Nats Notes: Strasburg practices with Nationals

There is a little bit going on in Nationals world.  Yes, besides losing, there is other stuff happening.  

Strasburg with the Nats . . . 1st overall draft selection Stephen Strasburg worked out with the Washington Nationals on Friday.  Funny thing is, he is with the Nats because the Nats have no where else for him to go. 

Friday, for the first time, Strasburg followed the routine of a big
leaguer. He reported to work at Nationals Park, stashed his belongings
in his own locker, and performed early afternoon conditioning drills.
Just three hours before the evening’s game, Strasburg, wearing his No.
37 jersey, found himself on the field with the big league pitchers,
fielding choppers and tossing them to first baseman Adam Dunn.

But for Strasburg, this is all temporary. He’s not on the Nationals’ roster, nor will he watch games from the dugout.

He’s spending a week in Washington for a simple reason: The Nationals have nowhere else to send him.

Strasburg is one of 6 Nationals who will begin the Arizona Fall League in October. 

Speaking of AFL . . . Besides Stephen Strasburg, the Nationals have assigned 5 others to play in the Arizona Fall League.  Other Nats prospects are fellow first roudn pick Drew Storen, Hagerstown Suns C Derek Norris,  Harrisburg Senator Chris Marrero, Potomac National Danny Espinosa, and Columbus P Josh Wilkie.  Wilkie was just assigned today by the Nats. 

Flores activated . . . Jesus Flores has been activated from the disabled list by the Nationals.    Flores has been on the disabled list since May 9th with a shoulder injury.  Don’t expect Flores behind the plate though, his shoulder is not strong enough yet.  He will pinch hit at times.

Nats claim Garate . . . The Nats claimed P Victor Garate off waivers from the Dodgers.  Garate pitched for the Dodger AA affilitae Chattanooga.  In 47 games, Garate posted a 0-1 record with a 2.04 ERA.  In 53 innings, Garate recorded 56 strikeouts.  He joins the Nationals major league ballclub and will pitch out of the bullpen and make his major league debut.