It wasn't long ago that the Dodgers' Jonathan Broxton was regarded as one of baseball's top closers. But after hitting some rough patches and battling injuries, he's become an afterthought and is now reportedly looking for a fresh start elsewhere.
Broxton's agent, BB Abbott, told the Los Angeles Times via text message that Broxton will not be back in L.A. Abbott indicated that Broxton, who is currently a free agent, is "close to moving."
The Red Sox are one of the teams that could be in the mix for the 27-year-old reliever, according to ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick. The Rays, Marlins, Twins and Reds are reportedly among the other teams who could consider the big righty.
Crasnick reports that Broxton is looking at a one-year deal in order to re-establish his value.
Broxton went 7-2 with a 2.61 ERA and a 0.96 WHIP while saving 36 games in 2009. He was named an All-Star that season and was again named an All-Star in 2010 after a strong start, although his ERA eventually soared to 4.04 that season.
In 2011, Broxton struggled mightily for the Dodgers, posting a 5.68 ERA and a 1.89 WHIP in 12 2/3 innings over 14 appearances. He last pitched on May 3, and underwent a minor procedure in September to shave down a bone spur and remove loose bodies.
The Rangers checked in on Broxton before signing closer Joe Nathan and the Rockies discussed him as an option if they trade their closer, Huston Street, Crasnick reports. Broxton will reportedly pick his next club before the start of baseball's winter meetings, which begin Dec. 5 in Dallas.
