Philadelphia Phillies

Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon says he'll be surprised if not traded

Published Jul. 7, 2015 3:25 a.m. ET

foxsports

Philadelphia Phillies reliever Jonathan Papelbon was selected to represent the team in the All-Star game, but if he had it his way, he'd be representing a contender in the Midsummer Classic.

"I would be surprised [not to be traded]," Papelbon said Monday. "Yeah, that would be a pretty valid answer."

Papelbon's desire to be traded is no recent revelation. The 34-year-old closer beckoned the Phillies front office to deal him to a contender last year.

"I'm going to whoever wants me the most and whoever feels like I can help them the best," Papelbon said. "I think everybody knows where I'm at. I've always been straightforward that I want to go play for a contender, and I'm not going to shy away from it. I feel like that's my right and my prerogative to have that opportunity and, you know, it's in their hands. The ball's in their court. I guess that's kind of it."

Nonetheless, Papelbon will represent the Phillies in the upcoming All-Star game.

"I think it's a great moment for me and my family," he said. "I'm going to go out there and represent the Phillies the best I can. Hopefully, do the best I can."

(h/t Philadelphia Daily News)