7 years agoWashington Nationals second baseman Daniel Murphy (knee) took batting practice on the field for the first time all spring on Saturday. The slugger is about to turn 33 on April 1 and is coming back slowly from an offseason microfracture procedure on the cartilage in his left knee. While seeing him hit is a good sign, he still might not be ready by Opening Day. He's got a history of injuries and the Nationals plan to contend, so they'll bring him back at a snail's pace. Howie Kendrick and Wilmer Difo will get starts in his place, but obviously can't replace his bat. Murphy had an OPS of .928 last season and an OPS-plus of 136. See what kind of return you can get in your dynasty league for the late-bloomer, and obviously don't reach for him in drafts.--Mario Hernandez - RotoBaller
Source: Jamal Collier - MLB.com