WASHINGTON -- The Nationals placed Daniel Murphy on the 10-day disabled list as the second baseman continues to recover from offseason surgery on his right knee.
Murphy, who hit .322 with 23 homers and 93 RBIs last season and was named to his third All-Star team, took batting practice and fielded ground balls Tuesday before the Nationals' 3-1 exhibition loss to the Twins at Nationals Park.
"We want to make sure when he gets back he's 100 percent, and there's no ifs ands or buts about it," said Nationals manager Dave Martinez, who noted Murphy will stay with the team for now before being sent back to Florida when he's ready to play in games.
With Murphy out, Howie Kendrick is expected to start at second base on Opening Day.