Ross shines, but pulled early for innings limit

USA TodayThe Nationals alluded to the limitations they were ready to apply on starter Joe Ross on Tuesday, as the rookie is already in uncharted territory in terms of innings pitched this season. Tanner Roark was sent to Single-A Potomac to stretch out his arm with the plan to return in September and take Ross’ rotation spot. Ross was essentially declared a few starts away from working towards 2016.

If those plans weren’t already clear, they certainly are after Thursday night. Ross was brilliant through six innings of work against the Padres, allowing zero earned runs through six innings with just one hit allowed. But despite throwing only 77 pitches, the right-hander was removed before the…