In 2012, nothing in the sports world triggered an avalanche of criticism and debate quite like Stephen Strasburg’s shutdown. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith called the Nationals‘ decision to not let Strasburg pitch in the postseason “disgraceful.” Rudy Giuliani wasn’t a fan of the move, nor was Donald Trump. “When Strasburg leaves @Nationals for another team for more money, will Washington still like the decision to shut him down for his good?” Trump tweeted.
That was then.
Eight years later, the shutdown of a major D.C. sports star barely registers on the radar.