Jesus Flores building back strength and confidence in game follows

The Nationals' catcher Jesus Flores has had a good homestand and has been able to hit the ball well to the outfield, especially the left field corner in his past few games. Flores has gone 5-for-8 with two doubles and an RBI during the Nationals' homestand against the Mets, Dodgers and Astros. Flores said his confidence is growing as he gets more playing time and gets farther away from the shoulder and labrum issues that sidelined him for close to two seasons. "I feel like I am having a good approach right now and seeing the ball better," Flores said. "I have a better plan every time I go to the plate. That is why I am having good results after that." Flores said that is the biggest step for him right now is has been able to play the entire season without any pain and his shoulder has the strength and range of motion he needs to make the throws he needs to second base and manage the game. "I am very happy to healthy," Flores said. "Especially after the last couple of years being in the negative part with all the injuries. No I feel totally healthy. After this whole year playing between Syracuse and here the shoulder is reacting very well. I am really happy for that. Now, I am going to prepare myself to play winter ball so that way I can get ready for next year, too." Flores will play again in the Venezuelan winter league, which commences with opening day October 12. He said it is important for him to play in the off season professional league because he can stay in shape and build up his at-bats. "The more you play the more you can see different situations (occur) in each game," Flores said. "You gain more experience. Especially this year for me it is important because I haven't played baseball for in the last couple of years. So I want to get more at-bats and try to get all my confidence back so I can be a complete player for next year."