Nats could use boost, but Johnson has faith

WASHINGTON -- The Nationals improved their bench by acquiring outfielder Scott Hairston from the Cubs on Sunday night. Do the Nationals need to acquire more help before the Trade Deadline? It's not a secret that manager Davey Johnson would like another experienced player off the bench. But he also said the Nationals have the talent to do something special this year.

"It's about the guys doing the things they are capable of, "Johnson said. "One of the areas that we have very little depth in is starting pitching. But after this year, going into next year, some of our young starters will be knocking on the door. So as far as making a move -- picking up somebody at least for the short term -- I don't think that's in our plans, because I think we have enough talent here and enough coming that we wouldn't do that.

"But I'm sure [general manager] Mike [Rizzo] is looking into everything. I'm sure if anything becomes available that would help us, he will be on it."

If Rizzo does anything, he may focus on acquiring another pitcher, especially after left-hander Ross Detwiler suffered an injured back last week and because right-hander Dan Haren has been inconsistent for most of the season.