Jonathan Papelbon

Red Sox still waiting on decision from Jonathan Papelbon

Boston Red Sox president Dave Dombrowski reiterated Wednesday morning that the team is still waiting on a decision from free agent reliever Jonathan Papelbon.

What It Means:

Papelbon, who was released by the Washington Nationals, was contacted by the Red Sox last week, but there hasn't been any movement towards agreeing on a contract. Dombrowski explained the situation to MLB Network Radio saying, "We did express some interest, but he has to decide what he wants to do. We are open, we did call, he has to decide." Papelbon posted a 4.37 ERA and a 20.4 strikeout percentage -- both career worsts -- across 35 innings of relief this season with the Nationals.

Papelbon's 4.79 xFIP was also a career worst mark and his 9.2 walk percentage was almost three points higher than his career average (6.3 percent). Boston's bullpen has been a middle-of-the-pack unit according to xFIP, as their 4.13 xFIP ranks 15th this season.