Zimmermann: "everything is good" for Syracuse again

Nationals right-handed starter Jordan Zimmermann had another successful outing for Syracuse at Indianapolis as he prepares to return to the big club, which could be as early as August 25. Zimmermann threw 73 pitches (43 strikes) over five innings, scattering six hits, allowing one run, one walk and striking out three. He is 0-0 with a 0.75 ERA in three starts for Syracuse, a span of 12 innings. Zimmermann said "everything is good. All my pitches are working well. I am especially pleased with the progress of my changeup. I threw 10 changeups yesterday and they were all down in the zone. The speed was good on them, right where I want to be." Zimmermann said he had good command of his fastball, the velocity was in the mid-90s, and 91 to 93 MPH when it got really hot in the later innings. Chiefs play-by-play announcer Jason Benetti said Zimmermann was on mark, adding "he was in control again. Even though he gave up some hits, few of them were well struck. Six of the eight hitters he faced were lefties." His next start is Friday night in Louisville. He will still be on the 5 inning, 80 pitch cap. "I feel real good considering I am 12 months out of major surgery." Zimmermann had Tommy John surgery last August and has been rehabbing for the past two months in the Nats minor league system. Zimmermann also cranked a double in his first at bat of the season. The ball went all the way to the wall. He said he slowed up heading into second base to save energy, and could have had a triple. The next batter flew out, which would have been a sac fly. His teammates jokingly scolded him when he got back to the dugout that he should have gone for the triple.