WASHINGTON, D.C. - It is Tony La Russa’s practice to throw fresh talent into competition as quickly as possible. Tonight at Nationals Stadium he has little choice.

Tyler Greene, Draft Class of ‘05, received word at about 11 p.m. Wednesday that he was being promoted to the big club due to Brendan Ryan’s left hamstring strain. Greene landed at Reagan National Airport around 11:30 a.m., got to the ballpark several hours later and found his name in the No. 8 slot playing shortstop.

“It was exciting. I was pumped,” Greene said of Thursday’s late-night call, which came on an off day for the Memphis Redbirds after they had returned from Texas.

Greene likely will receive extensive playing time given Ryan’s 15-day absence and Khalil Greene’s right forearm strain. La Russa could also use Brian Barden or Joe Thurston at short, but Greene is considered best suited for the position if he contributes offensively.

“I’m a little bit shocked, but I’m also very excited,” T. Greene said about his quick baptism.

Ryan Ludwick sits for a second straight night with flu symptoms but is expected back in the lineup Friday. Jason La Rue also gets his third start behind the plate a day after Yadier Molina’s hit streak ended at 12 games. One of La Rue’s previous two starts brought three hits. As for the rest:

2B Skip Schumaker

RF Colby Rasmus

1B Albert Pujols

LF Chris Duncan

CF Rick Ankiel

3B Joe Thurston

C Jason La Rue

SS Tyler Greene

P Mitch Boggs