tough loss

VIERA, Fla. (AP) -- Washington Nationals outfielder Jose Guillen has a wrist injury that could require surgery and sideline him for three months.

Guillen was examined early Friday by a hand specialist, who diagnosed swollen tendons and a damaged tendon in the left wrist.

Guillen felt discomfort during batting practice Wednesday and later told the team he thought he'd hurt himself during weight training.

The doctor recommended surgery, which would likely keep Guillen out of the lineup until June. The Nationals said Guillen will travel to Baltimore on Saturday for a second opinion.

Asked what the Nationals would do with Guillen out, manager Frank Robinson said, "Plans? Right now? Nothing. He's going to get a second opinion, and we'll wait and see what happens then."

Guillen was already questionable for opening day because of shoulder surgery in November, although Robinson had been pleased with Guillen's progress during the first week of spring training.

Guillen was hoping to return strong after fading in the second half of last season because of his ailing shoulder, which he hurt during a headfirst slide in June. He batted .283 with 24 home runs and 76 RBIs.

The injury was the second significant setback for the Nationals in less than two weeks of spring training. Brian Lawrence, acquired in a trade with San Diego and projected as the No. 3 starter, is out for most -- if not all -- of the season after shoulder surgery and a torn rotator cuff.

Guillen's absence would leave another hole in the outfield. The Nationals were hoping Alfonso Soriano, acquired in a trade with Texas, would be willing to switch from second base to left field. Now, Soriano may be an option for right field. He returns from the World Baseball Classic later this mon