Report: Red Sox Talking With Free-Agent Reliever Dan Wheeler

The Red Sox missed out on Matt Guerrier, so now they turn their focus to another reliever.

According to WEEI.com, the Sox are in discussions with reliever Dan Wheeler. While a deal has yet to be completed, the report cites sources that say there is optimism about it coming together.

Wheeler spent the 2010 season with Tampa Bay where he made 64 appearances out of Joe Maddon's bullpen. The righty worked 48 1/3 innings, with a 3.35 ERA. For his career, Wheeler has been pretty tough against right-handed batters, holding them to a .217 batting average over his 11-year career.

The 33-year-old is a native of Warwick, R.I., and has also spent time with the Astros and Mets.