The Washington Nationals' main priority before the trade deadline was to acquire a closer that could secure the back end of the bullpen in the wake of some recent collapses by Jonathan Papelbon. The Nats accomplished that mission by trading for Pirates' All-Star Mark Melancon, who made his debut in a Washington jersey last night in Arizona. But he was hardly needed as Stephen Strasburg won his 15th and the Nats offense pounded the D-backs pitching for 19 hits and 14 runs in a 14-1 shellacking. Washington will continue its road trip tonight in Arizona as Tanner Roark (10-6, 2.96) takes the mound against Robbie Ray (5-10, 4.70). You can get our pick for this game and the full MLB schedule by clicking on the Baseball icon above.
