MIAMI -- Stephen Strasburg is eligible to be activated from the disabled list on Thursday, but it appears unlikely he will be ready to make his next start. The Nationals planned for him to throw a simulated game to fully test the nerve impingement in his right elbow before returning, but manager Dusty Baker said that outing has not been scheduled.
Baker said Strasburg was likely to throw another bullpen session before the team leaves Miami following Wednesday's game. With Thursday's off-day and three day games in Chicago this weekend, Baker said it was tough to schedule a simulated game.
"He's coming along fine, he's feeling better," Baker said. "Right now, things are status quo. He's throwing a couple 'pens, and we're just trying to analyze it and make sure he's 100 percent."
Washington hoped Strasburg would miss only one start when he landed on the DL last Thursday (retroactive to July 24). He has not had any sort of setback, continues throwing regularly and has thrown a bullpen session, but it would be difficult for him to throw a full simulated game then re-join the rotation this weekend in Chicago.
Right-hander Erick Fedde, the organization's top-ranked pitching prospect and third overall as rated by MLBPipeline.com, is still on the roster after filling in for Strasburg last Sunday and could make another start in his place.
Worth noting
• New Nationals reliever Brandon Kintzler, acquired from the Twins before Monday's non-waiver Trade Deadline, did not join the team prior to Tuesday's game in Miami. Baker said he expected him to be activated on Wednesday.
• Nationals outfielder Michael Taylor began a Minor League rehab assignment with Class A Advanced Potomac on Monday and went 0-for-2 in his first game.