I made the decision to move to Washington, DC mostly because I was offered a job perfectly suited for me. But the benefit of a Major League baseball team made the offer more enticing. While the full-time gig has left me less enthusiastic about the concept of spending time in front of the computer, and some of my creative energy has gone towards improving fighting government bureaucracy, I do get to go to Nats games. April showers have yet to yield May flowers and I have already been to three games at Nats Park. As a proud Braves fan, I feel a bit like I’m behind enemy lines at the Park. Imagine a swarm of your biggest rival’s fans walking around, none of whom says a thing or acknowledging your presence. I can’t decide if I enjoy the experience more because of that dynamic–my air of Braves superiority met with collective ambivalence from the Nats fanbase–or because it’s simply a fun place to watch a game.
Nats Park isn’t very big. Its 41,418 person capacity ranks 20th in baseball, and it feels intimate. The cherry blossoms that line the outfield stands make an oddly perfect compliment to a Dan’s Chili Bowl and baseball game. The whole thing just works.
Here are some pictures that I’ve gathered in my three games there. A photo-blog, if you will.
Before games, The Bullpen opens up. The Bullpen is best described as a fairground with live music and beer. It is the perfect place to meet up before entering a Major League stadium. And it’s located right next to the stadium – tailgating for city dwellers.
Marlins lefty reliever Mike Dunn pitches to Bryce Harper.
Harper’s amazing torque on display.
Nationals reliever Jerry Blevins.
Garret Jones looks like he’s ready to hit.
-Sean Morash
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