Papelbon signs deal with Phils

November 14, 2011

Closer Jonathan Papelbon signed to a four-year $50 million contract on Monday with the Phillies. The contract includes a fifth year option, but he must close 55 games in the fourth year of the contract in order for the option to be available.

The option year is worth $13 million.

Papelbon was a very good and reliable closer during his tenure with the Red Sox. The expectation is that he will do much of the same in Philadelphia, and help them stay as a playoff contender.

Worley finishes third in Rookie of the Year race

Pitcher Vance Worley finished third in the voting for National League Rookie of the Year.

Worley did not receive any first place votes, but got eight second place, and 16 third place votes for a total of 40 points in the voting.

Worley became one of the Phillies biggest surprises in 2011. "The Vanimal" settled in as the fifth starter and finished the season with an 11-3 record with a 3.01 ERA in 21 starts.

Atlanta Brave's closer Craig Kimbrel won the NL Rookie of the Year with 32 first place votes for a total of 160 points.

Tampa Bay Ray's starting pitcher Jeremy Hellickson won the award in the American League.