Jonathan Papelbon has requested his release from the Nationals, a source told ESPN's Jerry Crasnick on Saturday.

The Nationals are now having internal discussions about the best way to grant Papelbon's wish, the source said.

Washington could release Papelbon as early as Saturday because the team will need to make a corresponding roster move when it recalls Reynaldo Lopez, who is scheduled to start Saturday night's game against the Braves.