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Kieboom (forearm) has been shut down from baseball activities and could begin the season on the injured list, Chelsea Janes of The Washington Post reports.

The 24-year-old was diagnosed with a flexor mass strain Saturday, and while the Nationals don't have an official timetable for his recovery, the condensed spring makes it unlikely he'll be ready in time for Opening Day. "I feel bad for him," manager Dave Martinez said. "And honestly, I feel bad for us. We count on him to be our third baseman. And I'm not saying that he's not, but it's just going to take some time." Kieboom will undergo further testing this week once swelling has gone down to rule out a possible UCL tear, an injury that could result in Tommy John surgery and possibly sideline Kieboom for a much more significant length of time. Non-roster invitee Maikel Franco might now be the favorite to start at third base when the regular season begins, although utility players Ehire Adrianza and Richard Urena may also factor into the mix.

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