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It was an eventful day for the Nationals, not only in a positive way, but also a negative way. Ryan Zimmerman finally broke out of his slump with two home runs, and Stephen Strasburg officially signed his seven year extension.
As for the bad news, the Nationals lost after a borderline play. You take the good with the bad.
Here's the latest from Nationals Park.
Stephen Strasburg hasn't changed, our perspectives have
The unrealistic expectations are gone, and we can now see a solid ace from under the shadows.
Looking back at Jordan Zimmermann's legacy in DC
Zimmermann was a rock for the Nationals in the first seven years of his career, as a consistent starter who pitched the team's first no-hitter. He'll start tonight opposite of Max Scherzer - before that, take a look at his legacy.
Nats send Brendan Ryan to Angels for cash considerations
The veteran infielder will spend time with the Halos as long as Andrelton Simmons remains out. (The cash will be a check written directly to Stephen Strasburg).
Donald Trump was wrong about the Strasburg shutdown
In 2012, nearly everyone had an opinion regarding the shutdown of Stephen Strasburg, including GOP frontrunner Donald Trump. Predicting Strasburg's extension preceding the season would have been hard. Predicting that Donald Trump would be the presumptive nominee was probably harder, though.
Ducks on the pond, Ducks on the field
In the bottom of the second, a few #RallyMallards found their way onto the field. The Nats scored a run that inning. Coincidence? I think not.
Strasburg's deal improves the Nationals for the short and long term
Strasburg is on board at least until 2019. This not only makes the Nationals contenders for a while longer, but also increases the attractiveness of the Nats during free agency.
Tonight's Game: Tigers vs Nationals - 7:05 PM (MASN, WJFK)
Probable Pitchers: Jordan Zimmermann (5-1, 1.10 ERA) vs Max Scherzer (3-2, 4.60 ERA)