Bobby Jenks was officially introduced yesterday as the newest member of the Sox bullpen. During the press conference Theo went out of his way to clarify that Jonathan Papelbon is still the team's closer. Gentlemen, start your engines on the Pap watch!
With Jenks, Wheeler & Bard in the fold one school of thought is that the Sox will trade Papelbon & let one of these 3 guys emerge as the closer. A trade may be tough to do as Pap will probably earn $10-$12 million via arbitration. Hard to move that big a salary.
The more likely route is that Pap returns & is motivated to put the 2010 season behind him. Last year's ERA & blown saves were Cinco Ocho's all-time worst. Time to use all 3 pitches again with good location.
Come the trade deadline in July, however, the Sox might try to move Pap if he is not performing - just to get something in return. With free agency looming in 2012 it's very probable that this is Pap's last year in a Red Sox uniform.
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