Washington Nationals: Shawn Kelley And Koda Glover Share Closer Duty

After a pair of implosions by Blake Treinen, the Washington Nationals will use two pitchers as closer. Can it work? When will a leader emerge?

The Washington Nationals are now using the dreaded closer-by-committee. With Blake Treinen headed back to a setup role, Shawn Kelley and Koda Glover will share the job until one, hopefully, emerges as the winner.

Why this did not happen during Spring Training is a mystery. Most position battles, as you know, happen there. Yet, here we are.

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Kelley has the most experience as closer. He filled in last season after Jonathan Papelbon lost the job and before the Nats traded for Mark Melancon. With eight saves, he proved to Dusty Baker and company he has the goods.

Yet, he has undergone two Tommy John surgeries over his career. The concern is not performance, but durability. Pitching on back-to-back days, or three straight, is not something the Nats think Kelley can do without risk.

Enter Glover.

The rookie pitched last year through a hip injury. Healthy for spring, he impressed with his pitch selection and command. As the Nationals refused to name a closer until the end of camp, many thought Glover won the job.

Remember, Baker relies on veterans. When the front office finally agreed on a name, they went with Treinen. His electric sinker and experience trumped Glover’s rawness and Kelley’s durability issues. Until Treinen lost confidence.

As a rule, the committee rarely works. You must manage the bullpen differently because the one not closing cannot be used unless the game runs extra innings. Because the Nationals offense is powerful, there are not scads of save opportunities floating around.

Speaking of offense, here is Ricky Keeler’s take on Wednesday’s huge win over the Atlanta Braves:

In their nine wins, the Nats pen has converted four-of-five save opportunities. On paper, it sounds good. As we all know, the bullpen is a collective mess.

Unless there is a trade shortly, this is the reality Baker faces. When Treinen threw 30 labored pitches—most missing the strike zone—a change had to happen. We can fret that getting games from the starter to the closer is a high-wire act not suitable for children of all ages to watch, but it is what it is.

This is the only realistic option. The durability issues for Kelley are real. An injury forced him out of last year’s NL Divisional Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers from overuse. After watching Treinen struggle, easing Glover into the role is prudent.

Next: Management Responsible For Treinen Mess

Although not ideal, this is the correct solution. If Glover can handle it, the job is his. Which is what should have happened two weeks ago.

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