Papelbon pitched a perfect top of the ninth inning in his return from a rib injury Monday, striking out two, in a 1-0 loss to the Brewers.

EDGE Analysis

It wasn't a save situation, but with the Nats trailing at home heading into the ninth there was no chance Papelbon would get a lead to protect. Shawn Kelley performed well as the closer in his absence, but it looks like Papelbon will immediately resume his duties at the head of the bullpen.