For the first time in their seven-year history, the Nationals have a chance to finish better than fourth. The Braves will win the National League East and the Mets will debate trading David Wright. Baseball begins today, so that means a steady stream of questions: The Braves are my pick to beat the Phillies, but there are concerns: Will Chipper Jones' knee hold up and how productive can he be at 38? Outfielder Nate McLouth had a strong spring, but will that give him enough confidence to...

SARASOTA, Fla. - One last report from Sarasota. Pitcher Justin Duchscherer was sent to a chiropractor yesterday after complaining of back soreness. Apparently, his left hip is fine, but he's dealing with another setback. President of baseball operations Andy MacPhail said the club will wait 24 hours "and see how it is." "I'm not sure where we are right now," MacPhail said. "I think we're 24 hours from knowing the severity." Duchscherer threw two innings Tuesday in a simulated game...

The Washington Nationals today selected the contracts of infielder Alex Cora, right-handed pitcher Chad Gaudin, outfielder Laynce Nix and first baseman/outfielder Matt Stairs. The Nationals also placed right-handed pitcher Henry Rodriguez (right shoulder) on the 15-Day Disabled List, retroactive to March 22, and placed right-handed pitchers Elvin Ramirez (right shoulder), Stephen Strasburg (right elbow) and Chien-Ming Wang (right shoulder) and on the 60-Day Disabled List. Nationals Executive...

SARASOTA, Fla. - Counted among the yearly traditions of spring training is the sudden realization that I can't consume all of the food that I bought during my seven-week stay. How many packets of oatmeal can I possibly eat before check-out this morning? And honesty, the bags of frozen broccoli and Brussels sprouts seemed like a good idea at the time. No way they're coming with me to St. Petersburg. I'm down to three bottled waters. I think I timed that one just about right. Anyway, the...

It's become a pretty important part of sports-talk on radio. That's the call-in show where fans and listeners can vent, analyze the game and react right after the game ends. Well, this year, after Orioles' games, you will have your chance to do just that and I will be the voice at the other end of the phone line. I am thrilled to officially announce that I will be hosting the "Baltimore Baseball Tonight" postgame edition on weeknights this year on 105.7 FM, The Fan in Baltimore. The show...

Despite the gloomy weather and the weekday mid-afternoon timing, hundreds of fans gathered at Nationals Park on a rainy Wednesday afternoon to meet and greet their team and start a new season of Nationals baseball. Along with players, coaches and broadcasters, Nationals fans seemed optimistic about the season as they gathered to celebrate the team's third annual NatsFest. The weather interfered with many of the planned outdoor activities, as well as participation from local Little League...

SARASOTA, Fla. - Right-hander Chris Tillman will start Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field, following Jeremy Guthrie and Brian Matusz in the rotation. Tillman went 2-0 with a 3.93 ERA in five games this spring. He allowed 20 hits, walked nine and struck out 10 in 18 1/3 innings. He also gave up one run over six innings in a minor league game, which doesn't count in the official Grapefruit League statistics. Brad Bergesen, who threw two innings in today's minor...

Still looking for Nationals tickets for opening day? Enjoy the climate controlled atmosphere of a suite for just $145 (with a two-seat minimum purchase). The available suites are on the Jefferson suite level and have comfortable leather seats, as well as access to the Stars and Stripes Club. Most importantly, you'll avoid any inclement weather. Suite tickets are available at Nationals.com. The team will also sell 400 game-day tickets for $5 on Thursday beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the...

If you're lucky enough to be coming to the Orioles' home opener on Monday, you'll be interested in a variety of special plans the team announced today. First, when you come through the gates, you'll receive a 2011 schedule/car magnet, courtesy of Brothers Services. To allow for maximum fan enjoyment, the games for the 3:05 p.m. game will open at noon, and roving musical groups will entertain on Eutaw Street and the main concourse. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 2:30 p.m. for...

Nationals catcher Derek Norris is in Washington working out with the big league club before he embarks on his first season with Double-A Harrisburg. Norris is coming off a very good spring at the plate, and was able to work on his defense to the point where he feels confident in his setup behind the plate. That was the part of his game that he most wanted to solidify before the regular season began. Nationals veteran catcher Ivan Rodriguez says each catcher can take advice from several...