Aug 30, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg (37) during the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Stephen Strasburg: 11-7, 127.1 IP, 115 H, 49 R, 155 K, 26 BB, 3.46 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 2.81 FIP, 2.69 xFIP, 3.4 WAR.
The most significant obstacle to obtaining Strasburg is not players to me moved, any skill set deterioration, but the simple fact that Scott Boras is his agent. If history is any guideline, it is a virtual lock that Strasburg will test the waters of free agency.
The 26-year-old right-hander managed to actually live up to all the advanced billing as being the real deal. Strasburg burst upon major league baseball with a blazing fastball, superb control, a biting curve and a pull the string change-up. Strasburg also brought to the pitching table an arm that went into the OR.
Strasburg missed some time in 2015 after an impressive 2014 season in which he led the National League in starts. Strasburg also led the NL in strikeouts in 2014 and when getting in 30+ starts that should be a battle with Clayton Kershaw. Strasburg had impressive BB/9 and K/9 numbers in 2015 that has shown that he is on the same path of batter destruction as his previous seasons.
The risk is evident in signing Strasburg for the long haul and the possibility that the injuries may consistently surface. But a healthy Strasburg, who can get 30+ starts is a true ace level pitcher.