Detwiler to see back specialist in Los Angeles

By Bill Ladson and Tom Schad

July 23, 2013

WASHINGTON -- Nationals left-hander Ross Detwiler was scheduled to go to Los Angeles on Tuesday evening to see back specialist Robert Watkins on Wednesday. Detwiler, who has been on the disabled list since early July, has been experiencing back issues since mid-May.

Manager Davey Johnson acknowledged that the team may not see Detwiler pitch for quite a while.

"[The doctors] have done a lot of tests. I think they want to get another opinion because they are not sure exactly what's reoccurring," Johnson said.

Detwiler first sustained tightness in his lower back May 15 against the Dodgers. The last time Detwiler had a bullpen session was three days ago and he couldn't do a lot of running.

Detwiler has been on the DL twice this season because of the back issues. With Detwiler expected to be out, the Nationals have to decide who could be their fifth starter. Taylor Jordan, who's in the rotation, is on an innings limit this year because of Tommy John surgery he had in September 2011.

Johnson would consider giving Ross Ohlendorf more starts. The veteran righty has been successful as a long man and will start against the Mets on Friday.

Bill Ladson is a reporter for MLB.com and writes an MLBlog, All Nats All the time. He also could be found on Twitter @WashingNats. Tom Schad is an associate reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @Tom_Schad.