Hernandez impressed with young Nationals arms

VIERA, Fla. -- Nationals coach and ambassador Livan Hernandez celebrated his 39th birthday on Thursday by watching pitchers throw in the bullpen, and he is impressed by what he is seeing from the young arms.

Hernandez raved about left-hander Felipe Rivero, who was acquired from the Rays in the Jose Lobaton trade last week, and reliever Xavier Cedeno, who threw in the bullpen on Thursday.

"His ball explodes from his hands," Hernandez said about Rivero. "A lot of people are throwing the ball [well]. Cedeno threw the ball [well]. He is a special lefty. It's going to be good when the [exhibition] games start."

When the spring season starts next Friday, Hernandez will continue to lend his expertise to the pitching staff.

"This is more important -- doing this and helping the guys get ready for the season," Hernandez said. "I want to help them put their minds together. In this game, the mind is more important. The mind is 90 percent of the game. When your mind is right, you are going to be good for a long time."