Cincinnati (AP) — The Washington Nationals placed pitcher Stephen Strasburg on the 60-day disabled list ahead of Thursday’s start in Cincinnati.

The 2019 World Series MVP hasn’t pitched since June 2022 because to ailments that have sidelined his career. He still has three seasons left on his $245 million, seven-year contract.

Strasburg chose to retire in late August, but the Nationals confirmed in September that there would be no farewell press conference. Owner Mark Lerner stated in a statement at the time that the franchise was looking forward to seeing Strasburg in spring training.

The 35-year-old right-hander did not report to the Nationals’ facility in West Palm Beach, Fla. The sole practical significance of his being on the roster is that he takes up a protected spot in the Rule 5 draft in December.

Strasburg earns $35 million per year, with $11,428,571 deferred with 1% interest. The deferred money will be paid in equal payments of $26,666,667 on July 1 in 2027, 2028, and 2029, with an interest payment of $3,999,974 due on December 31, 2029.

A retirement arrangement could include a restructuring of Strasburg’s debt.

Washington also signed right-handed pitchers Matt Barnes and Derek Law, as well as outfielders Eddie Rosario and Jesse Winker, all from Triple-A Rochester. Barnes, Rosario, and Winker receive $2 million salary in the major leagues, while Law receives $1.5 million.

The Nationals also placed right-handers Cade Cavalli and Mason Thompson (Tommy John surgery) and left-hander Jose Ferrer (left lat strain) on the 60-day injured list, while outfielder Stone Garrett (recovery from left ankle reconstruction surgery) was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to March 25.