High-End Closer Listed as Free Agency Fit for Nationals

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  Health and Fitness on Tue, Oct 28th, 2025 by Sports Illustrated

Why a high‑end closer is a necessity

Washington’s 2023 campaign ended with a 91‑71 record, a win‑percentage of .556, but the team was still eliminated in the American League Wild Card game. The Nationals’ bullpen, while solid for the most part, suffered from a lack of a true “save” specialist. According to the article’s analysis, the Nationals’ relievers logged a combined 3.93 ERA, with the closer role split among a handful of arm, creating inconsistency in the fourth spot of the rotation. The piece notes that the Nationals have lost several close games in the ninth inning, an area where a dependable closer can turn the tide. It also points out that the team’s leading closer, Ryan Thompson, has posted a 2.55 ERA in 2023 but has struggled with command, making a high‑end finisher an attractive complement.

Free‑agent options

The article lists three key free‑agent closers that could fit the Nationals’ needs: Aroldis Chapman, Edwin Jackson, and Aroldis Chapman’s former teammate, Trevor Gott. While Gott is no longer on the radar as a top closer, the article acknowledges that he might still be a candidate if the Nationals are willing to structure a role that suits his skill set.

1. Aroldis Chapman – The former National’s closer turned superstar has posted a 0.93 ERA with the San Diego Padres in 2023, compiling 48 saves and striking out 100 batters over 65 innings. The article references a link to Chapman’s MLB profile, which shows his career saves total over 200, his 2.30 career ERA, and a 0.87 career WHIP. Chapman is known for his high-velocity fastball, which averages 97–99 mph, and his ability to dominate hitters in high‑pressure situations. His estimated $25 million contract for 2024 would be above the Nationals’ average free‑agent budget, but the article suggests that a two‑year deal could be negotiated.

2. Edwin Jackson – The Padres’ veteran closer has been a workhorse for several teams over the past decade. In 2023, Jackson posted a 0.92 ERA in 58 innings, saving 27 games for the Padres. The article points out his consistent use of a four‑pitch mix, which has earned him a reputation for being able to get outs against both right‑ and left‑handed hitters. His market value is projected at $18 million for a one‑year contract, making him a more affordable option for Washington’s $7‑$8 million free‑agent budget.

3. Aroldis Chapman’s “legacy” – The article also notes that Chapman’s career is a case study for what a high‑end closer can achieve, and it offers a link to a historical overview of his performance during his stint with the Nationals. That link provides a breakdown of his 2018–2019 seasons, where he logged 53 saves and a 0.91 ERA over 60 innings. The article suggests that Washington could consider a similar performance level if they can secure a veteran closer in a two‑year deal.

Financial and roster implications

The Nationals’ payroll for 2024 is capped at around $120 million, which leaves a small margin for high‑end signings. The article explains that the team’s front office is mindful of the luxury tax threshold and is therefore exploring a deal structure that includes performance incentives. A two‑year, $20 million contract for a high‑end closer could fit within the Nationals’ budget, especially if the salary is structured as $12 million the first year and $8 million the second, with bonuses contingent on wins and innings pitched.

The article also notes that the Nationals are willing to consider trading a top prospect or two to acquire a high‑end closer. The link to the Nationals’ 2024 prospect list shows that they have a handful of top‑ranked pitchers and position players, such as 19‑year‑old right‑hander Nick Anderson and 20‑year‑old outfielder T.J. Howard, who could be packaged for a veteran finisher. The Nationals’ front office believes that acquiring a high‑end closer now could help them make a deeper postseason run, which would, in turn, justify the expense and potential trade‑down of future assets.

Competitors and market dynamics

The article also contextualizes the Nationals’ search by pointing to other MLB teams that may also be targeting a high‑end closer. The Yankees, for example, are rumored to be exploring a contract for a veteran pitcher who can finish games, while the Cubs and Tigers have also entered the market. The article’s link to a market analysis of MLB free agency highlights that the average contract value for closers in 2024 is hovering around $18–$20 million, making Washington’s budget a competitive proposition if they can offer a multi‑year deal with a clear role.

The Nationals’ pursuit of a high‑end closer is not just a financial decision; it is also a strategic one. The article notes that Washington has a solid setup man in Ryan Thompson, who has a 2.55 ERA over 2023. A high‑end closer would give Thompson a stable platform to work from, and the overall bullpen would benefit from the clarity that comes with a dedicated finishers’ role.

Conclusion

The Sports Illustrated piece concludes that Washington Nationals’ front office is actively evaluating free‑agent closers and is willing to explore a range of financial arrangements to secure a high‑end finisher. Whether the team can land a veteran like Chapman or Jackson will depend on negotiations and the Nationals’ willingness to adjust the roster to accommodate a new bullpen dynamic. Ultimately, the article underscores that securing a reliable closer could be the missing piece that propels the Nationals from a mid‑tier team to a postseason contender in 2024.