Nationals trade rumors: Drew Storen trade still being discussed

While the expectation in November was the Nationals would keep both Jonathan Papelbon and Drew Storen, Washington is still hoping to trade Storen this winter, according to FOX Sports' Jon Morosi.

Why this rumor makes sense

It appeared the Nationals were planning on shopping Storen at the Winter Meetings, and while a deal did not get done in Nashville, the veteran reliever could still be moved.

Washington added Jonathan Papelbon to its bullpen before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, and Papelbon is expected to close for the club in 2016.

Papelbon and Bryce Harper got into a physical argument in September, but that does not appear to be enough of a reason for the Nationals to move their closer.

Before Papelbon was acquired, Storen had a notable amount of success, pitching to a 1.89 ERA. He saved 29 contests for the Nationals last season but ended the season with a 3.44 ERA over 55.0 innings.

Storen reportedly met with the Nationals after Papelbon was acquired, but details of the discussion have not been made public. Some believe Storen requested a trade.

Houston is among the teams known to be interested in adding Storen.

Why this rumor does not make sense

Storen, 28, pitched to a 3.44 ERA and 2.79 FIP last season, but his stats do not tell the full story. Storen did not have as much success after the Nationals added Papelbon and as a result the Nationals might be selling low on him if he is moved.

Washington has expressed interest in improving its bullpen this off-season and did so by adding Shawn Kelley, Trevor Gott, Oliver Perez and Yusmeiro Petit. There might not be a clear need for Storen, but Washington could still be better off waiting to move him.

If Storen pitches well throughout the first half, the Nationals might be able to receive more in return next July.

Likeliness overall: 3/10

Drew Storen might very well be moved. But it likely will not be until next summer, when he either proves or does not prove he can be consistent as a setup man.