Here’s another example of good team chemistry going hand in hand with a good clubhouse atmosphere:

I hope the story I wrote for today’s birdcage liner, about the Nationals’ improved team atmosphere, does not obscure the most important reason why they Nationals are winning more. Mostly, the Nationals are better because they have better players. Their defense isn’t full of stone gloves. Their bullpen isn’t full arsonists. It’s not a Disney movie.

That being stated, the Nationals believe their clubhouse is a more enjoyable place to be this year than last season. That may not describe their success, but it is an important and (I felt) interesting part of it.

There have been plenty of teams that won with poor clubhouse chemistry. Good relations among players are a lot easier when you’re winning, however.