IP 725
ERA 2.446
WHIP 1.044
BB/9 2.297
SO/9 10.03
  • Full name Jonathan Robert Papelbon
  • Born 11/23/1980 in Baton Rouge, LA
  • Profile Ht.: 6'5" / Wt.: 230 / Bats: R / Throws: R
  • School Mississippi State
  • Debut 07/31/2005
  • Drafted in the 4th round (114th overall) by the Boston Red Sox in 2003 (signed for $264,500).
    View Draft Report
    A redshirt junior, Papelbon turned down the Athletics as a 40th-round pick a year ago and would have gone much higher had he been considered signable. The Southeastern Conference's most overpowering reliever, he figures to be a third- to fifth-rounder this time around. More of a thrower in 2002, he has blossomed into a pitcher. He's capable of reaching 93-94 mph with his fastball but now has the command and savvy to succeed even if he's working in the high 80s. He has a quick arm action that generates a tough downward angle and movement on his pitches, which also include a hard, tight slider. Though he never has started a game for Mississippi State, that's expected to be his role as a pro. His stuff and durable build (6-foot-3, 232 pounds) are too good not to give him a shot in the rotation.

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  • Rated Best Reliever in the American League in 2007
  • Rated Best Slider in the Boston Red Sox in 2005
  • Rated Best Fastball in the Boston Red Sox in 2005

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