Stephen Strasburg done for season once again with Washington Nationals

Stop us if you have heard this before – Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg is done for the year.

That is the case once again. While the Nationals did receive positive news that Strasburg does not need another procedure for thoracic outlet syndrome, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported that he is likely done for the season.

Stephen Strasburg in familiar place with Washington Nationals

Such a result had to be expected. Strasburg has not pitched in approximately a month at this point and was moved to the 60 day Injured List a week ago. He would not have been eligible to return until the middle of August, and with the Nationals in yet another lost season, there was no point to bring him back.

It is also yet another lost season for Strasburg. He has made a grand total of eight appearances over the past three seasons as the pandemic and injuries have limited his time on the mound. He has not exactly been effective when he has been available, posting a 6.89 ERA and a 1.564 WHiP over his 31.1 innings.

There was hope that this time would be different. Strasburg had actually felt fine after his one outing this year. The problems started when he felt discomfort in his ribcage during a bullpen session a few days later. Fortunately, this is not going to be anything that requires him to undergo another procedure for thoracic outlet syndrome.

It also makes sense to shut Strasburg down for the rest of the year. The Nationals’ young players will have another year of experience by the time the 2023 season begins. It is possible that they will be a step closer to contending again, especially if they add some pieces in free agency. Strasburg’s return to health would be a lot more valuable then.

Stephen Strasburg is once again likely lost for the season. It is a far too familiar place for the Washington Nationals’ nominal ace.