Strasburg to Return Soon?

Mark Zuckerman reported yesterday that Stephen Strasburg pitched 45 pitches against live hitters in a batting practice session at the teams spring training complex in Florida.

At the end of his 45 pitches Strasburg said that there was no pain in his arm. The club plans on him throwing another round this coming Monday. He could potentially rejoin the Nationals line-up by the end of the season.

GM Mike Rizzo believes that if his rehab schedule goes as planned, he could rejoin the Nationals as soon as September.

Before Strasburg can return, he must pitch a minor league rehab stint. Since the minor league season ends September 5 the schedule is a tight one.

The Nationals want Strasburg to pitch 50 innings. It doesn't matter where. He could pitch them in the minors, majors, or even after the season in the Florida instructional league.

So cheer up Nats fans! Our Ace could return as early as September. Keep an eye out if you live near a farm team for the Nationals; you just never know who could be on the mound.