Stephen Strasburg....... - Revolution42's Blog

Revolution42's Blog

Stephen Strasburg.......

Posted on April 20, 2009 at 06:28 PM.

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Stephen Strasburg- RHP, San Diego State:

After becoming the ace of the 2008 Olympic team, and being the only collegiate player on the squad, Strasburg opened eyes to many scouts across the league. As a freshman at San Diego State, Strasburg took on the closer�s role, shutting down 7 games, and maintaining a solid 2.43 ERA, while holding opponents to a .141 average in his 25 appearances. The 6�4� 220 lb junior then made the transition to starter as a sophomore. In April of last season, Strasburg threw a 23 strikeout gem against conference rival Utah (See video here). Undrafted out of high school, Strasburg is surely set to be a top five pick in 2009. The only thing possibly stopping him from going first is his agent, Scott Boras, who will demand an eight figure contract.
As the only collegiate Olympian, Strasburg shined. In his debut at the international level, the prized righty went 7 no hit innings, and struck out 11 against the Netherlands. Against the Chinese national team, Strasburg struck out 10 of the 12 batters he faced. His battery mate this summer, catcher Lou Marson, compares him to Mark Prior. His manager Davey Johnson, is often reminded of Doc Gooden.
The Scouting Report:
Strasburg has the best command of the whole draft class. His fastball can touch 100 miles an hour, but sits in the mid-90s. His slider is devastating, and his changeup could develop into Pedro Martinez-type quality. Everything about Strasburg�s mechanics and size screams power pitcher. And the Nationals would be fools not to select him with the first pick of the draft.
I am hoping as a Mariners fan that for whatever reason....the Nats choose to pass up on Strasburg...as mentioned before, this kid is going to have a hefty price tag, it is possible that alone may cause him to be drafted much later than what his skill level would support.