Former Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg is joining the San Diego State Aztecs as a special assistant to head coach Kevin Vance.
Strasburg won the World Series MVP back in 2019 while playing for the Nationals, leading them to their first title in franchise history.
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From 2007-09, the righty himself pitched for the Aztecs, choosing the school because he was already rooted in San Diego. He went on to become the top pick in the MLB Draft by the Nationals, where he played his entire career.
Strasburg retired back in 2024 after he was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome, which is a nerve issue related to his neck.
After stepping away from baseball, he is now ready to return to the sport where he was once a dominant player and athlete.
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“Stephen Strasburg is arguably the best pitcher in college baseball history, but what makes this announcement so special is how much he cares about this program, this city, and giving back to the game,” Vance said in a statement.
“He’s a proud Aztec and San Diegan, and he’s never forgotten his roots. Stephen didn’t arrive on The Mesa as the individual we know today; he earned it through hard work, competing in a great culture and program built by Tony Gwynn.
“He wants to help give our players the same opportunity and environment to grow. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome him back home to SDSU baseball.”
Strasburg pitched for 13 seasons, posting a career 3.24 ERA over 247 games. His career bWAR is 31, and his ERA+ is 127.
He made three All-Star appearances and won a Silver Slugger Award as a pitcher.
As a former top pick who has played in high-leverage moments and battled through multiple injuries, there is plenty of wisdom that he can pass on to the next generation.
Strasburg evolved during his career from a pitcher with elite stuff to someone who could mix his pitches well and still get outs without his elite movement.
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