While the Phillies put up seven early runs Friday in an attempt to overcome a shaky start by Jake Arrieta out of the All-Star break, there was some drama in D.C.
Stephen Strasburg, in his return from the DL, was pulled after allowing six runs in 4⅔ innings to the Braves. As he jogged off the field and down the dugout steps, he was greeted by Nats ace Max Scherzer, who gave him a supportive pat on the back.
Seconds later, Strasburg barked at Scherzer, who snapped his head back and shrugged in exasperation.
Scherzer was clearly ticked off and shouted back at Strasburg with some emphatic gestures. Strasburg jumped up and began to walk down the steps back to the clubhouse with Scherzer following him. It appeared they wanted to finish their heated conversation in private.
After an ugly outing, Stephen Strasburg is greeted by Max Scherzer upon entering the dugout where they immediately get into an argument. #Nationals pic.twitter.com/xvjw4tHAKa— Steve Frederick (@SportsGuyTweets) July 21, 2018
It's been a frustrating season for the Nats. They're 48-49 and six games behind both the Braves and Phillies. This was Strasburg's 14th start of the season and it hasn't been Strasburg-like at all. He has a 3.90 ERA and has allowed 12 home runs in 85⅓ innings.