Jake Arietta has quickly developed into a star during his time with the Chicago Cubs. Currently, Arrieta is considered one of baseball’s most dominant pitchers. The numbers speak for themselves, 9-0 with a 1.56 ERA so far this year. Does this mean big money? A player the Cubs must sign? A face of the franchise? I think not. And let me tell you why.
We all know the name Stephen Strasburg. The San Diego native was heralded as the “Most hyped and closely watched pitching prospect in the history of baseball.” by Sports Illustrated. A title that was earned from his sheer dominance in his college days at San Diego State. When the 2009 MLB draft rolled around, it was to no one’s surprise when he was drafted #1 overall by the Washington Nationals.
With that being said, the first 7 years of his MLB career haven’t been smooth sailing. Several months into his career he tore a ligament in his pitching elbow. Tommy John surgery ensued, with a year long rehabilitation. In 2012, he was was issued an innings limit by the Nationals front office, leaving him out of the playoffs. Things have been better for Strasburg since then, but his longevity has always been put into question and is why the Nationals are very careful with their prized, young, pitcher.
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