Scherzer throws on flat ground; back feels good

NEW YORK -- Nationals ace right-hander Max Scherzer threw on flat ground on Friday afternoon and didn’t have any problems with his back. Scherzer has spent most of the last month on the injured list with a back strain.

Scherzer wanted to also throw a bullpen session Friday, but the team said no, according to manager Dave Martinez.

“Max talked about throwing a bullpen today, but we have to keep him on schedule,” Martinez said. “He is itching and he wants to get back, but we have to be smart. I told him, ‘We are going make sure you are right when you come back. So, let’s just follow protocol.’”

Asked if there was a chance for Scherzer to start the three-game series finale against the Mets on Sunday, Martinez said, “I’ll leave it like this: You never know with Max.”

Scherzer has made just two starts since the beginning of July, and his last outing came on July 25 against the Rockies.

Zimmerman feeling better

Martinez said that first baseman Ryan Zimmerman, on the injured list because of plantar fasciitis in his right foot, is running at about 75 percent and should be back on the field soon.

Zimmerman has been participating in baseball activities -- fielding ground balls and taking batting practice. The next big thing for Zimmerman is running the bases.

For the season, Zimmerman has played in 33 games, hitting .246 with three home runs and 15 RBIs.