Scherzer could start the fourth game of the season for the Nationals as well as Opening Day due to a couple of early off-days, which would keep him on his normal rest, The Washington Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

Nats manager Dusty Baker hasn't made an official decision yet, but given the time Joe Ross has missed late in spring training due to a heel bruise, it might make sense to bump him and give him more time to get stretched out before he's needed in the big league rotation. Scherzer would then be poised for a two-start week right out of the gate facing the Braves on the road and the Marlins at home, a potentially nice early bonus for anyone who has him rostered.