In a move that should surprise absolutely no one, the Nationals selected Stephen Strasburg with the #1 pick in the amateur draft on Tuesday. Strasburg features a 100+ mph fastball and a slider that tops 92 mph on many occasions. He also has Scott Boras as his “adviser” (can we officially call him an agent now?), and he’ll probably be demanding a contract with at least $20 million in guaranteed money, and possibly a lot more.

The only pitcher drafted #1 in the past 10 years who has actually come close to meeting expectations is the Rays David Price. Pitchers tend to be a very risky selection at #1, because it’s hard to judge how good their stuff is going to be against professional hitters. I’m hoping the Nationals don’t bet the farm on Strasburg, because he could end up being the next Roger Clemens, or he could become the next Brien Taylor.

Tags: amateur draft, brien taylor, draft pick, roger clemens, stephen strasburg, washington nationals