Redding – $2.25 MM, Perez – $36 MM, Livan… Priceless!

Oh yeah, give it up for the big guy Livan Hernandez.

We’ll never know if he’s really 34 years old or 38 years old, but as long as he continues to pitch this effectivelly does it really matter?

Livan was in complete control last night, baffling Nationals hitters, keeping them off balance, and saving his best stuff for getting himself out of trouble. It was Starting Pitching 101 and class was definitely in session.

Lets hope that his complete game performance made a strong impresion on the rest of the staff, and that it will spark similar performances from Maine, Pelfrey and even Johan in the coming days. The key is to stop nibbling and attack the zone… pitch to contact and let the defense do their job, especially in the case of Mike Pelfrey who is blessed with that remarkable sink on his fastball.

Livan now sports a 4-1 record this season with a 4.28 ERA that continues to shrink everytime he takes the mound in May. For the month, he is 3-0 with a 2.70 ERA.

His big win sets up what could be a 3-game sweep tonight when Johan Santana takes the mound.

L- Let the hitter know that YOU OWN the inside part of the plate.

I – Induce the groundball whenever you’re in trouble. It’s true what they say, the double play really is my best friend.

V – Vengeance! If they hit one of our guys, knock down one of their guys as soon as you’re back on the mound.

A – Attack the strike zone and conserve your pitches!

N – Never let them see you sweat! Growl when they get a hit and shout Cuban profanities if they homer off of you.