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NEW YORK, NY - MAY 06: Closer Andrew Miller #48 of the New York Yankees squats behind the mound against the Boston Red Sox during the ninth inning of a game at Yankee Stadium on May 6, 2016 in the Bronx borough of New York City. The Yankees defeated the Red Sox 3-2. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)

Nationals eyeing Andrew Miller & Aroldis Chapman

The Washington Nationals are making their bullpen the number one priority this trade deadline, which is on August 1 this season due to leap year. On the top of their wish list, Andrew Miller or Aroldis Chapman. Bill Ladson of MLB.com wrote yesterday that the Nats, who are two games up in the NL East, are hoping the Yankees make the dominant lefties available. Ladson writes:

The Nationals are not close to acquiring a reliever, but they are hoping Yankees relievers are available before the Deadline. As of now, the Yankees are not in sell mode, but it’s not hard to imagine they could part with one of the two pitchers if they are struggling in late July. Chapman in particular could be a candidate to move because he is eligible for free agency after this season. Both Miller and Chapman are dominating left-handers. The Nationals are aware the Yankees would ask for a king’s ransom for either pitcher. The Yankees would likely be looking to replenish their farm system.

Jonathan Papelbon is holding down closer duties in the nation’s capital, and is doing a respectable job. He has converted 15 of 17 saves with a 3.18 ERA and 7.1 K/9 in 22.2 innings this year. They are ok numbers, but nowhere near Miller or Chapman’s level. Chapman owns a 2.25 ERA in 12 innings, and Miller is even better with a 1.14 ERA and a mind blowing 16 K/9 in 23.2 innings. The Nats are also looking for a long term solution for the ninth, as Papelbon is a free agent this winter and most likely won’t be welcomed back.

Now is when somebody inevitably comments, “Harper.” While the Yanks would want a big haul to move either guy, it isn’t going to be Bryce. They will in all likelihood target prospects, such as Lucas Giolito or Erick Fedde, in order to replenish the farm. The Yanks are currently fourth in the AL East, and if they don’t want to be there for seasons to come they need youth and they know this. However, if they feel they are still in it come July, they could demand a Major League ready bat to kick-start their dormant offense (I’ll reiterate, not Harper.)

Miller has also been linked to the Cubs and more recently the Giants. However, the front office remains steadfast that they aren’t sellers, yet.