Papelbon Says He's Ready To Leave Philly

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) --- After recording his 22nd save in 24 chances in a 4-1 Phillies win over the Brewers on Wednesday night, Jonathan Papelbon was asked if a contending team called at the deadline, is he ready to go?

"Yeah. I think that's a no-brainer," Papelbon told reporters.

In 36 1/3 innings this season "Pap" has allowed just 22 hits and five runs, while striking 32 and walking nine batters. His 22 saves are tied for eighth best in all of baseball, despite the Phillies being 11 games under .500.

Papelbon can block a trade to 17 teams, thanks to his limited no-trade clause. When asked if he hopes a winning club would be interested in acquiring him, Papelbon did not hesitate.

"Of course, man," he said. "What kind of question is that?"

However, Papelbon did admit he would have some mixed emotions about leaving the Phillies.

"You know, I came here for a reason---and I say that because I'm with a group of guys in the bullpen that can do very special things in the future," Papelbon admitted. "I've been waiting for that, you know what I mean? It's fun to be a part of that, it really is. We are there finally with our bullpen. So that aspect of it would kind of suck to leave. But at the same time, winning is the cure-alls of cure-alls."

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