Zimmerman returns to lineup after three-day break

There have been times in recent years when the loss of Ryan Zimmerman for three games wouldn't have had a dramatic effect on the Nationals, given the veteran's well-documented struggles at the plate.

Right now, though, every game Zimmerman misses is a big deal for the Nats, who understandably are thrilled to have their cleanup hitter and MVP candidate back in the lineup for tonight's game against the Braves.

Zimmerman sat out the last three days after tweaking his back, though he admittedly could have returned as recently as Monday's series opener. Manager Dusty Baker decided not to push it, especially knowing one more day off would allow his slugger to make his return against knuckleballer R.A. Dickey.

"I figured it would be better to bring him back with a guy throwing lesser velocity than to bring him back against a high-velocity guy," Baker said. "He's been testing it. I'm glad to have Zim back in there, offensively and defensively."

Zimmerman was itching to go Monday, but he understood his manager's rationale, especially at this juncture of the season.

"I think I probably could've played yesterday," he said. "But Dusty, that's his job. I think all of us want to play every day. He realizes we have 3 1/2 months to go. I think it was a smart move."

Zimmerman entered play today leading the National League in batting average, slugging percentage and OPS. The Nationals did score 10 runs during Monday's agonizing loss, but they've lost four straight games (the most recent three without their starting first baseman).

Even before this minor injury, Zimmerman had been getting regular days off in an attempt to stay fresh over the long haul. The 32-year-old started 51 of the Nationals' first 60 games, which had him on a pace to start 138 games for the season. (That would be his most since 2013.)

"He's been receptive," Baker said. "He trusts me. ... Most of these guys, they trust the fact that I played, I know the signs. Also I know it's a long road to the end, and we've got a long way to go."

Said Zimmerman: "It's something I've had to learn and become OK with. With what's happened over the last 2 1/2-3 years, it's important to make sure I stay healthy and play all year. To get a day here or there, playing 145-150 games and being able to play all year and stay healthy is more important."