WASHINGTON – Washington Nationals announcer Rob Dibble will take some time off two days after making comments critical of rookie pitcher Stephen Strasburg.
MASN spokesman Todd Webster said Dibble would not work Wednesday night's game against the Chicago Cubs and is "taking a few days off." Webster said Dibble requested the time off but did not say whether the absence was related to the comments about Strasburg.
Dibble on Monday lashed out at the young pitcher, who has been placed on the disabled list twice in the last month. Dibble said on Sirius XM Radio that "You can't have the cavalry come in and save your butt every time you feel a little stiff shoulder, sore elbow."
The Nationals have been protective of Strasburg, removing him from games when there has been any sign of a possible injury. He is scheduled to have an MRI on Thursday to determine the extent of his latest injury.
Dibble, a former major league reliever, has become known for his off-the-cuff style since joining the MASN booth at the start of last season. He recently apologized for making comments about two women he saw talking nonstop in the stands during a game.
"There must be a sale tomorrow going on here or something," he said, pointing out the women. "Their husbands are going, 'Man, don't bring your wife next time.'"
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