SEEN AND HEARD AT CITIZENS BANK PARK
PHILADELPHIA — Manny Acta was upset to learn about the death of minor league first base coach Mike Coolbaugh from a line drive earlier this week, and the Nationals manager has talked to his two base coaches (Tim Tolman and Jerry Morales) about taking precautions when they’re in the field.
Acta, a long-time third base coach in both the majors and minors, noted how important it is for a coach to keep his body square to the plate, even if his head is turned.
He also advised them to stand on the balls of their feet because it’s hard to make a sudden movement to get out of the way when slouching.
BY THE NUMBERS
5 Nationals players who will have made their major league debuts this season once John Lannan pitches today. Other Washington rookies: Matt Chico, Jesus Flores, Kory Casto and Levale Speigner.
TODAY’S GAME
Nationals LHP John Lannan (first career start) vs. Phillies RHP Adam Eaton (9-6, 5.84), 1:05 p.m., MASN2, AM-1500, FM-107.7.
— Mark Zuckerman
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