The Washington Nationals can take a deep breath.
Although Max Scherzer landed on the disabled list for neck inflammation, the issue appears to be muscular and not structural. He hopes to take the hill next Friday against the New York Mets. This Friday’s scratch versus the San Diego Padres was the second time this year he either missed or had a shortened start.
Winners of seven out of their last ten, the Nats hold a commanding 14-game lead in the National League East over the improving Miami Marlins. The lead remains constant despite the Marlins matching Washington’s recent run.