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PREGAME: Rockies have short memories »
October 25, 2007
BY JOE McDONALD
Journal Sports Writer
BOSTON -- Red Sox fans have always known Jonathan Papelbon was a special talent. His ability to throw a baseball past hitters is second-to-none in the majors.
But over the last couple of weeks, Boston's closer has showcased his other talents.
When the Red Sox clinched the A.L. East title in the final weekend of the regular season, Papelbon step-danced his way around the infield grass at Fenway, wearing next to nothing, with fans going crazy as his theme song ''Shipping up to Boston'' by the Dropkicks Murphys blasting over the PA.
It was much of the same when the Red Sox beat the Indians in Game Seven of the ALCS here on Sunday.
''His personality is unique,'' said manager Terry Francona. ''The fact that he throws 94 to 97 MPH with command is probably more important. He's the best. I do think it's kind of rare to have a young guy like that. He's carefree, in a good way, but you give him the ball in the ninth inning and it's amazing the trust that we all have in him. He's earned it. He competes and it is rare to be that young and that advanced.''
In the postseason the hard-throwing right-hander has worked 6 1/3 scoreless innings in four playoff games.
Posted by Joe McDonald 
at 6:12 PM | Permalink
