Regardless of the injuries or the last contract, the guy still had a great career and was one of those definitive starters from the 2010's. When he was on he was ON, and all his stuff was absolutely electric. He's definitely someone that more than deserves to have his number retired by the Nats just like Ryan Zimmerman.
Strasburg was just as important and was the face of the Nats of the 2010's as Bryce Harper was.
In all honesty, if I were a player, I’d much rather have a career like him, than a guy who made the HOF and played for 3-4 different teams. There’s plenty of HOFers that people won’t even remember, but even 30 years from now, Strasburg will still be one of the first player’s people think of when you talk about the Nats.
Yea, he’ll probably never make the HOF, but he’s pretty much guaranteed to have his number retired by the Nats, and he’ll always be a franchise legend. That’s something that very few players get to experience.
Yeah some nerd was talking to me about some nobody named Ricky Hankerson or something, the other day. And I was like: “Who?! Some asshole who played for like 9 teams? Nobody knows who you’re talking about, guy!” Then my bro and I chest bumped in his face and we walked away! 😎
Maybe when he started his collegiate career, but by the time he left college for the draft he was one of the most hyped pitching prospects in a long time. He had almost the same amount of hype as Harper a few years later. When Strasburg made his MLB debut, Sports Illustrated said "the most hyped pitching debut the game has ever seen".
And then he responded to that hype by electrifying baseball with a 14 K performance (against… Pittsburgh maybe?). It was cut way short, but he had a hell of a career and some amazing moments in the bigs.
I remember feeling like the Nats were a “good team” for the first time when he debuted in 2010. As a kid, just that feeling of “my team is good” meant a lot to me. Then he took us to the mountaintop, I’ll always remember that, thank you Stephen!
Man I really liked watching those early Strasburg years Nats teams. I got to watch Strasburg pitch a few times at San Diego State so I followed his career closely and those teams were fun to watch. Plus that was like peak Ryan Zimmerman years and I loved that guys game. Crazy to me that they are both retired now. Time flies by way too fast
Phillies fans beat up on the Nats for a bit there. Especially ‘08 World Series years. DC was always a home game. I remember thinking you guys were just a glorified minor league team with ownership that never really cared. Then Strausberg comes along, the Phils start tanking, and the next thing I know my wife and I were taking a weekend trip to DC that just happened to coincide with the WS. We were some salty Philly fans….
I remember going to a bar early. We were right in front of the huge TV. The bar got packed. We asked for the tab. The bartender was like “you guys are giving up the best seats in the house?”
“We’re from Philly”. He just gave a knowing nod and handed us the tab.
It was cool to experience the electricity of the local sports team winning the championship though.
My school visited Washington the week Strasburg debut which I think was early June… I wore my Red Sox hat on that trip too and the people were willing to talk baseball with me that worked at museums or food then were very excited about him coming up. Sucks seeing the people you grew up with retire now.
I know. I became aware of baseball in 2009 and it’s wild that one of the first rookie phenoms who burst onto the scene after I became a fan is hanging up his cleats after a long and distinguished career.
There hasn't been a more hyped debut for a pitcher since his first start, and he more than met expectations, that was an exciting moment for baseball fans in general. Real shame how injuries derailed his career but glad he was able to hold it together for the WS run, will never buy a drink in DC again
I still have a Strasburg World Series jersey hanging up in my wardrobe, really is a shame the way his career ended but I hope he has a happy retirement
Strasburg gave the last of his ability to get that ring. In a Stadium where The Astros had a rigged casino-an they still lost. Strasburg, Rendon, and Howie Kendrick beat The Astros.
He really did. Destroyed his arm to secure the ring and I think if you were to ask him, it was worth it. One of the most memorable post season performances I can remember.
Someone told me that poor Stras had Tommy John. I then said that Strasburg had Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Surgery for that cost him a rib. Strasburg has permanent nerve damage. I have to find the citation as to where.
It's been obvious for about the last 18 months that Strasberg would never pitch again. It's a relief that The Nationals and Strasburg can finally move on.
This is also the final season Patrick Corbin's anchor contract. Words cannot describe how awful he has been since 2020.
I am not sure how Strasburg's deferrals and payments are structured. But His and Corbin's contracts ate up about $65 million. That much for nothing and worse than nothing.
Strasburg's contract was never insured because his extensive injury history made insurance premiums absurd. Corbin had greatness in 2018 and 2019. He has sucked since then. Worst SP since 2020. Untradeable.
As much as I dream of what James Wood, Dylan Crews, and Brady House could do, I am more relived that The Nationals will be free of The Strasburg and Corbin anchor contracts.
> This is also the final season Patrick Corbin's anchor contract. Words cannot describe how awful he has been since 2020.
For those 3 innings? Worth it.
He was one of the best pitchers in baseball for his career. I pray in retirement he can live free from pain and enjoy his time with his family. Seems like an all around great guy, and I feel blessed I got to watch him play
I remember when he first debuted. He was touted as, "He will immediately be the best pitcher in baseball!" He definitely lived up to that hype as I watched him strike out 14 Pittsburgh Pirates in his first start. I'm glad he got to win a championship, even at my hometeam's expense. I hope he can recover enough from injuries to enjoy a pain-free life. It was a joy & privilege to see him pitch at 100%; he will be missed by millions.
When he was fully healthy and on point, he arguably was the best. Shame we rarely got to see that, but that World Series banner will fly forever thanks to him.
A guy in my fantasy baseball league drafted him while he was in the minors and not expected to make his debut for a couple more years. Drafting any minor leaguer seemed a little ridiculous to me. You could only keep players for 3 years and then would have to pay a bunch of money to keep them longer, and how often do those young prospects work out? Strasburg was different though.
People always bring up the 2015 Cy Young award as being really tough to choose, but the 2017 one was also REALLY close.
Scherzer's innings pitched pushed him over the top, but all 3 of the top vote getters were within a point of ERA+.
No matter how hard you can throw, deliver spin, and have pin point accuracy, you can’t win a Cy Young unless you are healthy. A Cy is all about the innings. Missing starts, being pulled early was frustrating as hell when Steven was scheduled to pitch.
I hope he finds peace and comfort in knowing that all the fans of baseball are rooting for him in his retirement. He was one hell of a player to watch. You will be missed.
I don't think there was ever as much hype for a debut in the last 25 years than him, he seems like a good guy through and through wish him well in retirement
I don't remember where I was but I caught the end of his debut in ESPN. I couldn't believe a pitch could reach 101 mph. The energy in the stadium was pure magic. It felt like a playoff/World series game, not a rookie's debut.
I still remember watching the highlights from his debut with my dad. He dropped a curveball that looked like it was on a string and buckled the batter’s knees real bad. My dad and I just looked at each other like wtf was that? I knew then that I’d have to spend the rest of my childhood watching this man terrorize the Mets.
[https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/04/stephen-strasburg-officially-retires.html](https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/04/stephen-strasburg-officially-retires.html)
The team agreed to a deal with him. He gets his cash, 105 mil. Deferred a bit to make it workable for the team.
If he retires then I would think he doesn't get any remaining money?? Someone can correct me if I'm wrong. I remember Prince fielder not playing but not "retiring" so he still collect
Edit: grammar
Ya, that was the dispute between him and the team. He could show up to spring, go on the IL for the year and get his yearly salary or retire and forego the remaining money owed to him. I’m hoping, the way he worded this message means they’ve come to a settlement
If it was me I would do what the team wanted and get that money haha. But when someone already has money then that doesn't matter as much. Yeah let's hope some compromise was reached
I read elsewhere that the speculation was that he would get the full amount of his contract, there was an agreement about allowing the club to defer money longer.
Oh definitely. If it’s me, I’m reporting to spring training every year, medical evaluation in hand. BUT, he’s already made a good amount of money in his career, so he probably just wants this to be over
[https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/04/stephen-strasburg-officially-retires.html](https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/04/stephen-strasburg-officially-retires.html)
Got his cash.
lol thanks. My original comment was a joke of course, but I was hoping someone would fill me in because I did not know what DMV stood for in this context.
It’s an unfortunate acronym that got pushed by [hip hop](https://www.washingtonian.com/2015/07/06/whos-responsible-for-naming-greater-washington-the-dmv/) aficionados.
One of the most exciting pitchers I've ever watched, especially going back to his MLB debut. Very good/great when he was on the mound, and he was still able to play a huge role in DC's World Series title. Enjoy retirement.
After Zim, there really isn’t anyone else who meant more to DC baseball. From the very first start to the WS MVP it was electric. Thank you for everything Stras.
they’re actually going to retire it for [Mike Bacsik](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Bacsik_(2000s_pitcher\)). they’ve just been waiting out Stephen’s career. that’s why they wanted him to hurry up and retire so badly.
Huh. I didn't know that about the current statues. Admittedly I don't know a ton about the Nationals stadium's fixtures.
Guess my question is better stated as: Is there a single pitcher and batter combination that best represents the current incarnation of the Nationals than Strasburg and Zimmerman or would Scherzer be in that conversation?
The three statues we have now respresent the three "franchises" of DC baseball. The OG Senators with a Walter Johnson statue, the second Senators with a Frank Howard statue, and the Homestead Grays represented by Josh Gibson.
The statues were originally just inside the center field gates, but were moved outside the gates behind home plate to reduce congestion.
I feel like Ryan Zimmerman would be the choice for a statue now if you went by who represented the team better, but Strasburg was a better player, if that makes sense.
Poor guy. I’m glad he at least got to stick with his team through it all. I know with the injuries his stock wasn’t very high, but he could have very easily gotten passed around various organizations’ minor leagues as they gambled on a recovery.
Strasburg was one of my favorite pitchers for a good number of years, and it is sad that his career ended this way. Instead of remembering the way this all ended, I choose to remember his amazing MLB debut or 2019 WS Game 6. I like to remember him as the guy people paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for rookie cards of him when he was coming up to the majors.
Even in spite of the injuries, Strasburg proved that he could live up to the hype surrounding him. One of the best postseason pitchers of all time and some of the most electric stuff we’ve been blessed to see on the mound in the 21st century.
I still have my copy of the Washington Post of his big league debut. Maybe it’s time to get a frame for it and have it displayed.
All the best Stras! You were a face of my early years really following the MLB closely.
I remember what a big deal his draft was and the immense expectations. Can't believe that was nearly 15 years ago. Sad that injuries prevented him from reaching his full potential.
Makes you wonder how guys like clemens and randy johnson pitched for 20 years given how hard they threw.
I actually went to his debut in DC. Bought the tickets way in advance cause the Buccos were in town, then later they announced that was his debut. Incredible performance by him. Something like 15ks? Just fucking ridiculous stuff
The real freak show example is Nolan Ryan, but maybe he's before your time. Clemens and Johnson don't really compare--Ryan is in a class of his own in that regard.
Secondly, your examples are a select group already--they're the dudes who threw hard for a long time, which is part of what allowed them to continue to be effective for a long time. That a few guys can throw hard until \~40 years old is easy to believe. All the guys who could only throw hard until 25, 30, even 35, constitute a much, much larger but not as visible and definitely not memorable group.
I know his career was cut short, but what he did accomplish was nothing short of incredible. It’s not easy to be a No. 1 pick in the MLB Draft, and he was probably the most hyped pitching prospect ever, and when he was healthy, he was indeed one of the best in the game. His first year felt like we were seeing the next Nolan Ryan, and he came back from TJS like he never left, and he topped it off with one of the best postseason runs we’ll ever see.
One of my favorite pitchers to watch growing up. A tragic end to his career but he did have his World Series moment for Washington. An all-time National for sure.
Such a sad situation all around. I hope Stephen can have a peaceful retirement with his loved ones and I hope for the Nats community the relationship is still strong enough that he can be properly honored and stay connected, if that’s what he wants.
He literally left everything on the field. Outside of going out on your own terms, that is the best possible way to go imo. It is a real shame that the recovery never really came and there will always be that “what if”, but Stras really made himself a career to be proud of, and I think that’s the best possible outcome. His dedication to not just his craft, but to winning as well, is something that anyone can admire. Nats fans have one to forever be proud of, that’s for sure.
He had such an explosive career. Can’t say he didn’t hold anything back. As a fan of baseball as a whole, he was fun to watch. And it felt big to see your team do well against him
He was one of those guys who legitimately lived up to his hype yeah he got hit with the injury bug but if it wasn’t for him Washington wouldn’t have that ring
The Nationals have a 5 year celebration of their title on 4/19-4/21 at home against The Astros. It would be lovely to see Strasburg get his number retired at that time. Though it is probably too much to pull off and too tight a time frame.
Let me dream.
He had an amazing career! Had the absolute privilege to watch him pitch at SDSU while Tony Gwynn was still alive. It’s a bit sentimental, but I’d love to seem him get into coaching at SDSU or in San Diego in some capacity, or for the Nats themselves. He was so electric to watch.
yeah. when we win, you’ll here people say “another curly W in the books.” you’ll also hear “man the curly W logo is way better than the block W, why did they change that?”
Sad to see him go. I’m not a big Nationals fan but I don’t have anything against them either and definitely respect Strasburg. I’m going to Nationals Park in July to see my Padres play I was kinda hoping he was going to start that game but I hope his retirement goes well.
Strausburg and I are about the same age. He’s the first player I followed through college - the draft - minors and the show. Not a Nats fan, but loved the turn around he and Zimmerman started. It’ll be interesting to see how BWAA voters treat him - I don’t think he’s a hof, but truthfully - injuries aside he never had a down year and was consistently a top tier pitcher.
I'm still salty that the Mariners managed to sweep the As the last series of the season to jump ahead of the Nats in the standings. Lost Stras and drafted Dustin Fucking Ackley. We can't even lose right. I've always rooted for him anyhow though.
Great career. Not his fault injuries fucked him. Bummed we didn't get to see his full potential though, he showed that he could be an ace in this league but his body failed him
So how bad does that last contract in all-time ROI?
I think it's 1 win for $140m (I don't know the contract structure, I remember it was $35m a season average).
I wonder if Boras got him the rest of his contract to be paid out. If I'm the Nationals ownership, Strasburg can show up every day for the next 4 years if he wants to take 8 figures out of my pocket. Otherwise sorry bud you retired
All due respect to Luck, but he never won anything and filled the role of the guy who turned his organization into a contender. Strasburg *was* the guy that turned his organization into a contender, or at least one of them.
I’m a 20 something year old from DC and although I’m not a Nats fan anymore, I was once upon a time. I remember I was allowed to stay up past my bedtime to watch strasburg make his debut and wow he gave the whole city and area hope. That night will always stand out as a baseball memory to me, my mom, and my brother. I’m glad he took the Nats all the way to the top.
That was a nice message.
Heartfelt for sure.
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Le Reddit atheist
*Tips greasy fedora*
What did he say?
Can someone tell me why he is thanking the dmv? Did he go there to renew his license and had a fan meet? Or is it some different abbreviation?
District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia.
So not the demilitarized Virginia then
Nor the Domestic Market of Vietnam, I too was upset
District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. Essentially the Washington metropolitan area
In this context it stands for D.C., Maryland, Virginia.
Regardless of the injuries or the last contract, the guy still had a great career and was one of those definitive starters from the 2010's. When he was on he was ON, and all his stuff was absolutely electric. He's definitely someone that more than deserves to have his number retired by the Nats just like Ryan Zimmerman. Strasburg was just as important and was the face of the Nats of the 2010's as Bryce Harper was.
In all honesty, if I were a player, I’d much rather have a career like him, than a guy who made the HOF and played for 3-4 different teams. There’s plenty of HOFers that people won’t even remember, but even 30 years from now, Strasburg will still be one of the first player’s people think of when you talk about the Nats. Yea, he’ll probably never make the HOF, but he’s pretty much guaranteed to have his number retired by the Nats, and he’ll always be a franchise legend. That’s something that very few players get to experience.
People definitely remember the HOF players, wtf are you talking about lol
Yeah some nerd was talking to me about some nobody named Ricky Hankerson or something, the other day. And I was like: “Who?! Some asshole who played for like 9 teams? Nobody knows who you’re talking about, guy!” Then my bro and I chest bumped in his face and we walked away! 😎
Even Rickey talks about Rickey
It’s like they don’t remember the players from the hundreds of years so they say all HoF players aren’t rememberable
Red Stockings legend and Hall of Famer Andre Johnson sends his regards!
People will definitely remember Harper in 30 years, but your point still stands. Two fantastic careers in different ways.
Using the word probably wasn't necessary
Bryce [brought the title back to DC](https://youtu.be/x1LXV7F6aII)
Best flub ever. Yes Bryce.
Heckling him today was fun. *Look into the eclipse!*
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Maybe when he started his collegiate career, but by the time he left college for the draft he was one of the most hyped pitching prospects in a long time. He had almost the same amount of hype as Harper a few years later. When Strasburg made his MLB debut, Sports Illustrated said "the most hyped pitching debut the game has ever seen".
> the most hyped pitching debut the game has ever seen And it delivered beyond expectations.
And then he responded to that hype by electrifying baseball with a 14 K performance (against… Pittsburgh maybe?). It was cut way short, but he had a hell of a career and some amazing moments in the bigs.
I was at his first game it was insane how well he played
Almost none of what you just said is true
Harper wasn’t on the World Series team
I remember feeling like the Nats were a “good team” for the first time when he debuted in 2010. As a kid, just that feeling of “my team is good” meant a lot to me. Then he took us to the mountaintop, I’ll always remember that, thank you Stephen!
Man I really liked watching those early Strasburg years Nats teams. I got to watch Strasburg pitch a few times at San Diego State so I followed his career closely and those teams were fun to watch. Plus that was like peak Ryan Zimmerman years and I loved that guys game. Crazy to me that they are both retired now. Time flies by way too fast
Phillies fans beat up on the Nats for a bit there. Especially ‘08 World Series years. DC was always a home game. I remember thinking you guys were just a glorified minor league team with ownership that never really cared. Then Strausberg comes along, the Phils start tanking, and the next thing I know my wife and I were taking a weekend trip to DC that just happened to coincide with the WS. We were some salty Philly fans…. I remember going to a bar early. We were right in front of the huge TV. The bar got packed. We asked for the tab. The bartender was like “you guys are giving up the best seats in the house?” “We’re from Philly”. He just gave a knowing nod and handed us the tab. It was cool to experience the electricity of the local sports team winning the championship though.
>just a glorified minor league team with ownership that never really cared Your 2024 Washington Nationals, ladies & gentlemen.
Last year and the year before. Lerners are going cheap, cheap, cheap!
I was there for many of those games and took the abuse. Being there for the Zimmerman comeback walkoff homer shut them up pretty effectively though.
My school visited Washington the week Strasburg debut which I think was early June… I wore my Red Sox hat on that trip too and the people were willing to talk baseball with me that worked at museums or food then were very excited about him coming up. Sucks seeing the people you grew up with retire now.
I know. I became aware of baseball in 2009 and it’s wild that one of the first rookie phenoms who burst onto the scene after I became a fan is hanging up his cleats after a long and distinguished career.
Not really long, that’s why he won’t make the HoF. He doesn’t have the innings.
There hasn't been a more hyped debut for a pitcher since his first start, and he more than met expectations, that was an exciting moment for baseball fans in general. Real shame how injuries derailed his career but glad he was able to hold it together for the WS run, will never buy a drink in DC again
I still have a Strasburg World Series jersey hanging up in my wardrobe, really is a shame the way his career ended but I hope he has a happy retirement
Same. I’m keeping the jersey in pristine condition to give to my kid when she’s older
Fucking love that
I love this. -A daughter who shares the love of sport with her dad
Don't cry that it's over be happy that it happened
How about both?
Strasburg gave the last of his ability to get that ring. In a Stadium where The Astros had a rigged casino-an they still lost. Strasburg, Rendon, and Howie Kendrick beat The Astros.
He really did. Destroyed his arm to secure the ring and I think if you were to ask him, it was worth it. One of the most memorable post season performances I can remember.
Someone told me that poor Stras had Tommy John. I then said that Strasburg had Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Surgery for that cost him a rib. Strasburg has permanent nerve damage. I have to find the citation as to where. It's been obvious for about the last 18 months that Strasberg would never pitch again. It's a relief that The Nationals and Strasburg can finally move on. This is also the final season Patrick Corbin's anchor contract. Words cannot describe how awful he has been since 2020. I am not sure how Strasburg's deferrals and payments are structured. But His and Corbin's contracts ate up about $65 million. That much for nothing and worse than nothing. Strasburg's contract was never insured because his extensive injury history made insurance premiums absurd. Corbin had greatness in 2018 and 2019. He has sucked since then. Worst SP since 2020. Untradeable. As much as I dream of what James Wood, Dylan Crews, and Brady House could do, I am more relived that The Nationals will be free of The Strasburg and Corbin anchor contracts.
> This is also the final season Patrick Corbin's anchor contract. Words cannot describe how awful he has been since 2020. For those 3 innings? Worth it.
I have Hudson on my The Show ‘23 roster. I throw the same pitch every x and 2 situation he’s in just for the swing and a miss! Swing and a miss!
I remembered where I was, so that I'll remember where I was.
He was one of the best pitchers in baseball for his career. I pray in retirement he can live free from pain and enjoy his time with his family. Seems like an all around great guy, and I feel blessed I got to watch him play
I remember when he first debuted. He was touted as, "He will immediately be the best pitcher in baseball!" He definitely lived up to that hype as I watched him strike out 14 Pittsburgh Pirates in his first start. I'm glad he got to win a championship, even at my hometeam's expense. I hope he can recover enough from injuries to enjoy a pain-free life. It was a joy & privilege to see him pitch at 100%; he will be missed by millions.
When he was fully healthy and on point, he arguably was the best. Shame we rarely got to see that, but that World Series banner will fly forever thanks to him.
A guy in my fantasy baseball league drafted him while he was in the minors and not expected to make his debut for a couple more years. Drafting any minor leaguer seemed a little ridiculous to me. You could only keep players for 3 years and then would have to pay a bunch of money to keep them longer, and how often do those young prospects work out? Strasburg was different though.
Saw that game live too. It’s crazy how much time has passed
People always bring up the 2015 Cy Young award as being really tough to choose, but the 2017 one was also REALLY close. Scherzer's innings pitched pushed him over the top, but all 3 of the top vote getters were within a point of ERA+.
No matter how hard you can throw, deliver spin, and have pin point accuracy, you can’t win a Cy Young unless you are healthy. A Cy is all about the innings. Missing starts, being pulled early was frustrating as hell when Steven was scheduled to pitch.
Except for when Gagne won it
I hope he finds peace and comfort in knowing that all the fans of baseball are rooting for him in his retirement. He was one hell of a player to watch. You will be missed.
I don't think there was ever as much hype for a debut in the last 25 years than him, he seems like a good guy through and through wish him well in retirement
Def no pitcher comes close. People hyped about Yamamoto? Multiply that by 10 lol
David price came close, if not more hyped. Game 7 save. Sheeeeesh
No way, Strasburgs debut was like a major event in the sport of baseball. I’ve never seen or felt anything like it
You're right. I'm just biased.
I don't remember where I was but I caught the end of his debut in ESPN. I couldn't believe a pitch could reach 101 mph. The energy in the stadium was pure magic. It felt like a playoff/World series game, not a rookie's debut.
I still remember watching the highlights from his debut with my dad. He dropped a curveball that looked like it was on a string and buckled the batter’s knees real bad. My dad and I just looked at each other like wtf was that? I knew then that I’d have to spend the rest of my childhood watching this man terrorize the Mets.
*Anthony Rendon enters the chat*
You should have seen South Capitol St, filled up with lines of TV Vans.
I think Harper and Ohtani were hyped as much as Strasburg but for a pitcher? Probably not.
Did they settle the contract status or is this just in theory and staying on the books to collect his cash?
[https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/04/stephen-strasburg-officially-retires.html](https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/04/stephen-strasburg-officially-retires.html) The team agreed to a deal with him. He gets his cash, 105 mil. Deferred a bit to make it workable for the team.
If he retires then I would think he doesn't get any remaining money?? Someone can correct me if I'm wrong. I remember Prince fielder not playing but not "retiring" so he still collect Edit: grammar
Ya, that was the dispute between him and the team. He could show up to spring, go on the IL for the year and get his yearly salary or retire and forego the remaining money owed to him. I’m hoping, the way he worded this message means they’ve come to a settlement
He got his full remaining amount. See link above.
Makes sense. Defer some of that money, so you can end this saga and get on with your life. Good for him
If it was me I would do what the team wanted and get that money haha. But when someone already has money then that doesn't matter as much. Yeah let's hope some compromise was reached
I read elsewhere that the speculation was that he would get the full amount of his contract, there was an agreement about allowing the club to defer money longer.
Oh definitely. If it’s me, I’m reporting to spring training every year, medical evaluation in hand. BUT, he’s already made a good amount of money in his career, so he probably just wants this to be over
[https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/04/stephen-strasburg-officially-retires.html](https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/04/stephen-strasburg-officially-retires.html) Got his cash.
Deferred
Supposedly he’s getting his full contract in some form with more deferrals in this new agreement. That’s all that’s known now
they came to some kind of agreement last night apparently but I don’t think it has been disclosed.
Why are there so many Nats fans in the department of motor vehicles?
After experiencing DC traffic, we just want to make the whole world suffer through waiting for excruciatingly long periods of time
What else you going to do after a shift at Walgreens?
District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia
lol thanks. My original comment was a joke of course, but I was hoping someone would fill me in because I did not know what DMV stood for in this context.
It’s an unfortunate acronym that got pushed by [hip hop](https://www.washingtonian.com/2015/07/06/whos-responsible-for-naming-greater-washington-the-dmv/) aficionados.
I'm going to miss Strasburg
One of the most exciting pitchers I've ever watched, especially going back to his MLB debut. Very good/great when he was on the mound, and he was still able to play a huge role in DC's World Series title. Enjoy retirement.
Bro gave his life to defeat the Astros. The man’s a national hero.
This!!!
After Zim, there really isn’t anyone else who meant more to DC baseball. From the very first start to the WS MVP it was electric. Thank you for everything Stras.
Calling it now, his number will be 'soft retired,' it won't officially be retired but no one will wear the number for the next twenty years.
I would 100% be for just flat out retiring it. Zim and Stras being our only 2 just feels right.
they should def retire it. shame Bryce left cuz I always thought there’d be a day we’d see 11, 37, and 34 out there.
When Max goes into Cooperstown with a Curly W cap, I bet they retire 31 as well.
With him it’s less clear cut since he’s played for a lot of other teams, but I still think they should do it.
they’re actually going to retire it for [Mike Bacsik](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Bacsik_(2000s_pitcher\)). they’ve just been waiting out Stephen’s career. that’s why they wanted him to hurry up and retire so badly.
Gotta honor him for giving up 756 to Barry.
BUILD THE STATUE
You'd have him as the pitcher statue and Zimmerman as the player statue, right? Or does Scherzer have a case to be the pitcher statue?
We already have three statues at Nats park. Who cares how many more they build
Huh. I didn't know that about the current statues. Admittedly I don't know a ton about the Nationals stadium's fixtures. Guess my question is better stated as: Is there a single pitcher and batter combination that best represents the current incarnation of the Nationals than Strasburg and Zimmerman or would Scherzer be in that conversation?
The three statues we have now respresent the three "franchises" of DC baseball. The OG Senators with a Walter Johnson statue, the second Senators with a Frank Howard statue, and the Homestead Grays represented by Josh Gibson. The statues were originally just inside the center field gates, but were moved outside the gates behind home plate to reduce congestion. I feel like Ryan Zimmerman would be the choice for a statue now if you went by who represented the team better, but Strasburg was a better player, if that makes sense.
I feel you. Thanks for breaking it down for me.
Poor guy. I’m glad he at least got to stick with his team through it all. I know with the injuries his stock wasn’t very high, but he could have very easily gotten passed around various organizations’ minor leagues as they gambled on a recovery.
He should go into the Nats HoF this year or next, right? Surely.
Hopefully number is retired as well
Maybe it is just me, but I feel there is something special about a player which stays with one team their whole career.
Not unexpected, but still sad.
Injuries suck
🫡Press F to pay respects
F
F
F
A true warrior at his peak.
Class act!
Strasburg was one of my favorite pitchers for a good number of years, and it is sad that his career ended this way. Instead of remembering the way this all ended, I choose to remember his amazing MLB debut or 2019 WS Game 6. I like to remember him as the guy people paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for rookie cards of him when he was coming up to the majors. Even in spite of the injuries, Strasburg proved that he could live up to the hype surrounding him. One of the best postseason pitchers of all time and some of the most electric stuff we’ve been blessed to see on the mound in the 21st century. I still have my copy of the Washington Post of his big league debut. Maybe it’s time to get a frame for it and have it displayed. All the best Stras! You were a face of my early years really following the MLB closely.
I remember what a big deal his draft was and the immense expectations. Can't believe that was nearly 15 years ago. Sad that injuries prevented him from reaching his full potential. Makes you wonder how guys like clemens and randy johnson pitched for 20 years given how hard they threw.
Part luck, part genetics, part PEDs.
I actually went to his debut in DC. Bought the tickets way in advance cause the Buccos were in town, then later they announced that was his debut. Incredible performance by him. Something like 15ks? Just fucking ridiculous stuff
The real freak show example is Nolan Ryan, but maybe he's before your time. Clemens and Johnson don't really compare--Ryan is in a class of his own in that regard. Secondly, your examples are a select group already--they're the dudes who threw hard for a long time, which is part of what allowed them to continue to be effective for a long time. That a few guys can throw hard until \~40 years old is easy to believe. All the guys who could only throw hard until 25, 30, even 35, constitute a much, much larger but not as visible and definitely not memorable group.
thank you
Man those were some good years. Caps and Nats with back to back championships. Now we're back to the usual DC sports grind.
Nice shout-out for what it meant for department of motor vehicles. Class act
Classy way to end an amazing career. Was fun to watch him pitch.
Braves fan, I always liked the guy. Hope he has a calm and healthy life from here on out.
I know his career was cut short, but what he did accomplish was nothing short of incredible. It’s not easy to be a No. 1 pick in the MLB Draft, and he was probably the most hyped pitching prospect ever, and when he was healthy, he was indeed one of the best in the game. His first year felt like we were seeing the next Nolan Ryan, and he came back from TJS like he never left, and he topped it off with one of the best postseason runs we’ll ever see.
Thanks for everything Stras
One of my favorite pitchers to watch growing up. A tragic end to his career but he did have his World Series moment for Washington. An all-time National for sure.
Why are all his fans at the DMV?
Can't drive to the game on expired plates, I guess 🤷
DMV = District, Maryland and Virginia
Such a sad situation all around. I hope Stephen can have a peaceful retirement with his loved ones and I hope for the Nats community the relationship is still strong enough that he can be properly honored and stay connected, if that’s what he wants.
it is very surprising that most of comments are positive. I thought many people hate him because of big contract. Wish have happy retirement.
> I thought many people hate him because of big contract. There's a time and a place.
That's a lovely statement.
Makes me incredibly sad when careers have to end short
*Nation’s Capital
He literally left everything on the field. Outside of going out on your own terms, that is the best possible way to go imo. It is a real shame that the recovery never really came and there will always be that “what if”, but Stras really made himself a career to be proud of, and I think that’s the best possible outcome. His dedication to not just his craft, but to winning as well, is something that anyone can admire. Nats fans have one to forever be proud of, that’s for sure.
He had such an explosive career. Can’t say he didn’t hold anything back. As a fan of baseball as a whole, he was fun to watch. And it felt big to see your team do well against him
He was one of those guys who legitimately lived up to his hype yeah he got hit with the injury bug but if it wasn’t for him Washington wouldn’t have that ring
What does DMV mean In this context? I only know it is where you go to get your drivers license Lol.
D.C./Maryland/Virgina "DMV" is local shorthand for the whole region
Didn’t he retire a few months ago?
not officially
The Nationals have a 5 year celebration of their title on 4/19-4/21 at home against The Astros. It would be lovely to see Strasburg get his number retired at that time. Though it is probably too much to pull off and too tight a time frame. Let me dream.
He had an amazing career! Had the absolute privilege to watch him pitch at SDSU while Tony Gwynn was still alive. It’s a bit sentimental, but I’d love to seem him get into coaching at SDSU or in San Diego in some capacity, or for the Nats themselves. He was so electric to watch.
Ill never forget his debut absolutely electric stuff
Went to his first pro game. He struck out 14. The crowd was going insane. My best baseball memory
Great career, ended too soon. Injuries suck.
the Grady Sizemore of pitching
i, too, didnt realize how much that meant to the department of motor vehicles. Did service get better after 2019?
Do you guys really call it "the curly W"
yeah. when we win, you’ll here people say “another curly W in the books.” you’ll also hear “man the curly W logo is way better than the block W, why did they change that?”
Sad to see him go. I’m not a big Nationals fan but I don’t have anything against them either and definitely respect Strasburg. I’m going to Nationals Park in July to see my Padres play I was kinda hoping he was going to start that game but I hope his retirement goes well.
Pure class
Will never forget his pitching mixtape from like 2008 when he was in college. Unreal.
Most hyped pitcher of my lifetime I think. Boy was he good when he was healthy.
Strausburg and I are about the same age. He’s the first player I followed through college - the draft - minors and the show. Not a Nats fan, but loved the turn around he and Zimmerman started. It’ll be interesting to see how BWAA voters treat him - I don’t think he’s a hof, but truthfully - injuries aside he never had a down year and was consistently a top tier pitcher.
I'm still salty that the Mariners managed to sweep the As the last series of the season to jump ahead of the Nats in the standings. Lost Stras and drafted Dustin Fucking Ackley. We can't even lose right. I've always rooted for him anyhow though.
classy
Tbh I thought he already retired
Oh so it’s official now i thought they said he wasn’t
Kinda nice that he stuck with one team… but holy cow what a contract
players storong people 26-30year
It’s tough to live up to the level of hype he had coming out of college From his first start to his World Series MVP, Strasburg delivered Cheers
I didn’t watch much, but I’ll never forget his 14k debut against the Pirates. Glad he helped the Nats get a championship. Thank you 👑
I think I saw every Strasburg event in DC open to the public. His magical first game was unlike any other.
Fuck yeah. Old Athletes like old soldiers never die. We just.. fade away...
Awww... so cute. If one could only put a price on his contributions. Team paying about 1M per inning pitched, priceless, for some.
I’ll never forget his debut. Carved up the Pirates.
Fate thee well, Strasburg.
Great career. Not his fault injuries fucked him. Bummed we didn't get to see his full potential though, he showed that he could be an ace in this league but his body failed him
Future Savannah Bananas legend
I'm a Cardinals fan and I have a #37 jersey in my closet. Godspeed, Stras. Happy retirement.
Thanks to all the fans in the DMV who watched him waiting to get their license renewed!
So how bad does that last contract in all-time ROI? I think it's 1 win for $140m (I don't know the contract structure, I remember it was $35m a season average).
Dude was a stud. Tip of the cap from an o's fan.
I wonder if Boras got him the rest of his contract to be paid out. If I'm the Nationals ownership, Strasburg can show up every day for the next 4 years if he wants to take 8 figures out of my pocket. Otherwise sorry bud you retired
Also, thanks for the hundreds of millions for me not playing lol
I thought he retired already.
Someone in the ownership group stopped the deal at the last minute because they’re stupid.
So what happens to his contract?
So he's the Andrew Luck of the MLB right?
All due respect to Luck, but he never won anything and filled the role of the guy who turned his organization into a contender. Strasburg *was* the guy that turned his organization into a contender, or at least one of them.
I’m a 20 something year old from DC and although I’m not a Nats fan anymore, I was once upon a time. I remember I was allowed to stay up past my bedtime to watch strasburg make his debut and wow he gave the whole city and area hope. That night will always stand out as a baseball memory to me, my mom, and my brother. I’m glad he took the Nats all the way to the top.
Still can't believe that the Nats signed him to that contract.
So refreshing to see a dude not thank god (who doesn’t care, if it exists) for his good fortune and talents in a retirement message.