Washington Nationals: Five To Watch Against Spiraling Phillies
By Drew Douglas
Koda Glover and Shawn Kelley
It’s no secret that the Nats need bullpen help. Their bullpen has been among the worst in the league, and has cost them quite a few games early in the season. Some help is finally on the way; despite all the trade rumors, it’s not David Robertson, Kelvin Herrera, or even Alex Colome. It’s Koda Glover and Shawn Kelley.
Glover and Kelley were named co-closers after the Blake Treinen experiment failed, but they were both injured shortly after. Glover was placed on the 10-day disabled list on April 26 with a left hip impingement after an outing in Colorado. Glover has a history of hip injuries, and his hip could potentially become a recurring issue.
Kelley was placed on the 10-day disabled list with a lower back strain on May 5, but it was retroactive to May 2 so he’s eligible to return on Friday.
Both Glover and Kelley have pitched recently, and Dusty Baker said they could both be back as soon as this weekend. Glover pitched a scoreless inning for the Double-A Harrisburg Senators, and said he felt good afterwards.
Kelley is not expected to go on a rehab assignment, but he did throw a simulated game on Wednesday. If everything goes according to plan, he should be back in the bullpen on Friday night.
Glover and Kelley will both be welcome additions to the struggling ‘pen. Matt Albers and Enny Romero have taken over the closer’s role in their absence, but have not fared too well. Glover and Kelley’s return should put everyone back into their normal roles, which will hopefully help the bullpen.
If Glover and Kelley are able to return this weekend, they are definitely worth keeping an eye on.