Strasburg feels better, has Saturday start in sight

WASHINGTON -- The Nationals received progress reports regarding right-hander Stephen Strasburg and left-hander Ross Detwiler.

Strasburg, who suffered a mild lat strain this past Friday against the Braves, told pitching Steve McCatty that he is feeling better, according to manager Davey Johnson. Strasburg will throw a bullpen session Wednesday and, if everything goes according to plan, he could pitch against the Twins on Saturday.

"We'll see how he feels, but he did feel a lot better yesterday," Johnson said.

The Nationals are also hopeful that left-hander Ross Detwiler will be back on the mound soon. He is on the disabled list with an oblique injury. Johnson is hoping that Detwiler is four days from throwing off the mound and nine days away from being taken off the DL and rejoining the team. Johnson said Detwiler could throw a simulated game soon.