May 20, 2012

Nats shuffle lineup to strengthen top spot

Ian Desmond is 9-for-50 from the leadoff spot, including an 0-for-25 mark at Nationals Park entering Friday's action. So manager Jim Riggleman decided to move Desmond down to the seventh spot in the batting order, while Danny Espinosa took the top spot.

Nationals move Espinosa to leadoff spot

Nationals manager Jim Riggleman announced that second baseman Danny Espinosa will be the team's leadoff hitter beginning Wednesday night against the Marlins.

Nationals move Espinosa to leadoff spot

Nationals manager Jim Riggleman announced that second baseman Danny Espinosa will be the team's leadoff hitter beginning Wednesday night against the Marlins.

Club sticking with Desmond in leadoff spot

Although Ian Desmond went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in the home opener against the Braves, the Nationals plan to remain patient with their shortstop at the leadoff spot.

Balester 'making a case' for Nats' roster spot

Based on the Spring Training numbers alone, Nationals right-hander Collin Balester should be on the 25-man roster. But manager Jim Riggleman indicated that Balester may start the season in the Minor Leagues.