Nationals' Strasburg, Span appear closer to coming off DL

WASHINGTON (AP) Stephen Strasburg and Denard Span of the Washington Nationals appear to be moving closer to a return from the disabled list after good workouts Wednesday.

Manager Matt Williams said Strasburg (left oblique strain) performed well during a bullpen session Wednesday. Williams said he wants to see how Strasburg feels on Thursday before deciding his next step.

Span (back tightness) had hit in the batting cage the past three days and took ground balls, but Wednesday was his first time on the field hitting and fielding balls in the air. Span said it ''was a step in the right direction.''

Williams said Span could take live batting practice Friday.