It’s been a rough spring training for the Nats, particularly where pitching is concerned, and the approaching World Baseball Classic might induce some additional nervousness for Washington fans, as Nationals’ arms are put to the test. Fireballing Mets reliever Billy Wagner withdrew from the U.S. roster yesterday, allowing Nats relief pitcher Gary Majewski to step into his spot. Majewski joins closer Chad Cordero on the American team, while Washington players Luis Ayala and Tony Armas Jr. will also participate in the WBC for Mexico and Venezuela, respectively. With such a short bench and so many arms already involved, Frank Robinson is no doubt relieved that starter John Patterson, one of two seemingly sure things in the Nationals rotation, turned down a U.S. team invitation, opting to focus on the 2006 season instead.

NFL owners have rejected the latest players’ offer, suggesting that there will be no increase this year in the $94.5 million salary cap. What that means, of course, is that the Redskins have until 10:00 tonight to cut about $20 million from their roster, a reduction that might result in the release of some ten players. The Post has reported that Mark Brunell agreed to restructure his deal with the team, giving Washington a bit more elbow room in its decision making. Many players will find themselves gone however; potential candidates include kickers John Hall and Tom Tupa, defensive backs Walt Harris and Matt Bowen, receivers James Thrash and Taylor Jacobs, and linemen Cory Raymer and Brandon Noble. Star-crossed QB Patrick Ramsey’s time with the ‘Skins also seems very likely to be over.