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Nationals' Daniel Murphy reinstated after missing start of season

The Washington Nationals have reinstated second baseman Daniel Murphy, who has returned from rehab, manager Mike Rizzo announced on Tuesday.

Murphy will make his 2018 debut batting fifth for Washington's Tuesday night game against the Yankees.

Murphy, who had right-knee surgery during the offseason, has missed the team's first 64 games this season.

Murphy, 33, went 9-for-37 (.243) with two doubles, two homers, seven RBIs, six walks and eight runs scored in 10 rehab games with Double-A Harrisburg. Murphy appeared at second base (eight games) and first base (two games).

An All-Star last season, Murphy had an impressive 2017. He hit .322, second best in the National League, and had 43 doubles, tied for first in the NL. Murphy also had three triples, 23 home runs, 93 RBIs, 52 walks and 94 runs scored in 144 games played. Murphy also earned Silver Slugger honors for the second consecutive season.

Washington optioned infielder Adrian Sanchez to Triple-A Syracuse in a corresponding roster move.