A Name to Know: Stephen Strasburg

For the casual baseball fan, the MLB Draft is not an event that is followed closely. But for the baseball junkie, it is an event that is watched closely to find the next potential stars of the game. I want to introduce you to the most likely first overall pick in the upcoming draft. His name is Stephen Strasburg and he is a pitcher for San Diego State University. Scouts told ESPN’s Buster Olney, “[He is] the best I’ve ever seen.” So far this season for the Aztecs, Strasburg has compiled a 3-0 record with a 1.77 ERA, striking out 45 in 20.1 innings pitched. Strasburg was also the only collegiate player to play for USA Baseball in the 2008 Olympics. On that stage, Strasburg went 1-1 with a 1.64 ERA along with holding the same Netherlands squad in this year’s World Baseball Classic to one hit over 7 innings and striking out five of the first six batters he faced. Strasburg has a fastball that consistently goes over 100 miles per hour and just as good secondary pitches, including a slider in the low 90’s.

The Washington Nationals hold the first pick in the upcoming draft, which brings up an interesting scenario. If Strasburg is really as good as advertised, he could be an immediate impact to a rotation that lacks dominate pitching. This is considering that Washington is able to sign him, the Nationals weren’t able to sign their first round pick last year. Agent Scott Boras represents Strasburg, and he isn’t afraid of having his clients hold out for more money (see Manny Ramirez). All this combined with a new General Manager in Washington puts an insane amount of pressure on Washington to get this guy drafted and signed so they can have a potential face to the franchise. So when the MLB draft rolls around this summer, don’t be surprised to hear Stephen Strasburg’s name called first by Commissioner Selig.

Here's a little video of Strasburg pitching in the bullpen:



Thanks to Derek Cooley for telling me about this guy.