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The signing of the first overall pick in the 2009 draft has everyone buzzing about the future of this ballclub.
Stephen Strasburg, the flame throwing right-hander for the San Diego State Aztecs is the real deal and a complete package. And he's about to be a very rich young man.
His stats for three years in college were staggering. Strasburg fanned 195 batters in 109 innings this past season. Thats an averege of 16 per 9 innings, tops in NCAA.
His coach at San Diego State, Tony Gwynn, knows a thing or two about evaluating talent and he has called Strasburg a can't miss prospect in the big leagues. Congratulation's are in order to Stan Kasten, Mike Rizzo, and the Lerner family in getting the deal done just before the midnight deadline Monday night.
A big plus in the negotiations was the relationship and respect Strasburg's agent Scott Boras had for Mike Rizzo. The two had gone head-to-head in the past and this time around was no different than the others. Boras is a hard-nosed, tough negotiator for his clients.
The offer of $15.67 million over four years was nothing to walk away from. In the end, it was best for both sides to get the deal done and they did.
Now the big question is, what does the remainder of the season hold for Strasburg and what are the Nats' plans for his road to the big leagues?
He will not be rushed and he will not be pushed. No need to do that. The kid is chomping at the bit to get back to playing baseball--after all, he has not pitched since May 29th!
How will Strasburg handle the pressure is anyone's guess. Judging from his past at the collegiate level he should be just fine. Then again, he will no longer be facing competition at that level. And you can bet the hitters will be digging in and saying to themselves, "Okay kid, lets see what you've got." How bout a 102 mph fastball to start things off.
Stephen, welcome to the nation's capital. If Ray and I need a little cash to tie us over, we'll be in touch...
