Stephen Strasburg reportedly decided to retire from baseball on August 24, unable to overcome ongoing injuries. The Washington Nationals were expected to hold a retirement ceremony for Strasburg on Saturday, but the team backed out of that arrangement on Thursday. Now, Nationals owner Mark Lerner dropped a statement on Strasburg's retirement that just doesn't make sense.
“Stephen Strasburg is and always will be an important part of the Washington Nationals franchise. We support him in any decision he makes and will ensure that he receives what is due to him,” Lerner said, per Bob Nightengale.
Lerner went on to state that he regrets that private conversations within the organization had become public. He said there were conversations about a retirement press conference, but the team never confirmed or promoted any event.
The final part of Lerner's statement says: “It is our hope that ongoing conversations remain private out of respect for the individuals involved. Until then, we look forward to seeing Stephen when we report to Spring Training.”
What?
Is the Nationals owner suggesting that Strasburg isn't actually retiring, and he will instead report to Spring Training to play for the team? It seems pretty clear that Strasburg's nerve damage and injuries will prevent him from ever pitching again. He has thrown just 31.1 innings in the last four years.
The conflict between the two sides certainly stems from the remaining money on Strasburg's $245 million contract. The Nationals still owe him over $100 million and seemingly intended to pay it in full. Now, it looks like the team doesn't want to pay Strasburg and is trying to change the terms of the agreement.
For now, it's unclear how this will shake out. However, it is clear Strasburg will not be on the mound for the Nationals in Spring Training.
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