Papelbon praises Phillies fans

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Jonathan Papelbon has already endeared himself to Phillies fans without throwing a meaningful pitch.

Papelbon, the former Boston Red Sox closer, had high praise for Philadelphia fans, even though he's only been with the team a few months.

"The difference between Boston and Philadelphia, the Boston fans are a little bit more hysterical when it comes to the game of baseball," Papelbon said in a radio interview with Philadelphia's 94-WIP. "The Philly fans tend to know the game a little better, being in the National League, you know, the way the game is played. I've had a guy take of his prosthetic leg and throw it in the bullpen in Boston."

Papelbon signed a $50 million, four-year contract with the Phillies in November, the richest deal ever for a reliever. He was a four-time All-Star in seven seasons with the Red Sox, and helped them win the 2007 World Series title.

Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.