MLB: Stephen Strasburg to Nationals, or Maybe Not
The Washington Nationals made San Diego State pitcher Stephen Strasburg the first selection of the MLB Draft on Tuesday but will they have enough cash to sign him?
Sportsbook.com handicappers aren't too convinced, listing the prospect at -130 odds to sign with the Nationals and -110 to not sign.
Considered the top pitching prospect of all time, Strasburg and his agent, Scott Boras, will be demanding a record-breaking contract; making him a not so perfect match for the Nationals.
Washington is working on one of the league's thriftiest budgets with the forth lowest payroll and adding the pitching prospect to the payroll may be tough.
The team currently holds Major League Baseball's worst record (15-41) and hasn't had a winning record since the 2003 season when they were the Montreal Expos. What makes matters worse is they currently rank 27th in attendance despite having a new stadium.
Finally, just last year, the Nats were unable to come to terms with their first selection Aaron Crow.
"If the Nationals are going to survive as an organization, they must sign this kid", stated Sportsbook.com Spokesman Dave Staley. "Besides hearings on steroids, there hasn't been too much interest in baseball in the nation's capital as of late. Getting Strasburg under contract and on the mound could change all of that; at least every four days or so..."
Log on now to Sportsbook.com to wager on whether or not you think the Washington Nationals will break their piggy bank for Stephen Strasburg.
In addition, be sure to take advantage of Daily Dime Lines and great promotions like Walk-Off Wednesdays to maximize your bankroll this MLB Season.
Will Stephen Strasburg sign a contract with the Washington Nationals by the end of the 2009 MLB season?
Yes -130
No -110
Carrie Stroup, Gambling911.com Senior Reporter
