The Washington Nationals have canceled Stephen Strasburg’s retirement press conference after reaching a deal to keep the star pitcher on the team. Strasburg has signed a seven-year contract worth $245 million, making it the largest deal ever for a pitcher.
The Nationals had initially scheduled a press conference for Strasburg to announce his retirement, but the plans were quickly changed when negotiations between the team and the player intensified. The new contract will ensure that Strasburg remains with the Nationals for the next seven seasons.
This massive deal surpasses the previous record for a pitcher’s contract, which was set by Gerrit Cole just days ago. Cole signed a nine-year, $324 million contract with the New York Yankees. Strasburg’s contract also includes an opt-out clause after the 2022 season, giving him the opportunity to potentially negotiate a new deal or become a free agent.
Strasburg, who was the first overall pick in the 2009 MLB Draft, has been a key player for the Nationals throughout his career. He played a significant role in the team’s World Series victory this year, earning the World Series MVP award. His performance in the playoffs, including a 5-0 record and a 1.98 ERA, solidified his status as one of the league’s top pitchers.
The decision to re-sign Strasburg comes as a major boost for the Nationals, who now have both him and Max Scherzer locked up long-term. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, is under contract until 2021. With these two elite pitchers in their rotation, the Nationals will have a formidable starting staff for years to come.
The Nationals’ success in retaining Strasburg also sends a message to other teams in the league. It demonstrates the team’s commitment to building a winning roster and their willingness to invest in top talent. This signing further solidifies the Nationals as a competitive force in the MLB.
Overall, the Nationals’ decision to cancel Strasburg’s retirement press conference and sign him to a record-breaking contract showcases their determination to keep their star pitcher. With this deal in place, Strasburg will continue to be a key figure in the team’s pursuit of future success.
