This week the Nationals will begin their 19th season of play when they welcome Atlanta to D.C. on Thursday afternoon. Mark & Al get you set for the Podcast's 3rd campaign with the disappointing news that Our Guy Paolo Espino will begin the season in AAA Rochester. (06:45) Learn about reliever Hobie Harris. He had an impressive Spring and is expected to be part of this year's bullpen. (15:20) Patrick Corbin has received the nod for the second straight season as the Opening Day starter. Why was Corbin given the ball instead of Josiah Gray? It has been nearly four years since Corbin defeated the Braves. Mark then lays out how to expect the starting rotation to shake out over the first week of the season. (26:00) A look at the positional players for Washington this season. Among the newcomers, Dominic Smith joined the team from the Mets. How does Alex Call fit in? "Joey Four Bags" figures to prominently in the batting order. (31:00) How many wins for the Nats this season? The hosts lend their predictions while ending with a giddy view of the new Pitch Clock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week the Nationals will begin their 19th season of play when they welcome Atlanta to D.C. on Thursday afternoon. Mark & Al get you set for the Podcast's 3rd campaign with the disappointing news that Our Guy Paolo Espino will begin the season in AAA Rochester. (06:45) Learn about reliever Hobie Harris. He had an impressive Spring and is expected to be part of this year's bullpen. (15:20) Patrick Corbin has received the nod for the second straight season as the Opening Day starter. Why was Corbin given the ball instead of Josiah Gray? It has been nearly four years since Corbin defeated the Braves. Mark then lays out how to expect the starting rotation to shake out over the first week of the season. (26:00) A look at the positional players for Washington this season. Among the newcomers, Dominic Smith joined the team from the Mets. How does Alex Call fit in? "Joey Four Bags" figures to prominently in the batting order. (31:00) How many wins for the Nats this season? The hosts lend their predictions while ending with a giddy view of the new Pitch Clock. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices