Stephen Strasburg is set to make his 5th Minor League rehab start Saturday. While his previous appearances have come with the Nationals’ Single-A affiliates, Strasburg will face Triple-A level competition this weekend.
In preparation for his next rehab start, Strasburg threw a bullpen session yesterday and took batting practice for the first time since undergoing surgery last season.
"“Nobody’s been letting him hit, but he’s going to have to hit in Syracuse and he’s going to have to hit here,” said manager Davey Johnson. “He’s on heavy restrictions, and I just lifted one. I imagine if he can throw a 99-mph fastball, he can swing a bat.”"
Before his rehab began, it was speculated that the Nationals would consider activating Strasburg after 4 or 5 starts. But the pitcher’s recent performance has led the team to decision to have Strasburg make a few more starts in the Minors.
In his most recent appearance Monday, Strasburg allowed one earned run on 2 hits over 3 innings, walking one and striking out 6.
After experiencing success over his first two starts, Strasburg was hit hard last Wednesday. The right hander gave up 5 runs in only 1.2 innings.
Combined over his first four appearances, Strasburg has logged 9.1 innings in which he’s surrendered 7 earned runs on 11 hits. Strasburg’s shown solid control and ridiculous strikeout numbers as he’s walked 3 and K’d 18 over that span.
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