Boston’s brass has reportedly been more aggressive in its dialogue with representatives for reliever Francisco Cordero, whose $12 million option the Cincinnati Reds declined Oct. 31.
The Red Sox and Cordero’s camp have had “increased dialogue,” ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick reports. The Reds are believed to still be interested in bringing back the 36-year-old reliever.
Cordero converted 37 of 43 save attempts for the Reds and posted a 2.48 ERA in 2011. In 13 seasons with the Rangers, Tigers, Reds and Brewers, Cordero has notched 327 career saves and is a three-time All-Star.
After closer Jonathan Papelbon departed for Philadelphia, the Red Sox have looked into options to replace him. Last week, general manager Ben Cherington traded for Astros reliever Mark Melancon, who recorded 20 saves with a 2.78 ERA in 2011.
