Jonathan Papelbon

Papelbon after a big win (http://digitalderek.typepad.com/sawxblog/photos/2008/regular_season/may/jonathan_papelbon.jpg)

Jonathan Papelbon is already a baseball hero after only playing in the majors for three seasons. He has shown great courage and perseverance through many tough and nerve-racking situations. He plays his heart out and contributed in every game he has played in. Jonathan isn’t cocky or arrogant about his skills and performances. He is a very valuable player and will be around in the Big Leagues for a long time.

Jonathan Robert Papelbon was born on November 23, 1980 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He grew up in Jacksonville, Florida and played for Bishop Kenny High School. He graduated in 1999 and went to play baseball for the Mississippi State Bulldogs. He was their finest relief pitcher and went 9-6 with a 2.90 era and 13 saves. He continued to play baseball for Minor League teams such as Lowell, Sarasota, Portland, and Pawtucket.

Firing it in there (http://i.cdn.turner.com/sivault/image/2007/10/27/op52-2207.jpg)

As long as Jonathan was playing baseball, he was sure he was going to get better. He did and he finally got a chance to play in the Bigs. His major league debut was with the Red Sox on July 31, 2005 where he pitched 5 1/3 innings and he struck out seven. The Sox won 4-3 in a pitchers duel in which Papelbon pitched his heart out. Ever since then he has pitched amazing for Boston and has helped them win a world series.

I am inspired by his greatness at such a young age. Without hard work and dedication, he wouldn’t be where he is today. One of my dreams is to play college baseball at a good school and if I work as hard as he did I have a good chance to make it. I will have to set goals and work hard in the off-season. I have no chance if I don’t dedicate myself to fulfill those goals.

What a stud (http://z.about.com/d/baseball/1/0/d/C/-/-/jonathanpapelbon.jpg)

As a result, Jonathan is a hero to me because he is such a great player and person. He always does his best and always has the desire to play. He worked hard throughout his career to meet his goals. He is already a baseball great and will only get better as his career goes on. Papelbon is an inspiration to me and I hope I can play in the Bigs too.