5/10: Get Garza

Happy Mothers’ Day!!

Red Sox call up Daniel Bard

The Red Sox purchased the contract of RHP Daniel Bard from Triple-A Pawtucket, reports the Providence Journal. Bard struck out 29 batters in 16 innings, saving six games. He should immediately become a late-inning option in a Sox bullpen that has struggled as of late. No word on the corresponding roster move, as the Sox will have to not only make room on the 25-man roster, but the 40-man as well.

Trivia: Rhode Island HRs

Rocco Baldelli hit his first home run as a Sox Saturday. It was the second home run ever hit by a Rhode Islander as a Red Sox. Who hit the first one?

Bard torching batters in Triple-A

Bard split 2008 between Greenville and Portland and finished with a combined record of 5-1 with a 1.51 ERA in 46 relief appearances encompassing 77 2/3 innings. He also recorded 107 strikeouts and reduced his walk total to 30.

He also topped out at 100 on the Sea Dogs’ radar gun – on more than one occasion.

“I love the role I was in toward the end of last year,” said Bard. “I love the pressure and the adrenaline rush that comes with closing games. I think I’ve learned to thrive on it — whether it’s closing or (pitching in the) seventh or eighth inning. In the big leagues, the seventh or eighth inning is a high-pressure situation.”

TAM 14, BOS 5: Torcher

Evan Longoria is being handed the American League MVP award courtesy of the Boston Red Sox pitching staff.