Chad Cordero

The Washington Nationals surpassed expectations in their debut season and defied the odds by winning a slew of one-run games — Frank Robinson’s bullpen turned in night after night of brilliant relief, headlined by closer Chad Cordero’s breakout season. Cordero led the National League with 47 saves and earned a trip to his first All-Star Game. His hat brim also led the league in total flatness. Democrats and Republicans can agree on one thing in D.C. — the ninth inning is safe down at old RFK.