Ryan Madson Rumors: Red Sox, Angels Interested in Madson
By Editorial Staff
After Jonathan Papelbon and Heath Bell signed their new contracts with the Phillies and Marlins early this offseason, it looked like the free agent market for closers would run rampant this winter. However, since then, the market has silenced as teams have turned their attention to closers available through trade. Nick Carfado of the Boston Globe hears that Ryan Madson, one of the free agent market’s top closer options, is still drawing interest, specifically from the Red Sox and Angels.
Since losing Papelbon to the Phillies, the Red Sox have been in search of their next closer. Boston was able to bring in Mark Melancon, who acted as the Astros closer for much of last season. While Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington said he is content entering 2012 with Melancon as his closer, he also noted that he will continue to look for roster upgrades as the winter continues.
While Melancon was able to post respectable numbers in 2011, he will be making the jump from the National League Central to the American League East. The Red Sox would likely be much more comfortable bringing in a more established closer and making Melancon their setup man.
The Angels have also kept up discussions with Madson. Los Angeles does have 2011 Rookie of the Year candidate Jordan Walden on their roster, and the 24-year-old saved 32 games for the Halos last season. Walden maintained an ERA of 2.98 and a 1.243 WHIP over his 62 appearances and 60 1/3 innings pitched.
Madson was reportedly close to a four-year, $44 million deal with the Phillies before they inked Papelbon.
You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.