We were excited to sit down with Nationals Radio Broadcaster Dave Jageler a few weeks ago for an interview about his career, baseball and the Washington Nationals.

Can you tell us about how you prepare for a game?
My day usually starts 3 or 4 hours before the game. I check the line up, try to interview players or coaches, listen to Manny’s pre-game press conference, ask players about previous games, update my scorebook, and then grab something to eat before the game. We go on a half hour before game time.

How did you get into broadcasting?
I was 12 or 13 when I really became interested, but it’s something that I have always wanted to do. I was growing up in Windsor, CT and played baseball in high school. I would call the game under my breath in my position in left field. It probably resulted in me missing a few fly balls but it was paid off I guess. In high school I volunteered at a local public access TV station and called basketball games for three years.

You do some play-by-play announcing for other sports, right? What’s different about baseball?

Yes, mostly basketball. I worked for the NBA Celtics when I lived in Boston and I do some college games during the off season. It’s different to call baseball games. The action in the game is more spread out, not as fast paced as basketball. Sometimes there is not a lot of action, so it can be more challenging to try to fill the space, but that’s what makes it interesting and unique everyday. People still listen to baseball on the radio more than other sports to hear the announcer’s perspective and description.

Who were your favorite broadcasters?
I listen to Vin Scully on satellite radio, but I grew up a fan of Ken Coleman, Sean McDonough and Joe Castiglione who were outstanding broadcasters for the Red Sox. I also used to listen to Jon Miller when he was with the Orioles; he is a great broadcaster.

What is your first baseball memory?
As a Red Sox fan, I have sort of been trained to expect the worst in baseball. I remember the Red Sox blowing the ‘78 playoff game against the Yankees. Then the World Series in ’86, I think I still need therapy from that one. In 2003, I was in agony when the Yankees beat the Red Sox in Game Seven, but 2004 was the best feeling in the world when they finally won the World Series.

What do you think of the Nationals and “the plan?”
I think it’s a good plan. It’s like the Tigers, the Rockies and the Diamondbacks trying to develop the farm system rather than spending tens of millions on one player, and it takes time. It’s fun to see players work their way up from the system, like John Lannan.

What are your thoughts on the new ballpark?
It’s going to be a great place to watch the game. The fans in DC deserve it. In order for the plan to be successful the new park is needed. It’s going to be nice that it will have other features besides a great view of the game. The park will allow the fans to enjoy the whole baseball experience. It’s also going to be great to watch baseball with a view of the Capitol.

What’s the hardest part of your job?
Saying goodbye to my kids before long away trips. The trade off is being able to take my family on trips to Philly and New York and spend the long off-season with them.

What’s your favorite park?
My favorite place to watch a game would be Wrigley Field or Fenway Park. They are historic and the atmosphere makes it a special place to watch a game. The great views in Atlanta and Philly make them great places to call a game.Do you prefer the AL or NL?
As a broadcaster, I prefer the NL. There is much more strategy involved and it gives me more to talk about on air. I grew up with the AL however, so I am also used to that style of play.

Can you tell us about a funny on-air blooper?
Last year Charlie was talking about a batter at the plate, he meant to say, “He is checking his swing,” instead he said, “He is checking his thing.” We spent 5 minutes laughing afterwards.

What’s your favorite place in DC?
My son loves the Spy Museum; it’s a fun and interactive place to take the family.

What’s your favorite memory from a Nats game?
It would have to be Zimmerman’s homerun last year against the Yankees. It was a great moment — first because the Yankees were defeated, and second because it was on Father’s Day. I think that moment sent the tone for the future of this club.

If you had a batting song what would it be?
Smooth Operator, because I try to broadcast with a laid back smooth style.

What are your thoughts on Charlie?
We met during the winter caravan last year and hit if off. We seem to bounce off of each other and have a lot of inside humor. We enjoy interaction and laugh with each other. I think it makes it more enjoyable for the listener when they hear the broadcasters having fun.

Any thoughts about trades?
Last year I was surprised that Alfonso didn’t go. The trade deadline might be overrated because teams aren’t trading prospects anymore. I would expect trades would happen at the end of August before the playoff rosters are set.

What is it about baseball that is so special to you?
Everyday is new; you never know what is going to happen. You could see a no hitter, or you could see 3 homers in one game, or you could see a play you’ve never seen before like Zimmerman losing the ball in his shirt. That’s what makes baseball a great game and a fun game to broadcast.

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