Hot-hitting Moore could be recalled from Triple-A

WASHINGTON -- The Nationals are considering bringing outfielder/first baseman Tyler Moore back to the big leagues before rosters expand in September, according to a baseball source.

As one person put it, "The sooner the better."

If Moore comes back to the big leagues, it will be his third stint with the Nationals this year. During his time in Washington, Moore has experienced some sophomore struggles, batting .151 with three home runs and 14 RBIs over 42 games.

However, Moore has been one of the hottest hitters for Triple-A Syracuse. He recently won the International Player of the Week by going 8-for-26 (.304) with three home runs and 13 RBIs for the week of July 29-Aug. 4. Overall, Moore has a .390 on-base percentage with eight home runs and 35 RBIs for the Chiefs.

Manager Davey Johnson said Friday he has been impressed with Moore's progress in Syracuse, but it could nonetheless be difficult to find a roster spot for him before September.

"He's going pretty good," Johnson said. "But how are we going to get him here? We might have to wait for the expansion of rosters."

If and when Moore does return to the Nats, he could get more playing time than he did during his first two stints. He could start in left field against left-handed pitching, while Bryce Harper plays center field. Harper would return to left against right-handed pitching, while Denard Span would play center field.

Moore would add power to a bench that has underperformed this year. Entering Friday's action against the Phillies, Washington's bench was batting .187 with three home runs and five RBIs. Last year, the Nationals' bench was one of the best in baseball, hitting .288 with four home runs and 26 RBIs.