Nationals name Treinen closer
The Washington Nationals have named right-handed pitcher Blake Treinen their closer to start the 2017 season, according to Mark Zuckerman of MASN Sports. He beat out fellow righties Shawn Kelley and Koda Glover for the role.
Nationals manager Dusty Baker announced the decision Thursday morning. Treinen gets the job despite throwing only 4 2/3 innings this spring, although he has yet to allow a run or a walk, and has struck out eight batters.
"To be in the position Dusty has put me in, I feel honored," Treinen said.
Glover was rumored to be in the mix, but Baker said his lack of experience was a detriment. Baker was positive that Glover would make the Opening Day roster, however, saying "Oh, hell yeah," when asked about it. The 23-year-old made his MLB debut in 2016, tossing only 19 2/3 innings with a 5.03 ERA.
Kelley temporarily took over for previous Nationals closer Jonathan Papelbon in 2016. He's also been impressive this spring, allowing only one run in 6 1/3 innings. The team is treating him with caution, however, since he has already undergone two Tommy John surgeries.