Dear Nats Fans - A Letter Regarding Mike Rizzo and The Dreaded Innings Limit

Dear Nationals Fans Everywhere,
I am Sandra, the voice of reason. From what I understand, everyone is panicking over the shutting down of Stephen Strasburg. I am here to tell everyone to calm down and understand this - it isn't the end of the world, or even the end of the season. Most people seem to forget about the other four guys in the rotation - plus a strong, trustworthy arm in John Lannan just waiting to be brought up. Strasburg is not the reason why we have the best record in baseball - the whole team made that happen. While Strasburg was indeed a reason why we have been successful this year, you must also give credit to Jordan Zimmermann, Gio Gonzalez, Edwin Jackson, and even Ross Detwiler.

Trust me when I tell you all that there is no reason for panic. We have a reliable offense to back up our talented starting rotation. I believe that next year every Nationals fan will thank Mike Rizzo for his decision this year. I may not be a medical expert on any level, but even I understand the importance of taking it slowly when it comes to pitching. Tommy John surgery is an important surgery that can either end or start anew a pitcher's season, and if we rush Strasburg's progress he could end up ending his career all because of a few cranky fans that felt like it was unfair for them or for Stephen to sit out the rest of the season.

Now I'm sure most of you can understand that. In order for Strasburg to be more productive next year and the years to come, and for him to be able to help us win more games, he must have an innings limit. I don't know how many of you recall Jordan Zimmermann being shut down after his surgery as well, but if you don't, he was, and it wasn't complained about nearly as much as this has been. I think that because everyone knows about the shutdown and because it's been discussed so much on every sports program.
In short, don't get too worried about the team. Mike Rizzo is doing what he knows is best for the team, and next year we will be singing his praises. Do not fret, my fellow fans.
Signed,
Sandra
Tweet me @NatsGirl19