Nationals closer Storen has elbow surgery, expected back this year

Drew Storen had surgery Wednesday to remove a bone chip from his right elbow. The surgery was considered minor, and Storen could return before the All-Star break.

NEW YORK -- The Nationals have made it through six games without closer Drew Storen, and they have a winning record after one week of the season for the first time in their eight-year history.

Now, can they make it through two or three more months without Storen?

Storen underwent surgery on Wednesday, to remove a bone chip from his troublesome right elbow. While the surgery was described as minor, and while there's a real chance he could return before the All-Star break, he'll still miss significant time.

The Nationals have converted their only two save opportunities of the season, with Brad Lidge and Henry Rodriguez getting one each. Rodriguez pitched the ninth inning with a four-run lead Wednesday, preserving a 4-0 win over the Mets.

Storen went 43-for-48 in save opportunities last year.

The Nationals are still awaiting word on outfielder Michael Morse, who has been out with a strained right lat. Manager Davey Johnson said the team sent Morse's records to Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion.