Nats Injury Bug Returns
A week ago Friday, the Nationals finally had their projected starting lineup on the field together.
Outfielder Jayson Werth returned from a broken wrist earlier this month, giving Manager Davey Johnson his everyday lineup.
Catcher Wilson Ramos (knee) was lost for the season in mid-May, but the recent acquisition of Kurt Suzuki has helped temper the loss.
Shortstop Ian Desmond returned on Wednesday after a month long absence recovering from an oblique strain.
The Nationals lineup of Adam LaRoche, Danny Espinosa, Desmond, Ryan Zimmerman, Mike Morse, Bryce Harper and Werth only lasted a week. Desmond is back on the bench with what's being called a hyperextended hamstring and will be out until at least next week. Morse is also sidelined, big Mike was hit by pitch (right hand) and although x-rays were negative, he will sit as a precaution.
With a 6.5 game lead in the National League East and sitting 29 games over .500, the Nats can afford to play it safe and exercise every precaution with minor injuries.
Barring any additional injuries and the prompt returns of Desmond and Morse, the Nats will make the safety precaution of all precautions. Very soon, ace pitcher Stephen Strasburg will be shut down with the bright lights of the post-season in view. No, Strasburg isn't hurt, but the chances of Washington winning its first World Series will be.
