Johnson Admits Nationals Leaning Towards Shutting Strasburg Down

Davey Johnson has discussed a possible innings limit on right-hander Stephen Strasburg.

The manager acknowledged that the team is leaning towards shutting down the pitcher at some point.

During an interview on ESPN's "Pardon The Interruption," Johnson indicated that Strasburg could be limited to 160 innings.

The team is in first place, but they don't want to jeopardize their future.

Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo previously had stated that there was "no magic number" for the innings limit, claiming that he alone would decide when Strasburg's season will end.

"One of my rules of managing is I try to do what's best today with an eye on tomorrow," Johnson said. "What's best for Strasburg is looking ahead in his future. And if all the reports that I get is the best thing we can do is after 160 innings shut him down -- that's what we did with Jordan Zimmerman last year, although we were in third place.

"(It's) a little different this year. But you do what's best for the player, not only for today but for the long haul."

Strasburg underwent Tommy John surgery on his elbow toward the end of his rookie season in 2010.

The right-hander managed to return toward the end of last season and pitched in only 44 combined innings.

Via ESPN.com

Washington Nationals, Misc Rumor

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