Doolittle expected to miss weeks after MRI reveals foot issue

The Washington Nationals are going to be without one of the most integral members of its bullpen for a sizable amount of time.

Closer Sean Doolittle underwent an MRI which revealed a stress reaction in the bridge of his foot, reports MASN's Mark Zuckerman.

While the injury is comparable to a bone bruise, there is no timetable for his return. Doolittle was told he'd be out for "weeks, not months," however.

The left-hander was placed on the 10-day disabled list on July 10 with what was initially described as left toe inflammation.

Kelvin Herrera and Ryan Madson could close for the Nationals with Doolittle sidelined.

The 31-year-old southpaw was having the best season of his career before hitting the DL.

Doolittle's 1.45 ERA and 0.54 WHIP were both career lows, while his pitching line also contained an 11.8 strikeout-per-nine rate and a 1.97 FIP.