Jonathan Papelbon was drafted by the Red Sox in 2003 out of Mississippi State. Papelbon throws a fastball clocked as high as 99 mph, typically hitting the mid-90s, with great command. He has a good slider and a changeup, as well as a curveball. He also added a splitter to his arsenal, after some tutoring from teammate Curt Schilling.

He was the Red Sox closer during most of 2006. In early September, Papelbon injured his shoulder; when the Red Sox were eliminated from playoff contention, he was "shut down" for the rest of the season to rest. He is expected to be in the starting rotation in 2007.

The 25-year-old closer finished 2006 with one of the most dominant seasons ever for a rookie pitcher. Papelbon saved 35 games, struck out 75 batters in 68 innings, and held opposing batters to a miniscule .167 batting average.  He was named to the 2006 American League All Star team.

This item is matted and framed, measuring 34 x 42.