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Report: Phillies will trade Papelbon; Nationals likely suitor

By Michael Natelli

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FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal reports that the Washington Nationals are making progress on a deal to acquire Philadelphia Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon. Jim Salisbury of CSN Philadelphia says that, per a source, Papelbon “will be traded,” which makes a deal between the two parties much more likely.

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With all the trade uncertainty surrounding Phillies ace Cole Hamels, the same has never been an issue for Papelbon. Many in the baseball world, including the closer himself, have criticized the Philadelphia front office for hanging onto him too long, but it was never a question that Papelbon would be shipped out if the Phillies found a trade of their liking.

Papelbon would likely slot in as the eighth inning man in Washington, with Matt Williams also turning to him when current closer Drew Storen needs a night off. The Nationals don’t seem incredibly keen on taking on significant payroll at the deadline, but the Phillies are seemingly willing to send cash in the deal to cover their closer’s $13-million salary this year and the $13-million vesting option for 2016 that will soon kick in.

As for a potential return for Papelbon, no specific players have been mentioned. One would have to think the Nationals have Lucas Giolito untouchable, but beyond that it’s unclear just how the Phillies value Papelbon these days.

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