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Washington Nationals Rapid Reaction: Stephen Strasburg shines, homers put Nats back on track

By Pablo Roa

Apr 19, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (center) is greeted by Nationals center fielder Michael Taylor (left) after Harper hit a grand slam during the seventh inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 19, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (center) is greeted by Nationals center fielder Michael Taylor (left) after Harper hit a grand slam during the seventh inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 19, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg (37) throws during the second inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 19, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg (37) throws during the second inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

Stephen Strasburg in Vintage Form

Stephen Strasburg has to be good in 2016 for two reasons. For starters, he’s one of the best pitchers on a starting rotation that no longer features Jordan Zimmermann. Just as importantly, Strasburg is in the final year of his contract and will likely be the best starting pitching option in next year’s free agent class.

A strong 2016 season on his part would not only be huge for the Nationals, but it could also help him earn a lucrative deal next winter.

While the season is still very young, Strasburg is already off to a good start. The right-hander allowed just one run over six strong innings in his season debut against the Braves. In his second start, also against the Braves, Strasburg allowed two runs over 7 2/3 innings — striking out seven batters along the way.

But, as good as those first two starts were, neither of them can compare to the brilliant effort he gave in his third start of the season last night. Strasburg dominated the Marlins’ lineup, pitching eight shutout innings while striking out 10 batters and walking just two.

With the win, Strasburg is now 3-0 on the season with an impressive 1.25 ERA and 0.92 WHIP. Hopefully for the Nationals, his strong start to the 2016 campaign will set the tone for a dominant season.

Next: Longball Propels Nats to Win

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