Nationals News: Run Away from the Pain Edition

  Sure, the Nats dropped 2 of 3 to the Mets this weekend and have been reduced to a footnote in DC sports coverage, but it could be worse -- the Nationals could be the Mets!

Nationals News

  Buster Olney hears the Nationals will consider former MLB manager Buck Showalter when they select the team's permanent field manager.

  Baseball America covers USA Baseball's 18-and-under squad, starring Bryce Harper (with video)!

  Jim Riggleman and Ian Desmond had some pretty good lines about their 2-3 loss this weekend.

  The home team is on pace to do what only four teams have done since 1980 -- flounder through two consecutive 100-loss seasons.

  Nats' manager Jim Riggleman said his team played 'flat' in their loss to the Mets on Sunday, a statement with which Adam Dunn disagreed, pretty strongly.

  NationalsPride didn't like Riggleman's choice to move Ian Desmond to RF. Also, FJB doesn't like Riggleman's decisions this weekend.

  Newly acquired catcher Jamie Burke had been living at home with his wife and kids before he was traded to the Nats.

  The Nats are running away with Bryce Harper.

  Josh Willingham only hits homers to left field. Also, bonus Willingham coverage from OMG.

  Even when the lineup gets changed around, the Nats still manage to lose.

  In their 2-6 loss yesterday, the Nats gave Mets pitcher John Maine his first win since May. Hey, they're a nice team, okay?

  Nationals pitchers have combined for 70 wild pitches, but Josh Bard and Wil Nieves have allowed only seven passed balls. That's impressive.

Non-Nationals News

  Ronnie Belliard, since being traded by the Nationals, has been on an offensive tear with the Dodgers. What is his true value?

  Cubs outfielder (and disgruntled board game creator) Milton Bradley has been suspended for the remainder of the season.

  San Francisco Giants prospect Angel Villalona has turned himself in to police after becoming the main suspect in the death of a 25-year-old.

  Seattle Mariners' catcher Rob Johnson twisted his ankle in the home plate celebration following Ichiro Suzuki's walkoff homer on Friday.