Nationals GM: Strasburg 'unlikely' to return for NLDS

The Washington Nationals are going to have to get through their upcoming National League Division Series without their ace.

General manager Mike Rizzo said Tuesday that Stephen Strasburg likely won't be able to return in time for the first round of the playoffs, which begin next week.

"I think it would be kind of pushing it," Rizzo told reporters, according to MLB.com's Jamal Collier. "I think that's fair to say. Again, I haven't seen him after he did his throwing program today, but just the calendar, it's unlikely that he'd contribute in that first series."

Though Strasburg did have a throwing session from 90 feet today, he's yet to throw off a mound since suffering the injury on Sept. 7.

Strasburg, who owns a 3.60 ERA and 183 strikeouts in 24 starts, is one of several Nationals stars who are dealing with injuries at the most critical time of the season. All-Star catcher Wilson Ramos was lost for the season after tearing his ACL Monday night, leaving a big hole behind the plate. In addition, reigning NL MVP Bryce Harper is dealing with a thumb injury, while second baseman Daniel Murphy remains sidelined with a strained buttocks.

Washington will likely face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS.