Rendon set to rehab at Nationals' training facility

SAN DIEGO -- Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon returned to the club's training complex in Viera, Fla., on Friday to begin baseball activities, according to manager Matt Williams.

Though he did not provide an exact timetable, Williams predicts it will be a slower process before Rendon rejoins the Nationals. The first steps will be fielding grounders, throwing and doing light work in the batting cage in a controlled environment.

Rendon has not played a Major League game this season because of a sprained MCL in his left knee and a strained oblique.

"In recent days, he has been doing strengthening with our physical therapist," Williams said. "Now he is going to be off to Florida to start that progression with baseball. So it's a good sign. He feels good to get to the baseball part of it, which is really important stuff for him. It will be a slower process for him. At least he will get a chance to do some stuff."

Other injury news:

Right-hander Casey Janssen, who is currently on a rehab assignment with Double-A Harrisburg, is looking to appear in back-to-back games starting Saturday.

If things go well, Janssen could be back with the Nationals and in the back end of the bullpen. Janssen has not played a Major League game this season because of right rotator cuff tendinitis.