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Should the Nationals Use Stephen Strasburg as a Pinch-Hitter?

Presswire

Stephen Strasburg has been shut down for the remainder of the season, but it’s now being reported he could still make an appearance for the Washington Nationals this season. This appearance wouldn’t come as a pitcher, but Nationals manager Davey Johnson hinted that he might be willing to use his ace as a pinch-hitter, reports Adam Kilgore of the Washington Post:

"I check on him," Johnson said. "I told him yesterday, to give him something to think about, I said, ‘Keep taking batting practice. I might need your bat. If I can’t use your arm, I’ll use your bat.’ "

Entering the season, Strasburg had one hit over his first twenty-six at-bats for the Nationals. Over forty-seven at-bats this season, the 24-year-old has hit at an impressive clip of .277/.333/.426 with four doubles, one home run and three walks.

Johnson insisted that he was indeed serious, noting that Strasburg has become antsy. While today's question is of the yes or no variety, let us hear the reasoning for your choice in the comments section below!