Jon Papelbon, known as Pap or Cinco Ocho, has closed his last game for the Boston Red Sox. The rich contract offer of 4 years, $50 million by the Phillies was too much for a closer by Red Sox's guidelines.
The Phillies get a prime closer in his early 30's. Pap finally get the big payday that he was looking for through free agency. Can he hold up physically over a 4 year period? The Phillies sure hope so.
Pap leaves as the saves leader for the Red Sox. He has had 30+ saves in each of the last 6 years. And I think he will be remembered for someone who spoke his mind, be it a little goofy at times. He was always good for a sound bite.
The Phillies have joined the Yankees & Red Sox as teams who cater to high-priced free agents in an effort to be the World Series winner each year. It hasn't worked so well for the Phils, especially last year when they were the best team in baseball during the regular season. The predicted World Series between Philadelphia & Boston never materialized.
We can only wish Pap well with his new team. Maybe the Phillies & Red Sox can get another crack in 2012 of meeting in the last series of the year.
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