Nationals Option Pitchers, Herz Returns, Littell Debuts

0:00For the Washington Nationals, it's March 13th. Here's what's happening. Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss an update. The Washington Nationals made some key moves with their starting rotation during spring training on Friday. They option left-handers Mitchell Parker and Andrew Alvarez to triple-A Rochester as they competed for spots, but the team has more pictures then. Opening's right now. Meanwhile, DJ Hurres hit a big milestone by throwing off the mound for the first time since Tommy John's surgery last April and newly signed veteran. Zach Latel made his first start in a nationals uniform. Parker, a 26-year-old who shifted to the bullpen late last season, had solid relief numbers and could still provide length out of the pen. Alvarez, also 26, impressed in his majorly debut last September with a low ERA over five starts and continued that form this spring. The nationals recently added starters like Foster Griffin, Miles McColas, and Latel, which crowded the depth chart.

1:01Manager Blake Boutera praised both pitchers and set high expectations for them in the minors. He wants them to dominate down there and force their way back up, calling it a good problem to have with so much pitching talent. Boutera highlighted Parker's multi-anning potential from the left side and Alvarez's strong recent outings. Boutera's worked inside the batting cages due to rain, with teammates and staff cheering him on. At 25 years old, he flashed a huge smile getting back on the mound after nearly a year of rehab. Boutera said it's all about seeing him out there happy, rewarding his hard work. The fifth rotation spot remains open, and the team might turn to versatile right-hander Brad Lorde for a long relief role. Overall, these steps show the nationals building depth while giving young arms clear pass to contribute this season. We'd like to thank our sponsor for making this episode possible. What is cooler than cool, a pillow that plays your sound, S-O-L-I, solely pillow dot com.