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Boston Red Sox Spring Training 2006 Report

Southern Southpaw Jon Papelbon was the No. 11 pick in the MLN FAB50 Baseball 2005 rankings. Promoted to Boston at mid-season, he became a top-notch setup man, going 3-1 with a 2.65 ERA.  “It was a chance for me to get all the early anxious vibes, all the excitement out of the way,’’ the lefty says. “This year I can come in with a plan and be a little more confident. Last year was a huge step in my career.’’

Papelbon pitches from a three-quarter angle and throws a fastball in the mid-90s, a slider, curve and changeup. The Baton Rouge native is destined to be a key starting pitcher but will bide his time out of the Red Sox bullpen for now.

“He’s a very mature guy with a lot of physical ability,’’ Cherington says. “He has a great perspective on things, and we expect he’ll handle any role well.’’

Papelbon doesn’t lack for confidence.

“Personally I think I could be in the rotation on any other ballclub,’’ he says. “There’s no doubt  in my mind. But maybe it's on a team that doesn't have a chance to go to the World Series, like this one does. I just want to put my team in the position to win ballgames.’’

 

- Jim Mandelaro

Jonathan Lester | Dustin Pedroia | Jonathan Papelbon | Craig Hansen | Jacoby Ellsbury