The Nationals begin a big series at home Monday with the Atlanta Braves, the team they are chasing in the National League East, and it’s not clear yet whether ace Max Scherzer (9-5, 2.41) will be available.
The right-hander started at home Thursday against the Colorado Rockies and gave up three runs in five innings.
But since then he has complained of a “mild strain” on top of his right shoulder. The Nationals have not named a starter for Tuesday against the Braves, but are hopeful that could be Scherzer.
“We’re talking about Max,” manager Dave Martinez told reporters before Sunday’s game with the Los Angeles Dodgers. “Who knows what he’s thinking or what he’s going to do? If he goes and works out and says: ’I don’t feel a thing,’ … I don’t want to jump to any conclusions until I talk to Max.”
If Scherzer doesn’t start the Nationals could use a pitcher in the minors, such as Erick Fedde or perhaps Wil Crowe at Triple-A Fresno. Fedde pitched Tuesday for Washington and Crowe went Thursday for Fresno.
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