Papelbon granted release from Nationals

The Washington Nationals gave Jonathan Papelbon his final request, releasing him from the organisation Saturday.

Following Friday's game, Papelbon was told he was going to be designated for assignment, and because it takes 10 days to finalize, he asked for his release, according to The Washington Post's Chelsea Janes.

As a counter move, the club recalled right-hander Reynaldo Lopez, who is scheduled to start Saturday against the Atlanta Braves.

Papelbon lost his closer job to All-Star Mark Melancon after he was acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates at the trade deadline.

This season, he has 19 saves to go with a career-worst 4.37 ERA in 35 innings.