McCatty understands Detwiler's discontent

VIERA, Fla. -- Nationals pitching coach Steve McCatty believes Ross Detwiler will return to the starting rotation one day. But for now, Detwiler will start the season in the bullpen. Detwiler didn't take the news well, but McCatty believes Detwiler will be a professional and do what is best for the organization.

"Could I tell him something that could make him feel better? Probably not," McCatty said. "He is a very competitive guy. Everybody that's been a starter wants to continue to start -- all the time. I know it's not easy for him."

General manager Mike Rizzo said it was an organizational decision to put Detwiler in the bullpen. The Nats made their 'pen better by adding a pitcher who can throw 95 mph.

"He can make us exceptionally strong out of the bullpen," McCatty said. "I think we have a real good bullpen, but I think with him being down there with what he has -- he has the sinkerball, he can still throw breaking balls and mix those in -- he makes us a better bullpen, he makes us a better team. ... With Det being a left-hander -- the sink, the competitiveness -- just going out there for one, two innings, he can make the bullpen and club better."