WASHINGTON (CBSDC/AP) — The Washington Nationals activated All-Star shortstop Ian Desmond from the 15-day disabled list and designated infielder Cesar Izturis for assignment.
Desmond, out since July 22, missed the last 25 games with a left oblique strain. In 89 games this season, the 26-year-old is batting .286 with 17 home runs, 53 RBIs and 15 stolen bases. He ranked among the National League leaders in total bases, extra-base hits, doubles and homers when he was initially placed on the disabled list. He was batting sixth Friday.
The 32-year-old Izturis, claimed off waivers from Milwaukee on Aug. 6, went 2 for 4 in five games with Washington this season.
The Nationals, owners of the best record in baseball, open a three-game series Friday against the New York Mets.
The games can be heard on 106.7 The Fan in Washington.
(TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
