Torn Left Oblique Lands Nationals Short Stop Ian Desmond On DL
The Nationals will be without starting shortstop Ian Desmond for at least two weeks due to a torn oblique. The injury first came to light when Desmond opted out of a spot on the All Star game.
The 26 year old Desmond's breakout season has played a major role in the play of the first place Nationals. Ian has 17 home runs, 53 RBI, 15 stolen bases and a .286 average over 364 at bats.
Second baseman Danny Espinosa, a natural short stop, will slide over and fill in defensively until Desmond's return. Utility man Steve Lombardozzi will move into a full time role at second.
Corey Brown has been called up from AAA Syraucse to take Desmond's spot on the 25 man roster. Brown has been raking International League pictching with 21 home runs, 58 RBI, 14 stolen bases and a .300 average. The Nats acquired Brown, along with relief pitcher Henry Rodriguez from the Oakland Athletics for outfielder Josh Willigham in December '10.
The Nationals will have to rely on Mark DeRosa to backup both middle infield positions.
For now, rest for Desmond, with a re-examination in mid-August.
