Zimmerman set for second X-ray on thumb

WASHINGTON -- Monday will mark five weeks since Ryan Zimmerman fractured his right thumb, and the Nationals third baseman will undergo his second X-ray in as many weeks on that day.

Zimmerman had an X-ray on his thumb last week, but right now, Nats manager Matt Williams isn't putting a timetable on Zimmerman's return.

"Once the doctor clears him, then he can start all his strengthening exercises," Williams said.

Williams said that Zimmerman is capable of lifting, running and catching balls, but still can't put any stress on the fractured thumb, which has been "immobilized." So Zimmerman will have work to do to get the thumb back to full strength.

"It's a question of pain tolerance," the Nationals manager said. "Continue to look at the X-rays and not go too fast. If we push him or he pushes himself too hard and he re-fractures it, that's eight weeks -- minimum."

Washington has also checked on Zimmerman's shoulder during the process, and if there's any silver lining for the Nats, it's that the inflammation that has perpetually bothered him is gone.

"We can certainly feel confident that the inflammation's out of there," Williams said.