The Boston Red Sox have activated Joel Hanrahan from the disabled list, but for the time being Andrew Bailey will retain his role as a team’s closer. Since Hanrahan went on the disabled list Bailey has recorded five saves in six opportunities. He has pitched to an ERA of 1.46 over 12 1/3 innings and has 20 strikeouts.
Boston manager John Farrell has decided to stick with Bailey at least for the short-term. Hanrahan who was signed in the off-season to be the Red Sox closer is 0-1 with three saves and has an ERA of 11.57.
To make room for him on the 25-man roster, right-hander Daniel Bard was optioned to Double-A Portland after Sunday’s win against Houston. Bard allowed one run and one hit and two walks in one inning of work.
Hanrahan accepted the news from Farrell. “Obviously I’ve been out of the ballgame for 15 days and he says he’s going to kind of work me back in,” Hanrahan said. “Bailey’s been doing a heck of a job. I told him that I’m comfortable with whatever you want to do. The way the team’s playing right now, I just want to fit in and do my part to help. I’m just excited to be back.”
Boston leads the major leagues with an 18-7 record, and it’s probably best not to fix what isn’t broken.
