The Red Sox reportedly expressed interest in free-agent closer Ryan Madson earlier this offseason. And although the team appears to have its 2012 closer in Andrew Bailey, it might still be possible that the Sox become interested in Madson once again.
According to The Boston Globe's Nick Cafardo, a lot of teams — including the Red Sox, Rays and Cardinals — will be interested in Madson when and if his price goes down.
While any interest on Boston's part could be mostly speculation, it's certainly realistic that Madson will be forced to explore other options, as the longtime Phillie hasn't been able to land the big contract he's been seeking in free agency.
Madson reportedly wanted a four-year, $44 million deal to re-sign with the Phillies, but they elected to sign fellow free agent and former Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon instead. Now, it seems like Madson might have to back off such high demands, as it's doubtful he'll receive that type of contract from any team at this point.
It'll be interesting to see if Madson, who became Philadelphia's closer last season after serving mostly as a set-up man in the past, will be able to land a ninth-inning gig or if he'll be OK with more of an eighth-inning role.
Cafardo reports that the Angels, who have landed both Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson this offseason, say they are not interested in Madson despite some people's skepticism about Jordan Walden closing out games.
