WASHINGTON -- Injuries have been a large factor in a disappointing first half for the Nationals, who return from the All-Star break at 48-48, but they are getting close to full strength and in position -- they believe -- to make a charge toward a third straight division title.
They got even healthier on Friday, when they activated Ryan Zimmerman and Stephen Strasburg from the disabled list prior to their series opener against the Braves, the team directly in front of Washington in the National League East. Washington optioned Wander Suero and Trevor Gott to Triple-A Syracuse to clear room on the roster.