Nationals Ian Desmond Has Torn Oblique – Headed for DL

Ian Desmond will be lost to the Nationals until at least late August (Photo by Keith Allsion flickr)

Washington Nationals SS Ian Desmond has a tear in his left oblique and will be him placed on the disabled list, according to nationals beat writer Amanda Comak.

Corey Brownwill likely be called up in the corresponding transaction to replace Desmond.

Desmond skipped the All-Star game for an opportunity at resting the injury, and has been playing only sporadically since the All-Star break.

Desmond will rest for the next two weeks, and then be re-examined. Late August is expected to be the earliest he would be able to return. Oblique injuries are slow to heal and often linger. Desmond has been a big part of the Nationals success this season.

The Nationals earned their 55th victory today with a 9-2 win over the Braves. Jayson Werth is on a rehab assignment in Potomac.

Ian Desmond has a tear in his left oblique. Going on DL. Will be out a while. 2 weeks of rest before they check again.

— Amanda Comak (@acomak) July 22, 2012