Soto looks spry, set to return from back issue
This browser does not support the video element.
LOS ANGELES -- Juan Soto walked up to manager Dave Martinez and head athletic trainer Paul Lessard and gave a thumbs up. He had just completed a full pregame routine, finishing off with batting practice on the field before running the bases to test his back, which had bothered him for most of the past week.
Barring a setback, Soto is expected to be activated when he is eligible to come off the injured list for Saturday’s game against the Dodgers. It will add another significant bat to the middle of the Nationals’ offense as their lineup slowly starts to get back to full strength.
Soto has not played since April 30 because of back spasms. Initially, he believed his injury would pass in a few days and he would be able to avoid the injury list. But after his back did not improve right away, the Nats decided to be cautious and sit their 20-year-old phenom for a few extra days.
Soto played in the Nationals first 28 games this season, batting .248/.368/.467 with six home runs and a 117 OPS+ in his sophomore season, a dip from his historic rookie season but still enough to make him one of the most productive hitters in the Nats’ lineup. The Nats spent most of the past week without Soto and Anthony Rendon, who returned to the lineup Tuesday, and their lineup is nearing full strength once again.
“I’ve seen a more excited kid the last few days,” Martinez said. “The first few days, he was kind of down because he wanted to be out there with [his] teammates and playing. But he’s upbeat and looking forward to coming back.”
This browser does not support the video element.
In Soto’s absence, Adam Eaton has shifted over from right to serve as the team’s primary left fielder, with Victor Robles in right field and Michael A. Taylor in center field. The Nats also signed Gerardo Parra, who started in left field Friday night. They could carry five outfielders when Soto returns.
Or perhaps the Nats could option Taylor to the Minors. He has looked miserable at the plate so far. In 46 plate appearances, he is striking out 45.7 percent of the time without a walk or a homer. He is the team’s best defensive outfielder, but perhaps he could benefit from getting consistent at-bats in the Minors.
“We’ll make that decision come tomorrow,” Martinez said. “We got options and healthy bodies, which is kind of nice.”