Washington Nationals closing in on deal for Jonathan Papelbon

It was reported early on Tuesday that the Phillies were set on dealing Jonathan Papelbon, and that the Washington Nationals appeared to be the top suitor for the Philadelphia closer. It now seems the two sides are closing in on a deal.

Barry Svrluga of the Washington Post reports that a Papelbon-to-D.C. trade is “nearing completion,” indicating that some of the previously-reported hurdles in the deal (specifically, covering some of Papelbon’s $13-million vesting option for next year) have been worked out or are in the process of being resolved.

The Phillies closer would join a bullpen that already includes Drew Storen, Casey Janssen and Matt Thornton amongst others, though it remains to be seen whether Storen or Papelbon would get ninth-inning duties. Papelbon has previously stated that he wants to be a closer wherever he goes, though his impatience, desire to be on a contender and to be out of Philadelphia could have pushed him to reconsider his hard stance.

Next: Phillies Will Trade Papelbon; Nats Likely Desination

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