With both Andrew Bailey and Joel Hanrahan currently on the disabled list, the Red Sox’ options at closer are limited. Junichi Tazawa is the guy for now, barring anymore unfortunate circumstances.
But when Bailey does return from his biceps injury, which will hopefully be early next week, how should manager John Farrell organize his bullpen?
Bailey was very impressive in the period between taking over for Hanrahan and going on the DL, posting a 1.46 ERA and a 0.81 WHIP in 13 total appearances.
Tazawa has yet to be tested in the closer’s role, as the team has yet to find itself in a save situation since he took over, but he was one of the best arms in the Boston bullpen in his earlier stint as a setup man. He held opponents scoreless in 13 of his 17 appearances, allowing four runs on 10 hits and two walks while striking out 14 over 12 2/3 innings.
One thing is for sure: the closer will not be Hanrahan — not anytime soon, at least. The Red Sox transferred him to the 60-day DL on Thursday, putting him out of commission until at least early July.
Who do you think is Boston’s best option at closer going forward? Voice your opinion in the poll below.
