Washington Nationals relief pitcher Jonathan Papelbon recorded the 358th save of his career in Monday’s 2-0 win over the Kansas City Royals, moving into a tie with Troy Percival for 10th place on the all-time saves list, per Kyle Brostowitz of the Nationals’ communications department.
Working almost strictly as a closer since his 2005 rookie season, the 35-year-old righty has converted save opportunities at an 88.4 percent clip, blowing just 47 chances in his 12 MLB seasons.
He also owns a 2.35 ERA and 1.02 WHIP, having maintained his effectiveness into the latter stage of his career.
Papelbon has converted nine of his 10 save opportunities this season, allowing three earned runs on 11 hits and a walk over 11.1 innings, giving him a 2.38 ERA and 1.06 WHIP that are close to his career marks.
He could climb as high as No. 7 on the all-time saves list by the end of the year, as Jeff Reardon (367), Joe Nathan (377) and Dennis Eckersley (390) are all within striking distance.
Detroit Tigers reliever Francisco Rodriguez (393) might also be in reach, but he’s serving as his team’s closer and thus figures to pad his own total throughout the year.
With the Nationals off to an 18-7 start while carrying a plus-40 run differential, Papelbon shouldn’t be lacking save opportunities as long as he stays healthy.
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