The Nationals still haven't decided whether or not top prospect Stephen Strasburg will begin the season in the minors. "In all probability, Stephen would benefit from going to the Minor Leagues," general manager Mike Rizzo. "The official decision has not been made." Strasburg is scheduled to pitch Friday night against the Cardinals at Space Coast Stadium. "My stringent plan is, we are going to develop the player, to get the most out of him -- not only for 2010, but for the long-term," Rizzo said. "We are going to be cautious and careful with him, because he has a great future ahead of him. We are going to do what's best for Stephen and the Washington Nationals in 2010 and beyond. "To rush a person to the big leagues and to have them take two or three steps backwards, I think, is the wrong plan. ... I have a plan in my mind for Stephen Strasburg, Drew Storen, Ian Desmond, Danny Espinosa, Derek Norris and all the rest of our top-flight prospects. We are going to dictate to them how we are going to handle their careers. But it's always in the best interest of the player and the organization."