Hairston takes BP, moves closer to return

WASHINGTON -- Scott Hairston, on the disabled list since April 6 due to a left oblique strain, took batting practice again on Thursday and is also drawing closer to returning.

Manager Matt Williams said Hairston has a tentative plan they're working on. The outfielder was scheduled to take batting practice in the cage Thursday and then do early BP work Friday.

After that, Williams said that Hairston should take regular BP on Saturday, along with regular outfield drills. If everything goes well, then the Nationals will start having Hairston working on game situations.

"He felt good today coming in," Williams said. "After Saturday, we'll see."

Hairston's played in just two games this season, and he is 1-for-2 with one run scored.