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Jonathan Papelbon wanted out, and he got out, according to Jon Morosi of FOX Sports:
Papelbon to Nats deal agreed upon, source confirms @barrysvrluga report.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 28, 2015
The Washington Posts' Barry Svrluga had said the deal was close, and that it was unlikely to "implode." The Phillies will receive an as yet undetermined AA pitcher AA pitcher Nick Pivetta (per Todd Zolecki), the Nats' 12th best prospect basked on MLB Pipeline rankings, in return for Papelbon. Ken Rosenthal chimed in with a tidbit that Paps actually left money on the table to go to the Nationals.
The Nats must have worked something out, as it was widely reported Papelbon would only go to a contender, where he could also close (He's got a threshold of games to finish in order to vest an option in his current deal). The Nationals already had a closer in Drew Storen, but Rosenthal is saying Papelbon will in fact close for the Nationals, and will be signed through 2016. So get ready to see only slightly less of Jonathan Papelbon.
Don't have exact Papelbon details. Generally, a player can sacrifice one benefit (in this case salary) for another (extra guaranteed year).
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 28, 2015
On Pivetta:
Nick Pivetta is a solid get: My viewing earlier this month - FB 90-94 T95; avg CH 83-85 w/ mild fade; CB/SL both fringe; potential 6/5/4 P
— Tucker Blair (@TuckerBlairON) July 28, 2015
Seconded. Pivetta wasn't crisp in the AS Game when I caught him but liked the body & raw stuff https://t.co/vVkY7jR7tt
— Wilson Karaman (@vocaljavelins) July 28, 2015
While you digest this trade, take a look at why John Stolnis thinks Jonathan Papelbon is the perfect choice for the Nationals, or take a trip back and consider what Papelbon's Phillies legacy will be. (He's the best reliever in Phillies history and also grabbed his dong once).