Williams on Rendon's status and Span returning to camp

PORT ST. LUCIE. Fla. - Right-hander A.J. Cole makes his first start of the exhibition season today. Cole, one of the Nationals' prized prospects, gave up two runs (one earned) on two hits in 2 1/3 innings against the Cardinals on Saturday.

"First time out, his breaking ball wasn't as sharp as he wanted it to be, so that's part of the plan today, to be able to throw that where he wants to throw it," said Nationals manager Matt Williams. "So that's probably key for him today to feel better about it. Just go get 'em, go pitch."

Cole is expected to throw three innings or around 50 pitches.

A day earlier than expected, Denard Span showed up at Space Coast Stadium this morning for the first time since recovering from core muscle surgery on Sunday in Philadelphia.

"In talking to him today, he said since he got the surgery done and pulling in the parking lot this morning, walking in, he felt clear of mind, which is good," Williams said. "So he knows, 'Listen, it's going to be a while. I've got to get through this, but once I'm good, I'm good. I don't have to worry about this all season and not be as full strength as I want to be.' So again, next guys is going to be up and Denard will be back when he's ready to get back, and in the interim, we've got to try to win games."

Williams says he fully expects Anthony Rendon to be in the lineup tomorrow when the Nats take on the Astros in Viera. The third baseman missed yesterday's game with minor swelling in his left knee, the result of a spectacular play he made diving in the hole to field a ball Monday against the Braves.

"Anytime, you know, you kick the coffee table, you feel it for two or three days. That's kind of what it is," Williams joked about Rendon's injury.

Jayson Werth will throw for the second time today since January shoulder surgery.

"It's small steps, but nonetheless a progression every day," Williams said.

Williams said there may be a light round of cuts made tomorrow. That was a date he originally had scheduled before injuries to some players on his roster.