Rendon, Purke part of first round of Nats cuts

Rendon, Purke part of first round of Nats cuts
VIERA, Fla. - The Nationals trimmed nine players from their stable of players at big league camp today, including two of their top three picks in the 2011 draft. First-round pick Anthony Rendon, who has seen time at multiple infield positions this spring, and third-round left-handed pitcher Matt Purke were both optioned to Single-A Potomac. Infielder Carlos Rivero was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse, while six others - right-handed pitchers Austin Bibens-Dirkx and Rafael Martin, catcher Sandy...

Johnson focuses on newcomers, impressed by hitters' progress in first workout

Johnson focuses on newcomers, impressed by hitters' progress in first workout
VIERA, Fla. - Nationals manager Davey Johnson has run enough spring trainings to be able to appreciate both the excitement that accompanies the first day of full-squad workouts and the need to wisely use the time available during spring to learn as much as he can about his players, both old and new. The newcomers got the bulk of Johnson's attention Saturday, when the Nationals held their first full-squad workout. While most of his regulars were grouped together at one field, Johnson hung out...

Nine agree to minor league deals with spring invites

Nine agree to minor league deals with spring invites
The Nationals have agreed to terms with nine players on minor league contracts with invitations to spring training in Viera, Fla. So make room in the clubhouse for right-handers Jeff Fulchino and Waldis Joaquin, catcher Carlos Maldonado, infielders Andres Blanco, Jarrett Hoffpauir and Chad Tracy, and outfielders Brett Carroll, Jason Michaels and Xavier Paul. In addition, three players currently in the organization have been invited to camp as non-roster players: catcher Sandy Leon, outfielder...