Just in from multiple sources that Jonathan Papelbon is signing with the Philadelphia Phillies. The deal is believed to be for 4 years reaching almost $50 million. Papelbon, 30, will be the new closer for the Phillies who many had thought were going to sign free agent Ryan Madson earlier this week.
Papelbon spent 7 seasons with the Boston Redsox and holds the record for most saves in franchise history. Papelbon is also the only Boston pitcher to throw consecutive 30 save seasons. Papelbon brings his 2007 World Series ring, 4 All Star game appearances, 217 career saves and 2.29 career to the NL East defending champions.
The batters of the NL East (currently on the rosters) have less than 60 combined AB's against Papelbon, so the splits will not be too revealing of yet. The Phillies, who have already signed Jim Thome earlier this offseason to help spell the absence of Ryan Howard will sure be looking to solidify the back end of their rotation and possibly bring back SS Jimmy Rollins in the offseason.