The Washington Nationals‘ pitching staff has been a major part of their struggles over the past few years. Injuries and ineffectiveness have sent the 2019 World Series champions to the NL East basement. That has been the case again this season as the Nationals’ 4.93 ERA ranks 13th in the National League.
Help may be coming soon. Stephen Strasburg is set to begin his rehab assignment on Tuesday when he will take the mound for the Fredericksburg Nationals in the Carolina League.
Stephen Strasburg takes next step for Washington Nationals
It is not a coincidence that the Nationals’ struggles have coincided with Strasburg’s recent health woes. While he was never considered a paragon of health, he has made just seven appearances since the beginning of the 2020 season, the time when the Nationals’ fortunes went downhill.
Strasburg himself has not exactly dominated when he has been on the mound. He has posted a 5.74 ERA and a 1.463 WHiP in his 26.2 innings over those seven outings, striking out 23 batters with 15 walks. That production is a far cry from his 2019 campaign when he led the NL with 18 wins and 209 innings while being named the World Series MVP.
Nonetheless, he is going to be a key to the Nationals’ hopes moving forward. Strasburg still has another four years and $140 million left on his extension after this season. If Washington is going to move forward as a contender, and keep Juan Soto around, Strasburg will be a major part of their success.
At the same time, it is fair to wonder if Strasburg will ever be that pitcher again. He is attempting to make his way back from thoracic outlet syndrome, something that has very mixed results. Strasburg may no longer be that ace caliber pitcher he was.
Reinforcements are coming for the Washington Nationals even if it is too late. Stephen Strasburg is set to begin his rehab assignment on Tuesday.