Perhaps this is a dog bites man story, but it's worth relaying all the same:

Right-hander Mark Prior, who hasn't pitched in the Major Leagues since 2006, reported soreness in his right shoulder after a bullpen session on Tuesday at the Padres' Spring Training facility in Peoria, Ariz. San Diego manager Bud Black said Thursday that Prior might have "to take a step back" after reporting the soreness following his side session in Peoria. There hasn't been a determination from the medical staff of how much rest Prior will need or when he'll possibly throw again . . .

. . . "He's trying to work through that point where he's not feeling any soreness," Black said. "The poor guy just can't seem to get over the hump. He is doing everything possible for him to come back. ... I hope it works out for him."

After the multiple surgeries and all of the time he has been out, I had no illusions that Mark Prior would ever pitch effectively again. Indeed, if he never pitches again period, I would not be surprised.

I offer this, however, because there was a time not too long ago when every observer who knew a thing or two said that Mark Prior had "perfect mechanics," and that because of it he was a can't-miss guy. They're saying that about Stephen Strasburg too. Well, maybe people aren't going out as far on a limb about his mechanics, but they certainly are drooling over him.

I still believe the Nats should take Strasburg first -- and according to their former GM, they have already decided to do so -- but even in the case of a guy like Strasburg it should be remembered: there is no such thing as a pitching prospect.