Simulated games for Nationals pitchers are becoming nearly as important as the real thing.
Ten days after ace starter Max Scherzer pitched in a nearly-empty stadium, closer Sean Doolittle is expected to do the same thing in a simulated game Wednesday before the Nationals host the Orioles.
“That is kind of the final hurdle. I am looking forward to it and getting feedback from hitters standing in,” Doolittle said.
The Washington lefty has been on the injured list since Aug. 18 with right knee tendinitis. He was eligible to return to the active roster Tuesday, but manager Dave Martinez said he hopes Doolittle can be activated sometime this weekend during a home series against Miami.