May 20, 2012

LaRoche expects to play Saturday

Nationals first baseman Adam LaRoche is expected to start his first exhibition game against the Mets at Space Coast Stadium on Saturday. LaRoche will hit fourth in the lineup.

LaRoche most likely will not play Sunday

Manager Davey Johnson said that it's doubtful that first baseman Adam LaRoche will play Sunday against the Astros. Johnson admits to being cautious with his players during the start of Spring Training. LaRoche has experienced left ankle and shoulder problems, but appears to be getting better.

Prospect Rendon will play multiple positions

Infielder Anthony Rendon, the sixth overall pick in the 2011 First-Year Player Draft, was informed by manager Davey Johnson recently that he will play third base, shortstop and maybe second base. Before Rendon plays second, Johnson wants to him to improve his footwork around the bag.

Flores confident he'll play every day

Catcher Jesus Flores enters the 2012 season as the Nationals' backup catcher behind Wilson Ramos, but talk to Flores and he is confident that he can still be an everyday player.

Ramos set to play in Venezuela Wednesday

Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos is expected to play for Tigres de Aragua of the Venezuelan Winter League on Wednesday night.