There appeared to be something off about Stephen Strasburg during his start Tuesday night. The Washington Nationals ace labored through four innings against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Strasburg threw 88 pitches, walked a career-high five batters while allowing eight runs (seven earned) off eight hits, including three home runs. His velocity was clearly off. His fastball dipped to 90-91 miles per hour. By the fourth inning, Strasburg was strictly reliant on his curveball.
Nationals manager Davey Martinez mercifully hooked him in the fifth inning after Strasburg loaded the bases with no outs. The Nationals ultimately allowed nine runs in the frame, and fell behind 14-1 after five.
What made matters worse, MASN broadcast caught Strasburg in the dugout rubbing his right shoulder and lower neck after the third inning.
In a career that has been amazing but blemished by a number of injuries, any hiccup in Strasburg’s routine is cause for concern. Just last year, his season was cut short after two starts. The 2019 World Series MVP was diagnosed with carpal tunnel neuritis and underwent surgery after experiencing numbness in his pitching hand.
Surely all eyes will be on the developing situation after Tuesday’s dreadful outing.Hopefully, this is just a blimp and nothing more serious brewing with one of the most talented but oft-injured pitchers in all of baseball.
