Jonathan Papelbon

Guide Note

Jonathan Papelbon is an All-Star Closer for the Boston Red Sox. He re-signed a one-year contract with the Red Sox on March 6, 2008. He is widely considered one of the best relievers in the game, with a World Series championship in 2007 as the team's primary closer.

Fast Facts

1. Born: November 23, 1980
2. Hometown: Baton Rouge, LA
3. Height: 6'4"
4. Weight: 230 lbs
5. MLB Draft: 2003, Boston
6. All-Star Appearance: 2006
7. 2006 ERA: 0.92
8. 2006 Saves: 35
9. 2007 All-Star Selection

Jonathan Robert Papelbon was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on November 23, 1980. He would attend Bishop Kenny High School in Florida and then move on to attend college at Mississippi State University, at the college he would establish himself as a premiere relief pitcher for their team.

Papelbon would be drafted in the fourth round of the 2003 Major League Baseball Draft by the Boston Red Sox. He would make his Major League Debut on July 31, 2005 as a relief pitcher, then the following season in 2006 he would be named the closer for the team. He was briefly considered as a candidate for a role in the starting rotation, but the Red Sox could not find an upgrade over Papelbon in the role. He would be named to the American League All-Star team in 2006 and in 2007. He would also lead the team as the primary closer to the 2007 World Series Championship.

• November 23, 1980: Born
• 2005: Debuts for Boston Red Sox
• 2006: American League All-Star
• 2007: All-Star Selection