The Washington Nationals announced July 30 that they acquired right-handed closer Mark Melancon from the Pittsburgh Pirates for left-handed reliever Felipe Rivero and lefty pitching prospect Taylor Hearn.
Right-hander Jonathan Papelbon has struggled some as the Nationals’ closer this year, posting a 4.41 ERA in 32.2 innings. Papelbon’s velocity has continued to erode a bit this year, as has his command – he’s walking 3.6 batters per nine innings, well higher than his career average.
Papelbon’s last three outings have been particularly poor, perhaps helping push Washington to make the deal for Melancon. Papelbon has gotten a total of three outs his last three outings, giving up seven runs, walking four and striking out just one. His ERA has risen from 2.56 to 4.41 over the past week.
Enter Melancon, 31, one of the best relievers in the majors. The veteran has saved 130 games for the Pirates over the last four years, including a major league-leading 51 last year and 30 so far this year. His command is impeccable – over the last four years for Pittsburgh, he’s walked just 1.5 batters per nine. In 41.2 innings this year, Melancon has an ERA of 1.51, has struck out 38, walked just nine and given up only two homers.
