Washington Nationals starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg is now locked into a seven-year contract extension, and this was such an intelligent decision by the franchise. The deal is worth $175 million, and it contains a lot of bonuses based on performance and the number of innings he pitches each season.

The reason this was so wise concerns Strasburg’s agent, Scott Boras. This is business at its highest level. Boras also represents Bryce Harper, and there is a deep-seated fear in Washington that the slugger will bolt for the New York Yankees at the first opportunity.

If Strasburg puts together a couple of All-Star seasons in a row, then Harper might be more hesitant to leave town. Ownership is clearly pleased with the contract extension.

“Ensuring that Stephen will remain a part of our organization for years to come is a proud moment for our entire family,” Nationals owner Ted Lerner said in a statement. “We are very fond of Stephen and his entire family, and we’ve thought very highly of them since he became such an integral part of our organization almost seven years ago. We’re honored that he feels the same way about the Washington Nationals, and very happy to keep him pitching in the nation’s capital.”

There was also some concern about him wanting to sign with the San Diego Padres or Los Angeles Dodgers. Strasburg, 27, still has his prime as a pitcher ahead of him, and the Nationals will be the beneficiaries of that. The only worry that the franchise might have is about injuries. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2010, but he recovered completely from it.

In 2014, Strasburg recorded 242 strikeouts, and he is still able to put up those kind of numbers. This season, he is 5-0 with a 2.76 ERA and only three home runs allowed. He’s never won the Cy Young award, but he is certainly capable of doing that in the future. Strasburg and Harper could have a great run together if they both stay, and the Nationals are definitely hoping to make that happen.

They have some phenomenal competition in the National League this season, but Washington has an incredible chance right now. Strasburg and Harper are playing at a high level, and if they win the World Series, a dynasty might be in the works. If they fail, though, then Harper could look for greener pastures. That is why keeping Strasburg around was such a smart move.