Stephen Strasburg dealing with nerve injury, makes missing extended time seem possible
By Scott Rogust
The bad news continues to roll in for the defending World Series champions
The Washington Nationals haven’t had the greatest start to their season. After finding out that star outfielder Juan Soto tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, the Nationals proceeded to get one-hit by Gerrit Cole of the New York Yankees. Things couldn’t possibly get any worse, right? Right?!?
On Saturday, manager Dave Martinez announced that starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg was scratched for their game against the Bronx Bombers due to a wrist injury. When speaking to the media, the 2019 World Series MVP described the pain as “nerve impingement.” While he believes it won’t keep him out long-term, he doesn’t rule out potentially sitting out a long period of time.
Strasburg describes it as a "nerve impingement in his wrist." Not extremely concerned, "I don't think it will keep me out too long." But also admits: "To be frank, this season is kind of a mess to begin with. I've got to think about the big picture."
— Mark Zuckerman (@MarkZuckerman) July 25, 2020
Is pitching through a shortened season worth it?
The 2020 season is going to be a weird one, there’s absolutely no denying that. Given that the coronavirus pandemic is still ravaging the United States, many athletes are worried about their long-term health. MLB players like Buster Posey, Nick Markakis and Ryan Zimmerman have all opted out of the season due to medical and family reasons.
We can’t necessarily be surprised if Strasburg ultimately decides to sit out this shortened campaign. He does have an injury history, highlighted by undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2011. Plus, we can’t forget that the right-handed pitcher just signed a seven-year, $245 million contract this offseason.
light. Related Story. Why Stephen Strasburg is Nationals most important player in 2020
Just last season, Strasburg (18-6) accumulated a 3.22 ERA and 1.04 WHIP in 33 games, culminating in a dominating performance against the Houston Astros in the World Series.
What will Strasburg’s decision be? We’ll have to wait and see. But man, this is not the way the Nationals wanted to start their season.