Washington Nationals vs Detroit Tigers: Grapefruit League GameThread

Erick Fedde gave up two runs on two hits in 2 ²⁄₃ innings of work last Saturday in a 6-3 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals, in what was the 27-year-old’s second outing of the Spring, and a relief appearance.

Fedde started the first time out in Grapefruit League action this Spring, then came out of the bullpen in his second appearance, but he’s in a starting role again this afternoon as Washington takes on the Detroit Tigers in West Palm Beach, FL’s FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches.

One of three starters competing for the fifth spot in the Nationals’ rotation, Fedde, unfortunately, is the only one with an option remaining, so barring an undeniable showing in Spring Training, he was always the likeliest to end up beginning the season in the minor leagues, with either Joe Ross or Austin Voth filling out the starting mix or taking on a long-relief role in the Nats’ bullpen.

Fedde said this winter that he knows now that he can work in whatever role he’s asked to with the team after starting and relieving over the past few seasons.

“It’s one of those things where you’ve just got to do whatever it takes to help the team, but yeah, going through everything and experiencing that, I think that’s really the best way to learn is going through it,” he said.

Where will Fedde end up once the Nationals have to make their final decisions on the roster for Opening Day? How will he do against the Tigers this afternoon? It’s radio only with 106.7 the FAN’s Charlie Slowes and Dave Jageler calling the action from West Palm Beach starting at 1:05 PM EDT.

HERE’S THE NATIONALS’ LINEUP FOR TODAY’S GAME WITH THE TIGERS: