PHILADELPHIA -- Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon held court with the Boston media this afternoon as he prepared to face his former team for the first time tonight in the first of three games between the Red Sox and Phillies at Citizens Bank Park.

A few of the highlights:

* Biggest difference playing in Philly and in Boston: "Here, I get home in 2 1/2 hours. In Boston, I was pitching at midnight.''

* Papelbon said he has looked forward to this series since he signed with the Phillies in the offseason and hopes to pitch in all three games.

"It's like playing your brother in the backyard,'' he said. "You want bragging rights. ... Don't want Pedroia sending me text messages.''

* Papelbon said he is most looking forward to facing David Ortiz, whom he jokingly called "Big Sloppy."

We’ll have more from Pap in a bit ...