Rick Ankiel set to come off DL, rejoin Nationals

WASHINGTON (AP) - Center fielder Rick Ankiel is set to come off the disabled list and join the Washington Nationals for Saturday's game against the Cincinnati Reds.

Ankiel has been on a minor league rehabilitation assignment after being slowed by a left quadriceps injury in spring training that limited him to 15 at-bats in exhibition games. He arrived in Washington on Friday and worked out with teammates in the afternoon.

Manager Davey Johnson indicated he plans to use Ankiel as his everyday starting center fielder. Johnson says Ankiel is an outstanding defender.

Johnson says the Nationals probably will wait until Saturday to announce a corresponding roster move.