This and that and the Nats

June 29, 2010 7:18 AM by Johnny Holliday

Before we get to some Nats ups and downs, I'd like to start off with some good news. Jack Rolle got a great report on his latest MRI that took place this past Friday at Children's Hospital.

Every 12 weeks my grandson, who just celebrated his 12th birthday last Thursday, has to undergo an MRI to see if any cancer cells have reappeared. As you can imagine, it's a time for his mom, dad, three brothers, and everyone in the family to hold our collective breaths.

Thankfully, his numbers have once again been positive and he continues to be cancer free. I know much of Jack's recovery is due to so many of you that read this blog - remember Jack in your thoughts and prayers, and for that I thank you very, very much.

Another feel good story from the NBA draft was Maryland's All-American Guard Greivis Vasquez being taken in the first round, despite most so called experts predicting Greivis would go in the second round.

I could not be happier for Senor Vasquez, not only for his athletic ability but his genuine all-around good guy approach to life. I join all you Terrapin fans in wishing Greivis well in Memphis.

While we're on the Terp beat, best wishes to Debbie Yow who departs College Park after 16 years as Maryland Athletic Director to take over the show at North Carolina State. Debbie heads home to her native Carolina where she grew up some 60 miles from Raleigh.

Now for the Nats. They have hit some rough sledding these past couple of weeks. Can they and will they turn things around before the All-Star break is anyone's guess.

Only time will tell - no predictions from me on this one - but one thing we all know is that the club's defense and offense have to get better. Those two areas have been the downfall the last month.

See you at the park when the Mets come to town this weekend. Stay well, and it's always nice to hear from you...

-Johnny