The Slowsky

Everyone seems to agree that John Patterson has lost significant velocity on his fastball. According to the Post, Patterson and pitching coach Randy St. Claire agree that Patterson isn't injured, but just needs to build arm strength following last year's injuries. Given that Shawn Hill may miss his next start, thus making a sub-standard starting rotation even weaker, the Nats desperately need their number one starter to return to form--the form that he showed in 2005, that is.