J.D. Martin's pinch-hit and Roger Bernadina's back

Usually, a starting pitcher pinch-hitting is one of the wildest things that will happen in a game. Yesterday, it got lost in the shuffle, but it still deserves an explanation.

Manager Jim Riggleman used J.D. Martin, a starting pitcher, to pinch-hit in for Stephen Strasburg in the fifth inning because, with Roger Bernadina's unavailable with a stiff back, Riggleman did not want to waste a player from his short bench. Whoever pinch-hit for the pitcher would immediately come out of the game. Basically, Riggleman didn't want to burn Michael Morse.

With two outs and nobody on base, the chances of starting a rally against R.A. Dickey seemed bleak. He also figured the game would come down to the wire, and he wanted a full complement of reserves. As it turned out, Martin grounded out to the right side.

As for Bernadina, he would not have played today, anyway, because of a left-handed Mets starter. Yesterday, he felt a pull during batting practice yesterday and hoped he could. When he received treatment, he realized he wouldn't be able to. Last night, Bernadina figured he would be available to pinch-hit today. Since the Nationals have an off day Monday, he should be at full health for his next start Tuesday.