Latos cleared to start Tuesday vs. Nationals

MIAMI -- When Mat Latos limped off the field in the fifth inning on Wednesday night, the Marlins' rotation appeared to be headed for a setback.

But after throwing a successful bullpen session on Saturday, Latos was cleared to rejoin the rotation, and will make his scheduled start on Tuesday at Washington.

"He threw and it went well," manager Mike Redmond said Sunday. "That's good for us."

Latos tweaked his left hamstring while coming out of the batters' box on a single to right field in his Wednesday start against the Mets.

Latos pitched five innings and gave up three runs in a no-decision in a game the Marlins won, 7-3.

With Latos staying on track, the Marlins didn't have to make any roster changes. They were prepared to substitute lefty Brad Hand, who is being used in long relief.

Latos is off to an 0-3 start with a 6.86 ERA in five starts. His best outing was on April 24 in a no-decision with the Nationals at Marlins Park. He gave up two runs in a season-high 6 1/3 innings, and Miami went on to win, 3-2.

The Marlins' rotation is hopeful to have Henderson Alvarez back in a couple of weeks.

Alvarez (right shoulder inflammation) has been throwing bullpen sessions. Sometime this week, he could begin pitching in rehab assignment games.

There is a chance Alvarez could return to the rotation as early as May 17 at home against the Braves.