DeRosa To Return Soon

(Photo: natsinsider.blogspot.com)

The Nationals top utility man, Mark DeRosa, could rejoin the Washington Nationals as soon as this week according to some reports.

DeRosa has missed nearly half of the season due to a strained left oblique muscle as well as a personal matter.

Last night, the 37 year old suited up for the Nationals Class A affiliate Potomac Nationals. He went 1-3 with an RBI and a walk. He was replaced by Blake Kelso in the seventh inning.

DeRosa was a much anticipated signing over this past off-season. Costing the Nationals just $800,000, Davey Johnson and Co. were hoping to have DeRosa become a key player off the bench. When DeRosa does return, expect him to fill in with the likes of Chad Tracy and Xavier Nady as members of the famed "Goon Squad".

Once DeRosa does return to the Nationals, a likely place to find him from day-one will be at third base. It has become apparent over the past week that Ryan Zimmerman's shoulder has been hindering his ability at the plate. His defense hasn't been lacking, but he is obviously uncomfortable at the plate and many attest that to his shoulder.

Over the course of the next few weeks, the Nationals are anticipating a few key players to return from injury. Drew Storen, Cole Kimball, and Mark DeRosa are all expected to return within the coming weeks.