Papelbon shoulder hurting? (1 Viewer)

[Moonlight_Graham]

News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that a National League scout thinks Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon could be battling a shoulder problem. Papelbon only hit 91 mph in his outing Tuesday and gave up a homer to light-hitting OF Denard Span. Analysis: Papelbon admitted earlier this spring that he was starting to break down in the playoffs, so maybe there is something going on that we just don't know about yet. As Papelbon is one of the two best closers in the game, this speculation is definitely keeping in the back of your mind, especially if he gets off to a slow start this season. Continue to draft him high, but you might want to have a capable backup on your squad just in case.

 

[snitwitch]

I wonder if Daniel Bard will get a look if something is wrong?

 

[Moonlight_Graham]

I wonder if Daniel Bard will get a look if something is wrong?

I'm pretty sure Saito is the guy to have. Saito hasn't had any issues in camp as he attempts to pitch with a partially torn elbow ligament (refused surgery last year for alternative treatment). He's pitched well this spring, but he is also a risk.

 

[the moops]

The guy gives up one homerun and we are to assume it is because his shoulder is hurting?

 

[Spartans Rule]

I wonder if Daniel Bard will get a look if something is wrong?

Doubtful considering the depth of the Red Sox bullpen. You've got Saito, Okajima, Delcarmen, Ramirez, Masterson and possibly even Smoltz. They could move one of them (likely Saito) to closer and still have plenty of depth.

 

[Workhorse]

I'd say its a little early to be sounding the panic alarm.... This is typical "dead arm" period in spring training.