Stephen Strasburg overshadows Brad Lidge in AA game in Reading
compiled from staff and wire reports
It was the phenom against a World Series champion closer.
The winner was the phenom, Stephen Strasburg pitched five no-hit innings in his fourth professional start and drove in the game’s only run as the Double-A Harrisburg Senators shutout the Reading Phillies 1-0 on Tuesday night.
Philadelphia closer Brad Lidge, a World Series hero in 2008, was making a rehab appearance for Reading, but the rookie Strasburg was the star of the show.
Stephen Strasburg (MiLB)
The San Diego State product retired the first 13 batters he faced in the first game of a doubleheader, striking out six. The only batter to reach base against Strasburg in five innings was Michael Spidale, who struck out swinging in the fifth but advanced to first on a passed ball by the catcher.
Strasburg, the Washington Nationals’ number 1 pick during the summer of 2009, threw just 64 pitches. He upped his record to 3-0 and lowered his ERA to 0.52. Strasburg has struck out 23 and walked just three batters in 17.1 innings pitched in 2010.
The 21-year-old is showing that he can hit. He is 2-for-6 with 2 RBI’s and singled in teammate Sean Rooney in the fifth inning.
His mound opponent, Brad Lidge has been on the Phillies disabled list since spring training from offseason surgery on his knee and elbow, is trying to get back to the major leagues.
Lidge, who is 33, struck out four in two innings pitched. He has had eight rehab appearances since April 10 and second with Reading.
