Report: Nationals set sights on Melancon
The Washington Nationals appear to be in the midst of a potential blockbuster deal involving the Pittsburgh Pirates and outfielder Andrew McCutchen, but that doesn't seem to be their only order of business.
Washington is in need of a closer, and with three viable, but expensive, options available on the open market, they appear to be turning towards a person with some familiarity.
With the asking price for Aroldis Chapman being too rich for the Nationals' taste, the club will aim for a reunion with right-hander Mark Melancon, reports Jon Heyman of FanRagSports.
The Nationals loved having Melancon on the mound and in the clubhouse after they acquired him from the Pirates in July, Heyman writes, and the 31-year-old certainly delivered for them, going 17-for-18 in save opportunities while posting a 1.82 ERA over 29 2/3 innings.
Melancon will almost certainly be more affordable than Chapman - who is seeking a $100-million contract - and Kenley Jansen, but his effectiveness has been similar.
| PLAYER | IP | SV | SVO | ERA | SO | WAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aroldis Chapman | 58 | 36 | 39 | 1.55 | 90 | 2.7 |
| Kenley Jansen | 68 2/3 | 47 | 53 | 1.83 | 104 | 3.2 |
| Mark Melancon | 71 1/3 | 47 | 51 | 1.64 | 65 | 1.8 |
Over eight big-league seasons, Melancon has 168 saves to go along with a 2.60 ERA while pitching for five clubs.