--Team president Stan Kasten again rebuked rumors that he is interested in another job last weekend at the team's inaugural NatsFest, saying he came to D.C. because he loves the city. "I love it more now than when I got here," Kasten said. "And I also came here to accomplish something -- to make this (team) a winner."
--OF Elijah Dukes narrowly escaped jail time by paying more than $40,000 in child support to his estranged wife, NiShea Gilbert, just before a court deadline. Had he not paid, the troubled-but-talented outfielder would have served a minimum of 90 days in jail in Tampa, Fla. Dukes was a surprise guest at the team's fanfest but did not speak with reporters. --The Nationals announced that they have hired Rob Dibble, former ESPN studio analyst and controversial relief pitcher, as their new TV color analyst. Dibble, who enters as Don Sutton exits for a job with the Atlanta Braves, said he is "never going to be a homer." The move should at least bring some intrigue to a television broadcast that drew a reported 9,000 fans per game last season.
--1B Chris Marrero, the team's first-round pick in 2006, received a belated invitation to big-league camp last week. The 20-year-old missed half the season because of a broken leg last season, but could figure into the team's first base picture, which is cloudy because of Nick Johnson's health.
--RHP Gary Glover signed a minor league deal with the Nationals last week, and he will compete with a group of young relievers for a spot in the bullpen. The 32-year-old had a 5.30 ERA in 54 1/3 innings for Tampa Bay and Detroit last season.
BY THE NUMBERS: 63 -- Starts the Nationals will have to replace because of the departures of Tim Redding and Odalis Perez. Redding was non-tendered in December before signing with the Mets, while team president Stan Kasten all but admitted the team won't offer Perez a chance to make the team out of camp for a second year in a row, instead giving a group of young pitchers a chance to win a starting job.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "I came here because I love this city. I love it more now than when I got here. And I really love the people I've met here. And I also came to accomplish something here -- to make this (team) a winner." -- Nationals president Stan Kasten, responding to a fan's question about his interest in other executive jobs around the majors.
