Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Strasburg Signs

The number 1 overall pick in MLB's June draft, Stephen Strasburg, signed a record contract at the last moment with the Nats for a record $15.67 million over 4 years. The Nats are the worst team in the league with 43-75 record, but have been playing better of late.

The signing makes the Nats relevant for now. I have no problem with Strasburg getting a record amount, but I'm also glad he didn't hold out, which would've reflected poorly on him. While most expect Strasburg to be at least a good player, Nats fans shouldn't start buying their 2010 playoff tickets just yet. A pitcher rarely turns a terrible franchise around. That comment is assuming Strasburg lives up to the hype. It is difficult to predict whether pitchers who have never thrown a major league pitch will pan out. Hell, it's difficult to predict whether pitchers who just won a Cy Young award will have any luck the very next season.

The signing is a step in the right direction. One of many needed to turn this thing around. It provides hope, but not much more just yet.

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