Nats 2B Murphy expected to play; no Game 2 starter named

WASHINGTON (AP) Dusty Baker expects injured second baseman Daniel Murphy to play for the Nationals in Game 1 of the NL Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, but Washington's manager still won't name his Game 2 starter.

After Thursday's workout, a little more than 24 hours before the series opens, Baker said that Murphy ''says he's ready, so therefore we think he's ready.''

Murphy hasn't started a game since Sept. 17 because of a strained glute muscle. He said he's confident he'll play.

Rosters don't need to be set until Friday, when Washington hosts Game 1. Baker revealed a little, saying backup infielder Wilmer Difo will be among his 25 players and that the Nationals will carry three lefty relievers.

Max Scherzer pitches for Washington against Clayton Kershaw on Friday, and Rich Hill will start for L.A. in Game 2 on Saturday. Baker said Thursday the Nationals haven't decided who will start the second game.