Stephen Strasburg battled some nerves and location issues during his spring training debut but was impressive.

Strasburg threw two scoreless innings in the Nationals' 9-4 loss to Tigers, responding well to the hoopla surrounding the No. 1 overall pick in last year's draft first exhibition start.

It was clear that this wasn't a normal spring game when excited fans lined the right-field stands to watch Strasburg warm up, creating an unusual spectacle for spring training.

"He was wired up pretty good," pitching coach Steve McCatty said. "I patted him on the chest and I could feel [his heart] thumping pretty good out there."

Tests on Joe Nathan's right throwing elbow have revealed a significant tear in the ulnar collateral ligament, an injury that could require season-ending Tommy John surgery.

Mets shortstop Jose Reyes has an overactive thyroid and is expected to remain in New York while the results of additional blood tests are used to determine his treatment.

Hal Steinbrenner said New York won't alter its policy against contract extensions and will deal with Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera and Joe Girardi after the season.

Willie Davis, a speedy center fielder who collected two World Series rings with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has died. See Obit Page B-3.

Johan Santana struggled in his first game since August, allowing four runs on six hits in 12/3 innings, as the Astros beat the Mets, 8-4. ... Joe Inglett, an 11th-year pro trying to win a spot on the Brewers' 25-man roster, hit a two-run homer with two outs in the ninth, lifting Milwaukee to a 5-3 victory against the Cubs.

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