PHILADELPHIA -- Stephen Strasburg threw a bullpen session at Citizens Bank Park prior to Monday night's game against the Phillies, one week after he was placed on the disabled list with soreness in his right elbow.
The Nationals said placing Strasburg on the DL was strictly precautionary and that they hoped he would be able to return once he is eligible. So far the signs have all been positive for Strasburg, who has also played catch numerous times in the past week.
"Our trainers are on top of it," manager Dusty Baker said. "They have a program mapped out for him, and only his body can tell us how he is and if he's going to stay on track."
Before landing on the DL, Strasburg was 15-4 with a 3.59 ERA in 23 starts, with 179 strikeouts in 145 1/3 innings. Washington is trying to vill the void for two-fifths of its rotation, with both Strasburg and right-hander Joe Ross (inflammation in right shoulder) sidelined.
Ross, who has been out since July 2, threw 21 pitches to complete one inning in his first Minor League rehab start, on Sunday. He is scheduled to pitch again on Wednesday; the Nationals are hoping to ramp him up to about 80 pitches before Syracuse's season ends on Sept. 5.