Gio Gonzalez had been mentally preparing for his Tuesday start until the moment he found out, late on Monday night, that he wouldn't be pitching. Now he has the rest of the week to focus on a more important outing.

Already tabbed as the starter for Game 1 of the National League Division Series -- which will be played on Saturday or Sunday, depending on seeding -- Gonzalez was scratched in favor of Tom Gorzelanny. Washington's clinching of the NL East on Monday night prompted the decision.

"We're division champs, which is the best and most important thing," Gonzalez said. "It just gave me an extra couple of days to rest up and get ready for Game 1."