Nationals Prepare to Launch Strasburg

Stephen Strasburg is ready to go, folks. Strasburg completely overmatched his minor league opposition for the second straight start on Thursday night. Pitching for AA Harrisburg, Strasburg took a no-hitter into the 6th inning for the second game in row. He ended up going a full six innings- his longest start since his surgery- surrendering just a sixth inning leadoff double, and needed just 70 pitches to get 18 outs. 53 of the 70 pitches he threw were for strikes, he hit 99 mph on the radar gun, and he didn't walk a batter while finishing with four strikeouts.

Photo Credit: zimbio.com

The 23 year old finished his minor league rehab stint with an ERA of 3.54, 29 strikeouts and just 3 walks in 20 1/3 innings, and opposing hitters batted just .184 against him. He's been even more impressive in his last 2 starts. In his last 11 innings of work, he's given up just 1 run on 3 hits. And now, he's once again ready for the Big Leagues as Strasburg will make his 2011 debut on Tuesday night at home against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Strasburg will be matched up against veteran left-hander Ted Lilly (9-13, 4.39) as he faces L.A. for the first time in his brief career. First pitch is Tuesday at 7 Eastern.