The goal isn’t anything simple, like showing his arm is sound or proving he can last for a game. Or three. Nationals pitcher John Patterson has leapfrogged such basic desires.
When he comes off the disabled list today, Patterson has other thoughts in mind.
“I want to come back and dominate for 20 starts like I did last year,” he said. “I fully believe I can do that.”
Of course, the Nationals would like to see that, too. After a dreadful series in Boston in which no starter lasted six innings and allowed a combined 18 runs, the Nationals could use a boost.
Enter Patterson, who has been on the disabled list since April 22 with a right forearm strain. After making three rehab starts in the minors,he’s expected to start tonight at Baltimore. He’ll be limited to 90 pitches or seven innings.
The organization proceeded with caution, wanting to make sure the right-hander was indeed fine. Patterson says it’s close to 100 percent.
“It’s taken a little longer than we had expected, but I feel good,” he said.
So do the Nats.
“John is an important part of our future,” General Manager Jim Bowden wrote in an e-mail. “He’s a young, potential top-of-the-rotation talent. We’re pleased to have him back.”
Patterson has battled injuries in the past, enduring a journey that started as a strong prospect and detoured to overlooked player. But last season he returned to prominence in the organization, and beyond, by posting a 9-7 record with a 3.13 ERA.
The Nationals expected him to become their ace this season. Instead, after four starts — in which he went 1-0 with a 3.86 ERA — he developed tendonitis.
“I try to stay positive,” Patterson said. “I’ve had some negative things happen to me early in my career. I learned it’s not the end of the world and there will be ups and downs. The toughest part [being on the DL] is feeling good one day and not feeling good the next. You have to be mentally tough.”
Patterson had been on the disabled list two other times in his career. He’s not worrying about another trip, at least not this season.
“Everything’s going well,” he said. “I have no apprehension about my health. I feel I can step back in right where I left off and pitch like I know how to pitch.”
Nats notes
» The Nationals have lost three straight after taking two of three against New York.
» In 2005, Patterson made 31 starts after making a combined 27 the previous two seasons.
