Ryan Zimmerman doubtful for Sunday, may pinch hit today

Ryan Zimmerman is out of the Nationals starting lineup today for the third straight game, and he will not likely start tomorrow, either.

"I doubt he'll be in there tomorrow," Manager Jim Riggleman said. "He might be in there, but I doubt it."

Although Zimmerman is missing extended time for the second time this year, he is progressing in healing his right hamstring injury. "He's feeling better," Manager Jim Riggleman said. "Not ready to go yet." Zimmerman may be able to pinch hit today. If he does, he'll be under strict orders to only jog down the line, conceding an out if necessary.

Ivan Rodriguez is also out after leaving last night's game with stiffness in his lower back. He would have been out today, anyway, because that's custom for catchers in day games after night games. Apparently, he's having trouble with a new mattress, which has led to some of his back stiffness. He might be able to pinch hit today, too, but with both Zimmerman and Rodriguez affected, Riggleman has a shorter bench than typical.

"You've got to be careful with how you use people," Riggleman said. "You've got to save some guys for late."

And here's the Dodgers lineup:

1. Rafael Furcal, SS
2. Russell Martin, C
3. Andre Ethier, RF
4. Matt Kemp, CF
5. James Loney, 1B
6. Casey Blake, 3B
7. Xavier Paul, 3B
8. Blake DeWitt, 2B
9. Clayton Kershaw, SP