The Red Sox may be inching closer to acquiring a full-time closer.
After missing out on pitcher Gio Gonzalez last week, the Sox returned to the negotiating table with the Athletics and are primed to pry away Andrew Bailey, ESPN.com's Buster Olney reports. The only team reportedly standing in Boston's way is the Texas Rangers.
A two-time American League All-Star and the 2009 AL Rookie of the Year, Bailey would bring a decorated pedigree to Boston's bullpen. Through three seasons, the 27-year-old has converted 75 of 84 save opportunities.
Despite missing nearly two months of the 2011 season with a forearm strain and elbow inflammation, Bailey recorded 24 saves and posted 3.24 ERA. The New Jersey native possesses a career 2.07 ERA.
