February 8, 2012

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.

Hairston eyeing July 18 return to Nats' lineup

Jerry Hairston Jr. is eligible to come off the 15-day disabled list during the All-Star break, but the Nationals' utility player is targeting a July 18 return in the series opener in Houston.

Strasburg to face Marlins on July 17

Stephen Strasburg's first start after the All-Star break will be on July 17 against the Marlins in Miami, Nationals manager Jim Riggleman said Friday.

Strasburg's final first-half start set for July 9

Right-hander Stephen Strasburg will make his last start of the first half on July 9 against the Giants. It means he will get six days' rest after he faces the Mets on Saturday.

Nationals on FOX on July 3

The Nationals announced Friday that their home game against the Mets on July 3 will be featured on "MLB on FOX" and the first pitch will be 4:10 p.m. ET. The game was originally scheduled for 7:05 p.m.