Martinez on lineup, Cole, Murphy, Hellickson and more

ATLANTA - The pregame drama for the Nationals and their 4-0 record was manager Davey Martinez submitting a lineup that originally had Bryce Harper batting second. About a half an hour later, Martinez switched the lineup back to Anthony Rendon at No. 2 and Harper in the No. 3 hole.

"That was a misprint," Martinez said. "That's something I thought about. I kind of construct lineups a few days in advance. It's something that I was thinking about looking at and I must have said it. When I looked at it I said, 'oh no'. I don't want to do that.

"That's the reason why I wanted to switch back because you know Rendon, Harp and Zim and all those guys, they're doing fine where they're at so just let it be."

Speaking of construction of lineups, Martinez said he doesn't put together the lineup each game on his own.

"I talk to all the coaches every day before we make any decisions," Martinez said. "I want their input. We all share ideas and it's nice that these guys are involved."

Tonight marks right-hander A.J. Cole's starting debut for 2018. He has a 15.75 ERA in two games against Atlanta. Of course, his debut at Turner Field was a complete struggle, lasting only two innings and allowing nine runs on nine hits back on April 28, 2015. This is his first appearance at SunTrust Park.

With veteran Jeremy Hellickson getting stretched out in Florida, is their concern that Cole does not have the No. 5 starter role locked up?

Martinez said that is not of his concern right now. His concern is getting Cole focused on tonight's start.

"For me it's worry about today and I tell him that," he said. "Hey, strike one today. Let's concentrate on strike one and let's go from there. I think he'll be fine. He's got good stuff. A little confidence goes a long way and right now he's feeling pretty good."

Martinez said pregame Hellickson was expected to throw 80 to 90 pitches in extended spring training today in West Palm Beach.

Second baseman Daniel Murphy continued his multiple batting practices today. Murphy hit early on the field around 2 p.m. for some extra work. He took ground balls during regular batting practice.

With Murphy having idle time during games, does the veteran become the assistant to the assistant hitting coach next to Martinez during games?

"He's got a lot of thoughts," Martinez smiled. "I'll let (hitting coach) Kevin (Long) handle that. But I watch him. I kind of eaves drop a little bit. He's very insightful when it comes to hitting and he knows hitting. He's got a unique swing and it works. I can't wait to get him back because he's a good hitter."