READING, Pa. — Nationals top prospect 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 blanked the Reading Phillies 1-0 on Tuesday night.
Philadelphia closer Brad Lidge was making a rehab appearance for Reading, but Strasburg stole the show. The San Diego State product retired the first 13 batters he faced in the opener 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.
Strasburg improved to 3-0 and lowered his ERA to 0.52. He has struck out 23 and walked just three through 17 1/3 innings.
Lidge, who has been on Philadelphia’s disabled list since spring after offseason surgery on his knee and elbow, struck out four in two innings, with his only baserunner reaching on a throwing error by the shortstop.
Footnotes.
Rangers outfielder Nelson Cruz (hamstring) was put on the 15-day DL.
• Twins first baseman Justin Morneau didn’t play after the fifth inning against the Tigers because of a stiff back.
• Indians closer Kerry Wood threw 35 pitches during a bullpen session and is scheduled for another one Friday before the club can determine the next step in his recovery from an upper back injury.
The Associated Press
