On Monday, the Washington Nationals placed infielder Chad Tracy on the 15-day disabled list because of a groin injury, fearing that surgery might be required and force him to remain out of the lineup beyond 15 days. Those fears were realized on Tuesday, as manager Davey Johnson told reporters that Tracy is scheduled for surgery on Thursday for a torn groin muscle and could be out for the rest of the season as a result. Recovery is expected to last six to eight weeks, or perhaps longer.

Tracy sustained the injury during Saturday's contest against the Atlanta Braves. As a pinch hitter this season, Tracy had been batting .333 through 18 at-bats and .265 overall.

For more Nationals coverage and conversation, visit Federal Baseball, SB Nation's Nats blog. For the Marlins perspective, check out Fish Stripes. For news and updates from the Nationals series in Miami, stay tuned to this StoryStream from SB Nation DC.