Washington Nationals: 5 to watch against San Diego
By Ron Juckett
KODA GLOVER
It took over a quarter of the season to get there, but Koda Glover is now the Nationals closer. No job sharing with Shawn Kelley. No longer the understudy to Blake Treinen, the job is Glover’s for the foreseeable future.
His fastball pops and the slider is so filthy you need rubber gloves to touch it. Coming out of an impressive spring at West Palm Beach, there were a few of us thinking Glover should have broken camp with the job. All water under the bridge and several bottles of Pepto Bismol later; sick tummies are overrated.
Glover taking the role does not mean the Nationals will not seek help this summer. What it means for now is Washington has six weeks to come up with a final plan. If he impresses, will they roll the dice with him in the playoffs, or rent a closer to push past the first round.
Chances are, regardless of how well he does, they will trade for help. The pressure is immense for a playoff breakthrough. It is hard seeing the veteran-loving Nationals relying on a first full-year closer to get them into the NL Championship Series.
Starting this weekend against the Padres, Glover controls his own destiny. In 14 innings, he has a WHIP of 1.000 with two walks. Along with Matt Grace, Glover is one of two pitchers not to allow a home run out of the bullpen. His 1.3 BB/9 ratio is the best on the team, regardless of role.
The kid from Heavener, Oklahoma has yet to face the Padres. He is ready to make a statement.