Sources told MLB.com on Tuesday evening that a trade between the Phillies and Nationals for Papelbon is imminent, and the Phillies will receive Double-A right-hander Nick Pivetta in return.
Papelbon and his agents had a direct line of communication Tuesday with the Nationals, who needed to finalize a few details with Papelbon before the trade got close to the finish line. A source confirmed a FOXSports.com report that the trade agreement will make Papelbon the Nationals' closer this season and keep him signed through next season.
FOXSports.com also reported Papelbon has agreed to a lesser salary to facilitate a trade.