Around NL East Spring Training, 3/9: Stephen Who?

Nationals: Strasburg. Strasburg. Strasburg. Stephen Strasburg, the first-overall pick in the 2009 draft and the consensus best pitching prospect in the world, made his highly-anticipated Nationals debut today. He pitched 2 innings, allowing 2 runs and no hits, while inducing 4 groundouts and 2 strikeouts. He reportedly hit 97-98 consistently on the radar gun with his 2-seam fastball and ended his work with a 3-2 strikeout looking on a curveball. Federal Baseball has a complete pitch-by-pitch breakdown of Strasburg’s work.

Phillies: Despite pitching a scoreless three innings against the Yankees yesterday, Kyle Kendrick still must earn the Phils’ 5th starter job from presumptive favorite Jamie Moyer…Lefty set-up man J.C. Romero doesn’t expect to be ready for opening day, while Brad Lidge probably will be.

Marlins: Cody Ross and Cameron Maybin have resumed baseball activities. Both are suffering from strained groins and hope to resume running soon…C John Baker is still out with a right forearm muscle strain.

Braves: 3B prospect Van Pope is converting to a pitcher…Manager Bobby Cox joked that he included Jason Heyward in today’s lineup out of fear of getting booed, which can only portend well for the young outfielder’s chances of making the team.

Mets: Two high-profile Venezuelan pitchers made their debuts today, as Johan Santana threw two rusty, but healthy, innings and Francisco Rodriguez, recovering from pinkeye, threw off a mound.