TalkBack

The Nationals haven't done much right during the first half of the season. But at least their Saturday night postgame movies are a hit, starting with the first two, "Rookie of the Year" and "The Sandlot."

Talkbacker Mickey Greenblatt of Potomac suggests the team consider "The Natural" or "Field of Dreams." Greenblatt disputes the Wall Street Journal's pick -- "Bull Durham" -- as its favorite baseball film, referring to the choice as "baloney."

I'll side with the Journal on this, although because of Annie Savoy's antics, I understand why the Nats might pass on Crash Davis and Co.

But the Nats should consider: "A League of Their Own," "Pride of the Yankees," "Don't Look Back," "Damn Yankees," "The Rookie," "Fever Pitch," "The Babe Ruth Story" and, of course, the original (1976) "Bad News Bears." "Eight Men Out" is too depressing and "Cobb" is R-rated.

Meanwhile:

I read the recent "disclosure" of the TV ratings by the Washington Nationals on the Baltimore Orioles-owned MASN with more than a little skepticism. Could that be right? I watch part or all of most games myself and I talk to others almost daily who do the same. Are we that unusual? The one comfort I take is that the Washington Nationals make $25 million from MASN regardless of ratings.

Tom Rogers, Oakton

I watch.

* * *

Went to a Nats game in the new stadium on Sunday. I sat in a fantastic seat, ate great food and watched baseball -- our greatest game at the major league level. The standing ovation fans gave wounded veterans was as good as it gets.

Herb Butts, Bowie

Your patience and good cheer are admirable.