AJ Pierzynski criticized the Nationals for attempting to humiliate Stephen Strasburg.
The Washington Nationals are preparing for the 2024 Spring Training following a disappointing 2023 season. There is a standoff between the team and veteran pitcher Stephen Strasburg regarding his retirement. AJ Pierzynski, a former MLB catcher, criticized the Nationals’ handling of the situation, describing it as a futile attempt to embarrass Strasburg.
Strasburg has been sidelined since the 2022 season due to thoracic outlet syndrome and retired in 2023. Despite this, he is still under a seven-year, $245 million contract signed in December 2019, and the Nationals are looking to make the most of this investment, even though Strasburg cannot play.
The Nationals have asked Strasburg to participate in Spring Training as a mentor for younger players, but Strasburg has not shown any intention of committing. Despite this, the team has continued to publicly urge him to return.
Pierzynski criticized the Nationals for their approach, likening it to a futile competition that only Strasburg benefits from, as he continues to receive his paychecks without having to play. Pierzynski pointed out that Strasburg does not engage with the media and is unaffected by the team’s attempts to embarrass him.
It is hoped that the Nationals and Strasburg can resolve their differences before the start of training camp. Washington needs to focus on the future after finishing at the bottom of the NL East in 2023.
