The Washington Nationals took more steps toward being whole Friday.
Reliever Ryan Madson (finger sprain) was activated from the 10-day disabled list. Madson was expected to join the team this weekend in Milwaukee. It’s unclear if he is ready to pitch yet. The move could have been a result of rosters being allowed to expand Sept. 1. Regardless, it’s progress and a good sign for Madson.
Right-handed pitchers Erick Fedde and Austin Adams were also recalled. The Nationals have moved to a six-man rotation and need extra arms to do so. Fedde will hop into a rotation spot. Adams will go to the bullpen.
Washington manager Dusty Baker said this week they are trying to balance winning down the stretch — the playoffs are all but in hand — and reducing the workload for some of the rotation before the postseason begins. Max Scherzer was pushed back a day this week for an extra break, before they shifted his start to Saturday. Washington starters have thrown the second-most innings in Major League Baseball this season.
Left-handed Enny Romero is also back in the bullpen. Catcher Raudy Read was called up from Double-A Harrisburg. Read, 23, hit 17 home runs this season for the Senators. The organization likes his offense, especially for a catcher. His defense needs work.
The Nationals play the second of a four-game series Friday night in Milwaukee. Tanner Roark is pitching.
• Todd Dybas can be reached at tdybas@washingtontimes.com.
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