Nationals reinstate Strasburg from DL

WASHINGTON, Sept. 6 (UPI) -- Pitcher Stephen Strasburg returned to the major leagues Tuesday after being reinstated from the disabled list by the Washington Nationals.

The hard-throwing right-hander -- the first overall draft choice in 2009 -- made his first start since Aug. 21, 2010, Tuesday against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Strasburg, 23, has finished his recovery from Tommy John surgery, wrapping up six minor-league rehab appearances during which he compiled a 1-1 record and 3.54 ERA.

Strasburg is expected to pitch five or six innings in his return to the Nationals.

He compiled a 5-3 record with a 2.91 ERA in 12 starts last season, fanning 92 batters while walking just 17 in 68 innings.