Atilano to DL with "floating chips" in elbow

Nationals starter Luis Atilano has floating chips in his injured right elbow and will be placed on the disabled list, effective today. He will miss at least two starts, according to general manager Mike Rizzo. Atilano will get a cortisone shot when he returns to Washington. Rizzo said they have decided on the pitcher who will start Sunday, but will not make that announcement just yet. Possible candidates include Matt Chico, Ross Detwiler or someone like Miguel Batista. Scott Olsen and John Lannan pitch tonight. Jordan Zimmermann pitched yesterday, but is still in extended rehab. Detwiler also pitched yesterday, but it was a 12 noon game. Atilano told me the soreness was located just above the back of his right elbow and he has been fighting it for awhile. Atilano told me "some days were better than others." Rizzo says the chips will have to be removed either now or at the end of the season. They will see how the shot affects him in his rehab. Rizzo said because Atilano has had elbow troubles before, they will be careful with him. "We will be a little more cautious because Luis has had Tommy John surgery in the past," Rizzo said. "I am very impressed with Atilano and the way he gutted it out, trying to perform through the pain."