The Nationals take a 1-0 series lead into game two against the Astros Wednesday night at 8 PM EDT. Stephen Strasburg takes the mound against Justin Verlander. Here’s an article on how Strasburg loosened up over the years. I found this bit the most interesting, however:
First baseman Ryan Zimmerman, who has been Strasburg’s teammate longer than anyone else on the Nationals, said the players had come to look at Strasburg as a veteran leader.
NYTimes.com
“He doesn’t say much; when he does, you take it pretty heavy,” Zimmerman said.
A word at the right time can be more effective than constant cheer leading.
Going back to 2006, Verlander’s first season in the playoffs, Strasburg owns the lowest ERA of any pitcher with at least 40 innings, 1.10. Strasburg cannot match Verlander’s volume of work, as the Houston ace leads in innings pitched in that time with 176 2/3 innings, eighteen more than Clayton Kershaw. He owns a 14-9 record with a 3.26 ERA, impressive given the level of competition in the post season.
Once again, bring plenty of K signs. Enjoy!