nothing negative came out of this game at all and this is a great way to travel into Houston.

As for the Nats, well, they will be disappointed to have been swept so early in the season and im really not too sure how good this sweep really is yet. Zimmerman looks like he is playing on a one man team at the moment. Once again the SP did not do much wrong out there – and for a rookie lefty he is very unlucky to take the loss against an inspired Lohse and the whole Cards team. They just really need to get some bats going and i have made a mental note to see how they get on next week. Defensively they are pretty solid although Johnson did make one particulary embarassing play in foul ground where he lost the ball in the sun. This series was a tale of teo lead off men – Barton gets on base(s) with his speed, Guzman gets out. It must be frustrating for him and i wouldnt like to knock him as it looks like he does have talent as does the entire Nationals team – id just like to see Young in there – it was a lot more intimidating. Belliard didnt play today either and i think he must be their everyday 2B if they are to do well this season.

Positives – Lohse’s hot start, Ankiel, Barton and the relief pitching.

Negatives – None, seriously none, but i would say how many times does Pujols have 2 consecutive hitless games – that will turn into a positive tomorrow as 3 is impossible

Final – Washington Nationals 0 St Louis Cardinals 3

No day games in Houston, which isn’t so good for me but i will keep track of the box scores and i will post at the end of the series hopefully to announce another sweep

Until next time…

I think i saw…

WILT – Kenny Chesney – No Shoes, No Shirts, No Problems