Riggleman compiled a 140–172 record with the Nationals after he replaced Manny Acta after the all-star break in 2009.
[1] On December 16, 2010, the Nationals traded Josh Willingham to the Oakland Athletics for Corey Brown and Henry Rodríguez.
[2] On January 19, 2011, they traded minor-leaguers Michael Burgess, Graham Hicks, and A. J. Morris to the Chicago Cubs for Tom Gorzelanny.
According to a letter to season ticket holders signed by Nationals Chief Operating Officer Andrew Feffer explained that the slogan let Nationals fans know that the team's rebuilding strategy "is beginning to show returns," and that "we are determined to continue to do what it takes to elevate the franchise to the next level."
The letter added that "in 2010, we had a productive stable of veterans and stars in the lineup," that "we now have a solid and exciting pipeline of pitchers," and that the franchise's "improved Minor League system is now regularly producing a steady stream of Major League talent.
The Nationals held their 2011 spring training in Viera, Florida, with home games played at Space Coast Stadium.
Clippard threw three pitches in the 2011 Major League Baseball All-Star Game and was its winning pitcher.