1) Worst contracts in the NL East: Stephen Strasburg of the Washington Nationals
Nobody played a bigger role in getting the Nationals their first World Series title than Stephen Strasburg. The former first overall pick of the Nationals was the World Series MVP in that 2019 season to help deliver them that elusive ring.
Strasburg was rewarded for his efforts, with a seven-year deal worth $245 million. The Phillies were even reportedly considering him. Unfortunately, he's rarely seen the field since signing the deal, and there's no way of knowing if he'll ever make another start for Washington as he's dealing with injury problems.
Strasburg has made eight starts since signing this contract, posting a 6.89 ERA in 31.1 innings pitched. His most recent start came in June of 2022 when he allowed seven runs in 4.2 innings pitched in a loss against the Marlins. That was his only appearance of that season.
The Nationals had a choice to keep one of Strasburg or Anthony Rendon. After watching this Rendon contract play out, it's hard to believe Washington made the wrong decision, but it's certainly looking that way.
Strasburg did deliver them the World Series, but that was before this contract was signed. This is, without a doubt, the worst contract in all of baseball. Not just the NL East.