Frandsen prepared for whatever role Nationals require

MIAMI -- Kevin Frandsen's Nationals biography still labels him as an infielder.

Frandsen, however, started in left field for the third consecutive game Monday night in the series opener against the Marlins.

Entering this season, the 31-year-old had played just 14 career games in the outfield -- one in 2010 and 13 in 2007. Monday marked his fourth outfield appearance in 2014.

"Being a utility guy and being on the field for all four groups during BP for so long, you go out and shag," Frandsen said. "I feel like that preparation there helped me out with certain stuff like that. Obviously, game time is different, and every day's going to be different and a grind. Just making sure you get the right reads and hopefully take the right route and catch the ball."

Less than a month ago, Frandsen found himself without a team when the Phillies released him. The Nationals signed him to a deal on March 26.

Frandsen spent parts of the past two seasons with the Phillies. He hit .338 in 55 games in 2012, but just .234 over 119 games last season. He did lead the Majors with 14 pinch-hits.

Through 11 games in a Washington uniform, Frandsen is 7-for-19 (.368) with two runs and an RBI. He has made the most of his playing time with injuries to various players.

"It's just nice to be on a team," Frandsen said, before going 0-for-4 in Monday's 9-2 win over the Marlins. "It was tough the first couple of weeks. … Obviously excited for my opportunity. Coming in I knew what my role was, and when you get some unfortunate breaks in here with the injuries, it's got to be the next man up.

"I've always said as a utility guy, you prepare to start every day. If you don't, you're behind the eight ball and all that. I prepare myself like I'm an everyday player because that's the only way you do it."