Dave Martinez cites pitch selection as reason for Stephen Strasburg's rocky return

Washington Nationals ace Stephen Strasburg returned to the mound for the first time in over a year Thursday. In his first MLB game in 373 days, Strasburg threw 83 pitches, including 53 strikes. He allowed seven runs on eight hits and a home run while walking two and striking out five.

It was an up and down performance for Strasburg, who was returning from thoracic outlet surgery. After getting two outs in the first inning, he allowed three runs on three hits and a walk. 

He settled down and retired nine of the next 11 batters through the fourth inning. But, his struggles returned in the fifth inning, as he was charged for four more runs, including a homer to Jesus Sanchez. 

Nationals manager Dave Martinez had a simple explanation, pointing to Strasburg’s pitch selection. 

“[Strasburg’s] changeup was nasty. The funny thing is, he didn’t use it the first inning, and then he didn’t use it again the fifth inning. He understands that he’s got to throw that,” Martinez said to reporters, per Talk Nats. 

Strasburg’s changeup was working magnificently throughout the game, especially during his hot stretch. It helped him settle down, as he struck out the side in the second. His changeup provided the highlights of his night.