Fifth-starter job coming down to Roark, Jordan

JUPITER, Fla. -- The Nationals still haven't made a decision on who will be their fifth starter. In fact, according to manager Matt Williams, Tanner Roark and Taylor Jordan are expected to pitch in the final Spring Training game against the Tigers at Nationals Park on Saturday. A decision will be made after that game.

Both Jordan and Roark have made their case to be in the starting rotation, and there seems to be a debate among the front office and coaching staff as to who should earn the job.

"Regardless of the decision, we want to see them pitch, and it's good prep for both of them at the beginning of the season," Williams said.

Whoever doesn't make the team between Roark and Jordan will go to Triple-A Syracuse.

"Both of these guys have been groomed to start this year," Williams said. "If something happens [with someone in the rotation], they are ready. They are deserving [to start] every fifth day. That's the way they have been used this spring, and we'll continue to do that."