Washington Nationals ace Stephen Strasburg had expected to announce his retirement Saturday. The 2019 World Series MVP has battled nerve damage in his pitching arm, resulting in multiple surgeries over the past four years.
However, a dispute about the remaining money on his seven-year, $245 million contract he signed after the 2019 season has ultimately put a retirement announcement on hold.
Reports surfaced the Nationals had canceled Strasburg’s press conference. Some interpreted the club as celebrating the veteran in the moment.
In a rare statement, Nationals principal owner Mark Lerner clarified the situation.
“Stephen Strasburg is and always will be an important part of the Washington Nationals franchise. We support him in any decision he makes and will ensure that he receives what is due to him.
It’s regrettable that private discussions have been made public through anonymous sources attempting to negotiate through the media. While we have been following the process required by the Collective Bargaining Agreement, behind-the-scenes preparations for a press conference had begun internally. However, no such event was ever confirmed by the team or promoted publicly. It is unfortunate that external leaks in the press have mischaracterized these events.
It is our hope that ongoing conversations remain private out of the respect for the individuals involved. Until then, we look forward to seeing Stephen when we report to Spring Training.
Stephen Strasburg is set to be paid $23.5 million annually through the 2026 season. He also will receive an additional $80 million spread out from 2027 through 2029 in deferred payments, per Spotrac.
Initial reporting suggested the Nationals owed Strasburg the money despite him retiring. However, Nats president and general manager Mike Rizzo hinted earlier this week the club wouldn’t be obligated to pay Strasburg in retirement.
From there, a media firestorm ensued. Lerner seemingly grew frustrated about the leaks that got out. He addressed the ordeal.
A glaring part of Lerner’s statement is that negotiations on a potential resolution are ongoing. Yet, unless the matter gets resolved, the Nats expect to see Strasburg at next year’s Spring Training.
Strasburg has only appeared in eight games since winning the 2019 World Series MVP. He’s undergone multiple surgeries, including thoracic outlet syndrome. He endured “severe” nerve damage that has reportedly compromised his quality of life.
All indications suggest Strasburg has thrown his final pitch. Therefore, all eyes will be looking to see how the standoff between Strasburg and the Nats plays out. Will Strasburg get to retire soon? Or will he be in West Palm, Florida in February for Spring Training?
