Challenges in the Life of Stephen Strasburg in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 23, 2025

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Stephen Strasburg. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Stephen Strasburg, a former professional baseball pitcher, played his entire 13-year MLB career with the Washington Nationals. Drafted first overall in 2009, Strasburg was a three-time All-Star and played a pivotal role for the Nationals. His career, however, was significantly impacted by injuries, particularly thoracic outlet syndrome, which ultimately led to his retirement. Despite the challenges, Strasburg's early career was marked by exceptional talent and high expectations, solidifying his place as a notable figure in baseball.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

July 2010: Disabled List Placement

In July 2010, Stephen Strasburg was placed on the disabled list with an inflamed right shoulder.

2010: Tommy John Surgery and Fastball Velocity

In 2010, Stephen Strasburg underwent Tommy John surgery, but his fastball velocity was not significantly affected. He was also one of three starting pitchers to have pitches over 100 mph at least 21 times.

September 6, 2011: Return to the Nationals

On September 6, 2011, Stephen Strasburg rejoined the Nationals after recovering from Tommy John surgery, but only pitched 24 innings that year.

2011: Limited Innings in 2011 due to Injuries

In 2011, injuries limited Stephen Strasburg to 127+1⁄3 innings, his lowest output since 2011. He recorded a 3.46 ERA and won 11 games.

2011: Consultation on Innings Limit

In 2011, surgeon Dr. Lewis Yocum agreed that Stephen Strasburg's 2012 innings total should be limited as part of his rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery.

2012: End of 2012 Season

In 2012, Stephen Strasburg's season concluded early after a rough outing on September 8. He was left off the postseason roster, finishing with a 15-6 record, a 3.16 ERA, and a Silver Slugger Award.

2012: Innings Limit Decision

In 2012, the Nationals decided to limit Stephen Strasburg's innings as a precaution due to his recovery from Tommy John surgery and his low innings total in 2011.

August 17, 2013: First MLB Ejection on August 17, 2013

On August 17, 2013, Stephen Strasburg was ejected for the first time in his MLB career for intentionally pitching at Braves batter Andrelton Simmons.

June 26, 2016: Placed on 15-day disabled list due to upper back strain

On June 26, 2016, Stephen Strasburg was placed on the 15-day disabled list due to an upper back strain.

August 9, 2020: 2020 Season Debut on August 9, 2020

Stephen Strasburg made his 2020 debut on August 9, 2020, after starting the shortened season on the injured list.

2021: Injury-Plagued 2021 Season

In 2021, Stephen Strasburg's season was cut short due to injuries, including right shoulder inflammation and a neck strain, ultimately requiring surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome.

June 9, 2022: Return and Immediate Setback in June 9, 2022

On June 9, 2022, Stephen Strasburg was activated from the IL and made one start, but he returned to the IL five days later with a stress reaction in the ribs.

February 15, 2023: Setback in Recovery on February 15, 2023

On February 15, 2023, Stephen Strasburg did not report to spring training due to a nerve-related setback in his recovery from thoracic outlet syndrome.