Phillies Rumors: Nats among teams interested in Pat Neshek

By Tim Kelly, Sports Talk Philly editor

Pat Neshek is likely to be the Philadelphia Phillies' lone All-Star representative in Miami for next month's All-Star Game. A few weeks after that, he's likely to be wearing another jersey. 

According to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, the Washington Nationals are among a few teams interested in the 36-year-old reliever: 

Add #Phillies’ Neshek to list of relievers in whom #Nationals have shown interest. Other teams also in mix. Neshek 0.63 ERA, 25 Ks, 4 BBs.

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) June 22, 2017

The Phillies acquired Neshek this past offseason from the Houston Astros. Despite some recent public disagreements with manager Pete Mackanin about his role, Neshek has been a pretty incredible addition. In 30 appearances in 2017, Neshek has an 0.64 ERA, with a 2.24 FIP and a 3.76 FIP.  In a bullpen that's otherwise been a disaster, Neshek's 2017 season has been the best of his career. 

Given that he's 36, having a great season and an impending free-agent, he's a near lock to be moved. In fact, I wrote that he was the most likely Phillie to be traded this summer last week. I suggested at that time that nearly a third of the league should be interested in Neshek, and the Nationals are a team that makes a ton of sense when you consider that they may be a few bullpen pieces away from being the World Series favorites. That said, they may be more likely to complete a trade for someone they view as a potential ninth inning option. In theory, though, they could (and probably should) add multiple bullpen pieces. 

Well aware of his situation, Neshek told Jim Salisbury of Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia earlier this month that he's "sure" he will be traded. 

The MLB's non-waiver trade deadline is July 31.