The Phillies and Nationals recently discussed a trade involving Jonathan Papelbon, but a deal between the two teams does not seem likely, Jake Kaplan of the Inquirer writes. Papelbon would need to approve a trade to Washington, but his preference is to remain a closer, and the Nats already have an excellent one in Drew Storen. Here are more quick notes on relievers.
- Rival executives think that if the Nationals do make a move this week, it will be a big one, ESPN’s Jayson Stark tweets. Stark speculates that could mean a pursuit of the Padres’ Craig Kimbrel or the Reds’ Aroldis Chapman. Neither of those pitchers have no-trade restrictions. FOX Sports’ Jon Morosi wrote last month that the Nationals and Reds had discussed Chapman.
- Trading for Chapman might be tricky, however. Stark also tweets that the Reds have asked other teams for three “higher-level” prospects in return for their closer. The significance of that information depends on how good those higher-level prospects are, but it appears they’re in no rush to part with him lightly. The Reds could certainly wait to deal Chapman, who isn’t eligible for free agency until after next season.
I’ll be the first to say it. Do the Padres get Trea Turner back. Ha.
Maybe if so tonight because we got to have a Trade today.
That would be awkward- we traded you but now we want you back.
But if they trade Kimbrel to the Nats I can see them asking for Aj Cole and other A/AA guys or Michael Taylor and Wilmer Difo.
Don’t know if Taylor is available but I’d assume Preller asks.
I’m not surprised fudge the Nats.
what do you think is a better aqustition for the giants… kimbrel chapman or hamels.
Walt is hilarious.
Because he wants a haul for Chapman? I don’t blame him. Chapman in the playoffs where he can pitch an inning virtually every game is a game changer. I would happily part with a few solid prospects to add him for 2 years.
Exactly. As Steve Todd put it in the chat this week (heavy paraphrasing), Chapman is the best reliever in baseball, or at worst a close second best. Why shouldn’t we ask for a huge haul for him? (Especially when so many teams need BP help).