Former World Series MVP Stephen Strasburg has officially been listed as retired by Major League Baseball. This decision had been anticipated for some time, with Strasburg having made the choice not to attempt a return to pitching. The 35-year-old right-hander, who was the top overall pick in the 2009 draft, had a career marked by both success and setbacks.
Strasburg played a pivotal role in leading the Washington Nationals to their first-ever championship. However, his career was plagued by injuries, culminating in his last appearance on June 9, 2022, where he pitched 4 2/3 innings before being sidelined once again. He underwent surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome, a condition affecting nerves and blood flow that required the removal of a rib and two neck muscles.
Since signing a lucrative seven-year, $245 million contract in December 2019, Strasburg's time on the field was limited, throwing only 528 pitches in the majors. His absence was notable as he did not participate in spring training for both the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
Strasburg's retirement marks the end of a career that showcased both his talent and the challenges he faced due to injuries. Despite the premature conclusion to his time on the field, his impact on the Nationals' historic championship win will be remembered by fans and the baseball community.
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