Nationals Report

THE BUZZ

Tracking the Nationals news and trends from the last week:

Daniel Cabrera: DOWN

If Saturday’s loss was “encouraging,” it shows just how lost the righty has been

Scott Olsen: DOWN

Developed tendinitis in his throwing shoulder, making him the first starter to land on the DL

Ryan Zimmerman: UP

Was 5-for-11 with a homer and three RBI in first three games since streak ended

Joe Beimel: DOWN

Gave up a pair of three-run homers in losses to Giants and Phillies

MINOR LEAGUE WATCH

Remember this name: Derek Norris. The catcher, who was selected in the fourth round of the 2007 draft, led all minor league catchers with seven home runs and 25 RBI for Class A Hagerstown after Saturday’s games. He also had thrown out 34 percent of baserunners. Before the season, Nationals farm director Bobby Williams mentioned Norris as a candidate to make a quick move through the Nationals’ system, and he has so far looked like he could be playing at a higher level of the minor leagues soon. The Nationals are high on the right-handed hitter, and it’s possible he could be on their big league radar by the end of next year.

STRASBURG WATCH

Providing your weekly dose of updates on San Diego State right-hander (and presumptive Nationals’ No. 1 pick) Stephen Strasburg:

After throwing a no-hitter against Air Force on May 9 in what likely will be his final home start, there’s little Strasburg could have done to top the performance Friday against Utah. He gave up two early runs on six hits in seven innings, striking out 10 in what now qualifies as a subpar start for the right-hander but improved his record to 12-0. He is scheduled to pitch Wednesday in San Diego State’s second game in the Mountain West Conference tournament.

Seasons stats:12-0, 1.34 ERA, 94 1/3 innings, 54 hits, 18 walks, 174 strikeouts.