Given the state of the Boston Red Sox bullpen last year, skipper Terry Francona had to rely on Daniel Bard a little more than he may have liked. He made 73 appearances last year and 49 in his rookie year (2009).
After all, Bard was the most consistent and effective reliever the Red Sox had in 2010. And while some young pitchers may be frustrated with the additions to the pen in fear of losing some appearances, Bard is completely the opposite. In fact, he welcomes the help as he hopes it will make him stronger in the stretch run.
“Hopefully it will lighten my load,” he said. “If I could cut my appearances by five, that would be huge by September and October.”
Bard also spoke with Rob Bradford of WEEI.com about maybe going back to being a starting pitcher like he was during his days in college as a member of the North Carolina Tar Heels baseball team.
“I kind of would like to try it. It’s something I would like to do,” said the Red Sox’ reliever. “It would kind of challenge myself. You’ve never proven yourself, but I know I can do the reliever thing for myself, just as a personal challenge, (starting) would be cool. Sometime down the road if we’re in need of a starter it might come into play, and I would definitely be open to it, but right now it’s not even an issue.”
Given the fact that Bard throws three pitches right now, he could probably make the transition. He’d probably have to work a fourth pitch in at some point but as he says he doesn’t have to worry about it. Plus with the starting rotation intact for the next few years, Bard definitely won’t have to think about it.
He can just focus on throwing his fastball by hitters as part of the bridge to Jonathan Papelbon.
Photo credit: AP Photo
SOX & Dawgs has been nominated for “Best Red Sox Blog” at the New England Sports Blog Awards! Please take a few moments from your day to vote for SOX & Dawgs by heading over to Trufan.com. You are allowed to vote once a day. Thank you for your support not only in the voting but also to make the site what it is today.
