The market for Rockies closer Brian Fuentes could become more heated today after another bullpen standout went off the board.
The Diamondbacks acquired Nationals closer Jon Rauch in trade for top minor-league prospect Emilio Bonifacio.
Rauch took over the closer’s job in Washington since Chad Cordero was injured earlier this season. Rauch would provide late-inning depth for the Diamondbacks. His trade to Arizona would create one less option for teams that have been chasing a late-inning reliever. Fuentes may be the top closer still being chased by contenders.
Tampa Bay, the Yankees, Mets and Red Sox have all shown the strongest interest in the left-handed Fuentes, but have balked at the Rockies’ asking price. Colorado is looking for a premium, young starting pitcher.
Fuentes has impressed scouts with his hot two-week stretch, as he’s pitched as well as he has at any time during his career.
