Report: Pirates-Nationals Talking Melancon Trade
PITTSBURGH (93-7 The FAN) - Mark Melancon, a three-time All-Star and one of the best closers in the game, is drawing trade interest across the league according to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports.
Sources: #Nationals talking to #Pirates about Melancon as well as #Royals about Wade Davis. Multiple teams pursuing Melancon.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 29, 2016
A trade of Melancon would be viewed by many fans as a waving of the white flag, but Rosenthal said that wouldn't be the case.
Trade of Melancon would NOT signal #Pirates are conceding. Could close with Feliz/Watson. Deal worth exploring given potential return.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 29, 2016
The Yankees just traded Aroldis Chapman, maybe the only closer viewed as being better than Melancon in the entire league, to the Cubs for a package that included one of their top prospects.
Melancon currently has a 1.51 ERA and has converted 30 of 33 save opportunities on the year.
UPDATE:
Ken Rosenthal has added that the Giants and Indians are in on Melancon as well.
Sources: #Indians, #SFGiants in mix for Melancon along with #Nationals. #Pirates want MLB reliever, 7th-inning type, as part of any deal.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 29, 2016
The Pirates have also named their price for anyone interested in Melancon.
#Pirates seeking prospect(s) as well for Melancon, per sources. Something for now to keep bullpen strong, something for later.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 29, 2016
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