Game 36 lineups: Nats at D-backs

The Nationals' series finale in Arizona this afternoon is important, because they're trying to win the series and head to Chicago on a positive note. But there's another important event taking place this afternoon, across the country in Trenton, N.J., where Stephen Strasburg is making a rehab start for Triple-A Rochester.

It's important, of course, for Strasburg to emerge from his start (planned for five innings and 75-80 innings) healthy, because if that happens, he may be deemed ready to return from the injured list next weekend against the Orioles. Which also makes Erick Fedde's start today against the Diamondbacks important, because he currently holds the most vulnerable spot in the Nationals rotation, the one Strasburg would retake once he's activated.

Fedde needs to do what Joe Ross could not do Saturday night and keep the ball down in the zone. It's his only real chance at success, especially against an Arizona lineup that showed against Ross it can elevate and drive the ball. One small factor that may help Fedde today: The roof at Chase Field will be closed, so the ball shouldn't carry quite as well.

Davey Martinez's lineup has a little different look for the series finale. Ryan Zimmerman is at first base and will bat third, bumping Juan Soto up to the No. 2 spot. Alex Avila will catch and bat sixth. And Jordy Mercer gets a rare start at second base, batting seventh in front of Fedde.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS at ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS
Where: Chase Field
Gametime: 4:10 p.m. EDT
TV: MASN2, MLB.tv
Radio: 106.7 FM, MLB.com
Weather: Roof closed

NATIONALS
SS Trea Turner
RF Juan Soto
1B Ryan Zimmerman
LF Kyle Schwarber
3B Starlin Castro
C Alex Avila
2B Jordy Mercer
RHP Erick Fedde
CF Victor Robles

DIAMONDBACKS
1B Pavin Smith
RF Josh Rojas
3B Eduardo Escobar
LF David Peralta
C Stephen Vogt
2B Domingo Leyba
SS Nick Ahmed
CF Tim Locastro
RHP Luke Weaver