Nationals' Max Scherzer: Set to throw off mound Saturday

Scherzer (finger) is scheduled to throw off a mound for the first time this spring on Saturday, Chelsea Janes of the Washington Post reports.

Analysis:

This is the next step in his return, as Scherzer was able to play catch with his normal grip for the first time on Monday, reporting only slight soreness afterwards. The Nats are in no hurry to rush their ace back, but if all goes well Saturday, they should be able to ramp up his activity level and start preparing him for Opening Day. It is definitely a situation to monitor closely, as the bullpen session Saturday will likely give a better idea as to whether or not the 32-year-old will be ready for the start of the season.