Good news for Nats fans: No torn ligaments for Stephen Strasburg.
An MRI showed Strasburg has a strained flexor mass, but did not show any ligament damage, according to Nationals trainer Paul Lessard.
Flexor mass strain for Strasburg. Ligament fine, according to Nats trainer Paul Lessard.
— Todd Dybas (@Todd_Dybas) September 8, 2016
Strasburg returned to the mound Wednesday after being placed on the 15-day disabled list on Aug. 22. It was Strasburg’s first game since Aug. 17. Strasburg was originally placed on the 15-day disabled list because of elbow soreness in his throwing arm.
Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said at the time the decision to place Strasburg on the 15-day disabled list was strictly precautionary. With the Nationals comfortably leading their division, the team felt there was enough leeway to give the ace a rest.
Strasburg’s 11.154 strikeouts per 9 innings pitched is third in the MLB. His 15 wins tie him for fifth among all MLB pitchers.
Prior to Wednesday’s game against the Atlanta Braves, Baker asked Strasburg if he was “psyched” and “ready” to pitch. Baker said Strasburg answered yes to both.
“He wasn’t trying to be the hero,” Baker said. “He said that he felt fine. But, a lot of times you really don’t know until you get into action.”
Strasburg threw 42 pitches before exiting Wednesday’s game in the second inning.
It is not yet known when Strasburg will return to the lineup.
No timetable for Strasburg’s return, but Lessard says injury not season ending.
— Todd Dybas (@Todd_Dybas) September 8, 2016
• Tommy Chalk can be reached at tchalk@washingtontimes.com.
• Todd Dybas can be reached at tdybas@washingtontimes.com.
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