Mattheus has something to prove this spring

VIERA, Fla. -- Ryan Mattheus was supposed to be one of the workhorses in the Nationals' bullpen last season, but he broke his right hand in May after punching a locker.

When Mattheus returned, he had a tough time getting hitters out and was eventually sent to the Minor Leagues, but those problems persisted after he rejoined the big league club.

Mattheus calls last season a fluke and regrets that that he wasn't able to help his team during the pennant race. He realizes he has a lot to prove this spring and vows not to have a repeat of 2013. Mattheus wants to go back to being the player who had a 2.85 ERA in 2012.

"I had a little bit of success my first couple of years in the big leagues," Mattheus said. "My routine in the offseason was pretty good. I want to come in with my feet going. Once I hit the ground running, I won't stop. I want to come in ready to compete from day one. I feel I have to make an impression early and continue [impressing] until the end of the season.

"I belong here. I believe last year was a fluke, and I hope to prove that to everybody else."