Jonathan Papelbon, former Red Sox closer, released by Washington Nationals

Struggling reliever Jonathan Papelbon asked the Washington Nationals to release him, ESPN reports, and the team is internally discussing granting his request.

According to Chelsea Janes of the Washington Post, Jonathan Papelbon has requested to be released from the organization.

Washington could release Papelbon as early as Saturday because the team will need to make a corresponding roster move when it recalls Reynaldo Lopez, who is scheduled to start Saturday night’s game against the Atlanta Braves. Players who are designated for assignment typically have to wait a full 10 days for the move to be processed. Particularly in September, where he allowed runs in four of his final eight outings.

The 25-year-old righty has 19 saves this season and a career-worst 4.37 ERA. Near the end of the 2015 season, Papelbon was seem attempting to choke Bryce Harper during an altercation in the dugout.

Papelbon, 35, has seen his velocity decline in recent years and has fallen off his normal K:BB ratio drastically this season. Rather than remain with the Nationals as a setup man after the team acquired Mark Melancon at the deadline to take over the closing duties, Papelbon would prefer to go to another organization. The acquisition of Melancon was the death knell for his time in Washington. Don’t be too concerned for his future though, as we’re sure several contenders would line up looking to add some experience to the bullpen.