Stephen Strasburg to start Sunday in Altoona, with 60 media people on hand

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The Washington Nationals’ prized right-hander Stephen Strasburg is scheduled to make his debut Sunday -- for the double-A Harrisburg Senators.

He is expected to pitch five innings or throw 85 pitches against the Altoona Curve in Altoona, Pa.

Strasburg, whose fastball has been clocked as high as 102 mph, signed a four-year, $15.1-million contract with a $7.5-million signing bonus. And according to a team spokesman, as of Wednesday, 60 media members were expected to be in attendance at the Altoona game.

The former San Diego State star and No. 1 overall pick in last year’s draft was Washington’s best pitcher in spring training. He allowed two runs in nine innings, striking out 12 batters and walking only one.

-- Debbie Goffa