Jonathan Papelbon Named to NL All-Star Team

Jonathan Papelbon is an all-star again.

The Phillies closer is joining the National League squad as pitchers and reserves were announced on Monday. It's his second time representing the Phillies and sixth overall all-star selection.

"Obviously you're always excited," Papelbon told Gregg Murphy on Comcast Sports Net before the Phillies played the Dodgers on Monday.  "Every player wants that opportunity to make it, for me I am excited to go out and represent the Phillies this year."

Papelbon was chosen as the only Phillie on the NL team.

The 2015 season has been another dominant one for Papelbon, as he owns a 1-1 record, 1.65 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and 34 strikeouts in 31 appearances (32 2/3 innings). He's perfect in 14 save chances this season and became the Phillies all-time save leader earlier this season.

While his numbers are deserving, Papelbon acknowledged this time was a pretty special one for him.

"I've had to reinvent myself," Papelbon explained.  "10 years into it you need to continue to do that to remain successful."

Despite his strong numbers, Papelbon could be traded and said on Monday that he would be surprised and disappointed if that weren't the case.

“I think [the front office] knows where I’m at,” Papelbon told reporters in LA before the Phillies played the Dodgers on Monday night. “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.”

The MLB All-Star Game will take place at Cincinnati's Great American Ballpark on July 14