Papelbon has reported to spring training and has already had a positive discussion with Dusty Baker, Chelsea Janes of the Washington Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

Papelbon's relationship with the Nationals seemingly hit a low in early December when he filed a grievance against the team for docked pay from his suspension after he choked Bryce Harper in a dugout altercation, but the hatchet seems to have been buried. Harper has already said he supports the troubled closer, as reported by the Washington Post, and a good discussion with Baker gives him another supporter. Papelbon was the subject of trade rumors throughout the offseason, but his reputation and $11 million salary made him a hard sell for teams. Something could still definitely happen between now and Opening Day, but it is looking increasingly likely that Papelbon will once again assume closer duties for Washington.