Strasburg has tight back, not strained shoulder; expects to start this week

Steve Petrella

Strasburg has tight back, not strained shoulder; expects to start this week image

Breathe, Nationals fans. Stephen Strasburg's shoulder is fine.

The righty said Saturday afternoon that he left his Tuesday start in part because of an injured ankle, not a sore shoulder. He slightly adjusted his mechanics to compensate for his gimpy ankle and it led to a tight back. Strasburg visited a chiropractor on Wednesday and said he feels much better.

MORE: Price injures hamstring stepping on a bat | Axford's son throws out adorable first pitch

The 26-year-old starter threw a bullpen Saturday, a requirement to start early next week. Nats manager Matt Williams said the team will have a better idea of Strasburg's availability following his treatment tomorrow, but all signs point to him getting back on the mound within a few days.

 

Steve Petrella