Nats Closer Drew Storen pitching in 2011 (Cheryl Nichols/District Sports Page)
The Washington Nationals will activate relief pitcher Drew Storen from the disabled list, after missing all of the season so far with surgery to remove bone chips from his pitching elbow. In a corresponding move, the Nats will designate for assignment veteran outfielder Rick Ankiel.
Ankiel hit .228/.282/.411 in 68 games for the Nats this season, but has been the forgotten man of late with just six plate appearances in the month of July. He had seven base hits since June 1.
Storen, 24, went 6-3 with a 2.75 ERA last season with 43 saves for the Nationals. He pitched with discomfort during spring training until it was revealed he had loose bodies in his pitching elbow. The Nats tried to alleviate the issue with anti-inflammatories to start with, but surgery was eventually required. He’s been on a rehab assignment the past two weeks with various affiliates, and Monday night pitched a perfect inning for Harrisburg, striking out two.
The Nats also expect to recall catcher Sandy Leon from Harrisburg today to take the roster spot of Jhonatan Solano, who will be placed on the 15-day D.L. with a strained oblique.
The Nats face the New York Mets at 12:35 pm today.
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