Will Andrew Bailey Finish This Season as the Red Sox Closer?

by NESN Staff on Tue, Aug 14, 2012 at 4:37PM

Andrew Bailey is back.

The Red Sox reliever is expected to be activated by the team Tuesday, and he will head to a big league bullpen wearing a Boston uniform for the first time.

While the original plan was for Bailey to be the team's closer in 2012, a thumb injury has kept him on the sidelines for the first 116 games. Alfredo Aceves has handled the closing responsibilities for Bobby Valentine and the Sox.

As Bailey returns to full strength, many players on the team remain optimistic of his capabilities. However, the righty's role with the team at the moment remains a little bit up the air.

Aceves has been solid but not spectacular during his time as the team's closer, converting 23 of 29 opportunities so far. He's shown himself capable of handling the gig, from the so-called "closer's mentality" to the necessary stuff to get batters out on the big stage. Because of how well he's pitched in the back end of the bullpen, Aceves could allow Bailey to ease back into the swing of things, or even wait until next spring to take back the closing duties.

Who will finish this season as the Red Sox closer?