Nationals “making progress” in acquiring Jonathan Papelbon from Phillies

The Phillies may have made some leeway in trading one of their players to a division rival.  In the past, that may have been considered a faux paus, but the rebuilding Phillies may know that they will not be better for the duration of a player's contract anyway, why not?

Ken Rosenthan of Fox Sports reports:

Sources: #Nationals making progress on acquiring Papelbon from #Phillies. Papelbon has said he will only approve deal if he can close.

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 28, 2015

The closing issue will likely make or break the deal.

The Nationals reportedly are not on Papelbon's allow list for a trade.  Papelbon's vesting $13 million option for 2016 is based upon games finished, and Papelbon will almost surely vest it if he is a closer.  As a set-up man for Drew Storen, he would not.

Storen has lost his closer's job in the past, but the Nationals really need a second high-impact back-end reliever.  Storen has been lights-out this season, going 1-0 with a 1.72 ERA and 29 saves in 31 opportunities.  However, in the playoffs, Storen has been known to falter.  But, Storen could be okay with taking a step down to a set-up man to Papelbon if it increases the team's shot at a World Series victory.

Nationals writer William Ladson thinks that will be the case:

I have confirmed that the #Nationals are making progress in trying to acquire Jonathan Papelbon. #MLB #Nats #MLB

— William Ladson (@washingnats) July 28, 2015

If the #Nationals acquire Papelbon, Drew Storen most likely will go back to being a setup man. #MLB #Nats

— William Ladson (@washingnats) July 28, 2015

Will it happen? Ladson says "it's serious" on MLB.com.

Stay tuned.