photo by Eric P.

People are gonna ask, what the hell was that? Now you can tell ’em. Tell ’em PoPville told you. And go Nats!!

Ed. Note: Unrelated but “The U.S. Military will conduct an Aircraft Flyover in the NCR over Arlington National Cemetery, on Friday, April 3, at approximately 3:05PM.

From the Nationals:

“The Washington Nationals will celebrate Opening Day at Nationals Park on Friday, April 3, with a 1:05 p.m. matchup against the defending World Series Champion Los Angeles Dodgers. Ballpark gates open at 11:00 a.m., and fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 12:15 p.m. to enjoy the pregame ceremonies. The weekend fun will continue on Saturday, April 4, as the Nationals and Budweiser are throwing a 21st Birthday Celebration with special activities and giveaways for fans to enjoy.

Ahead of Friday’s home opener, the Nationals will celebrate baseball’s place in our country’s 250-year history with a special ceremonial first pitch featuring a number of individuals who have helped grow the game. Additionally, the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band will perform the national anthem, America the Beautiful and God Bless America; a representative from Boeing will deliver the game’s lineup card to umpires at home plate; and Mayor Muriel Bowser will give the call to ‘Play Ball!’ The Opening Day pregame ceremonies will also feature 250 military members creating a tunnel in center field for starting lineup and manager introductions; our nation’s colors presented by Joint Armed Forces Color Guard; a giant American flag unfurling in the outfield; and a flyover from four F-16C Fighting Falcons from the 121st Fighter Squadron, D.C. Air National Guard.

Before the start of the game, (more…)


From the Nationals:

“The Washington Nationals officially named Blake Butera the eighth manager in team history on Friday. Today’s announcement was made by Nationals President of Baseball Operations Paul Toboni.

“I’ve always believed that you win with people, and from our very first conversation, it was clear that Blake is the right person and the right leader for this role,” said Toboni. “Blake comes into this position with experience in a variety of roles in player development, including as a successful manager, making him uniquely qualified to get the most out of the players in the clubhouse and help us reach the next level. He possesses a strong baseball acumen and has a reputation for building strong relationships with players and staff, making him a great fit for us in Washington, D.C. We’re so excited to welcome him to the Nationals family.”

Butera, 33, (more…)



photo by angela n.

From the Nationals:

“The Washington Nationals have officially reached an agreement with Paul Toboni to join the Club as its President of Baseball Operations.

Widely regarded as one of the best young executives in baseball, Toboni will bring a fresh voice to the organization, providing valuable experience in scouting and player development to build around the Nationals talented core of young star players.

Toboni comes to the Nationals from the Boston Red Sox, (more…)



photo by Jim Havard

From MLB:

“The Nationals have parted ways with manager Dave Martinez and general manager Mike Rizzo, the team announced on Sunday night.

Senior vice president and assistant general manager Mike DeBartolo has been named interim GM. The team will make an announcement on an interim manager sometime on Monday.”

And (more…)



photo by Tim Brown

From the Nationals:

“This season, fans visiting Nationals Park will have even more local flavors to enjoy, as 11 new restaurants and local suppliers will be featured at the ballpark after competing in the ‘Pitch Your Product’ showcase this offseason. The culinary competition, which was relaunched for the second time in Club history in October, gave local restaurateurs and food and beverage suppliers from Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia the opportunity to grow their businesses by selling their unique menu items and products at Nationals Park beginning this season. In total, Nationals Park features concessions offerings from more than 30 local businesses, including food, bakery, beer and spirits. (more…)


View More Stories