Washington Nationals ace Stephen Strasburg said he is not "extremely concerned" after a hand injury ruled him out of the MLB World Series champions' clash with the New York Yankees.
Strasburg was scheduled to make his first start of the season on Saturday, but the star Nationals pitcher was scratched due to a nerve issue in his right hand.
Erick Fedde replaced three-time All-Star and 2012 Silver Slugger Strasburg on the mound for the showdown at Nationals Park in Washington.
"I wouldn't say I'm extremely concerned by it," Strasburg said. "I don't think it's something that'll keep me out too long."
5.1 innings wasn’t enough so we’re gonna play more baseball today.#NATITUDE pic.twitter.com/sKeOSaZFQY
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) July 25, 2020
Strasburg helped lead the Nationals to their first World Series championship last season, following their success against the Houston Astros.
The 32-year-old started Games 2 and 6 of the World Series, going 2-0 with a 2.51 ERA, 14 strikeouts and two walks in 14.3 innings of work.
Strasburg's exploits resulted in him signing a seven-year contract with the Nationals.
On the injury, Nationals manager Dave Martinez added: "Hopefully this is a day-to-day thing. We want to be cautious.''
