Washington Nationals may see Stephen Strasburg in 2023…maybe

Stephen Strasburg was supposed to be a key part of the Washington Nationals‘ present and future. Of course, the same could have been said at any point over the past three seasons when his seven year extension began.

At this point, it is fair to wonder what the future holds for Strasburg. The Nationals moved him to the 60 day Injured List on Thursday to open a roster spot for Anibal Sanchez, a move that would, in theory, allow him to return in another three weeks.

Washington Nationals have a Stephen Strasburg problem

It is evident that he will not be ready to return at that time. There has not been any word about Strasburg’s status since he landed on the IL in the first place when manager Dave Martinez noted that there was concern about a recurrence of thoracic outlet syndrome. That alone was ominous when first mentioned, but is moreso now that there has been radio silence regarding Strasburg other than his placement on the 60 day IL.

At this point, it seems unlikely that Strasburg will be back in 2022. There really is no point in bringing him back this season anyway; the Nationals are going to be selling yet again and have their eyes on the future. In theory, he would be a key part of those hopes.

But this is also a pitcher that has made a total of eight appearances since signing that extension. As much as the Nationals want to count on him going forward, they just cannot do so. That contract has become yet another albatross for the rebuilding club going forward.

Maybe Strasburg can return to form. And maybe he can allow the Nationals to recoup some value from that deal. But that is a lot to ask for with a pitcher who cannot stay healthy and may be heading for a second TOS procedure. At this point, his status for the beginning of 2023 may be uncertain given the overall silence.

There has been plenty of silence around Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg. That silence may be speaking volumes.