DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL East—Might WAS make a change at closer?

Washington Nationals

Might the Nationals be on the verge of making a change at closer? Rafael Soriano (RHP, WAS) has struggled mightily of late, allowing runs in five of his last seven appearances (14 hits and 8 ER over his last 7.1 IP, including two blown saves). Meanwhile, Tyler Clippard (RHP, WAS) has a 2.01 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, 9.1 Dom, 3.1 Ctl and 85 BPV in 58 IP this season.

It seems as though Clippard is next in line if manager Davey Johnson were to decide to make a change. Drew Storen (RHP, WAS) has shown fine skills since returning from a brief stint at Triple-A while allowing just two earned runs in 5 IP, but one would assume he probably still has a ways to go to fully earn Johnson’s trust again.

This will be an interesting...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Maikel Garcia's injury has opened up some playing time in KC, with a quartet of players who might take advantage. Plus, a new position for a CHW prospect and a look around the division.
Sep 3 2026 3:05am
Ben Joyce has been locked in as the Angels closer of late, but who's next if some control issues linger for Joyce?
Sep 2 2026 3:07am
Trevor Story is expected to be Boston's primary shortstop upon his return from the IL, but could his opportunity be short-lived if his season-long struggles continue? Plus, a potential SB source in TB, SP in BAL/BOS, and a post-hype prospect making waves for NYY.
Sep 1 2026 3:05am
This week, we check in on young infielders with upside in S.F. and Arizona, are reintroduced to an old NL West friend in L.A.
Aug 29 2026 3:05am
Luke Adams, Cooper Hjerpe, Owen Ayers, and BJ Murray may be among the guys called up to make their MLB debut in the NL Central
Aug 28 2026 3:05am

Tools