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Report: Red Sox ‘Still Eyeing’ Free-Agent Closer Ryan Madson

The Red Sox are still without a closer following Jonathan Papelbon's departure. And while they've been linked to Ryan Madson in the past with nothing coming of it, they are reportedly still considering the former Phillies right-hander.

The Sox are "still eyeing" Madson, according to CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman, which, as he points out, isn't too surprising since Daniel Bard will enter spring training as a starter.

With Bard moving to the rotation, the Red Sox would be without both a clear set-up man and a closer, meaning they may have to look outside the organization for help now more than ever. Madson would come at a big cost, perhaps at a contract comparable to those signed by other top-flight closers this offseason, but he would certainly help solidify the back end of the Sox bullpen.

Madson has spent his entire nine-year career in Philadelphia, serving primarily as a set-up man until last season. The 31-year-old saved 32 games in 34 chances in 2011, while posting a 2.37 ERA in 60 2/3 innings over 62 appearances. His career ERA sits at 3.60.