Nats GM comments suggest Stephen Strasburg is not owed money after retirement

Last month, news broke that Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg is preparing to retire following nerve issues related to thoracic outlet syndrome. The reports of Strasburg’s imminent retirement weren’t surprising but still shocking. 

After winning the 2019 World Series MVP, Strasburg signed a seven-year, $245 million contract that winter. Unfortunately, Strasburg appeared in eight games through the past four years since. 

The Nats reportedly were unable to secure injury insurance on Strasburg’s contract. Therefore, pundits believe the right-handed pitcher is owed the remaining money on his contract despite retiring.

However, the latest comments by Nationals president and general manager Mike Rizzo may contradict that belief. Rizzo did his weekly appearance on 106.7 the Fan’s The Sports Junkies. Rizzo got asked about Strasburg and any future money owed to him.

“He signed a seven-year deal,” Rizzo said, per Grant Paulsen of 106.7 the Fan. “He’s got [3.5] years left on the deal, and he’ll get paid for those four years on the deal until he makes a decision on what his future’s going to be.”

Could money keep Stephen Strasburg from officially retiring?

Stephen Strasburg is due to get paid $35 million annually through the 2026 season. He will receive an additional $26.6 million, per year from 2027-2029 in deferred payments.

Rizzo’s comments on the radio hint at Strabsurg’s contract getting voided if he retires. 

Certainly, this is a developing story and something to watch. What Rizzo didn’t do was mention the rumored Sept. 9 press conference for Strasburg.

Nats manager Dave Martinez previously avoided acknowledging Strasburg’s retirement. Outside of the reporting, there has not been an official word from the team about the retirement.

Could money be the reason Strasburg hasn’t made an official announcement? Are the Nats and Strasburg’s agent, Scott Boras, working out a settlement? Is a settlement a possible option?

Strasburg most likely has thrown his final pitch. Strasburg’s health has been severely compromised by his latest string of injuries related to nerve damage. Yet, Rizzo’s comments hint that Strasburg’s official retirement may be on hold for him to continue being paid by the Nats.