With runners in scoring position, Tyler Clippard yields the lowest opponent OPS in the majors. Batters are hitting only .087/.154/.217 in these situations -- a .371 OPS that is 65 points below the total for the next most effective pitcher, Johnny Venters. This is one reason why Tyler Clippard is among the best relievers in the game.

Nationals manager Davey Johnson was quoted Saturday night as saying, "Tyler (Clippard) isn't going anywhere." From everything we've heard, the Nationals are unwilling to give up Drew Storen and prefer to deal Clippard in any potential trade for Denard Span. Unless Johnson is on a different wavelength than general manager Mike Rizzo, the Nationals are either out of the Span sweepstakes or are finally willing to include Storen.

CBS Sports' Scott Miller reports that the Nationals want the Twins to take Tyler Clippard rather than Drew Storen in a deal for Denard Span. This is actually great news for the Twins, as they'd be silly to do the deal even if it was Storen being involved. Miller notes that, not surprisingly, the Twins "won't do (a) setup man for Span." We're not sure why the Twins appear to be so eager to give up Span, but it's clear he's on the table.

Tyler Clippard returned to action on Friday July 1.

Nationals manager Davey Johnson said Tyler Clippard (arm) is available to pitch Tuesday. Clippard wasn't available Monday due to some fatigue in his pitching arm. We're worried that with the heavy workload he's had the last few seasons he might be due to break down at some point, but the Nats apparently feel he's good to go for now.

Tyler Clippard reported feeling some arm fatigue before Monday's game against the Angels. Clippard might have been in line for a save opportunity Monday with Drew Storen attending his grandmother's funeral. But he's already thrown 45 innings this season, second-most among MLB relievers, and is likely to take the next few days off.

Nationals manager Davey Johnson said that Tyler Clippard would likely get the ball in a potential save situation Monday night against the Angels. Drew Storen is currently away from the team attending his grandmother's funeral. While Johnson said Clippard is the favorite for the opportunity, he said there are other relievers he would consider.

Tyler Clippard was finally involved in his first decision of 2011 on Thursday, picking up a win after throwing a scoreless ninth against the Mariners. Laynce Nix hit a sac fly in the bottom of the ninth to give the Nationals their 11th win in 12 games. Clippard led the majors with 11 wins and 19 decisions in relief last year, but he was 0-0 through 33 appearances this season. He's also still without a save, though he leads the majors with 20 holds.