The Washington Nationals announced that Strasburg would make his first major league start against the Pittsburgh Pirates on June eighth. Fans bought all the tickets within a day. Some were resold for as much as one thousand dollars.

When the time finally came for Strasburg to take the mound, he did not let fans down. In seven innings, he gave up only four hits and two earned runs against the Pittsburgh Pirates. He also set a team record by striking out fourteen batters, including the last seven he faced. Each of the nine Pirates in the lineup struck out at least once.

Strasburg was almost as exciting in his second game. He struck out eight hitters, walked five and permitted only one run last Sunday. The Nationals defeated the Cleveland Indians nine to four.

Strasburg has struck out twenty-two hitters in his first two wins. Only one major league pitcher had more strike outs in his first two appearances.

Baseball experts say Strasburg could be one of the best pitchers in many years. They are comparing him to greats like Nolan Ryan and Roger Clemens.

Stephen Strasburg is expected to make his next start Friday night against the Chicago White Sox. The team is a tough match for the pitcher. They have struck out the fewest times of any major league team.

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Summer for College Students

DOUG JOHNSON: This week’s listener question comes from China. Vera Tang wants to know what college students do during their summer vacation. There is no quick answer to this question. Students spend their summers in many different ways.