The Jonathan Papelbon saga is approaching its close. According to Jim Salisbury of CSN Philadelphia, the unhappy Phillies closer will be traded this week to a still unknown suitor.
You wouldn’t know it from the scorn lobbed Papelbon’s way, but he’s actually pitched quite well this season. In 39 2/3 innings, he’s pitched to a 1.59 ERA, punching out 40 and walking just eight. He’s also saved 17 games for a wretched Phillies team without blowing one. Of course, he *is* making $13 million this season, and a $13 million option for 2016 is just a few games away from vesting.
Where could Papelbon end up? Well, the Washington Nationals somewhat shockingly have interest, despite the presence of closer Drew Storen.
Sources: #Nationals making progress on acquiring Papelbon from #Phillies. Papelbon has said he will only approve deal if he can close.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 28, 2015
The Cubs and Blue Jays also have interest, via MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki.
Two baseball sources told MLB.com on Saturday afternoon that the Cubs, Blue Jays and Nationals are the three teams most seriously pursuing Papelbon with less than a week remaining before Friday’s non-waiver Trade Deadline.
We’ve already seen a couple of relievers get moved, with Tyler Clippard being dealt to the Mets and LaTroy Hawkins accompanying Troy Tulowitzki to Toronto. Could Papelbon be the next name moved? Stay tuned.
