Nationals' Jonathan Papelbon: Out as closer in Washington

Papelbon is out as the Nationals' closer with the team acquiring Mark Melancon from Pittsburgh on Saturday, Chelsea Janes of the Washington Post reports.

Manager Dusty Baker refused to commit to Papelbon as his closer when asked early Saturday afternoon, and the team later informed Papelbon that he was indeed out after its acquisition of Melancon was made official. Papelbon, a free agent after this season, has hit a rough stretch lately with seven earned runs allowed in his last three appearances (spanning one inning). It's uncertain if Papelbon or Shawn Kelley will serve as the top setup option.