Zimmerman playing through plantar fasciitis in left foot
Scherzer dealing with swelling in right thumb; team hopeful he can make next start
MIAMI -- Nationals first baseman Ryan Zimmerman was in the starting lineup on Friday against the Marlins, but manager Matt Williams said Zimmerman is still dealing with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. He had a tough time running the bases in Thursday's 4-1 loss against the Cardinals.
Williams said Zimmerman felt better before Friday's game than he did the previous day. It's an ongoing problem for Zimmerman, who sleeps with a splint at night. He also keeps the foot in ice and has anti-inflammatory medication in order to keep the swelling down.
Max Scherzer's right thumb is swollen and he is currently getting treatment for the injury. Scherzer hurt the thumb swinging the bat in the fifth inning on Thursday against the Cardinals.
Video: STL@WSH: Scherzer pitches seven strong innings
The Nationals are hoping that he can have a regular bullpen session within three days and then make his start against the Braves next Tuesday.
"We have to make sure that the swelling gets out of there beforehand," Williams said.
The Nationals have a backup plan if Scherzer can't make the start against the Braves. Williams did not say who would be the emergency starter, but one could assume right-hander Tanner Roark would get the start.
Roark has been productive in the bullpen this year, allowing two runs in eight innings. Roark was in the rotation last year, but lost his job after the Nationals signed Scherzer.
In other news, Williams said left-hander Felipe Rivero's blood levels are up and he will see the doctor for a checkup Monday. If things go well, Rivero could begin baseball activities. Rivero is on the disabled list because of a gastrointestinal issue.