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While there was some speculation that Erick Fedde might get the start tonight in the series opener in Miami, after he came back up in the first round of September call-ups, Dusty Baker told reporters after Sunday’s loss in Milwaukee that right-hander A.J. Cole will go tonight in Marlins Park.
“Tomorrow is, Cole is starting tomorrow,” Baker said, giving the 25-year-old starter the nod for a sixth start this season after he’s gone (1-4) with a 4.50 ERA, 4.96 FIP, 16 walks, 26 Ks, and a .255/.364/.423 line against in 28 innings pitched in the majors this season.
Who will be catching Cole? Matt Wieters said Sunday afternoon he expects to be back in the Nationals’ lineup tonight..
WIETERS, WIETERS, WIETERS:
Wieters sits for third straight game
In addition to a knee bruise, Wieters' back has tightened up on him.
Matt Wieters sitting, expects to return Monday
"The grind of this season has taken its toll on Nationals catcher Matt Wieters, who was out of the starting lineup for the third consecutive game for Sunday's series finale against the Brewers..."
Tight back keeps Wieters out of lineup again
"'The knee’s fine,' Wieters said. 'Just bruises. No problem coming into play. I’ve been having a little bit of a tight back to go with it...'"
Matt Wieters not in the Nationals’ starting lineup for a third straight game
"Wieters, 31, is batting .238 with a .653 OPS in 107 games while garnering constant praise from the pitching staff for his game-calling this season."
A.J. COLE VS THE FISH:
Division foes Nats, Marlins face off for last time
"Even though September rosters have expanded, Cole was optioned to the Minors within the past 10 days so a corresponding move will be necessary."
NATS BEAT:
Ryan Madson's finger injury: Apparently not a finger injury
Madson's ailment, which sidelined him for around two and a half weeks, was in his right index finger. The problem, apparently, was in his forearm near his wrist. Go figure.
What if Bryce Harper isn't ready for the playoffs?
Bryce Harper is still a while from rehabbing, and his rehab won't be very similar to actual playing time. What comes if he's not back in time for Game 1?
How Max Scherzer and his wife are helping animals displaced by Hurricane Harvey
"Thanks to Max Scherzer and his wife, Erica, many of the animals who were displaced during the storm will have a place to call home until they can be reunited with their owners."
The rest of the best performances from top prospects Saturday
"Juan Soto (Nationals' No. 2) tallied a career-high five hits, including a triple and a double, in a 5-for-5, three-RBI day at the plate while playing in a Rookie Gulf Coast League rehab game."
Playoffs, Here We Come
"The Nationals are cruising to their fourth division title in six years. Most importantly, they have played well with an MLB-high 12 men on the disabled list."
Scouting report: Taylor Gushue, catcher, Potomac
The Nationals got Gushue in exchange for infielder Chris Bostick last September in a minor-league deal. The guy can hit the ball pretty far, plays some decent defense, and isn't a great contact hitter.
MLB - Fantasy Baseball Daily Notes for Sept. 3
"It's a lot of back and forth with Jackson's profile; for every aspect you like, you can find one that bothers you."
Today’s Game: Nationals at Marlins — 7:10 PM
Probable Pitchers: A.J. Cole vs Adam Conley