Following today's 9-8 loss to the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field, the Washington Nationals optioned infielder Brian Bixler to Syracuse of the Triple-A International League. Nationals Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Mike Rizzo made the announcement. The 28 year-old Bixler hit .196 (9-for-46) with a double, one RBI, four stolen bases and four walks in 45 games with the Nationals this season.Following today's 9-8 loss to the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field, the Washington Nationals optioned infielder Brian Bixler to Syracuse of the Triple-A International League. Nationals Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Mike Rizzo made the announcement. The 28 year-old Bixler hit .196 (9-for-46) with a double, one RBI, four stolen bases and four walks in 45 games with the Nationals this season.