A letter to Nationals fans from Mark D. Lerner
Nationals fans, Opening Day is finally here!
With every day of spring training that passed, I became more and more convinced that this season is going to be a great one. Inside the clubhouse, new players were welcomed to the Nationals family, and on the fields, Dave Martinez and the entire coaching staff focused on the fundamentals. The positive energy and enthusiasm was obvious.
And the team will need that energy this season since the NL East Division is truly competitive. During the off-season Mike Rizzo and his team put together a talented, athletic, and deep roster. It’s a mix of new players, young players and veterans that makes this a group that fans will really enjoy watching and supporting. We are proud to continue our pursuit of excellence both on and off the field. We have never wavered from our mission of fielding a competitive team, while offering the best fan-friendly experience.
I always love the moment on Opening Day when the entire roster and clubhouse support staff stand along the first base line, caps in hand, ready for the performance of the National Anthem. This year, the team will be joined for elements of the Opening Ceremonies by 16 “Unsung Heroes” from throughout the DMV community. These individuals were nominated by friends, coworkers and family as examples of what makes the D.C. region great.
Their stories are inspiring. From Mary Holt, a 94 year old who still volunteers preparing food for Meals on Wheels recipients; to Dustin Foley, the owner of a Virginia barbershop who offers free haircuts to the homeless — and also stepped up to help those impacted by the federal government shutdown; to Darien Moya, a Cuban refugee who was rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard and now proudly serves as a member of the Coast Guard himself. I am so impressed by Parker Staples, a ten year old fighting lymphoma, who was able to step outside of his own pain and launch a fundraiser to ensure that other pediatric patients had access to ‘buzzy bee’ toys that help distract them during painful medical procedures.
My favorite story comes from the man throwing out today’s first pitch — Billie Roy Cook — an 82 year old who, his family shared, had offers to play for the Giants, Tigers, Athletics, Yankees, and the Cardinals, but chose to join the Army as an Officer in the 101st Airborne Division. In Vietnam, he earned two Bronze Stars, a Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, a Presidential Citation, and seven Battle Stars for serving in major battles. He continues to volunteer in his community and, of course, enjoys watching the Nats!
Throughout the 2019 season, we will continue to lift up the work and contributions of others from our community. Please consider nominating someone from your life at nationals.com/UnsungHeroes who is helping to make your neighborhood, workplace, school or family a better place.
We cannot wait to see you today when gates open at 11:00 a.m., and throughout the 2019 season. Come in your best and brightest red…..
and get loud!
Go Nats!
