For one day baseball's eyes laid on the Nation's capital. In the most hyped debut in my recollection Strasburg shattered expectations completely. 14 k's in his debut a franchise record and the most strikeouts in an MLB debut since 1971. His fastball can be seen topping 101 mph. His curve has a hook that is just as deadly. Underlying all of this is his almost flawless command allowing 0 walks in the 7 innings he's played.
We all know the cautionary tale of Kerry Wood and Mark Prior. Jim Riggleman knows all too well of how Wood was overused in the '98 season as the manager of the Cubs. Everyone has the worst case scenario in the back of their minds which is why people are treating Strasburg with care and rightfully so.
Will Strasburg continue to pitch the way he did against the Pirates? Let's be honest he is still a rookie and is not a finished product. But clearly he has the stuff to back it up and his composure is of a very even demeanor. He has the tools that most 32 year old vets never had in their lifetime. Barring any freak injury Strasburg is on track to greatness. Hopefully the Nats can also keep pace with Strasburg's progress as well.
