Severino rips double off wall in big league debut

WASHINGTON -- It was a day to remember for Nationals catcher Pedro Severino during Sunday's 13-3 victory over the Marlins. Severino, who is the ninth-ranked prospect in the Nationals' organization according to MLB.com, made his Major League debut and collected his first hit -- a double off Marlins right-hander Jose Urena.

Severino joined the Nationals on Sept. 1 from Double-A Harrisburg. Even though he didn't get any playing time until Sunday, Severino learned the art of catching by watching Wilson Ramos and Jose Lobaton. Severino also received lessons from hitting coach Rick Schu.

"I'm just waiting for that time, I'm ready to play" Severino said.

It finally came when Severino entered the game as a pinch-hitter for left-hander Matt Grace in the eighth inning. On a 1-1 pitch, Severino hit the ball to deep left field. Manager Matt Williams thought the ball was going out of the park, but it hit the fence for a double. Severino would later score on a single by Yunel Escobar.

How did Severino feel about what he accomplished?

"Oh, my God. Amazing," he said. "When I scored, everybody was in the dugout, I gave high fives. I'm proud of myself. I felt like I helped my team."

After getting his first hit, Severino said he plans to give the ball to his mother in the Dominican Republic.

"I dedicate that ball to her," he said.