After simulated game, Ross believes he can go past 60 pitches

Right-hander Joe Ross threw 60 pitches in a simulated game at Nationals Park prior to Saturday night's game against the Phillies. Ross came out of the effort feeling good about his status as he recovers from right shoulder inflammation that has kept him on the disabled list since July 3.

"It felt good - fastball, slider, changeup," Ross said. "It was nice to get back out there and face some of our guys. Hot out there, easy to stay loose for a couple of up and downs. Feeling pretty good."

Nationals manager Dusty Baker said Ross' outing was a positive step forward toward his eventual return.

"It went fine. Joe, he had good velocity," Baker said. "Had good break on his breaking ball. Changeup looked like he'd never been out. The thing that I was most impressed with was his location on a couple of pitches. Location is usually the last thing to come. He's looking good."

Ross said he felt better than he did his last minor league rehab outing for Triple-A Syracuse earlier month. But still admitted having some butterflies.

"I guess that extra confidence just knowing, not having to worry like how's it going to feel when I get out there. (I had) a little bit of nerves going out there today," Ross said. "I guess it was easier in a controlled environment, live BP. Feeling good, so hopefully I get to the next start or whatever opportunity I get to go throw. Nothing's really on my mind but going out there and try and get outs."

Ross said he was not sure when the next outing would be, but felt he could go past 60 pitches if necessary.

"I feel good. Even in my last outing in Syracuse I think it was a couple of innings, 50 pitches, and I had more," Ross said. "I felt fine. I wanted to go back out, but it was kind of a set thing: Go take our steps, not a rush too quick. So going out 80 pitches on a full start, I feel pretty good about that, so hopefully I get that chance."

Baker would not confirm if Ross would return as a starter or some other role as the end of the season comes closer.

"We haven't made up our minds yet," Baker said. "It depends on what we may need and how much depth we need at the position. Right now, it looks like he's ready to start. The workload is the issue right now."

Ross explained the simulated game pitch selection was the same as what might happen in a real game. But he was not pleased that he allowed a base hit to roommate Michael A. Taylor.

"Sequencing pitches, (Pedro) Severino was catching," Ross said. "He called whatever he wanted to call and if I wanted to shake, I shook. Only real difference is I know the guy that's hitting and there's a little extra rivalry going on. I don't know if anyone saw Mike got me to left field on a changeup. I'm sure I'll here about that when I get home."