Daniel Murphy

Nationals without Daniel Murphy (neck) again Thursday

Washington Nationals second baseman Daniel Murphy (neck) is not in the starting lineup again on Thursday against the Atlanta Braves.

What It Means:

This is back-to-back absences for Murphy as he deals with minor stiffness in his neck. Wilmer Difo will start at second base and bat third for the Nationals on Thursday night against right-hander Mike Foltynewicz and the Braves.

Assuming the injury doesn't become a long-term issue, numberFire's models project Murphy for a .328 batting average with 3 home runs, 12 RBI, and 10 runs scored in 70 more plate appearances over the remainder of the season.