WASHINGTON -- The Nationals seem likely to enter Spring Training with the No. 5 starter spot up for grabs in what will be their first rotation vacancy heading into camp in recent memory. Their usual fifth starter, Joe Ross, is still recovering from Tommy John surgery, and he could miss the entire season. Unless the Nats go out and sign a proven starter before the offseason ends, the table should be set for a Spring Training competition.
There are three candidates on the roster who are most likely to grab the final rotation spot -- A.