Nationals option Strasburg to Class AA

Nationals rookie righthander Stephen Strasburg will begin the season at Class AA Harrisburg, according to team’s website. He was optioned there this morning.

General manager Mike Rizzo told the website that he doesn’t like to rush pitching prospects. In addition, the Nationals want Strasburg to work on holding runners on, fielding bunts and pitch selection.

"I try to get as much information from the coaches and players that I can. It will make me a better ballplayer and help this team win some ballgames," Strasburg told the website Friday. "I’ve been able to make some adjustments working with (pitching coach) Steve McCatty in the bullpen.

"I try to throw as many pitches as I can — starting in the strike zone to force contact and not nibble. I just have been really trying to work hard and I’ve been able to have a little bit of success here so far."

In his final Grapefruit League start Friday, Strasburg allowed two solo homers in the first inning but struck out eight Cardinals over four innings. In three starts this spring, Strasburg posted a 2.00 ERA with 12 strikeouts in nine innings.

Rookie reliever Drew Storen, selected No. 10 overall in the 2009 draft, also was optioned to Class AA by Washington on Saturday.

Nationals rookie righthander Stephen Strasburg will begin the season at Class AA Harrisburg, according to team’s website. He was optioned there this morning.

General manager Mike Rizzo told the website that he doesn’t like to rush pitching prospects. In addition, the Nationals want Strasburg to work on holding runners on, fielding bunts and pitch selection.

"I try to get as much information from the coaches and players that I can. It will make me a better ballplayer and help this team win some ballgames," Strasburg told the website Friday. "I’ve been able to make some adjustments working with (pitching coach) Steve McCatty in the bullpen.

"I try to throw as many pitches as I can — starting in the strike zone to force contact and not nibble. I just have been really trying to work hard and I’ve been able to have a little bit of success here so far."

In his final Grapefruit League start Friday, Strasburg allowed two solo homers in the first inning but struck out eight Cardinals over four innings. In three starts this spring, Strasburg posted a 2.00 ERA with 12 strikeouts in nine innings.

Rookie reliever Drew Storen, selected No. 10 overall in the 2009 draft, also was optioned to Class AA by Washington on Saturday.

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