Guzman Might Play in Final Week

The on-again, off-again future of Washington Nationals shortstop Cristian Guzman still might contain a few games before the end of the season, though there seem to be mixed opinions about whether that's a good idea.

General Manager Jim Bowden set up a batting practice session for Guzman -- out since June with torn ligaments in his left thumb -- yesterday afternoon at RFK Stadium, and Manager Manny Acta threw the pitches. Both were pleased with the way the switch-hitting Guzman swung the bat from both sides of the plate, and the club will see how Guzman feels today.

If he has no further complications, they will have him take several at-bats in a simulated game either tomorrow or Friday at RFK, then possibly send him to their complex in Viera, Fla., for a few games in the instructional league. It's possible he could return to the majors for the final week of the season -- series next week at New York against the Mets and in Philadelphia.

Bowden first brought up the idea of Guzman playing earlier this month, and he watched Guzman's batting practice session with interest. Acta, though, has wondered several times about whether it is worth it.

"I don't know how much a few games is going to do for him," Acta said yesterday. "But if he's able to do it, at least he knows he's back for good from that surgery."

Guzman, who has one year remaining on a four-year, $16.8 million deal, was hitting .329 when he was injured June 24 against Cleveland.

-- Barry Svrluga