For what seems like months, even years at this point, rumors and blatant signs of the Phillies' intentions to trade Jonathan Papelbon have swirled. From the infamous "crotch grab" to several instances of not-so-kind words about the Philadelphia fanbase, the team's all-time saves leader has never truly seemed to fit in with the organization. The list of teams the Phillies have tried to make a deal with is seemingly endless, and with another day comes another possibility.
Back in his Boston days, Jonathan Papelbon was still dominating the competition, and did so behind a rotation that included left-hander Jon Lester. Back in 2008, Lester tossed a no-hitter, and can be seen celebrating with the All-Star closer above. Since that time, it seems the two have been good buddies and have kept in contact. Patrick Mooney, an insider for CSN Chicago, interviewed the current Cub about his pal.
When it comes to the rumors surrounding Pap, Lester had this to say:
“We all hear what goes on. I think he’s got a lot of things on his plate and he’s got the opportunity to either veto or accept some of these trades. I’m sure he’s got a lot of things going through his mind. It’s always hard when midseason you have to uproot your family and move and all that.
“I’ve talked to him just based on: Hey, man, how you doing? How you holding up? Stuff like that. Not really anything about possibly coming here.
“I know he would be excited to come here, and be excited to help.”
Obviously, Lester's thoughts have no bearing on the moves Chicago could make. However, as Mooney points out, the Cubs' clubhouse has a reputation for being a bit wild this season, similar to that of the Philly closer. Dance parties, littered with strobe lights and fog machines, are a staple for the team following victories, and Lester sees that type of celebration as picture perfect for Papelbon's gaudy personality.
“When he’s out there, he’s hyped up, he’s out of his mind and he’s trying to get a save. So people just assume that’s the way you are every day. So I think he’s gotten a bad rap. I loved him in Boston. The guy’s a competitor. He never shies away from taking the ball.”
As far as what Papelbon could provide the team on the field, Lester goes on to mention how one small move could change the course of an entire season.
“Any time you have a back-of-the-bullpen guy like that, I would imagine that can only help, especially when you add that experience level that he brings. Not only just closing games in the regular season, but closing games in the playoffs and World Series.
“Would it boost the clubhouse? Absolutely. (But) I’ve been on both sides of it. Each individual season is kind of unique, so you try to leave it up to those guys (in the front office).
“When you’ve been playing good and you get an addition, all of a sudden you just get that extra boost. Even in ’13, we got Jake Peavy (for Boston’s World Series run) and no one really thought that was going to really help us. But I think when you bring in character guys, it can give you that boost in the clubhouse and on the field.”
Much like the Cole Hamels trade rumors to Texas, nothing is imminent. However, with Andy MacPhail jumping on board, and the season getting closer to the July 31st trade deadline, it seems that Phillies fans should have more optimism for the franchise. Until then, those same fans will have to "suffer" through Papelbon's 13-save, 1.88 ERA, record-setting season.
Andrew Gillen, Managing Editor of Philliedelpia.com
