The best closers in MLB history: 8. Jonathan Papelbon
- 368 saves
- 585 games finished
- 2.44 ERA
- 10 K/9
How good was Jonathan Papelbon? Just ask Yankees fans. From 2006-09, Papelbon tormented Yankees hitters and hitters across baseball while playing for the Boston Red Sox.
During that four-year stretch, Papelbon saved 151 games or 38 per year, while posting a 1.74 ERA and 0.917 WHIP. This performance was a key factor in the Red Sox 2007 World Series Championship. Papelbon was un-hittable during that 2007 postseason, giving up no runs in 10.2 innings and recording four saves throughout.
Papelbon played 12 seasons in the MLB while recording 368 saves and 585 games finished. His 368 saves ranks ninth all-time, while he successfully converted 88.2 percent of these chances. He recorded eight seasons with at least 30 saves, seven of which came with more than 35. In total, Papelbon pitched to a 2.44 career ERA, striking out an even 10 batters per nine innings.
His individual dominance was punctuated with a litany of awards including the Delivery Man of the Year in 2007 and six All-Star selections. In 2014, Papelbon also pitched a combined no-hitter. With his consistency and relentless efforts throughout the years, Papelbon is one of the most feared relievers in MLB history and his placement on this list was a no-brainer.