WASHINGTON (WUSA) -- According to Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post, the Washington Nationals have acquired Cesar Izturis, the starting shortstop for the Milwaukee Brewers.

Izturis, 32, will provide depth in the middle infield. In 57 games this season, Izturis is hitting .235/.248/.333. Those aren't exactly flattering numbers.

So why did the Nationals make this trade?

Because Ian Desmond is going to be out for quite an extended period of time. I think his oblique injury is much more serious than all of us think. If Desmond was returning soon, why would the Nats feel obligated to make a deal like this? Steve Lombardozzi would be a very quality utility infielder.

Desmond last played in a game on July 21st, against the Atlanta Braves. In comparison, Michael Morse missed 51 games with the same injury.

Nats fans should be happy with Izturis. He is a solid defender with experience -- and a much better option than current backup Mark DeRosa. But this deal should set off some alarms that Ian Desmond may be out until late September.