Stephen Strasburg’s season may be over after he suffered another injury setback. As he continues to miss time, the more daunting his contract becomes.
When the Nationals re-signed Stephen Strasburg to a seven-year deal worth $245 million after the 2019 season, the front office had believed the 2009 number one overall pick had finally turned a corner. After missing time in every season from 2015-2018 due to injuries, the Nationals co-ace had finally stayed healthy and delivered on his immense potential.
Strasburg was instrumental in the Nationals finally getting over the hump and winning their first-ever World Series title in 2019. During the playoffs, Strasburg went 5-0, with a 1.98 ERA, and 47 strikeouts while only walking four. During Game Six of the World series, Strasburg was able to baffle the Houston hitters. He went 8.1 innings, only allowing two runs while striking out seven.
His fantastic performance culminated in him being named that year’s World Series MVP. Strasburg’s new contract was well earned, but at the time the money was questionable. The righty’s extensive injury history and the fact he was already 31 raised some red flags, but the Nationals decided to roll the dice.
Fast forward to now and the veteran has yet to live up to his new contract. It was reported yesterday that Stephen Strasburg suffered an injury setback when he was throwing off the mound.
Stephen Strasburg had an "uncomfortable" feeling his neck in a recent throwing session and has been backed down, according to Dave Martinez. Said the team is looing at next options, whether that's to see another specialist, etc. Not good.
— Jesse Dougherty (@dougherty_jesse) July 23, 2021
Injuries have always been a major part of Strasburg’s career, dating all the way back to when he underwent Tommy John Surgery during his rookie season. Since re-signing in D.C. Strasburg has only thrown 26.2 innings, with 21.2 of them coming this season. His 2020 season was cut short due to carpal tunnel, while this year he has been hampered by his right shoulder.
Washington is no stranger to Strasburg’s injuries, but they are no longer well-suited to withstand it. Jon Lester, Joe Ross, Erick Fedde, Paolo Espino, and Patrick Corbin have been unable to pick up the slack. Max Scherzer can only do so much and the rotation has struggled because of it.
Neck injuries are a serious matter and because of it, we may have seen the last of Strasburg for the season.