Stephen Strasburg has only made 11 starts in his career and already he is the face of the Washington Nationals. Unfortunately for the folks in D.C., and all around MLB for that matter, Strasburg is already facing some issues that could derail his career.
Strasburg was activated from the 15-day DL on August 10th after a shoulder injury sidelined him for almost three weeks. When we wondered if the shoulder injury was a concern for the Nats, we didn’t realize we would have the answer nearly a month later. No. His elbow is the concern.
LBS contributor Rey was watching the Nats/Phillies game Saturday night and alerted us to the news that Strasburg left in the middle of the 5th inning. Strasburg was described as being in a lot of pain, leading many observers to believe the injury could be very serious.
After seeing the replay, Strasburg was in pain but descriptions that he was “in agony” are overstated. Strasburg initially turned to the dugout and made a safe sign with his hands to wave off the trainers, but he was immediately removed after the pitch.
Between the shoulder and elbow problems, let’s just hope we’re not looking at the next Kerry Wood or Mark Prior. Maybe it’s the “inverted W” that’s caused the injuries.
