

Washington’s new starting pitcher Doug Fister pitches batting practice at the Washington Nationals spring training camp last month. (By John McDonnell/The Washington Post)

Nationals starter Doug Fister has right elbow inflammation and will rest for a couple days, according to Manager Matt Williams. Fister, who the Nationals acquired from the Detroit Tigers in a trade this winter, was scheduled to make his second start of the spring Friday. But he was scratched, and Tanner Roark will start against the Houston Astros in Viera instead.

Fister, 30, first felt the discomfort after his Sunday start, in which he allowed one run over two innings. The right-hander received an MRI on Thursday, and according to Williams, the results showed “a little inflammation.” Any elbow discomfort or issues for a pitcher can cause alarm, but Williams said the team is not worried.

“We’re not concerned about it,” Williams said. “He feels like if in season he would go. We’re not going to take any chances.”

Nationals General Manager Mike Rizzo says there is no structural damage to Fister’s elbow. Rizzo said the plan for now is to skip this start and reevaluate after some rest. Williams said Fister would rest a few days, but didn’t offer a timetable.

Post video on the Nationals: