Chris Marrero’s Recovery On Schedule

After an impressive, though not spectacular, 31-game appearance with the Nationals towards the end of the 2011 season, it was widely expected that Chris Marrero would factor into the team’s plans off the bench in 2012. The 23 year old hoped to improve those chances by getting some extra at bats in the offseason by playing in the Dominican Winter League. He tore his hamstring in later October, stretching for a ball at first base, and it’s still uncertain exactly when his return is expected.

Position players aren’t formally required to be in Viera, FL for Spring Training until Friday, though many have arrived early. Marrero is included in that group and appears to have begun his workout regimen, according to an update provided by Mark Zuckerman.

As expected, Marrero is going to be on a different schedule than the rest of his teammates this Spring as he recovers. He’s mainly involved in general strength and conditioning drills while working on his flexibility. For instance, while his teammates are hitting off tees and taking fielding drills, Marrero is off running stairs.

Marrero is likely out until at least mid-season, with June appearing to be the earliest he’d return. Ideally he won’t encounter any setbacks in his recovery and we’ll get an extended look at what he’s capable of before the team needs to start making plans for the 2013 season.