The Washington Nationals were probably hoping Friday’s second-half opener would serve as a new beginning in the midst of a disappointing season. Instead, an intense dugout confrontation between pitchers Max Scherzer and Stephen Strasburg could threaten to unravel their season even further.
Moments after Strasburg was removed from his start against the Atlanta Braves, cameras caught the beginning of an argument between Washington’s top two hurlers. The video shows Scherzer pat Strasburg on the shoulder, before turning his head in response to something Strasburg apparently said.
An animated exchange followed. Strasburg then attempted to head for the clubhouse, with Scherzer following close behind.