Washington Nationals: Five storylines to watch as Marlins make their final trip to DC

Jayson Werth and Trea Turner nearing returns

Continuing with the trend of Nats returning from the disabled list, Jayson Werth and Trea Turner should return sometime in the near future, possibly even during the series against the Marlins. Werth has been out since June 5 with a left foot contusion and small fracture. Meanwhile, Turner has been out since June 30 with a right wrist fracture.

When healthy, the two form a dynamic duo at the top of the Nats’ lineup. Fortunately, both of their returns are finally imminent. They both began their rehab assignments with the Nats’ Triple-A affiliate, Syracuse Chiefs, before going to play for the Nats’ High-A affiliate, Potomac Nationals.

Turner has struggled in the minors throughout his rehab assignment, but is beginning to improve. His defense has been right where it needs to be, but he has struggled to get his timing back at the plate. Fortunately, it’s not even September yet, so he still has time to get back into the swing of things before the postseason.

Since the Nats recently transferred Turner to the 60-day disabled list, he is not eligible to return until Tuesday, but he appears ready to return on Tuesday or shortly after.

Werth has fared better than Turner throughout his rehab assignment, but still doesn’t appear to be quite ready. In six games, he has hit .231 with a double and five walks. His path back should be easier than Turner’s because he has been able to hit for a while. The only reason he didn’t return earlier is because he couldn’t run. Despite the fact that he couldn’t run, he has been taking batting practice and throwing to stay in shape.

While we probably won’t see both Turner and Werth return during the Miami series, they will both be eligible and are both wrapping up their rehab assignments. When and how they return will be something to keep an eye on throughout this series.