Tavarez, Wells to help as closers

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PHILADELPHIA -- Joel Hanrahan has lost his job as the Washington Nationals closer.

Manager Manny Acta said before the Nationals played the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday night that he'll choose his closer based on matchups. He expects to rely on veterans such as Kip Wells and Julian Tavarez.

Hanrahan has Washington's only two saves, but is 0-1 with an 8.64 ERA in nine appearances. He allowed Raul Ibanez's game-winning grand slam in a 13-11 loss to Philadelphia on Monday.

The Nationals' bullpen has blown six saves and is a combined 0-7.

Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press

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