Washington Nationals: Pat Neshek a possible trade target

The Washington Nationals bullpen has been among the worst in the league and Mike Rizzo will almost certainly attempt to acquire bullpen help. Pat Neshek is a possible trade target.

It’s no secret that the Washington Nationals desperately need bullpen help. Jon Heyman of Fanrag Sports has reported that they are interested in several high-profile closers. However, these closers will come at a high cost and the Nats already have Koda Glover, who is a solid closer when healthy.

It may be more reasonable for the Nats to seek middle relief help instead of acquiring a big-name closer. Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports recently reported that the Nats have shown interest in Philadelphia Phillies reliever Pat Neshek. Although it would take an intradivision trade, which is relatively rare, it makes lots of sense.

First of all, Neshek has been one of the most effective relievers in the league this season. He has pitched to a 0.61 ERA in 32 games, which is the lowest of all qualified relievers. The only two runs he has allowed all season came on a Michael Taylor home run.

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Neshek’s deceptive sidearm delivery paired with his sinker-slider combo have enabled him to consistently be one of the most reliable relievers in the league. This is his 11th big-league season, and he has an astonishing 2.77 career ERA. After breaking into the league at age 26, he has remained a solid reliever throughout his career.

This season has been especially impressive. Very few pitchers remain effective through their late 30’s, and Neshek has actually managed to have one of his best seasons at 36 years old.

Another obstacle that he has faced this season is the fact that he plays half of his games at Citizens Bank Park, one of the most hitter-friendly ballparks in the league. Finally, he pitches for a rebuilding team and hasn’t faltered despite seemingly constant losses and the revolving door of relievers in Philadelphia.

In addition to his performance, he brings an excellent veteran presence. The Nats have a few young, promising relievers such as Glover and Enny Romero, among others. Getting the opportunity to spend time with Neshek in the bullpen would undoubtedly benefit them. Although he is an unconventional reliever, his experiences would aid the maturation and development of younger relievers.

The Nats have yet to win a postseason series, but Neshek brings a decent amount of postseason experience. He has pitched in 13 postseason games throughout his career and has fared well, pitching to a 2.61 ERA. Having a reliable reliever with postseason experience to turn to late in a playoff game would be an outstanding option for Dusty Baker.

Neshek’s contract makes him even more attractive to the Nats. Ken Rosenthal pointed out that he is owed more than $3 million and the Nats are $2.4 million below the luxury tax threshold. The Lerners have been reluctant to spend at times, and would most likely prefer to stay below the luxury tax threshold if possible.

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Acquiring Neshek makes sense on a number of fronts for the Nats; he’s effective, experienced, and cheap. Intradivision trades don’t happen too often, but the Nats and Phillies pulled off a similar trade a couple years ago when they acquired Jonathan Papelbon. As the trade deadline approaches and the Nats look to improve their bullpen, Pat Neshek is a name to watch.