Nyjer Morgan gets another night off

Nyjer Morgan received his second night off this week, sitting in place of Roger Bernadina in center field and right fielder Willie Harris in the leadoff spot. Morgan is in the middle of his first prolonged slump with the Nationals, even after he went 1 for 3 with a walk last night. In May, Morgan is batting .212 with a .297 on-base percentage and has struck out 14 times in 66 at-bats.

"Just really let him regroup a little bit," Manager Jim Riggleman said. "Nyjer is playing hard every night. It's always a combination of things, you know? Let him get some extra work in with [hitting coach] Rick Eckstein. Just keep developing his game. But also, Willie is swinging the bat good. See if we can carry on the good at-bats Willie gave us last night. Get Nyjer back in there tomorrow."

From the time Morgan arrived with the Nationals, his buoyant personality has been credited as an important part of the Nationals' success. Even as he scuffles, Riggleman said, Morgan's demeanor remains the same.

"He's totally positive," Riggleman said. "His attitude is great. He's been outstanding. He's the first one at the top step of the dugout, showing appreciation for what his teammates do."