Nationals' Stephen Strasburg to return, face Orioles Friday

Washington Nationals ace Stephen Strasburg will try to again successfully start his season ahead of the Memorial Day holiday. 

Per an ESPN story, Washington manager Dave Martinez told reporters on Thursday that Strasburg will return from the injured list and take the bump for Friday's matchup against the Baltimore Orioles.

The three-time All-Star who earned 2019 World Series Most Valuable Player honors made two appearances last month but went on the IL in mid-April with right shoulder inflammation and hasn't pitched since. It was the latest setback for the 32-year-old, who tallied a pair of starts during the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign before he was shut down with nerve issues in his throwing hand. 

Strasburg surrendered seven earned runs on eight hits versus the St. Louis Cardinals in his last appearance on April 13. 

The Nationals could use the help, as they began Thursday's action dead last in the National League East standings at 17-23.