Shawn Kelley (RP, WAS) - Waiver Wire Pickups

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OWNED IN: 27% Fleaflicker

ANALYSIS: Shawn Kelley was one of the better middle relievers in baseball last year, managing a 2.45 ERA with 63 K over 51.1 IP in a setup role for the Padres. He was scooped up by the Nationals this past offseason on a three-year deal to take on the same role. However, with Jonathan Papelbon hitting the disabled list with an intercostal strain, the Nats appear to be giving Kelley the first crack at ninth-inning duties— Dusty Baker has not committed to anything permanent.

The 32-year-old right-hander owns a 2.70 ERA and a 0.86 WHIP with 34 K and 23.1 IP after recording his first save of the season on Monday— a five-out effort in which he struck out four and kept the bases empty. Kelley had just four career saves — all in 2014 with the Yankees — coming into the year, but there is no reason to believe he cannot continue to find success in his new role.

A potential closer who has strong numbers and is on a good team makes for a very appealing option in just about all leagues.