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Avila (calves) was spotted running on the field prior to Wednesday's win over the Blue Jays, and he could throw to the bases during a workout Friday, the Associated Press reports.
Avila hasn't played for the Nationals since July 1 due to bilateral calf strains, but the 34-year-old looks like he's starting to ramp up again. Because of the length of his absence, Avila will likely require a minor-league rehab assignment before being activated from the 10-day injured list, and the Nationals may be inclined to wait until rosters expand to 28 men Sept. 1 to bring the veteran backstop back. With the 52-68 Nationals focused on developing younger players at this stage of the season, Tres Barrera and Riley Adams could continue to share most of the work behind the dish even after Avila returns to the mix.
