Matt Thornton

Matt Thornton pitched a scoreless inning in his latest rehab appearance, and he could rejoin the Padres as soon as Friday. His start to the 2016 season has been delayed by Achilles tendinitis.

Fantasy Impact

Thornton is an RP that won't help owners in save leagues. He has an impressive track record and could provide value in holds leagues, but owners will want to monitor his performance before seriously considering him. He'll likely provide more value for the Padres than fantasy owners this season.

Matt Thornton pitched a 1-2-3 seventh inning against the Mets to hold a 5-2 lead for the Nationals.

Fantasy Impact

The 38-year-old lefty Thornton (0-0, ERA 2.01) has been used sparingly by the Nationals (22.1 innings in 33 appearances), keeping his effectiveness--and his velocity--high.

Assisted by some excellent fielding, lefty Matt Thornton took care of the three eighth inning batters on 15 pitches (one strikeout).

Fantasy Impact

Nationals manager Matt Williams is not committed to one reliever for the eighth inning "role" but rather is using match-ups. Thornton is in the mix and so can be expected to collect holds.

Although he walked two batters, lefty Matt Thornton got two key outs (one strikeout) to earn his sixth hold of the season.Thornton's teammate picked him up so no runners scored.

Fantasy Impact

Normally, Thornton (ERA 3.86) would go a full inning but he was not at his best in this appearance.

Matt Thornton came in with the bases loaded, two out and induced an easy flyout to earn his third hold of the 2015 season.

Fantasy Impact

Right now, Thornton is the only lefty in the Nats bullpen. Expect him to appear in late-inning situations where he will get holds (and possibly saves).