The Washington Nationals have very few holes to address before Friday's MLB Trade Deadline, but an area they have circled as a potential spot for an upgrade is the back of the bullpen. One name being discussed? Philadelphia Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon.
Via Jon Morosi of FOX Sports:
#Nationals have had trade talks with the #Phillies about Jonathan Papelbon, sources tell @Ken_Rosenthal and me. @FOXSports
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 25, 2015
The mercurial 34-year-old righty is having yet another stellar season with the Phillies, pitching to a 1.59 ERA and a 0.98 WHIP while converting on all 17 of his save opportunities.
Papelbon would need to approve a trade to Washington, which may be a problem considering he wants to remain a closer. The Nats are set with Drew Storen at the back of the bullpen and are mainly looking for setup help at this juncture.
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