2011 MLB Trade Rumors: Red Sox Still Targeting Relievers

Yesterday the Red Sox acquired reliever Mark Melancon from the Houston Astros.  Though Melancon gained closer’s experience last season, the Red Sox are still looking to add late-inning arms.  Ken Rosenthol of Fox Sports reported yesterday that the club has been in on A’s closer Andrew Bailey and former Phillies finisher Ryan Madson.  This morning, ESPN’s Buster Olney noted that the Red Sox are indeed “continuing their pursuit of other relievers”.

After the trade in which he sent infielder Jed Lowrie and right-hander Kyle Weiland to the Astros for Mark Melancon, Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington indicated the he’d be comfortable entering the 2012 season with Melancon as the team’s closer.

However, this may just be GM speak that’s put out to cover Cherington’s trail if he is unable to acquire a more solid option at closer this offseason.

Many still believe this is Boston’s goal, as there are several viable options remaining to be had.  It no longer seems to be a matter of ‘if’ but now ‘when’ the A’s will trade Andrew Bailey.  Along with Bailey, Ryan Madson continues to float in free agent limbo while rosters take shape this winter.

It appears that the Red Sox would prefer adding a less expensive reliever such as Bailey rather than extend the costly multi-year deal it would cost to bring in Madson.  Still, Bailey won’t come cheap as A’s general manager Billy Beane is said to be looking for top return for his trade chips.

Melancon isn’t the worst option, as he performed alright for the Astros last season and brings experience pitching in the American League East to the table.  But, while Cherington may indicate otherwise, it appears that the Red Sox will keep up their hunt for a closer this winter.

For more on the Red Sox, be sure to check out BoSox Injection.