May 20, 2012

Early numbers don't tell Strasburg's story

Forget Stephen Strasburg's pitching line from his first spring start on Sunday. The Nationals right-hander feels strong and is healthy, just 18 months removed from Tommy John surgery.

LaRoche arrives at Nationals camp early

Position players are not expected to report to Spring Training until Thursday, but first baseman Adam LaRoche arrived Monday morning and was hitting in the batting cage.

Werth arrives early, feels more at home in '12

Nationals outfielder Jayson Werth was not expected to be in Spring Training until next week, but his first day in camp turned out to be Saturday. He went right to work, going to the complex and taking batting practice with teammate Danny Espinosa.

Pudge gets first start for Nats since early July

Nationals manager Davey Johnson had Ivan Rodriguez start behind the plate on Saturday afternoon against the Braves. It was his first start since July 4 against the Cubs.

Strasburg could return as early as late August

Stephen Strasburg is facing hitters in simulated games and feeling well, and could be back in Washington by the end of August or early September after a few rehab starts.