Strasburg need to look no further than Zimmermann

The Washington Nationals announced that Stephen Strasburg will undergo Tommy John surgery on Friday.  Strasburg will then begin the long 12 to 18 month rehabilitation process as he recovers from the ligament repair surgery.  One thing we can say is, Strasburg has the right attitude, talking about working on his shoulder and back muscles while he can not throw, typically, the first 6 months.

We have read about various pitcher who have offered advice and help to Strasburg, including Tommy John himself.  However, Stephen Strasburg need look no further than his own club house for a shining example of a Tommy John recovery.  Jordan Zimmermann, another huge pitching prospect for the Nationals, needed the same Tommy John surgery.  It devastated Zimmermann.  It devastated Nationals fans.

However, this season, in fact, right now, while Strasburg is preparing for his surgery on Friday, Jordan Zimmermann made his second start since returning form the long rehabilitation.  The result --- Zimmermann tossed 6.1 shut out innings, allowed just one hit, while striking out a career hit 9 batters.    Of 86 pitches, Zimmermann threw 55 strikes.  Zimmermann also made 12 rehab starts in the minor before being called back to Washington a week ago.  In those 12 starts, Zimmermann posted a 1.59 ERA .  In 39.2 innings, he struck out 31 batters, dominating from Single A to Triple A.

Great game tonight by Jordan Zimmermann.  Stephen, take note, you have a success story right in your own club house.  Keep your chin up, get the surgery done, get stronger, and then join Zimmerman for the next ten years as a Nationals starter.