Nats’ Marrero working hard to get back on field

Nationals first baseman Chris Marrero is walking without a limp, but he is not expected to play in a game until after the All-Star break because of a torn left hamstring he suffered while playing the for the Licey Tigers of the Dominican Winter League last November.

Marrero, who is considered a backup first baseman, hurt the hamstring stretching for a thrown ball. Marrero arrived in camp Tuesday morning and was able to jog, play catch and hit the ball off a tee.

“The hamstring is coming along. I have to do the therapy, do what I have to do. I’m not trying to speed it up and aggravate it again,” Marrero said.

Marrero, a first-round pick in the 2006 First-Year Player Draft, made his Major League debut this past season, hitting .248 with 10 RBIs and playing solid defense at first base.