SHARK DEBUTS, NATS LOSE

Roger Bernadina is back with a vengeance!  After missing several days because of personal issues, followed by two more days of rain, the Shark has finally played baseball in the 2011 season.  The Syracuse Chiefs played two vs. the Pawtucket Red Sox and were victorious twice.  In game one, the Shark didn't start, but he did score the game tying run as a pinch hitter, instrumental in leading to the Chiefs eventual 3-2 extra inning victory.  In the second game, Bernadina started and DOMINATED.

His line: 2 for 3, 2 Runs, a Home run, 2 RBI, and a SB.  How much more Shark-like can you get?  That's a 5 tool Shark right there.  (It is so very nice to have actual information about Roger Bernadina on this blog...) With his ability, I expect to see a lot more of these dominating stat-lines during his tenure in the minors.  Counting down the days until the Shark is once again patrolling the ocean that is the Nationals outfield.

If the Shark was in the Nationals outfield, the outcome of tonight's game might not have been so sad. Cliff Lee of the Phillies completely embarrassed the Nationals, shutting them out on 3 hits and 12 Ks (with only 99 pitches thrown?!). Poor defense by the Nationals largely led to the final 4-0 score, as the Nationals (for whatever reason) thought that the Phillies needed help scoring runs.  Jordan Zimmermann dominated through five, facing the minimum 15 batters.  His perfect game was broken up by a Carlos Ruiz home run (coincidentally, the only earned run of the game).  His home run barely cleared the fence too.  With the Shark in left, I honestly believe we would be watching a highlight reel, 'perfect game saving' catch on Sportscenter tonight.

Which brings me to my next point... SOMETHING needs to be done about the outfield situation.  After today's game, Washington's outfield is batting .190 cumulatively... .190!?!?  I wish I had the cool of Roger Bernadina (who's batting .666) to just shake it off and say "Sh**k happens" but .190 is really bad...Really bad... Those are John Gochnaur numbers... BAD...  I would feel more comfortable with Ryan Leaf starting at quarterback for my favorite football team, than I feel with Morse starting in left for the Nationals.  Please, let something happen soon...

One positive about the Nats game was that there were Shark fans on site.  Our very own @tyindc was at the game with the original Louisville Slugger, Jumping Zac Flash (too many nicknames?...nah).  Check back later for a shark's perspective of the Nats loss.  In the mean time, enjoy these beautiful shark fans.

More to come.