The Washington Nationals activated Stephen Strasburg on Sunday and placed starting pitcher Joe Ross on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder inflammation.
Strasburg, who was placed on the disabled list with an upper back strain, made his first start since June 15 on Sunday against the Cincinnati Reds. After pitching seven innings against the Chicago Cubs, Strasburg was scratched from his next two starts. He sustained the injury while working out and dislocated two ribs.
Ross pitched 5 1/3 innings on Saturday in a 9-4 loss to the Reds. The 23-year-old allowed four runs on 10 hits. Following the game, manager Dusty Baker said the team was “looking into some things” regarding Ross’ velocity. According to brooksbaseball.com, Ross’ fastball averaged 92 mph against the Reds. In his previous start against the New York Mets June 27, he averaged 94.
With the injury to Ross, Lucas Giolito will remain with the Nationals. Giolito, ranked as the top prospect in baseball, was called up June 28. He pitched four innings and allowed just one hit in his debut against the New York Mets before the game was delayed. The Nationals won, 5-0.
• Anthony Gulizia can be reached at agulizia@washingtontimes.com.
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