MLB Free Agency: Best Fits for Mark Melancon
By Tim Haberin
Washington Nationals
First, the obvious one. It would make a lot of sense for both sides for Melancon to stay with his most recent team, the Washington Nationals. The Nats acquired the right-hander prior to this year’s trade deadline from the Pittsburgh Pirates, who chose to deal the impending free agent as their playoff hopes dimmed.
Melancon did a fine job for his new team down the stretch, which was a big relief considering the trouble they were having with Jonathan Papelbon. Melancon converted 17 of 18 save opportunities for the Nats while posting a 1.82 ERA and 0.81 WHIP. Over 29.2 innings of work, he struck out 27 batters and walked only three. He recorded a save in the NLDS, tossing a total of 4.1 scoreless frames in Washington’s eventual series loss to the Dodgers.
The Nationals fully intend to compete again next year and advance deeper into the postseason. A healthy Stephen Strasburg and a potential bounce-back campaign from Bryce Harper would go a long way toward achieving that. But they can’t afford to neglect their bullpen either. Losing out on this offseason’s free agent closers could force them to turn to someone in-house like Shawn Kelley – a solid, if unremarkable option.
Recent reports have suggested that the Nats are willing to spend this winter, and while they might be tempted by the flashier choices in Chapman and Jansen, it’s hard to argue with keeping a good thing going by re-upping Melancon. After all, Washington might want to save its money for a couple years from now when a certain superstar right fielder will be eligible to take his own dip in the free agency pool.
Next: Bayside Bargain?