WASHINGTON -- The first series out of the All-Star break is a huge opportunity for the Nationals to make up ground against the division-rival Braves, the team directly ahead of them in the National League East. And Washington will have a pair of reinforcements joining them from the disabled list for the important series.
Stephen Strasburg was activated from the DL to start Friday's series opener at Nationals Park, and Ryan Zimmerman is be back as well to play first base. Manager Dave Martinez said on Tuesday that the moves would be made. Right-hander Wander Suero was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse on Friday, in addition to right-hander Trevor Gott, who was sent to Syracuse on Sunday.