Phillies are shopping Pat Neshek, and a division rival wants in
Multiple reports have emerged regarding Phillies reliever Pat Neshek, some positive and negative regarding his current status with the Phillies.
After throwing just five pitches in Thursday’s win against the Cardinals, manager Pete Mackanin was asked why Neshek did not return for the ninth inning. Mackanin told reporters Neshek refused to go back into the game.
However, the veteran Neshek denied his manager’s comments and refuted that he was never asked to pitch the ninth inning.
Mackanin said he asked Neshek to go back out for 9th after 5 pitches in 8th but Neshek didn't want to. Neshek said he wasn't asked #Phillies
— Stephen Gross (@Stephen_Gross23) June 22, 2017
Either Mackanin is covering himself with a white lie, or Neshek is attempting to discredit a manager who’s handling of the bullpen has been more than questionable.
I’ll go with the first of those two scenarios.
Outside of these recent events, Neshek’s has recorded a superb season with the Phillies. The coaching staff and fans aren’t the only ones noticing, as trade rumors are already swirling.
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports says the Washington Nationals are very interested in Neshek.
Add #Phillies’ Neshek to list of relievers in whom #Nationals have shown interest. Other teams also in mix. Neshek 0.63 ERA, 25 Ks, 4 BBs.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) June 22, 2017
Washington’s bullpen has pitched atrociously this season, sporting an ERA over 4.00 and blowing 12 saves.
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Neshek would certainly fill a major need for the Nationals in the back end of their bullpen, perhaps as a closer. He wouldn’t be their only addition to the bullpen but is certainly a major cog in the baseball trade market.