STEPHEN "SAVIORBURG" STRASBURG (Oh, And Some Other Guys Too)

June 8, 2010 was a historic night for baseball. Strasburg's debut for the Nationals exceeded all expectations and possibilities. Despite his ridiculous hype analysts still predicted he would have a normal debut. The common line was about 6 innings, 3 runs and 5 strikeouts. Ha! Savioburg laughs at you non-believers! His debut after the jump.
In front of a sellout crowd in Washington, DC, Strasburg pitched 7 innings, striking out a Expos/Nationals record 14 batters while giving up only 2 runs, 4 hits and no walks. He struck out the side on three separate occasions and even ended the game striking out the last 7 batters! He lived up to and beyond his hype, hopefully he can keep up a good pace but no one expects this every start.

Watching him pitch was electrifying. I cannot imagine how amazing the experience must have been for the fans in the stadium. They were on their feet every inning he pitched, supporting their newly signed Messiah during every pitch. He loved them back with his fastball that reached over 100 MPH and a curve ball that made the Pirates batters lean out of the way in confusion.

Strasburg's next start is Sunday at the Cleveland Indians. I'd expect a more pedestrian performance from him, but that's also what everyone expected from him today.


The Marlins much touted outfielder Mike Stanton played in his first game today and he also played above expectations. He did swing and miss a few times but he played great in every other aspect. Stanton was 3 for 5 with 2 runs, hustled out every play and showed speed while tracking down balls in the outfield. His arm was spectacular coming out of the corner in right field. One of the best young arms I have seen in a while.

On a personal note, WE LIKE IKE. The Mets also have a hyped up player, just not nearly to the degree of these guys. Ike Davis has played in 45 games this season and has had some ups and downs but he shows amazing promise. I was at his debut game on April 19th vs. the Chicago Cubs. Ike went 2 for 4 with a big RBI in his first MLB at bat. Tonight he hit his second walk off home run of the season in the 11th inning against the Padres.