Jonathan Papelbon

The Nationals suggested Tuesday that the team could look to make a change at closer following another rough outing from Jonathan Papelbon.

Fantasy Impact

Papelbon has now allowed six earned runs with six hits and three walks in his last 2/3 of an inning spanning two appearances. His ERA and WHIP are up to 4.18 and 1.42 on the season, and it looks like a change could be coming. Shawn Kelley was effective in Papelbon's absence earlier this season, but the Nationals could also look outside the organization with the trade deadline approaching.

Papelbon needed only 13 pitches to record his 19th save. He yielded a two-out single before capturing the save.

Fantasy Impact

Papelbon seems to have recovered well from his intercostal strain as he has a 0.00 ERA and three saves since returning. As a contender, expect the Nationals to be buyers at the deadline and possibly add bullpen arms, but Papelbon is locked in as the closer.

Jonathan Papelbon pitched a scoreless inning while striking out two batters in his return from the disabled list.

Fantasy Impact

Papelbon was activated on Monday and got right back to work. It was good to see a clean inning, and two strikeouts, for Papelbon in his return. He hasn't been great this season, but as long as he's the team's closer he should see a fair amount of save opportunities.

Jonathan Papelbon will begin his minor league rehab assignment on Monday with the Nationals' Single-A affiliate in Potomac. He's been recovering from an injury to his side that has sidelined him since the second week of June.

Fantasy Impact

Papelbon should be back soon now that he's started his rehab assignment. He's expected to resume his role as the team's closer. His return would limit Shawn Kelley's value in saves leagues.

Jonathan Papelbon has resumed throwing, but it remains unclear when he'll be able to return from the disabled list.

Fantasy Impact

Papelbon wasn't overly effective prior to his injury. This coupled with the injury reportedly has the Nationals interested in acquiring another late-inning RP. He had allowed three ER over his last five IP prior to hitting the DL.