Nationals star Stephen Strasburg suffers another major injury setback

Washington Nationals starter Stephen Strasburg has made just seven starts in two seasons and he’s suffered another injury setback.

It’s been a rough go of late for Nationals starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg. The three-time All-Star has struggled to stay healthy over the past two seasons, and once again Strasburg is dealing with another setback.

After attempting to recover from nerve irritation in his neck, Strasburg did not feel comfortable in his latest throwing session. Washington manager Dave Martinez says the team is looking for options on what’s best for Strasburg going forward.

Injuries continue piling up for Nationals starter Stephen Strasburg

Strasburg, 33, was placed on the 10-day IL for his nerve injury on June 2. He also spent time on the injured list this season on April 18 with shoulder inflammation.

In just five starts this season, Strasburg has posted a 4.57 ERA, 1.385 WHIP, and an 8.7 K/9 rate over 21.2 innings pitched. This one year after the right-hander made just two starts last summer after requiring season-ending carpal tunnel surgery.

The wear and tear on Strasburg has been a constant since he signed his seven-year, $245 million deal. This came after Strasburg made 33 regular-season starts along with posting career-highs with 18 wins and 251 strikeouts, and a league-leading 209 innings. Strasburg also posted a 1.98 ERA in the 2019 postseason and was named the World Series MVP for the Nationals.

Currently sitting six games out of first place and 10 games out of a Wild Card spot, Washington should be in no rush to get Strasburg back on the mound. Especially considering the fact he’s under contract through the 2026 season.