Around NL East Spring Training, 3/22: Nats Getting Better

Nationals: Veterans Chris Duncan and Pete Orr were optioned to Minor League camp with young SP Shairon Martis...Ross Detwiler threw for the first time since hip surgery...Craig Stammen expects to make the rotation with a strong spring so far...Jordan Zimmermann and Chien-Ming Wang threw bullpen sessions.

Braves: Jair Jurrjens' shoulder seems fully recovered...Management is high on this squad's chemistry. 

Phillies: The 5th starter job is still up for grabs...LHP Mike Zagurski was optioned to minor-league camp...Brad Lidge threw 25 pitches in a minor league game, hitting 86-89 on his fastball.

Mets: Sources are conflicting on whether the Mets are really interested in Red Sox's Mike Lowell as an option at firstbase...Kelvim Escobar will resume throwing Monday.

Marlins: Clay Hensley and Adam Miller are competing for the 5th starter spot...The Fish sent Rule 5 claim, Jorge Jiminez, back to Boston, in accordance with Rule 5 procedures.