February 8, 2012

Ladson's MLBlog: Rizzo proud of staff

Ladson's MLBlog: Rizzo proud of staff

Rizzo expected to be busy at GM Meetings

The Nationals head to the General Managers Meetings in Milwaukee with three main goals in mind: Add a No. 1 pitcher to the rotation; get a leadoff hitter/center fielder; and improve the bench.

Rizzo has plan regarding Strasburg

General manager Mike Rizzo has a general idea as to how many innings right-hander Stephen Strasburg will throw in 2012, but he will not give out the details until he sees Strasburg in Spring Training.

Rizzo pleased with young players' progress

Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said his most pleasant surprise in 2011 has been the maturation of the club's young players, including shortstop Ian Desmond, second baseman Danny Espinosa, catcher Wilson Ramos and righty Jordan Zimmermann.

Johnson, Rizzo mum on manager's future

Nationals manager Davey Johnson and Mike Rizzo declined to talk about Johnson's future with the club. Johnson has two years left on his contract as a consultant. If he doesn't return as the skipper, he will play a major role in finding a manager.