Tena has been included in the lineup just once in the Nationals' last six games, missing out on two starts against right-handed pitching during that span. Rather than calling upon Tena to hold down the strong side of a platoon at designated hitter, the Nationals may be content to rotate players at that spot to open up more at-bats for the likes of Brady House and Andres Chaparro.

The left-handed-hitting Tena typically plays against most right-handers, but he'll take a seat Thursday versus righty Kevin Gausman, who has reverse splits. Andres Chaparro will occupy the designated hitter slot for the Nationals.