It was never the dance itself that endeared Jonathan Papelbon to Red Sox fans, though. It was the things he did that gave them reason to dance. Now that he's heading to Philadelphia, a new pitcher will be waltzing in from the bullpen in the ninth inning.
There are plenty of options for closing games in 2012, whether it's Daniel Bard, Alfredo Aceves, a player acquired this offseason or a currently unknown minor leaguer within the system who steps up. No matter who it is, though, it won't be No. 58.
Since 2006, fans have taken comfort whenever No. 58 jogged in to "Shipping up to Boston." Will fans feels as much comfort with a different pitcher taking Pap's place in 2012?
