May 20, 2012

Pudge to be in reserve role for rest of season

It appears unlikely that Ivan Rodriguez will start another game behind the plate this season. Nationals manager Davey Johnson said that he plans to start Wilson Ramos at catcher, with Jesus Flores serving as the backup.

Morse thriving at the dish in everyday role

Don't tell Nationals first baseman Michael Morse that he was third in the National League in hitting with a .324 batting average.

Bixler recalled by Nats to fill Hairston's role

The Nationals recalled Brian Bixler from Triple-A Syracuse on Saturday to take Jerry Hairston Jr.'s spot on the roster.

Morse accepts reduced role with Nationals

After putting up an impressive performance during Spring Training, Michael Morse was named the Opening Day left fielder. But he's struggled thus far, and now finds himself out of the starting lineup and on the bench.

Burnett has significant role in Nats' relief corps

Sean Burnett picked up his first save Saturday, pitching 1 1/3 scoreless innings against the Braves. Jim Riggleman wouldn't name Burnett the team's closer, but the skipper expected Burnett to be ready for the ninth. Riggleman announced recently that Burnett and Drew Storen would split the role.