Stephen Strasburg throws in the bullpen prior to a February 22 start in the season opener versus the Unversity of San Diego Toreros. The 6-foot-4, 222 pound right hander outdueled All-American Brian Matusz that night by throwing eight innings, giving up five hits, surrendering one walk, allowing two runs and striking out seven. Strasburg was named as the third best sophomore draft prospect in the nation by Baseball America. During his freshman season, he registered a 2.43 earned run average last season out of the bullpen with seven saves and 47 strikeouts in 37 innings. He was named to the All-Mountain West Conference second team and was honored on two national freshman All-American squads. He attended West Hills High School in nearby Santee, California.