Papelbon Backs Off Comments About Joining Other Clubs

Rob Bradford at WEEI.com spoke to Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon about the comments he made on Sirius XM Radio yesterday regarding the possibility of joining the Yankees or other clubs when he reaches free agency.

“I just think that when people hear what I said or people read what I said sometimes they can only see certain things. I want to make that clear, I don’t want to go (expletive) for the Yankees,” Papelbon said. “Believe me, I’ve got a ring here and I’m playing for a manager and general manager who are going to protect me. I’ve been on a team in baseball who has been in first-place more than any other (expletive) team in baseball. It’s just a simple fact for me that what I was stating that guys nowadays don’t necessarily get the opportunity to be with a team for a long period of time. Do I want to be with the Red Sox for as long as I can? Of course. There is no question about because I know I’m playing a manager and general manager who are going to protect me and to me that’s all that matters.”

Papelbon made it clear that his preference is to remain in Boston, but acknowledged that this is a business and he's looking out for his family first and foremost. He also said he understands that he needs the Red Sox more than they need him.