Jonathan Papelbon, who will be on the American League's All-Star roster for the fourth straight year, said that he would like to be the man responsible for closing out a lead that could give his league -- and potentially the Red Sox -- home-field advantage in the World Series. Even so, Papelbon made clear that the decision is up to Rays manager Joe Maddon, who is in charge of the A.L. All-Star team.

“Of course I want to close (the All-Star game). Every closer there is going to want to close. There’s no difference (among them),” said Papelbon. “But Joe is going to make the decision there.”

Last year, Papelbon became ensnared in controversy when the game was hosted at Yankee Stadium because of his statement that he’d like to close in Mariano Rivera’s home park. The Sox' closer later clarified that he was merely suggesting that he always wanted to close, but that he planned to defer any game-ending lead to...

When asked if he would rule out trading Roy Halladay to an American League East competitor if it came time for the Blue Jays to deal their ace, Toronto GM J.P. Riccardi texted "No", Tuesday night. Earlier in the day Ricciardi first told Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com that the Blue Jays would listen to offers for Halladay, telling Rosenthal, "We have to see what's out there." I'm not saying we're going to shop him. But if something makes sense, we at least have to listen. We're (leaning) more toward listening than we've ever been." It is believed the Blue Jays would prioritize getting back a shortstop and pitching in any deal for Halladay.