Nationals cut former closer Papelbon; Harper gets MRI

The Washington Nationals released reliever Jonathan Papelbon, who rarely pitched after the National League East leaders recently traded for new closer Mark Melancon.

The Nationals needed a roster spot to promote right-hander Reynaldo Lopez to start Saturday against Atlanta.

“There wasn’t a real fit anymore,” Washington manager Dusty Baker said. “Didn’t know where to use him.”

Papelbon, 35, ninth on the career saves list with 368, threw 2 2/3 innings after his final blown save on July 26. The Nationals got Melancon a few days later from Pittsburgh.

Papelbon, suspended by the Nationals in September after grabbing NL MVP Bryce Harper by the throat during a dugout skirmish, now is a free agent and can sign with any team.

The Nationals are responsible for the remainder of his $11 million salary this year.

Papelbon has converted 19 of 22 save chances this season, and is 2-4 with a 4.37 ERA.

In other Nationals news, Harper underwent an MRI examination for a neck injury.

The Las Vegas native was out of Washington’s lineup Saturday for a fifth straight game.

INDIANS — All-Star left fielder Michael Brantley will undergo season-ending surgery on his right shoulder Monday, manager Terry Francona said.

Brantley, 29, had surgery on the shoulder in November and began the season on the disabled list.

He has played in 11 games this season after attempting to return several times, only to be shut down because of renewed soreness.

DODGERS — Clayton Kershaw took another step forward in his attempt to return to Los Angeles’ rotation this season, playing catch for the second day in a row.