Stephen Strasburg (back) unlikely to return to Nationals on Sunday

Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg (back) is unlikely to rejoin the rotation on Sunday against the Cincinnati Reds, Nationals' manager Dusty Baker indicated Thursday.

What It Means:

It's worth noting Baker didn't officially rule out Strasburg, but he said he's "more inclined not to rush him." Obviously, the Nats will be careful with their oft-injured flamethrower. Top prospect Lucas Giolito may stick around for another start or two.

As is always the case with Strasburg, when he's healthy, he's really darn good. He owns a 2.91 SIERA, 31.9 percent strikeout rate and 6.5 percent walk rate through 93 innings this season. Strasburg did deal with neck and back ailments last year, as well.