Jon Papelbon Boston Red Sox Jerseys, Memorabilia, and Fan Gear

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Jon Papelbon is a closer for the Boston Red Sox. He bats and throws right-handed. On January 20, 2009, Papelbon agreed to a one-year $6.25 million contract with the Red Sox, avoiding arbitration. This is the largest contract for a closer in his first year of arbitration eligibility. Papelbon, a classic power pitcher, throws a fastball in the mid to high 90's with exceptional command. His delivery is deceptive, with a three-quarters arm slot and a quick release from the stretch. Papelbon complements his fastball with an excellent splitter that tops out in the high 80's, as well as a slider in the mid 80's. Though he threw a changeup and a curveball in his minor-league starting career, he rarely uses them in the majors. Papelbon sports an above-average pickoff move with surprising speed, a relatively rare talent in a closer. He is the first pitcher in Red Sox franchise history to have three 30 save seasons.