Robinson cherishes first home run
MILWAUKEE -- It took eight seasons in the Minor Leagues and brief stints with three Major League clubs, but Nationals first baseman Clint Robinson can finally say he's hit a home run in The Show.
Robinson, who clubbed 141 homers in the Minors, crushed a towering solo shot off Brewers starter Matt Garza in the second inning of the Nationals' 6-5 loss to the Brewers on Thursday night at Miller Park.
It was a long time coming for Robinson, who won the 2010 Texas League Triple Crown, hitting .335 with 29 homers and 98 RBIs.
"I couldn't feel my legs for a couple of innings after that," Robinson said. "It felt great. It's everything you dream of. It's been a while to get my first one, but to get it is awesome."
Video: WSH@MIL: Young fan talks catching Robinson's home run
The young fan who ended up with Robinson's home run ball was interviewed during the Nationals' broadcast of the game and got to meet the big leaguer after the game to arrange a trade.
Robinson got the start at first base on Thursday, filling in for the injured Ryan Zimmerman who was placed on the 15-day disabled list earlier in the day. He had been playing a utility role with the Nationals, filling in at first and in the outfield.
While manager Matt Williams said there are a number of players the team can play at first, Robinson certainly made a case for the job. He followed his first career homer with a single in the fourth inning.
"He had some good swings tonight," Williams said. "He got a chance to get back over to first base, where he's comfortable."
Robinson certainly appeared to be comfortable at first base.
In the eighth inning, with one out and a runner on second, Brewers shortstop Jean Segura smashed a hard ground ball between Robinson and Nationals second baseman Anthony Rendon. The 6-foot-5 Robinson quickly moved to his right to snag the ball that would've likely found the outfield grass and threw to pitcher Aaron Barrett at first to cut down Segura, saving a run in what was a 5-5 game.
It will be Robinson's bat, however, that will determine how often he sees the starting lineup. He's hoping that getting that first homer out of the way can keep him there.
"When you get called up, you always want to get that home run out of the way," Robinson said. "It was everything you hope it would be. I'll never forget it."