Results positive for Fister in simulated game

WASHINGTON -- Right-hander Doug Fister pitched in a simulated game on Thursday and worked two innings without any problems, according to manager Matt Williams.

Fister will have another simulated game in five days, pitch three innings and hopefully start a rehab assignment after that. Fister, who is on the disabled list because of a lat strain, could return to the Nationals within 20 days. He will have at least two rehab starts before returning to the club.

"We have to build [up Fister] like we [tried to] build him [up] this spring," Williams said. "I think he is a little bit ahead of the game in that regard. I would like him to get five innings somewhere to make sure he can up that pitch count."