May 20, 2012

Johnson wants Strasburg to start '11 finale

With left-handers Tommy Milone and Ross Detwiler having started Tuesday's doubleheader, Nationals manager Davey Johnson has decided Detwiler will pitch on normal rest and take the hill against the Braves on Sunday. Milone will get the nod against the Marlins on Monday in Miami.

Johnson wants more production from bench

The Nationals arguably have the weakest bench in the National League, statistically speaking. The bench was constructed of speed and defense, which manager Davey Johnson is not a fan of. Johnson, who took over as manager in June, wants a bench that can produce runs.

Livan hits milestone, wants to stay with Nats in '12

Livan hits milestone, wants to stay with Nats in '12

Gorzelanny wants to makes most of stint in 'pen

Davey Johnson hasn't made it a secret that Tom Gorzelanny would prefer to start, but he was taken out of the rotation because the Nationals want to give left-hander Ross Detwiler a long look. Still, Gorzelanny pitched in relief Friday, throwing three scoreless innings.

Johnson wants Pudge to just relax

Manager Davey Johnson spoke to Ivan Rodriguez on Friday and relayed the same message he has passed on countless times already: Relax.