MLB Player News

Thompson (biceps) has resumed throwing bullpen sessions, Byron Kerr of MLB.com reports.

Thompson remains on the 60-day injured list and doesn't have a timetable for his return, but it's encouraging that he's been able to throw off a mound recently. The Nationals haven't yet revealed when he'll be able to face live hitters.

Harvey (forearm) has resumed throwing bullpen sessions, Byron Kerr of MLB.com

Harvey has been throwing at the Nationals' extended spring training facility, and he's built up to 20 pitches during his bullpen sessions. The right-hander will continue ramping up before he's cleared to face live hitters, and it's not yet clear when he will return to action.

VerHagen (2-0) retired the only batter he faced to earn the win Friday versus the Brewers.

Dakota Hudson was solid but a little shaky with command, running up a 97-pitch total through 4.2 innings. VerHagen was able to get the final out of the fifth inning with the Cardinals leading, and that lead lasted to the end. This was VerHagen's second win of the year, and they've come in his last three outings, sandwiched around an appearance in which he gave up two runs to the Blue Jays. The right-hander has a solid 3.65 ERA, but his 1.38 WHIP and 8:8 K:BB in 12.1 innings don't inspire much confidence in his long-term success. He'll likely continue to see most of his work in the middle innings.

Smith's contract was selected by the Rockies on Saturday, Danielle Allentuck of The Denver Gazette reports.

Smith has been in the mix for a big-league spot for several years, but his command was a slight concern. However, he will now join Colorado's bullpen after posting a 1.89 ERA, 24:5 K:BB and 0.95 WHIP in 19 innings over 17 appearances at Triple-A Albuquerque this season. The right-hander will be available to make his major-league debut in relief during Saturday's doubleheader against the Nationals.

Machado was recalled from Triple-A Rochester to serve as the 27th man in Saturday's doubleheader against the Rockies, Mark Zuckerman of MASNSports.com reports.

Machado earned a spot on Washington's Opening Day roster this year and posted a 2.45 ERA and 1.18 WHIP in 11 innings over 10 relief appearances in April. The right-hander will provide additional bullpen depth during Saturday's twin bill.

Jansen gave up a hit and struck out two in a scoreless ninth inning Friday to record his 11th save of the season in a 6-4 win over the Marlins.

After getting tagged for at least one earned run in three straight appearances and blowing his first two saves of the season, Jansen appeared to be back in his usual form Friday. Through 19.2 innings on the year, he sports a 3.66 ERA, 0.86 WHIP and 27:6 K:BB, and as things stand there's no reason to think his grasp on the closer's role is slipping.

Diaz gave up a hit and struck out three in a scoreless ninth inning Friday to record his 11th save of the season in an 8-6 win over the Phillies.

The closer has been erratic over the last week or so, blowing two of his last four save chances, but Diaz was in top form Friday. He'll take a 2.75 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and career-best 45.7 percent strikeout rate through 19.2 innings into his next appearance.

Hudson allowed five hits and four walks over 4.2 shutout innings in Friday's win over the Brewers. He struck out three and did not factor in the decision.

Hudson wasn't very sharp but he navigated through his fourth scoreless outing of the season. He threw 97 pitches (56 strikes) and failed to complete five innings for the third time in his last four starts. The 27-year-old righty lowered his season ERA to 3.22 with a lackluster 25:23 K:BB through 44.2 innings. Hudson is expected to face the Padres at home next week.

Helsley retired both batters he faced in Friday's win over Milwaukee. He struck out one and recorded a save.

After Kody Whitley coughed up a two-run shot to Keston Hiura, Helsley entered the game to finish off the 4-2 win. He's now thrown 16.1 frames this season without giving up an earned run. Over his last eight appearances, Helsley has registered a strong 15:3 K:BB while converting three of his four save chances.

Bickford was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports.

The right-hander has a 3.45 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 13:3 K:BB over 15.2 innings for the Dodgers this season, but he'll head to Triple-A with Friday's starter, Ryan Pepiot, being promoted to the big-league club. Bickford also pitched well for Los Angeles last year with a 2.81 ERA, so it's only a matter of time before he's back in the majors.