Hill was Washington's best pitcher when healthy last season, posting a 4-5 record and 3.42 ERA in 16 starts. He was originally scheduled to be Washington's Opening Day starter, but his spring training setback thwarted those plans.

If Washington decides to activate Hill for Sunday's game, they would likely send down left-hander John Lannan or left-hander Matt Chico. Acta said Monday that the Nationals will not carry six starting pitchers.

Chico (0-1, 5.56 ERA) has started twice for Washington this season, and Lannan has started once (0-1, 2.70) after beginning the season in Triple-A.

"It's not the Braves that I was facing tonight, so it's a totally different ballgame that we're dealing with [on Sunday]," Hill said. "It's different, but I'd say that I feel like I'm ready to go. It's their call."

Nationals Note:

The Nationals placed first baseman Dmitri Young, who has a lower back sprain, on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to April 3. They recalled catcher Johnny Estrada from rehab assignment and he will be available to play in today's game.

Left fielder Wily Mo Pena went 0-for-1 with a strikeout and a walk in three innings in an extended spring training game yesterday. He had no opportunities in the field.

Rich Campbell: 540/735-1974
Email: rcampbell@freelancestar.com