DENVER — David Robertson’s save against the Rockies on Saturday demonstrated why the Nationals have been eyeing him to fulfill their need for a closer.
In order, Robertson got Alexi Amarista on a grounder, struck out Charlie Blackmon looking and fanned pinch hitter Carlos Gonzalez swinging.
“Washington is going to get a closer, and I don’t think [Nationals general manager Mike] Rizzo cares what he gives up,’’ a former major-league executive said Sunday. “He’ll make a deal. Look at what Theo [Epstein] did last year, when he got [Aroldis] Chapman, which basically won the World Series for the Cubs, in my opinion.
“They need a closer. If I was Rick Hahn, I’d be on the phone every day with Rizzo.’’
Before spring training, Hahn and Rizzo were close on a deal for prospects, reportedly one that would have sent left-hander Jesus Luzardo and minor-league infielder Drew Ward to the Sox with the Sox eating half of the $12 million and $13 million owed Robertson this season and next. That deal likely got hung up on the dollars.
“That contract is pretty aggressive, but I don’t think Rizzo cares about paying one-third of 12, and 13 next year,’’ the former exec said. “The time is now.’’
Jones to be re-evaluated
Right-hander Nate Jones (elbow neuritis), who felt discomfort while throwing Friday, will be re-evaluated during the All-Star break.
“He must be frustrated,’’ manager Rick Renteria said. “He’s gone through the process of feeling really good, throwing again, feeling irritation.
“We’re just trying to figure out what’s going on.’’
Jones, 31, was 5-3 with a 2.29 ERA and 28 holds in 2016. He has appeared in 11 games this season.
Capra to have surgery
Third-base coach Nick Capra is scheduled to have a surgical procedure to repair a herniated disk in his back Thursday and likely will miss a week or more.
Willy sent down
Outfielder Willy Garcia will be optioned to Class AAA Charlotte on Monday. A corresponding move will be made Friday.
Follow me on Twitter @CST_soxvan.
Email: dvanschouwen@suntimes.com
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